Scholarship Awards 2009 by Ramapo College

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2009 Scholarship Awards

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Scholarships

he Ramapo College Foundation raises funds with the sole purpose of helping Ramapo College achieve greater excellence. One of the most gratifying ways of fulfilling this mission is by fostering the link between scholarship benefactors and outstanding Ramapo College students. We are especially grateful to donors who

have chosen to establish endowed scholarship funds, since their gifts will benefit Ramapo students well into the future. New endowed scholarships are listed at the end of this book.

The benefactors who have created scholarship awards recognize the dedication and achievements of Ramapo students. In the following pages are stories of scholarship recipients who have worked with the faculty to conduct research in a variety of fields, others who are accomplished musicians and writers, and some who have overcome incredible obstacles in order to earn a college degree.

I am proud to take this opportunity to applaud the accomplishments of the students, and to thank the alumni, faculty, board members, corporations, foundations, and friends of the College whose generosity has made these awards possible. Cathleen T. Davey Executive Director Ramapo College Foundation

A&A Ridgewood Registered Professional Nurses Association Scholarship...................................6 Adler Scholarship Endowment ........................................................................................................8 AFT Scholarship ............................................................................................................................10

Ramapo College Alumni Association ............................................................................................12 Alumni Service Endowment ..........................................................................................................14 Anisfield Scholarship .....................................................................................................................16 Anisfield School of Business Scholarship ....................................................................................18

Melissa Annunziato Memorial Scholarship ...................................................................................20 Daniel Arce Scholarship.................................................................................................................22

TMF Evelyn L. Atwater Scholarship .............................................................................................24 The Kathy Azzara Scholarship.......................................................................................................26 Senator Byron M. Baer Endowment ..............................................................................................28 BD Scholars....................................................................................................................................30

Beck Endowed Scholarship Fund ..................................................................................................32 David Blauer Memorial Scholarship..............................................................................................36 BMW North America Scholarship .................................................................................................38

Ron Brady Endowed Scholarship ..................................................................................................40 William W. Briggs Scholarship I ...................................................................................................42 William W. Briggs Scholarship II ..................................................................................................44 Babette & Raymond Brown Endowed Scholarship.......................................................................46 Police Officer Michael J. Buczek Scholarship ..............................................................................48 Helen Burchell Memorial Scholarship...........................................................................................50

Marion Pawlick Busch Scholarship ...............................................................................................52 . Carole Campana Endowed Scholarship.........................................................................................54 Century 21 Study Abroad Scholarship...........................................................................................56 Mahwah Regional Chamber of Commerce Scholarship................................................................58 Professor Robert J. Christopher Memorial Scholarship ................................................................60 CIT Scholars...................................................................................................................................62

The Columbians of New Jersey Italian Studies Award..................................................................64

Coppertone Tuition Scholarship.....................................................................................................66 The Crane Fund for Widows and Children....................................................................................68

Daniel J. Cronin Memorial Endowment ........................................................................................70 Marion C. Dugan Scholarship........................................................................................................72 Dugan Community Scholarship .....................................................................................................74

Marie and Francis J. Dwyer Scholarship .......................................................................................76 Ramapo EMS Scholarship .............................................................................................................78 Educational Opportunity Fund Endowed Scholarship...................................................................80 Express Employment Professionals Student Award ......................................................................82

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Audrey Cook Berntsen Scholarship...............................................................................................34

Mary K. & Salvatore J. Fanale Scholarship ..................................................................................84

Footstar/Meldisco Scholarship.......................................................................................................86

Martha E. François Scholarship .....................................................................................................88 Friends of Ramapo Scholarship .....................................................................................................90

Jackie and Paul Garber Scholarship...............................................................................................92 Sidney J. Geltman Memorial Scholarship .....................................................................................96

The Robert Giaimo Memorial Scholarship....................................................................................98 Anne Glickman Memorial Scholarship........................................................................................100 Myrtle Goldstein Memorial Scholarship......................................................................................102

Harchand Singh and Jagir Kaur Grewal Memorial Scholarship .................................................104 Guiliana Family Scholarship........................................................................................................106

Haband Oaks Scholarship ............................................................................................................108 Frances K. Hackett ‘80 AIS Scholarship .....................................................................................110

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Frances K. Hackett ‘80 ASB Scholarship ....................................................................................112 Fran Hackett Service To America Scholarship ............................................................................114

Teddy Halpern Scholarship ..........................................................................................................116 Keith B. Hayes Memorial Scholarship ........................................................................................118

Hermitage History Scholar...........................................................................................................120

Cara Mychelle Hirschman Memorial Scholarship.......................................................................122 Huggins-Baldwin Fund ................................................................................................................128

Marion Hughes Scholarship.........................................................................................................130 Ruth Johnson International Scholarship Fund .............................................................................132 Mukul Joisher and Family Scholarship........................................................................................134

Dr. Ellen and Dr. Jeffrey Kaiden Urban Educator Scholarship ...................................................136 Julia Keay-Chanes Scholarship....................................................................................................138

Becky and Frank Kraus Scholarship............................................................................................140 John Krebs, SJ Scholarship..........................................................................................................142

Garvin Lally ‘84 Writer’s Scholarship.........................................................................................144

Joseph M. Leone Family Fund Endowed Scholarship ................................................................146 Katherine Liessem Memorial Scholarship ...................................................................................148

Maddi Endowment .......................................................................................................................150 Elizabeth Mainardi Endowed Scholarship Fund..........................................................................152 D. Bennett Mazur Scholarship .....................................................................................................154

Meadowlands Commission Achievement Scholarships ..............................................................156 Theodore Michelfeld Award.........................................................................................................158 Bernard Milano/KPMG Endowed Scholarship............................................................................160

Frank E. and Lillian A. Mutter Scholarship.................................................................................162

Herman D. Mytelka Memorial Scholarship.................................................................................166 Jeannette Krieger Mytelka Memorial Scholarship ......................................................................168

North Jersey Media Group Foundation/ The Record Scholarship...............................................170

Robert Noyce Scholarship............................................................................................................172 Lori Ann Oldenhage Memorial Scholarship I..............................................................................174

Lori Ann Oldenhage Memorial Scholarship II ............................................................................176 Dominick Palazzotto Scholarship ................................................................................................178

Paragon Federal Credit Union Scholarship..................................................................................180

Purvi Parekh and Manshi Joisher Scholarship.............................................................................182 Sharon G. Pierson Scholarship I ..................................................................................................184 Sharon G. Pierson Scholarship II.................................................................................................186

Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cabinet Scholarship...................................................................................................188 Prestige Family of Dealerships Endowed Scholarship ................................................................190

Sebastian J. Raciti Endowed Scholarship ....................................................................................192 Ramapo College Community Student Enrichment Endowment Fund ........................................194

Ramapo College Foundation Scholarships ..................................................................................196

Beate Riesterer Returning Minority Women Scholarship............................................................202 Willie and Pat Rubel Memorial Scholarship................................................................................206 The Joseph and Jennie Sall Memorial Scholarship Award ..........................................................208

Carol Schaefer Human Services Award .......................................................................................210 Michael J. Scully Performing Arts Scholarship...........................................................................212 Dr. Ernest Simon Book Award .....................................................................................................214

Social Work Student Conference Fund ........................................................................................216 Bob Sproul Empathy Scholarship ................................................................................................218

Student Affairs Division Scholarship...........................................................................................220 Ross Family Survivor to Survivors Scholarship..........................................................................222

Angelo Tarallo Memorial Scholarship .........................................................................................224 TD Bank Scholarship in Honor of James Napolitano .................................................................226

Fred and Florence Thomases Scholarship ...................................................................................228 Marina and William Topken Scholarship.....................................................................................230 Marina and William Topken Undergraduate Nursing Scholarship..............................................232

Marina and William Topken Graduate Nursing Scholarship.......................................................234 Union Foundation Scholarship.....................................................................................................236

Jeffrey and Andrea Warren Scholarship.......................................................................................238

May H. Weis Environmental Internship/Scholarship...................................................................240 Elaine Winshell Award .................................................................................................................242

Wiss Edward W. Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell Memorial Scholarship ....................................................................244

Stuart Craig Wood III Scholarship...............................................................................................246

The Bernice Yampell International Student Scholarship .............................................................248 Book Awards ................................................................................................................................250 New Scholarship Funds................................................................................................................252

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Robert G. Ripston Leadership Award ..........................................................................................204

Senior Lovely Joy is from New Milford, New Jersey. She already holds a degree in physics with minors in chemistry and mathematics, and worked in her native India as a teacher in Bombay. “My dream is to become a nurse,” she says. When she was laid off from her job in a bank she got a job in a hospital working as an emergency room secretary during the night shift. She attended Bergen Community College during the day studying nursing, then enrolled at Ramapo. To date she has earned a 3.46 grade point average. “My goal is to work with people who can’t help themselves,” she says. “When I come back from my clinical experiences it gives me such satisfaction to see smiles on my patients’ faces; I think this is one of the most satisfying jobs I have ever had.”

I received the scholarship from the Ridgewood Nurses’Association. It is encouraging to know they have confidence in me and my abilities, as I prepare for graduation and entering the nursing profession. Ruthann Anderson

A&A RIDGEWOOD REGISTERED PROFESSIONAL NURSES ASSOCIATION SCHOLARSHIP

Ruthann Anderson is from Allendale, New Jersey and is a senior at Ramapo. Ruthann is a nursing major and has earned a 3.61 grade point average. She graduated from Bergen Community College in 2007 with an associate’s degree. Ruthann is an active volunteer at her church in Montvale, New Jersey and works in the church’s music office. This semester she is applying for an internship at Valley Hospital.

he A&A Ridgewood Registered Professional Nurses Association is a non-profit association established by registered nurses to “promote the excellence of independent and private nursing practice.” The organization refers licensed, registered nurses to care for patients from new mothers to those on a ventilator. To advance its goal of promoting the profession of nursing, the organization has awarded a scholarship to an undergraduate nursing student at Ramapo College every year since 2003. Eligible candidates are residents of Bergen County with a grade point average of 3.00 or higher who are not receiving a full tuition scholarship.

College’s 100th endowed scholarship. For their ongoing support and leadership the College recognized the Adlers with honorary degrees in 1999. Caitlin Steeves is a junior majoring in social work. She is pursuing a double minor in women’s studies and psychology, and has earned a 3.95 grade point average. Caitlin is from Verona, New Jersey.

ogether Elaine and Myron (Mike) Adler founded Myron Manufacturing Corporation in 1949, the same year they married. Myron is now a mailorder firm that markets its products exclusively to other businesses, and is one of the largest businesses in Bergen County.

Carolann Perry is in her senior year majoring in social work. She has earned a 3.53 grade point average. Carolann is from Milford, New Jersey and is a graduate of Delaware Valley Regional High School, where she sang in the chorus for school musicals and was a member of the Thespian Club.

In addition to being successful entrepreneurs, the Adlers are committed community activists. Mrs. Adler is a member of the board at the Arnold P. Gold Foundation for Humanism in Medicine, the Center for Inter-Religious Understanding, the Community Resource Council, the Jewish Home and Rehabilitation Center, and the USA Toy Lending Library Association. Both Mr. and Mrs. Adler have been honored by the ADL, UJA, Boys Town of Jerusalem, Bergen Community College, Hadassah, NJ Speech and Hearing Association, and the National Aphasia Association. After Mr. Adler suffered a stroke in 1993, the Adlers founded the Adler Aphasia Center in Maywood. This community-based center has received world-wide recognition for its programs for people with aphasia and their caregivers.

“The scholarship I received allowed me to go to the college of my choice where I am preparing for my future career in social work. I am extremely grateful for this opportunity.” Carolann Perry

The Adlers have been involved with Ramapo College for over 18 years. Mrs. Adler has provided leadership on the Board of Governors of the Ramapo College Foundation, and the Adlers’ support has strengthened countless programs at the College from the theater program to the Havemeyer Edible Garden. In 2007 the Adlers created this award, the 8

ADLER SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT

Carly Lussier is a senior in the social work program, who has earned a 3.46 grade point average. Carly is from Manalapan, New Jersey and is a graduate of Cardinal McCarrick High School where she was a member of the tennis team, Science Club, and National Honor Society. She was a Girl Scout, participating in the Senior Girl Scout Challenge.

ADLER SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT

Lydia Lipsy is from Pompton Plains, New Jersey and is in her senior year at Ramapo. She is majoring in social work. “Lydia is a really great student,” says social work convener, professor Mitch Kahn. Lydia has earned a 3.98 grade point average so far in her Ramapo career.

Katherine Walton is a nursing major from Lafayette, New Jersey. The senior has earned a 3.68 grade point average.

“The Adler’s generosity enables me to finish my studies in social work. This will greatly assist me in pursuing my plans to volunteer in South Africa this summer and allow me to contribute to society by pursuing opportunities in the field of human services.” Lydia Lipsy

“My scholarship has enabled me to not think twice about where my future can go. I was able to enter Ramapo and know that nothing could hold me back and I am thankful for that every day.” KatieWalton Hannah Raymundo is a junior majoring in nursing who has has earned a 3.81 grade point average. Hannah is from Brick, New Jersey.

Enkhbat Namuun is originally from Mongolia, and is currently a junior at Ramapo. She is majoring in nursing and has earned a 3.74 grade point average. Diana Sensale is from Wantage, New Jersey and is a biochemistry major. She is a junior with a 3.77 grade point average. Taryn Tonnisen is from Old Bridge, New Jersey and is a senior at Ramapo. She is majoring in nursing with a minor in Italian. Taryn has earned a 3.83 grade point average.

“My scholarship gave me the chance to come to Ramapo and afford its cost so I may pursue higher education and work hard to pursue my goals.” Hannah Raymundo 9

AFT leadership 2008 - 2009

The AFT Scholarship is selected later in the spring semester and is presented at the Honors Convocation.

The AFT Endowed Scholarship Fund will have two programs when the endowment reaches full funding: a Graduate School Scholarship and

AFT SCHOLARSHIP

School Awards for Outstanding Academic Achievement. The Graduate School Scholarship provides an award to a graduating senior who intends to pursue graduate studies, particularly to students seeking careers in teaching or other academic areas. The intent is to provide recognition for outstanding academic achievement and to encourage post-graduate scholarship. The School Awards for Outstanding Achievement are provided each spring to the student with the highest grade point average in each major.

n 2002 the American Federation of Teachers (AFT Local 2274) union at Ramapo College joined with the President’s office to create an endowed scholarship fund. When it was created the President wrote of the “constructive, harmonious and very productive relationship that exists between the Union and the College.” The AFT makes a contribution to this endowment at the end of each academic year, and awards the scholarships through AFT managed funds while the endowment is growing.

She was editor-in-chief of the yearbook, and participated in student government. She was a member of the Spanish Honor Society and was a team leader for “Bottlecappers.” She has earned a 4.00 grade point average after her first semester. Jeremy Kelly is a graduate of Phillipsburg High School where he was a member of various chorale groups and participated in spring musicals. “Jeremy was extremely enthusiastic about his involvement with school activities, particularly choir and theatre,” says one of his high school teachers. Jeremy also participated in the Festival of Music in NewYork City in his junior year. He was a member of the bowling team during each year of his high school career. At Ramapo, Jeremy is a freshman majoring in communication arts with a concentration in journalism.

Freshman Nora Dougherty is from Middletown, New Jersey and plans to major in international studies. In high school Nora participated in an international relations debate at the 2006 Princeton Model United Nations.

“The Ramapo College Alumni Association Scholarship will let people know how hard I work, and it is my expectation that this will carry me through life with a great sense of accomplishment.” Jeremy Kelly

“The scholarship opens many doors for me in furthering my education. I have plans to go to graduate school, so having a scholarship here at Ramapo has made that dream much more possible!” Nora Dougherty 12

RAMAPO COLLEGE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

hen they think of giving back, many Ramapo students — past and present — think of their alma mater. Each year the Alumni Association provides a $1,000 scholarship for one freshman in each of the College’s five schools: the Anisfield School of Business, the School of American and International Studies, the School of Contemporary Arts, the School of Social Sciences and Human Services, and the School of Theoretical and Applied Science. In order to make these awards permanent, the Alumni Association Board of Directors endowed the Alumni Scholarships in the late 1990s. Created with gifts from hundreds of former Ramapo students and the success of alumni fund raisers, the endowment continues to grow, thanks to the dedication and support of alumni.

RAMAPO COLLEGE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

Mikhail Kaler is from Clark, New Jersey. He is a freshman majoring in international studies. Mikhail has earned a 3.42 grade point average.

After a childhood accident at age 10, Grant Smith pondered the life-saving value of a simple bicycle helmet, and the people who designed and manufactured it. “I learned that we are all connected, and that one’s performance, one’s effort, always matters.” Grant is a freshman from Alpha, New Jersey and is a graduate of Phillipsburg High School. At Ramapo he is planning to major in economics. “I know that whatever path I take, whether a career in business or education, I am influencing someone else’s life,” he says.

Michelle Albano is a freshman from Lake Hiawatha, New Jersey. She is a biology major enrolled in Ramapo’s physical therapy program. “I ultimately wish to become a pediatric physical therapist after finishing my years of study,” she says. In high school Michelle played field hockey for four years, earning the Coaches’ Award in her junior year. She also participated in the winter musical every year, was a member of the Spanish Club, and a participant in the Search Church Retreat.

“I have received a scholarship that allows me to continue my education in college. My benefactor has given me a chance to move forward with new opportunities made available.” Grant Smith

Joseph Losos is a junior majoring in history and literature with a 3.40 grade point average. Joe is from Ramsey, New Jersey where he was a star baseball player for Ramsey High School. He coaches 13 and 14 year old boys in Ramseyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Babe Ruth League. He is president of Alpha Chi Rho, a fraternity at Ramapo that sponsors community service by its members, and is a member of the Literature Honor Society.

n 2005 the Alumni Association began allocating a portion of its fund raising proceeds to an endowed fund. The Board members of the Alumni Association explored a number of options for the purpose of the endowed fund, and decided to have it be used for scholarships. It was important to the members of the Alumni Board to recognize students who are committed to helping others, thus complementing the existing Alumni Association endowed scholarships which benefit an outstanding freshman in each of Ramapoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s five schools.

ALUMNI SERVICE ENDOWMENT

Maryann Karimattam is in her second year of Ramapo’s physical therapy program. She is from the Township of Washington, New Jersey and has earned a 3.79 grade point average. Maryann has been a physical therapy volunteer since May 2008, and volunteers with JesusYouth of America. She is a member of the Pre-Health Medical Club, Alpha Lambda Delta, and South Asians at Ramapo. She competes in Indian classical dance, which she has practiced since 1997. “I would like to specialize in neck and spinal physical therapy,” Maryann says. “I hope to gain work experience and eventually open my own rehabilitation center.”

n astute businesswoman, civic, and community leader, Millicent Anisfield served as a member of the Ramapo College Board of Trustees from 1985 to 1997, chairing the Board from 1992 to 1994. She is a member of the Ramapo College Foundation Board of Governors and serves on the Board’s Planned Giving Committee.

Between 1977 and 1984 Mrs. Anisfield was a Trustee at then named Montclair State College. She has been actively involved in a number of charitable organizations, including the Valley Hospital Foundation, Gilda’s Club, the Greater Montclair Urban Coalition, the League of Women Voters, and Hadassah. In 2008 Mrs. Anisfield was selected to receive the Outstanding Philanthropist Award by the New Jersey Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

“The scholarship I have received has helped me to further my education and brought me a step closer to my goal of obtaining my doctorate in physical therapy.” Maryann Karimattam

In the 1970s Mrs. Anisfield played an active role in the Montclair community, serving as campaign coordinator of the 1976 municipal election, on the advisory committee to the commissioner of public safety, and as a member of the high school’s advisory committees on Title VII and interracial affairs. During that time she was also systems manager at Kurt Versen Company, a lighting fixtures manufacturer. Mrs. Anisfield created this endowed scholarship in 1988 to recognize minority students who demonstrate outstanding scholastic achievement. She created a bequest to augment this fund in 2007.

ANISFIELD SCHOLARSHIP

In 2006 Mrs. Anisfield and her husband Richard made the largest gift in the College’s history to strengthen the business program, and the Anisfield School of Business was named in their honor.

Davy Granados is a senior majoring in theater with a concentration in directing/stage management. She has worked in light, sound, and set construction for the Forum Theater, Plays in the Park and at the Bickford Theater. In the summer of 2008 Davy directed short plays for South Ridge Community Church. She has earned a 3.69 grade point average. “I’m working to be a theater director and script writer because that is what I do best,” she says. “As a director/playwright I have the opportunity to help people find courage and their own identity.”

ANISFIELD SCHOLARSHIP

“As a theater major, I am so honored to receive the Anisfield Scholarship.Thank you. My benefactor has made a difference in my life by supporting and uplifting me in all my college experiences as well as my plans beyond my undergrad degree.Their generosity means I have the financial stability to discover and pursue my life’s passion.” Davy Granados

The intent of the Anisfield School of Business Scholarships are to attract students of high academic merit and financial need to a degree program offered in the Anisfield School. The award is administered by the dean and the faculty of the Anisfield School.

ichard Anisfield and his wife, Millicent, have long supported higher education in New Jersey and are well-respected leaders and philanthropists in the New Jersey community. Mr. Anisfield was born in Paterson and graduated from Eastside High School. He attended NewYork University before enlisting in the Army Air Corps, flying missions over Germany in World War II as a B-24 bomber pilot. In 1956 Mr. Anisfield, a management consultant, purchased Kurt Versen Company, a national firm that designs, manufactures and sells high-end, commercial lighting fixtures. Mr. Anisfield went on to build a successful business as CEO and president of the company. An avid golfer, Mr. Anisfield retired from Kurt Versen in 2005.

“I received a scholarship from a benefactor who helps students in ASB. I was delighted to know that my donors are individuals who value my hard work and diligence. It is an honor to learn that there are people who are ready to help scholars and to make a difference in their lives.Thank you!” Radina Dimitrova

In 2006 and 2008 the Anisfields and members of the Anisfield family made the largest gifts in the College’s history to strengthen the business program. Mr. Anisfield said, “In making this gift, my interest is in creating something lasting and something that is important for our society.” He went on to say, “The best thing I can do is support education. I want to contribute to the education of the most promising students and those who might not otherwise find college accessible.” Mr. Anisfield meets frequently with Ramapo College administrators and students, and is an honorary member of Delta Mu Delta, the national honor society for business administration. At the 2008 Ramapo College Commencement Mr. and Mrs. Anisfield were awarded honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degrees.

Natalie Howell is from Cream Ridge, New Jersey and is sophomore at Ramapo College. She has earned an exceptional 4.00 grade point average. Natalie is majoring in business administration with a concentration in finance.

ANISFIELD SCHOOL OF BUSINESS SCHOLARSHIP

Radina Dimitrova is a sophomore at Ramapo and has earned an outstanding grade point average of 4.00. Radina is from Bulgaria and plans to major in business administration with a concentration in finance. Her minor is international business.

ANISFIELD SCHOOL OF BUSINESS SCHOLARSHIP

Raya Karova is in her junior year at Ramapo and has earned a perfect 4.00 grade point average. Originally from Bulgaria, Raya is majoring in business administration with a concentration in finance. Her minor is international business.

“I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the generous scholarship I received. In a climate of ever-decreasing governmental support of higher education, this scholarship will enable me to focus on my studies with financial certainty.” MihailVelikov

Mariya Bistrina is an accounting major in the Anisfield School of Business. A junior, she has earned a grade point average of 3.96. Mariya is from Bulgaria.

“Thanks to the scholarship, I have the chance to receive my education in the country of the ‘big opportunities.’ I am very happy to be who I am: a student at Ramapo College.” Mariya Bistrina

Junior Viktoriya Staneva is majoring in business administration. She is pursuing a double minor in international business and mathematics. Viktoriya is from Bulgaria. She has earned a grade point average of 3.89.

Bulgarian native Mihail Velikov is a junior at Ramapo and has earned an outstanding 4.00 grade point average. He is majoring in business administration with a concentration in finance. Mihail is president of the Math Club and is a member of the ASB Student Advisory Board. He also is the student representative to the Investment Committee of the Ramapo College Foundation Board. He is a member of the soccer team and works on campus in the Bill Bradley Recreation Center.

“As the recipient of this scholarship I am so grateful for the opportunity to receive the education that I want and to become all that I can be.” Victoriya Staneva 19

Mary andVincent Annunziato with Annunziato Scholarship recipients (2005)

arly in the Summer of 2002, Ramapo College junior Melissa Annunziato was tragically killed in a car accident. Melissa’s mother, her colleagues, friends, and neighbors sought to establish a permanent legacy to Melissa, her spirit, and beliefs. They spearheaded an effort to raise funds to start an endowed scholarship fund at Ramapo, and held an event in February, 2003 to celebrate Melissa’s life. At Ramapo, Melissa was a literature major working toward teacher certification in elementary education. She was committed to community service, worked in the teacher education office, and was active in the student organization, Future Educators of America. This award recognizes students with a similar commitment, and is open to students who participate in service-learning opportunities or alternative spring break programs, particularly those who are interested in working with children.

“I received the Melissa Annunziato Scholarship. It is great that people can be rewarded for leading their lives as Melissa did. I am very grateful for this award and for my future opportunities to work with children.” Kelly Grapentine

MELISSA ANNUNZIATO MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

“Working as a resident assistant in Pine Hall and being a peer facilitator for first-year students cemented my decision to enter the teacher education program,” says Kelly Grapentine. Kelly is a senior majoring in history while pursuing teacher certification in social studies. She has earned a 3.74 grade point average. Last year she participated in a semester exchange at the University of Hawaii at Hilo. Kelly has been a volunteer with the Student Literacy Corps, Relay for Life, and at The Hermitage. She is Vice President of the Student Government Association and is involved in the American Democracy Project. “If I were not becoming a teacher, I would have tried to be a politician,” she says. “I love making people excited, and hearing their concerns and then doing something about it.”

For Daniel, going to school was a privilege since he often was unable to attend school or take a test because he was in a hospital bed. At Ramapo, Daniel had a 4.00 grade point average, and took every opportunity to enjoy his time as a college student. Daniel faced his illness with strong will, courage, and a positive attitude. He did not give up, despite very difficult situations. Candidates for the Arce Scholarship are students who are finance majors, have a strong interest in music or sports, and â&#x20AC;&#x153;keep a positive attitude, despite difficult situations.â&#x20AC;? The first Arce Scholarship will be presented as the endowment increases in value.

DANIEL ARCE SCHOLARSHIP

he intent of the Daniel Arce Scholarship is to honor the memory of Daniel Arce, a student at Ramapo College in 2007 and 2008. When he was 15 years old Daniel was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, bone cancer. His fight with cancer lasted almost four years. Despite his illness and multiple days in the hospital due to chemotherapy and surgeries, Daniel was able to graduate with his high school class in 2006. He entered Ramapo College in the fall of 2007.

When her younger daughter was two years old, Mrs. Atwater joined the RidgewoodYWCA, beginning a tradition of service to that organization that lasted for decades, and reached countless women and girls in Bergen County. In 1974, while a board member of the Ridgewood YWCA, Mrs. Atwater founded Tribute to Women and Industry (TWIN), which honors outstanding women executives and their employers. TWIN is now stronger than ever, and the program launched in Bergen County has become adopted inYMCA chapters across the country.

“This scholarship has allowed me to continue my education at Ramapo. Without such generous donors, I would have been forced to take time off from school and wouldn’t be graduating this May (2009). I am very grateful for receiving this scholarship and I hope that Ramapo’s incredible benefactors continue to impact students lives as they have impacted mine – in such a positive way.” Rachel Berry

An offshoot of TWIN is the TWIN Management Forum (TMF), which is made up of every woman who has received the TWIN award. TMF provides a valuable link between key female executives in Bergen County, offering personal and professional development programs, as well as community service opportunities. One of the TMF’s annual programs is a scholarship for Ramapo College women, named in honor of Mrs. Atwater. The Atwater Scholarship benefits an outstanding female student who plans to pursue a career in business or industry.

TMF EVELYN L. ATWATER SCHOLARSHIP

Rachel Berry is a senior majoring in business administration with a concentration in management. She has earned a 3.71 grade point average. Rachel works at LC Marketing Communications as a marketing assistant and intern, and works on campus for the Women’s Center. She is a member of a number of student clubs including Feminists United, Organization for African Unity, the Weekend Events Committee, and the Concert Core Committee. She has been an active volunteer, and participated in the alternative spring break program last year in Mexico. The marketing faculty has commended Rachel’s “extraordinary conscientiousness and analytical and creative skills.” Rachel is from Newark, New Jersey.

n 1951 Evelyn and Vernon Atwater moved to Ridgewood, New Jersey with their two young daughters. Evelyn soon became actively involved in the community, devoting herself to volunteer leadership positions in Evelyn Atwater the American Red Cross, the New Jersey Historical Society, the Friends of the Hermitage, the Ridgewood Library, the Volunteer Center of Bergen County, the United Way of Bergen County, and West Side Presbyterian Church.

The intent of the Kathy Azzara Scholarship is to recognize young people who are working hard to achieve a BSN degree and the financial independence a bachelor’s degree represents. In addition to the financial assistance the Azzara Scholarship will provide, the award is intended to encourage students who are committed to service and who believe in “giving back.”

THE KATHY AZZARA SCHOLARSHIP

“With the financial help of the scholarships I have received, I am able to focus more fully on my education, which will help me to become the best nurse I can be.” Dottie K David-Wilson

Dottie David-Wilson is a sophomore from Piscataway, New Jersey majoring in nursing with a 3.82 grade point average. Dottie was accepted into the Alpha Delta Lambda honor society and is a member of Sigma Sigma Sigma sorority. Dottie plans to work in the field of pediatric oncology while studying for a master’s degree to become a nurse practitioner. Currently, Dottie works as a patient care tech at Somerset Medical Center, and volunteers for several health-related community projects.

SENATOR BYRON M. BAER ENDOWMENT

Harrison Gilbert is in his senior year at Ramapo and is double-majoring in economics and political science. For the past two years he has been the student coordinator for the American Democracy Project on campus. In this role he has designed activities and worked with faculty and other students to promote civic awareness and service learning experiences. In the summer of his sophomore year Harrison participated in a study abroad course in Tianjin, China, where he also taught English. He participated in a number of summer internships in his home state of Michigan, and currently works as an intern for Compensation Resources in Upper Saddle River. He is a member of the Ramapo Outdoors Club, and the United Asian Association. He has earned a 3.63 grade point average.

he Baer Scholarship is named in memory of New Jersey State Senator Byron Baer. In the early 1960s Mr. Baer was a Freedom Rider, and participated in the Selma to Montgomery March. He was an advisor and friend to Martin Luther King, Jr. Mr. Baer served in the New Jersey General Assembly from 1972 to 1993, and in the State Senate from 1994 to 2005 representing the 37th District. Mr. Baer was the primary author of New Jerseyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sunshine Law, and was an advocate for open government throughout his career. At his death, his wife Linda and daughter, Lara Rodriguez, sought a permanent means of honoring his memory, and created this endowed fund with contributions from individuals and organizations throughout New Jersey who admired and valued his leadership.

Honor Society. With hopes of becoming a physical therapist, Shawnell is majoring in biology/physical therapy at Ramapo, and has earned a 2.90 grade point average.

n international medical technology company, BD serves healthcare institutions, life science researchers, clinical laboratories, industry, and the general public. BD manufactures and sells a broad range of medical supplies, devices, laboratory equipment, and diagnostic products. The aim of the BD Scholars program is to ensure that high-achieving minority students from underserved areas can achieve a college education at Ramapo. Since the program began in 1998, 30 students have benefited from the generous support provided by BD.

Jody-Ann Wright is a junior majoring in nursing at Ramapo College. She is from Brooklyn, NewYork and is a graduate of Canarsie High School, where she was an online monitor for the News Crew and a member of Global Kids. “I would like to become a nurse because it will fulfill my dream of helping individuals,” she says. Conrad Bennett attended Kingsborough Community College before enrolling at Ramapo College. In high school he was a member of the National Honor Society, and made service trips to Jamaica and Costa Rica through Cruise for Peace. At Ramapo, Conrad is majoring in computer scinece and has a 2.92 grade point average. “I want to be well prepared for a career in computer science,” he says in describing his future plans.

Tinisha Ricks is a freshman majoring in biochemistry. Tinisha is a graduate of Perth Amboy High School where she was co-secretary of the student government and a member of the Mathletes club. She volunteered as a mentor for sixth and ninth graders, and as a member of the Key Club, helped raise money for UNICEF and the Salvation Army. At Ramapo Tinisha is majoring in biochemistry and has earned a 3.41 grade point average. Tinisha’s dream is to become a plastic surgeon and work for Operation Smiles “to help reconstruct the lives of needy children with facial deformities.” Shawnell Hutchinson was salutatorian of her East Orange, New Jersey High School graduating class, where she was involved in the String Ensemble, Orchestra, Choir, and National

BD SCHOLARS

Olivia Akien is from Trinidad in the West Indies. At St. Joseph Convent she was active in the Spanish Club, the Aerobics Club, and was part of a group that made a film that placed in the Rebirth House Film Competition. Olivia is studying visual arts at Ramapo. Her grade point average is 3.81.

BD SCHOLARS

Adetutu Arowolo was valedictorian of her high school class in her native Nigeria and follows an older brother to Ramapo College. At Ramapo Adetutu is studying bioinformatics and has earned an impressive 3.87 grade point average. “Studying in the United States provides me with an opportunity to build a network with outstanding professionals and be an ambassador of my country,” she says. “I intend to go as far as medical school and become a medical doctor.”

BECK ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP FUND

Michael Chiorazzo is a junior majoring in chemistry. He is in the Ramapo College Honors Program with a cumulative grade point average of 3.51. Last year he received the Polymer Award for Outstanding Achievement in Organic Chemistry as the top student in organic chemistry. “This year Michael was the top chemistry student in the biochemistry course, and he plans on attending graduate school when he graduates,” says professor Steve Anderson, convener of the chemistry faculty. He has worked as a lab assistant in the biology lab since 2006, and is a tutor for students in chemistry. Michael is a member of the Chemistry Club, where he serves as president, and the Biology Club. This past fall he volunteered at the Liberty Science Center during Chemistry Week, conducting experiments for children on electrolytes in sport drinks. “I hope to go to graduate school for a Ph.D. in biochemistry,” he says.

he intent of the Beck Endowed Scholarship Fund is to benefit students pursuing advanced degrees in medicine or chemistry. This endowed scholarship fund was created by Christine Beck and her husband Adalgery Beck. Christine graduated from the School of Theoretical and Applied Science in 1974, and currently works as a physician in private practice in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Mr. Beck works for Air Products and Chemicals.

t his mother’s death, Ramapo College alumnus David Berntsen ‘85 created this endowed scholarship in her memory. Since Audrey Cook Berntsen was a teacher, the scholarship will benefit outstanding Ramapo students enrolled in the teacher education program. To honor David’s success in business, outstanding students enrolled in any business major are also eligible for the Audrey Cook Berntsen Scholarship.

AUDREY COOK BERNTSEN SCHOLARSHIP

“A cornerstone in my future is a complete education.This incredible contribution to my education is helping me to attain one of my life goals and preparing me for my future after college.” Brandon Pecoraro

After graduating from high school, “the next two years of my life were filled with experiences that still to this day seem like a dream,” says Brandon Pecoraro. Brandon’s band signed with a record label, performed around the country, and successfully released a record nationwide. “From age 16, I was part of management in my own national business which became self-sustaining,” he says. “Once I had made these achievements, I kept my promise to myself to pursue higher education.” Brandon is a junior majoring in economics, and has earned a 3.92 grade point average. He is from New Milford, New Jersey.

Gloria Djelevic is a law and society major in her sophomore year with a grade point average of 3.75. Gloria was born in Sarajevo, and now lives in Dumont, New Jersey. She is a member of the dance team and Ethics Club. She enjoys basketball, is a peer tutor and note taker. Upon graduation, Gloria plans to enter law school. Roseanne Sessa is from Paramus, New Jersey and is a junior majoring in law and society. Her minor is psychology. She has been a volunteer at the Bergen County Police Department, and has worked at Priority Title Service. In high school, Roseanne was a member of the National Honor Society, the German Honor Society. At Ramapo she has earned Dean’s List honors every semester, and was invited to become a member of Alpha Lambda Delta honor society. “Traveling around the world and experiencing other cultures has led me to develop an interest in globalization and changing relations between countries,” Roseanne says. “I plan to enroll in graduate school in the field of international studies.” Roseanne has earned a 3.95 grade point average.

“I have received the David Blauer Memorial Scholarship and would deeply like to thank my benefactors for their generosity.Their gift has shown me that hard work leads to wonderful outcomes and paves the road for future opportunities. Thank you very much, Gloria!” Gloria Djelivic

“The scholarships I have received will greatly help me to fund my current education and in my future plans to continue in graduate school. ” Roseanne Sessa

DAVID BLAUER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

avid Blauer was a Ramapo student majoring in law and society who died in a car accident the day before graduation in 1994. A graduate of Paramus High School, David was a dedicated student at Ramapo, earning an overall grade point average of 3.38, and 3.63 in his major. In his sophomore year David worked between 40 and 50 hours a week and still made the Dean’s List. His advisor noted in David’s folder that year, “Wow!” and that David intended to study criminal law. David had been accepted to Villanova University Law School. In the summer of 1995, David’s parents, Marilyn and Martin Blauer, established this annual award in their son’s memory, which benefits a third- or fourth-year student majoring in law and society who demonstrates “outstanding scholarship and need.” Mrs. Blauer was supervisor in the Bergen County Department of Health Services Health Counseling Center until she and her husband moved to Florida in 2002. They have created a bequest to permanently endow the David Blauer Memorial Scholarship.

“BMW selected Ramapo College for this program because of its broad liberal arts approach within the Anisfield School of Business and for the opportunity to integrate local BMW and MINI dealers, and company headquarters, into the students’ experience,” wrote Thomas O. McGurn, the general manager of retail and industry relations when this award was created.

BMW NORTH AMERICA SCHOLARSHIP

Joo Hun Park is a junior from Fort Lee, New Jersey. Joo transferred to Ramapo from Bergen Community College. He is a junior majoring in business administration with a concentration in management, and has earned a 4.00 grade point average. Joo is active in a local car club, Club S2Ki, and his church. He has held a number of jobs since high school, including at a car dealership, and even ran his own small side business of importing car parts. “After these work experiences I realized there was a glass ceiling I could not surpass without a college degree,” Joo says. “My goal is to be a great manager, and eventually CEO.”

he BMW of North America Scholarship program is intended to increase the number of minority students interested in a career in the retail automobile business. The goal is to prepare well-rounded college graduate who has direct experience with the BMW work environment and is ready to launch a career that responds to the needs of customers from diverse backgrounds.

The intent of the Ron Brady Scholarship is to recognize Ramapo students who share Dr. Brady’s insight that “our view of the world needs to be grounded in something beyond ourselves,” as one colleague has said. The scholarship will benefit a Ramapo upperclassman with excellent grades who is pursuing an interdisciplinary course of study.

Dr. Brady’s own background demonstrates his ability to relate the real world to the world of ideas. He started as a chemistry major at Columbia University, but switched to English,

The first Brady Scholarship will be presented as the endowment increases in value.

RON BRADY ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP

turning his appreciation of nature and powers of observation into memorable poetry, which was published regularly in Columbia’s literary magazine. While working on his master’s in English at the University of California at Berkeley, Dr. Brady became captivated by the scientific writings of Goethe. He took undergraduate courses in philosophy to learn all he could about Goethe’s approach to science, and after a few semesters, decided to pursue a Ph.D. in philosophy, which he completed at SUNY Buffalo.

n 31 years of teaching at Ramapo, Ron Brady’s courses spanned the disciplines of philosophy, literature, American studies, and business ethics. During this time he was also the philosopher for groups at the American Museum of Natural History and the British Museum of Natural History. The discussions that resulted from these relationships afforded Ron opportunities to publish papers and give lectures at conferences around the world. As a result, Dr. Brady gained an international reputation as a scholar on perception and Goethe’s theory of science.

“I feel very close to Ramapo College having watched it grow since its founding particularly during the 20 years when I was fortunate enough to attend as a senior citizen student taking 50 great courses.” William Briggs

“This scholarship helped me pay for my final semester at Ramapo and now I will be able to graduate with a degree and hopefully get a good job.” Rob Osborn

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Alumnus Class of 1938

WILLIAM W. BRIGGS SCHOLARSHIP I

“I am currently a member of the Fed Challenge Team,” says Robert Osborn. The team meets during the weekends to conduct research on the U.S. Federal Reserve, its policies, and effects on the economy. The Team meets in NewYork to compete against other college teams on whether the Fed should raise, lower, or maintain the Federal Funds Rate. Robert is an economics major with a minor in mathematics. He has earned a 3.56 grade point average. He is a member of Delta Mu Delta and Omicron Delta Epsilon, and has worked at Richard’s Sales and Rental Center since 2005. Robert is from Brick, New Jersey.

former executive with ITT Industries,William Briggs has audited courses at Ramapo for twenty years. The courses he has taken reflect a diversity of interests, and range from contemporary Africa, Italian, Gerontology, and Meteorology among others. He became a member of the Friends of Ramapo in 1996, and has been a steady supporter of the College through the Annual Fund. Mr. Briggs created endowed scholarship funds in 2002 and 2004 to ensure that future generations of students will be able to attend Ramapo College. The awards are for students in the Anisfield School of Business.

This scholarship will help me continue my studies at Ramapo and allow me to continue to pursue a degree in Business Administration. Tracey Pastorini

WILLIAM W. BRIGGS SCHOLARSHIP II

Tracey Pastorini is from Township of Washington, New Jersey. She is a sophomore and is planning to major in business administration/management with a minor in psychology. Tracey is in the Honors Program and has earned a 3.81 grade point average. She is a president of Alpha Lambda Delta, and is a member of the 2011 Class Council, the Commuter Caucus, the Ramapo Outdoors Club, and is working to start a new club against destructive decisions. For the past six years Tracey has worked as a cheerleading coach in her home town, and also as a recreation counselor.

Veselina Stoyanova. “I became extremely motivated in understanding the dynamics of the business environment.” Veselina is a senior at Ramapo majoring in international business. Her minor is French, and she has earned a 3.97 grade point average. Veselina has spent her summers working at the Ministry of Economy and Energy, Raiffeisen Bank, the Bulgarian United Bank, and with a grain distributor, all in Bulgaria. At Ramapo,Veselina is a member of the Model United Nations Club and the International Business Club, where she serves as president. She plans to continue her education in international business and marketing.

BABETTE & RAYMOND BROWN ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP

he Babette and Raymond Brown Endowed Scholarship was created by Ramapo College employee Babs Varano in memory of her parents. The purpose of the Brown Scholarship is to recognize and foster Ramapo College students who “demonstrate an international perspective.” Students majoring in international business or international studies are eligible. “During the privatization of state-owned enterprises in my country, Bulgaria, my parents lost their jobs and faced hardship trying to satisfy even the basic needs of our family,” says

Freshman Caucus. For the past two summers he has worked as a counselor at South Brunswick Grand Slam Summer Camp. He is an advisor to the South Brunswick High School mock trial team, which he co-founded. Martin is a sophomore majoring in law and society, and has earned a 3.78 grade point average. “I have decided to pursue a career in law,” Martin says, “and become a sports agent or practicing attorney, with the ultimate goal of becoming a judge.”

ichael John Buczek attended Ramapo College then went on to become a NewYork City Police Officer in Washington heights in Manhattan.

Officer Buczek’s father,Ted Buczek, then began a determined effort to bring his son’s killers to justice and honor his son’s memory. In the process Ted Buczek recruited government officials at all levels, police officials, and religious leaders. Today Ted Buczek’s efforts have resulted in a Washington Heights public school being named for his son, a children’s park and a baseball league in the neighborhood, an annual Mass with fly over, food for the poor, and several scholarships named for Michael Buczek, including this one. In 2003 the men who shot Officer Michael Buczek and his partner were tried and convicted.

“I have never received a scholarship before so I appreciate the generosity of this award. I took on a very hard course load my freshman year in addition to playing varsity baseball, working in admissions and serving as the vice speaker of the freshman caucus.The fact that my hard work has been recognized by my benefactor will push me to keep striving for excellence and make the most of my education at Ramapo.” Brandon Martin

At Ramapo, the Police Officer Michael J. Buczek Memorial Scholarship recognizes students with a strong interest in law enforcement, who are planning a career in law enforcement, or who are law and society majors. Recipients must be residents of New York or New Jersey. Brandon Martin is a member of the Roadrunner varsity baseball team, the intramural football team and works as a student aide in the Admissions Office and as a Student Ambassador. He is a member of the Student Government Association, Alpha Lambda Delta honor society, and is vice speaker for the 48

POLICE OFFICER MICHAEL J. BUCZEK SCHOLARSHIP

After answering a routine call on October 18, 1988, Officer Buczek and his partner stopped four men who were fleeing from a drug robbery. During the ensuing scuffle, one of the men shot and killed Officer Buczek. He was 24 years old.

For 25 years, Dr. Burchell was the director of The Record Debate Classic at Ramapo College, a tournament for high school debate teams from across the region. She also served on the Donald G. and Flora A. Borg Merit Scholarship Award committee for more than a decade. Helen Burchell grew up in New England “amongst a large and busy family” according to her brother William. Dr. Burchell earned her undergraduate degree from Cornell University in 1953 and master’s and doctoral degrees in education from Columbia University Teacher’s College. She taught at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia from 1962 until 1971.

I think it is admirable that Dr. Helen Burchell’s family continues to support higher education through their generosity, especially the education of people they don’t know. Katherine Levering

Dr. Burchell had an avid interest in American antiques. “Never again shall I encounter anyone so prodigiously skilled in acquiring antiquity nor so disarming in negotiations with dealers,” continues her brother William. Dr. Burchell died suddenly in 2004, just three months after her retirement from Ramapo College. In recognition of her many years of service to Ramapo, the Ramapo College Foundation Board of Governors created this endowed scholarship in her memory.

HELEN BURCHELL MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Katherine Levering is a senior from Sayreville, New Jersey. “Katherine has a natural aptitude for analytical thinking, human empathy, and understanding of language that literary analysis demands,” says literature professor Ed Shannon. “Her writing is powerful, her insights mature and well-considered, and her presence in class is a signal to her classmates and professors that all involved need to bring their A-games.” Katherine is majoring in literature and is also pursuing teacher certification in English. She has earned a 3.86 grade point average.

elen Burchell was a member of the founding faculty at Ramapo College, joining the faculty as an associate professor of education in 1971. She was director of clinical experiences for beginning teachers, and served as an administrator in the teacher education program until 1987, when she focused on academic outreach, special projects, and grants. Her command of the English language and her editorial skills were a tremendous resource to faculty, especially in terms of grant seeking.

MARION PAWLICK BUSCH SCHOLARSHIP

Brielle Crowe is a sophomore psychology major from Hawthorne, New Jersey who plans to teach at the elementary level. She earned a 3.76 grade point average and has been named to the Dean’s List every semester. Brielle has volunteered in several children’s education programs, and is also active in Future Educators of America, Ramapo’s FirstYear Experience, the freshman caucus, and the Student Government Association. She is a member of the Dance Club and the Psychology Coalition.

arion Pawlick Busch is the grandmother of Ramapo College alumna Heather Hemphill ‘05. Mrs. Busch grew up in Newark, New Jersey and was a strong athlete in high school. She earned a scholarship to attend college and wanted to become a physical education teacher, but because of financial constraints never pursued a college degree. This scholarship was established in Mrs. Busch’s honor by her children in 2006. The Marion Pawlick Busch Scholarship honors Mrs. Busch’s interest in teaching by benefiting students in any teacher education certification program who have financial need.

on different graduate schools in the area and advice on classes psychology majors should take. “I want to pursue a Ph.D. in clinical psychology,” she says. “My studies will help me provide therapeutic intervention for the deaf community and allow me to analyze their language abilities and brain development.” Marissa is a senior majoring in psychology. She has earned a 3.78 grade point average.

“I used to marvel at students’ enthusiasm for Carole Campana’s classes, and their willingness to take several of her courses despite long reading lists, dreaded final exams, and exacting standards,” says Sennish, founding director of the Women’s Center at Ramapo. “ ‘What is her magic formula?’ I often wondered. Now, as a friend of many years, I know that this magic is nothing less than a passion and excitement for teaching, combined with a genuine and ongoing interest in her students, an enthusiasm for team teaching, and a joy for developing new classes.”

This scholarship is helping me pay for my education so that I am able to advance my education to a graduate level. I plan to attend graduate school for my Ph.D. in Psychology. Marissa Malkowski

CAROLE CAMPANA ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP

arole Campana was a member of the founding faculty at Ramapo, joining the College as a professor of psychology in 1971. Upon Dr. Campana’s retirement in 2001, Lee Sennish spearheaded an effort to raise funds to start an endowed scholarship named in Carole’s honor. The Campana award is intended to recognize committed students with financial need who are majoring in psychology or social work.

Biology major Maria Geyman is in her junior year at Ramapo College. Maria is pursuing a concentration in physical therapy, and a minor in gerontology. She has earned a 3.87 grade point average. She is from East Brunswick, New Jersey. In the spring of 2009 Maria is studying abroad as part of the Fireflies program in South India.

CENTURY 21 STUDY ABROAD SCHOLARSHIP

entury 21 is one of the top general contracting and construction management firms in New Jersey, as evidenced in projects such as Newarkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Riverfront Stadium and Newark Beth Israel Medical Center. Century 21 has been a generous supporter to Ramapo College since 1999, particularly in the area of student scholarships. The company is also a generous supporter of the Collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Distinguished Citizens Dinner and the Ramapo College Foundation Golf Outing. The CEO of Century 21, Mr. Anthony Marino, was honored at the 2009 Distiguished Citizens Dinner. He created this award so that students may have the opportunity to study abroad.

an advocate for the local business community and to promote the economic growth and development of all who live and work in the greater Mahwah region.

(L-R): Mr. and Mrs. Levine, Wendy Levine, Tom Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien, 2008 Mahwah Regional Chamber of Commerce President and Kathleen Mainardi.

ounded in 1957, the Mahwah Regional Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic organization of over 500 businesses representing 90 local communities. The primary objective of the Chamber is to be

Wendy Levine is a freshman from Wayne, New Jersey. She is majoring in psychology.

MAHWAH REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SCHOLARSHIP

To support the Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to ensure a well trained and educated workforce, the Chamber Board of Directors created an endowed scholarship fund in 1988. The Chamber scholarship provides $1,500 each year to an individual who is an employee, child, or sibling of a Chamber member. Ramapo College shares a strong partnership with the Chamber and is honored to administer this scholarship program.

Sarah Hildebrand is from Wantage, New Jersey and is in her junior year at Ramapo. Sarah is double majoring in literature and Spanish language studies, with a minor in Latin American studies. She has earned a 4.00 grade point average, and is enrolled in the Honors Program. “Sarah is an outstanding student,” reports literature convener Ed Shannon. “She has performed in two Spanish language showcases and is planning to study in Deusto in the next year.”

Dr. Robert Christopher was a wellrespected member of the Ramapo literature department. My benefactor’s generosity has made a tremendous difference in my life. It is so encouraging to receive the support provided by this scholarship. Sarah M. Hildebrand

The Professor Robert J. Christopher Memorial Scholarship was created by Dr. Christopher’s family and friends to recognize superior academic achievement among literature and documentary film/video majors, which reflects Dr. Christopher’s teaching and research interests.

PROFESSOR ROBERT J. CHRISTOPHER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

he Robert J. Christopher Memorial Scholarship honors the long and positive relationship between Robert J. Christopher (19372006), a distinguished professor of literature, and Ramapo College of New Jersey. For 32 years, Dr. Christopher served as an academic administrator in addition to introducing generations of students to the depth and beauty of English and American literature. In addition, Dr. Christopher created and directed the Oxford Honors program, the College’s first honors program and one of the early study abroad programs for liberal arts students enrolled at Ramapo College. The program brought Ramapo College students to Oxford University for summers of study and travel in England where they were introduced to the places that produced the greats of English literature.

PROFESSOR ROBERT J. CHRISTOPHER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Jay Everett is literature major with a 3.90 grade point average. He is a junior from Fair Lawn, New Jersey. The faculty reports that Jay’s “understanding of how to read and write in the area of literature is matched by his insight and demonstrated intellectual acuity. We do well to acknowledge his work in the major.”

Receiving the Robert Christopher Memorial Scholarship encourages me to continuing pursuing excellence in study at an institution people believe in.The generosity of my benefactor continues the good work of the scholarship’s namesake and proves to me that a dedication to higher education is alive and well in the United States. Jay F. Everett

Sunshine for the Disabled, Arts Horizons, and her town library. She plans to major in psychology and minor in music, and has earned a 4.00 grade point average to date in her Ramapo career. Julie Cherian is a graduate of Bergenfield High School where she was an excellent student. In high school, Julie played flute and piccolo in a number of musical groups and ensembles, and was a member of the choir and chorus. She worked as a piano and flute teacher, and volunteered as an instrumentalist at her church. Overcoming initial fears, Julie took a mission trip to Ecuador in her senior year. “The trip turned out to be one of the memorable experiences of my life,” she says. “I met Ecuadorians who seemed to possess a happiness that privileged Americans should have but do not. I also learned that it is important to look beyond my fears to the opportunities that lie ahead.” Jule is pursuing the biology/physical therapy program at Ramapo College.

Mariana Posada is a graduate of Bergenfield High School. In high school Mariana was a member of the orchestra and the Honors Orchestra, and was the viola section leader. She was a member of the Music Honor Society, and the French Honor Society. She was an active volunteer as an usher/band guide and for Camp

“The CIT Scholarship has provided me with the opportunity to be in a consecutive six-year physical therapy program.At the end of the six years I will have a doctorate in physical therapy. Since most of my schooling is paid for, a huge financial burden has been lifted from my parents.” Julie Cherian

“This scholarship allows me to complete my undergraduate education without debt, which will be a great benefit when I begin my graduate studies.” Mariana Posada 62

CIT SCHOLARS

IT Group Inc., a leading bank holding company, provides clients with financing and leasing products and advisory services. Founded in 1908, CIT has over $60 billion in assets under management and posesses the financial resources industry expertise and product knowledge to serve the needs of clients across approximately 30 industries worldwide. CIT is a Fortune 500 company and a member of the S&P 500 index. The company holds leading positions in vendor financing, factoring, equipment and transportation financing, Small Business Administration loans, and asset-based lending. With its global headquarters in NewYork City, CIT also has locations throughout North America, Europe, Latin America, and the Pacific Rim. Company officials joined with Ramapo College to launch this scholarship program in 1999. The aim of the Ramapo-CIT partnership is to provide renewable scholarships for high–achieving students from the inner cities of New Jersey.

non-profit philanthropic organization, the Columbians Inc. of New Jersey, is comprised of ItalianAmerican business leaders and professionals. The organization has raised more than $1 million for scholarships to relieve hardship, and for cultural and Italian heritage

THE COLUMBIANS OF NEW JERSEY ITALIAN STUDIES AWARD

programs. The Columbians started this endowed fund at Ramapo in 1998 to support efforts on the Ramapo campus that “promote Italian history, language, and culture.” Since then the fund has supported a variety of programs such as lectures by Fulbright scholars, scholarships for students studying abroad in Italy, and an excursion for students to attend Italian opera at Lincoln Center in NewYork City. An annual component of the program is the Italian Studies Awards, which are selected by Rosetta D’Angelo, professor of Italian. Professor D’Angelo selects the recipients from students minoring in Italian who have excellent academic performance and demonstrate a great interest in Italian language and culture.

ver twenty years ago, Coppertone and Ramapo College radio station WRPR recognized the hard work of Ramapo students who were completing local projects to conserve the environment. The award continues today in that spirit, providing scholarship support to students interested in environmental issues.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Because of the Coppertone Tuition Scholarship I am able to pursue my certification in teaching in hopes of one day being a principal. The generosity of the benefactors means so much to me.Without this scholarship paying for college it would be almost impossible! This scholarship is really helping me become the person I want to be.â&#x20AC;? JasonWhelpley

COPPERTONE TUITION SCHOLARSHIP

Jason Whelpley is a graduate of Bergen Academies, Culinary Arts and Hotel Administration. There he received the Exemplary Competitive Spirit award, and earned a top state honors and bronze national honors in formal waiter food and beverage service competitions. During an internship in his senior year, Jason realized he wanted to become an elementary school science teacher. He is a sophomore at Ramapo, majoring in integrated science studies and has earned a grade point average of 3.86. He is a resident assistant and works in the Curtain Call Cafe in the Berrie Center. In addition, Jason has performed in one-act plays this year. Jason is from North Arlington, New Jersey.

Jeremy Karlson is in his first year at Ramapo College. He is enrolled in the School of Theoretical and Applied Science and is majoring in mathematics. He is from Teaneck, New Jersey and played soccer, basketball, and baseball in high school, and plans to participate in intramural sports at Ramapo if there is room in his schedule. He intends to apply to be a peer mentor. “Jeremy is sincere and dedicated to earning a degree,” says his advisor.

Junior Kristen Potanka is from Wanaque, New Jersey. She is majoring in sociology and has earned a 3.07 grade point average. Kristen is a resident assistant, and participates in a number of intramural activities including kickboxing, swimming, and spinning. She is an active volunteer with the Mary Therese Rose Foundation, Friendship Daycare in Paterson, and Bergen Senior Day Care in Paramus.

Meara Lockwood is a freshman from Highland Park, New Jersey. She has been involved in Girl Scouts and soccer, and plans to join the Future Educators club, choir, and creative writing or book club at Ramapo. In addition to writing poetry and other creative works, Meara is currently writing a book.

“This scholarship decreased the financial pressures that were mounting before school had started.” Jeremy Karlson “My dad was a constant benefactor. He was always there for me. His generosity means the world to me because without him and my mom, I wouldn’t be here at college right now.” Meara Lockwood 68

THE CRANE FUND FOR WIDOWS AND CHILDREN

he Crane Fund seeks to provide scholarships to needy widows and children of men who have died and left their children without adequate means of support. Wives and children of men who are unable to adequately support their dependents are also eligible for educational assistance.

hile serving in the Navy in 1966, Dan Cronin suffered a severe injury that left him paralyzed from the waist down. “Dan lived a good portion of his life in a wheelchair,” says his good friend Mary Alice Rocks Ruggiero, “But I never ceased to be amazed by how well he got around — in snow, in every kind of weather, and in every sort of neighborhood — nothing held him back.” In 1980 Dan enrolled at Ramapo College, received a degree in 1984, and continued his education at Seton Hall University where he earned a degree in law.

that makes you special.” Continues Robin Reilly of the F.A.I.T.H. Foundation, “Knowing Dan was always there for me in my work with the homeless was a great comfort. He never let me down, not once. I don’t know what we’ll do without him.”

Dan then began a selfless career in poverty and family law serving as an attorney for Bergen County Legal Services. Among the many honors he received were the New Jersey Certificate of Appreciation for Meritorious Public Service for his work as a member of the Supreme Court’s District Ethics Committee, a Certificate of Appreciation from Shelter Our Sisters, a home for victims of domestic violence, and the Outstanding Attorney of theYear award from Legal Services of New Jersey. “It was impossible to venture anywhere within a fifteenmile radius of Hackensack with Dan and not run into someone he knew,” says Ms. Ruggiero. “Someone he had helped along the way would spot him and make a point of coming up to us for an exchange.”

“He led a life of service to others,” says Bea

“My scholarship will help ease the financial burden of my education. I will have less debt as I become involved in service to others and eventually a career after I graduate. This scholarship will also help me to obtain the necessary work and life skills so I may make a difference in the lives of those I serve.” Dan Grossano

Cronin, Dan Cronin’s widow. Upon Dan’s death in December, 2004, Bea Cronin, together with friends and family, created this scholarship fund to honor his life, and recognize the next generation of young people devoted to the service of others. The Cronins met at Ramapo College, where Bea currently serves as director of Human Resources, and Dan was an active member of the Alumni Association Board. This scholarship helps advance many of Dan’s ideals, epitomized through his last words to his niece Barbara Ann Wendt: “It is what you do 70

DANIEL J. CRONIN MEMORIAL ENDOWMENT

“I have a great interest in social justice and serving others,” says Daniel Grossano who is from Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey and is a senior at Ramapo. He is majoring in social work with a minor in political science, and has earned a 3.68 grade point average. He works as a notetaker and tutor in the Office of Specialized Services, and last summer worked as a resident teaching assistant with the Jumpstart PreCollege program. Daniel is a percussionist with the Ramsey Wind Symphony. At Ramapo he is a member of Catholics at Ramapo United, the Social Work Club, and Alpha Lambda Delta. Daniel participated in the BRIDGES service trip to the Dominican Republic in 2006, and is a coop with the Bergen County Police Office of Emergency Management. He was inducted into Omicron Delta Kappa in Spring, 2008.

“When I was a student at Ramapo I saw the need among students, especially in their junior and senior years,” says Marion. She was particularly struck by the dedication some students gave toward earning a degree, especially returning adult students with children. To recognize such dedicated students, Marion established this endowed scholarship fund in 2005. The award benefits seniors of any major who demonstrate financial need.

MARION C. DUGAN SCHOLARSHIP

Senior Mary Charest is a literature major with a theater minor from Ramsey, New Jersey. In 2005, she was inducted into Sigma Tau Delta Literature Honor Society. Mary has participated in the Ramapo College of New Jersey Mentoring Program and is encouraging congressional support for the Legal Aid for Victims of Domestic Violence. In addition, Mary has several short stories and plays being considered for publication/production. A staged reading of her one-act play, “Body Shop,” will be performed by the Catherine Lindsey Actors/Playwrights Workshop of Darien, Connecticut this summer.

arion Dugan, her husband John, and their children lived in Mahwah in the late 1970s and 1980s. When her children were older, Marion enrolled at Ramapo College to take the final courses required to earn her bachelor’s degree. She graduated in 1980 with a degree in public administration.

he goal of the Dugan Community award is to recognize Ramapo students who are dedicated to positive social change in urban communities. The award was created by Marion Dugan, an alumna of Ramapo College who graduated with a degree in metropolitan studies in 1980. The award is selected by faculty in the School of Social Science and Human Services, and supports participants in the College’s Community Scholars Program. “My mission is to advocate for those who feel worthless and dispensable, and to help restore damages that have been done to our youth,” says Tanesia Moses, a social work major. Every summer since 1999,Tanesia has volunteered with the Unity Church music ministries in Lakewood, New Jersey mentoring adolescents. “Our sessions give these youth the opportunity to talk out their frustrations and concerns,” Tanesia says. At Ramapo,Tanesia has volunteered for a number of causes including the Center for Food Action,Young at Heart Nursing Home, Slave Cemetery Clean Up,Toys for Tots, Family Turkey Baskets, the Breast Cancer Walk, and Cleanup Lake Como. She is a member of the student club Ebony Women for Social Change. Tanesia participated in the alternative spring break program in New Orleans, Louisiana helping Hurricane Katrina victims. Tanesia is in her senior year and has a 3.70 grade point average. She is from Neptune, New Jersey.

DUGAN COMMUNITY SCHOLARSHIP

Cristina Melgarejo is in her senior year at Ramapo majoring in social work. Cristina has earned a 3.71 grade point average while continuing to perform over 200 hours of volunteer work every semester. She has completed internships at West Bergen Mental Health and at the Bergen County Central Trades and Labor Council (AFL-CIO). At the Trades and Labor Council, Cristina was an election volunteer, educating constituents on the political process. She also volunteers at Shelter Our Sisters and Citizen Action doing research on consumers’ rights. Cristina plans to continue her education and pursue a master’s in social work.

“My husband, who passed away on February 18th, worked at Lever Brothers for 29 years and was President of his Union, Local 51 of the International ChemicalWorkers. He was an evening student at Ramapo College and was very happy with his classes and with the College. Because of this, we have asked that all donations in his memory be made to Ramapo College’s Francis J. Dwyer Memorial Scholarship. Mrs. Marie Dwyer

“The scholarship I received will help prepare me for my future because it will enable me to focus more on my academics without worrying about the financial burden that comes with education. Also, this scholarship inspires me to give back to my future students so that they will be able to continue their education.” Whitney Breckenridge

February 19, 1982

MARIE AND FRANCIS J. DWYER SCHOLARSHIP

Whitney Breckenridge is a senior from Fair Haven, New Jersey. She is majoring in international studies with a minor in Spanish language studies, and has earned a 3.68 grade point average. Whitney is a member of the Student Government Association and the 2010 Class Council, as well as Colleges Against Cancer, and RASA. In 2007 she participated in BRIDGES, a service trip to the Dominican Republic. She is a volunteer in the Cahill Center. “I plan to become a teacher or work for a global aid organization or an organization that deals with reform issues in our country,” she says.

rancis J. Dwyer worked at Lever Brothers for 29 years, where he was president of Local 51 of the International Chemical Workers. Mr. Dwyer took courses at Ramapo under the auspices of the “Union Leadership Academy,” which, at that time, was a two-year sequence that offered courses in labor and the economy, labor law, and labor history. Mr. Dwyer’s wife, Marie was aware of his deep feelings for the program, and shortly after his death in 1982 established this scholarship fund in his memory. Mrs. Dwyer continued to meet with Dwyer Scholarship recipients and attend Ramapo events until her death in 2003. Because Frank Dwyer was particularly interested in labor relations, the Dwyer scholarships benefit high-achieving upperclassmen who are majoring in social sciences and have an interest “in effecting social change.”

MARIE AND FRANCIS J. DWYER SCHOLARSHIP

Janine Casciello is majoring in psychology and pursuing teacher certification in Spanish. She is from Oakland, New Jersey. Janine was inducted in to Alpha Lambda Delta honor society as a freshman, has earned Dean’s List honors in every semester of her Ramapo career, and currently holds a 3.66 grade point average. She works as a tutor, is a member of SADD, and volunteers at a local animal shelter. “I am looking forward to teaching Spanish and plan on going to graduate school,” Janine says, “One day, I hope to open my own practice as a psychotherapist.”

“This scholarship will prepare me for my future by helping relieve some of the financial burden college places on many students. It also encourages me to fulfill my dreams and to keep working hard toward my future goals.” Janine Casciello

Senior Jonathan Helmstetter is from Union, New Jersey. He is an accounting major with a minor in information systems. Jon has earned a 3.72 grade point average. He has been a member of the Ramapo College EMS (RCEMS) since 2006, and has served as the group’s treasurer, and former chief, and currently serves as deputy chief and chief of administration. Jon

RAMAPO EMS SCHOLARSHIP

has been an EMT for the Paramus Ambulance Corps, and the Union Emergency Medical Unit, where he currently serves as training lieutenant. For the past five summers Jon has also worked as the assistant manager of the Nomahegan Swim Club. Since January he has put his accounting education to good use working as a special agent student trainee for the U.S.Treasury Department. “Part of working in law enforcement is making decisions under pressure which is something that RCEMS has given back to me,” Jon says.

eather Hemphill ’05 was an active member of the Ramapo College Emergency Medical Squad starting in her freshman year in Spring, 2002. She served as the Squad’s Assistant Chief from the Fall of 2003 until her graduation in the Spring of 2005. Heather and her family created this award in 2006 to recognize student emergency medical technicians who demonstrate a similar commitment to the Ramapo Squad.

At Ramapo the EOF program provides academic and career services, while seeking to foster in students a strong sense of community service and personal responsibility. The program has had tremendous success with graduation rates, retention rates, and grade point average rates that rival the college norm.

The EOF Endowed Scholarship will be presented later in the spring semester.

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY FUND ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP

Several years ago the director of the EOF program recruited a group of local business leaders and community activists to form an EOF Program Advisory Board. In the 2002-2003 academic year the Board raised funds to benefit EOF students, which were used to launch this endowed scholarship fund. The purpose of this program is to recognize EOF juniors and seniors in good academic standing who have demonstrated community involvement.

he Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) was launched by the New Jersey State Legislature in 1969. Under the auspices of the Fund, the State distributes monies to institutions of higher learning across the state to support students from New Jerseyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s underserved communities to attend college.

Imran Manzoor is a senior majoring in accounting. He lives in Elmwood Park, New Jersey and has earned a 3.00 grade point average. “Imran is very bright, humble, and works at least one full-time job to support his extended family,” says professor Mary Ellen O’Grady Harvey. “I wouldn’t hesitate for a second in recommending him,” she continues.

EXPRESS EMPLOYMENT PROFESSIONALS STUDENT AWARD

xpress Employment Professionals is a staffing and recruiting firm based in Oakland, New Jersey. The company’s owner and general manager, Edward Seed knows Ramapo College executives through shared membership in the Mahwah Regional Chamber of Commerce. The relationship has resulted in the successful job placement of Ramapo students, and participation in a career group. To continue this positive relationship, Mr. Seed created a scholarship in the 2008-2009 academic year. This scholarship award benefits a student in the Anisfield School of Business with financial need who is a resident of Bergen or Passaic Counties. The recipient was recommended by the Anisfield School of Business Scholarship Committee.

“I am extremely grateful to receive the Mary K. and Salvatore Fanale Scholarship.” Elizabeth Dolan-Cancian

fter raising eight children, “I was excited when my husband suggested that I attend college and obtain that long-desired accomplishment of a college degree,” wrote Mary Fanale. So, at age 56, she enrolled at Ramapo, taking courses in the School of American and International Studies. For three years, Mrs. Fanale reveled in her studies and was an active college student, serving as secretary of the Center for Returning Students. “I believe the feelings for older students ... is so good that we fit in perfectly,” she said. Sadly, she died in 1981 before finishing her degree. In memory of her contributions to the Ramapo community, and to support other mature students who seek excellence in their studies, Mrs. Fanale’s husband and children established an endowed scholarship fund in her name. At Salvatore Fanale’s death in 2006 the Fanale children directed additional funds to significantly build the endowment. The Mary K. Fanale Memorial Scholarships recognize highachieving female students who are New Jersey residents and are age forty or older.

“The Fanale Scholarship will help me financially as a adult student to attend school. It also gives me the feeling that somebody cares about me. The Fanales encourage students by helping people who are really in need. I will use this scholarship to learn what I need to know so I can help people in need.” Lovely Joy

Elizabeth Dolan-Cancian is a senior majoring in literature, and also pursuing teacher certification in English. She is from Dumont, New Jersey and has earned a 3.75 grade point average. After raising four children, Elizabeth attended Bergen Community College where her poetry and one-act play were published in the literary magazine. “I am currently shopping to publishers a children’s book about a little boy learning to tie his shoes,” she says. “I look forward to sharing my love and passion for literature, and in particular writing, with my students and hope my experiences and enthusiasm will inspire them.” 84

MARY K. & SALVATORE J. FANALE SCHOLARSHIP

Members of the Fanale family with Dr. Peter Mercer.

MARY K. & SALVATORE J. FANALE SCHOLARSHIP

When she was laid off from her job in a bank she got a job in a hospital working as an emergency room secretary during the night shift. She attended Bergen Community College during the day studying nursing, then enrolled at Ramapo. To date she has earned a 3.46 grade point average. “My goal is to work with people who can’t help themselves,” she says. “When I come back from my clinical experiences it gives me such satisfaction to see smiles on my patients’ faces; I think this is one of the most satisfying jobs I have ever had.”

“The Fanale Scholarship is special to me because my benefactor had passed away before she could graduate. I, myself, am older and came back to college to finish my degree in Nursing after surviving cancer. I am doing what my benefactor had dreamed of doing and the scholarship has helped me payfor my education. It is most appreciated and I feel I somehow carry the torch of my benefactor. Thank you to the Fanale Family.” Lorraine Santangelo

“As a nurse I am helping people with their psychological, emotional, physical, and yes, spiritual pain,” says Lorraine Santangelo. Lorraine is in her senior year majoring in nursing and has earned a 3.80 grade point average. “This summer I worked as a student extern at Hackensack University Hospital on the stem cell transplant unit. I believe this experience has made me a better person and definitely a better nurse,” she says. Lorraine has been a class representative since fall 2007, and is a member of the Nursing Student Organization. She is the mother of four children ranging in ages between nine and 19.

Organization for African Unity, the Weekend Events Committee, and the Concert Core Committee. She has been an active volunteer, and participated in the alternative spring break program last year in Mexico. The marketing faculty has commended Rachel’s “extraordinary conscientiousness and analytical and creative skills.” Rachel is from Newark, New Jersey.

Sarah Warren is majoring is business administration in the Anisfield School of Business, with a minor in psychology. She lives in Montgomery, New Jersey and has earned a grade point average of 3.82 and has been on the Dean’s list for four semesters. Sarah spent last summer in Prague as part of the College’s choir entry in the European Choir Competition. Sarah sings with the Ramapo Chorale and the women’s choir group, Skylark. She is also president of the Operation Smile Club.

FOOTSTAR/MELDISCO SCHOLARSHIP

ootstar, which operates leased footwear departments in Kmart and Rite Aid stores on the West Coast, has been a long-standing supporter of Ramapo College. Meldisco, a subsidiary of Footstar, is located close to the College in Mahwah, New Jersey. Meldisco has supported Ramapo since 1987, and provided major support toward the construction of the College Bandshell. In 1999 the Ramapo College Foundation honored former Footstar Chairman, Mickey Robinson, at its Distinguished Citizens Dinner. In recognition of this honor, Footstar affiliates around the world created this endowed scholarship fund at Ramapo College. The scholarship benefits students in the Anisfield School of Business.

“This scholarship will help me to continue my education, allowing me to come closer to reaching my lifetime goals. For this I am truly thankful.” Gina Cirillo

“She symbolized academia at its highest: a professional educator filled with warmth and caring.” Dan Cronin ‘84 88

MARTHA E. FRANÇOIS SCHOLARSHIP

“I am a member of three choirs on campus, landed a lead role in last semester’s musical production, am an active member of Future Educators of America, and am on the executive board of Alpha Psi Omega, the national theater honor society,” says Gina Cirillo of her Ramapo College activities. She works in the Office of Specialized Services on campus, as a nanny, and as music director for the summer recreation camp in her home town of Leonia. Gina is a member of the Players’ Guild of Leona, is a cantor at her church, and sings the national anthem for Roadrunner sporting events. She is an active volunteer for AYSO special needs soccer, and at a homeless shelter. Gina is a contemporary arts major in her junior year, and has earned a 3.71 grade point average.

artha E. François, Ph.D. was vice president for academic affairs and professor of history at Ramapo from 1981 to 1983. She was the first woman to hold a chief administrative post at the College. A magna cum laude graduate of Wells College, she held a master’s degree in history from Mount Holyoke College and a Ph.D. in history from Harvard University. Before coming to Ramapo, Dr. François was a professor of history and dean of the School of Liberal Arts at Indiana UniversityPurdue University at Indianapolis. Earlier she was a professor of history and a member of the graduate faculty at Northeastern University, dean of freshmen and sophomores at Wellesley College, and an instructor in history at Hollins College. She lectured and published extensively both in this country and abroad on women’s studies, medieval history, and higher education, and was active in numerous professional associations including the American Association for Higher Education, the American Association of University Women, the Indiana Academy of Social Sciences, and the American History Association. During her tenure at Ramapo, Dr. François initiated the honors program, the annual convocation for outstanding students, and several new academic programs including the computer science major. At the time of her death she was working to establish the law and society major and Ramapo’s first master’s program, the master of arts in liberal studies. “Loyalty to family, friends, colleagues, integrity, a dedication to scholarship and a love of learning and friendship — these were singular — never compromised,” said her friend Dr. Irene Nichols of Northeastern University at Dr. François’ memorial service. The Martha E. François Memorial Scholarship recognizes a Ramapo student of high academic achievement.

Magdalena earned first place in a literary contest in 2001 and was a delegate to the Model United Nations for three years. “I would like to get my master’s and then Ph.D. in literature,” she says. “I believe the day will come when I can go home to Macedonia to pass on the knowledge I have gained and make a difference.”

Members of the Friends Board 2008–2009.

he Friends of Ramapo, founded to expand communications and foster greater understanding between Ramapo College and neighboring communities, supports the College in numerous ways each year. Through the Friends’ endowment fund, scholarships are awarded to Ramapo students with outstanding academic achievements. The Friends of Ramapo also sponsors cultural events for the community, reflecting the members’ interests in promoting the intellectual, social, and cultural activities on the college campus. Magdalena Dimeska is from Macedonia and is in her second year at Ramapo College. She is majoring in literature and has earned a 3.28 grade point average. She transferred from Bergen Community College where she earned an associate’s degree. Magdalena came to the United States when she was 16 to pursue studies in mathematics or physics, however her passion was to study literature. “My mother said that a person who goes to the USA carrying 70 pounds of books (including ten copies of Dante’s Inferno) can never be a good math professor,” Magdalena says. In her home country

“This scholarship means the ability to study the subjects that I love and work towards reaching my dream of practicing Psychology.” Jillian Grimaldi

FRIENDS OF RAMAPO SCHOLARSHIP

“My short term goal is to teach English,” says Jillian Grimaldi. “Long term, I hope to do research on how the mind functions in terms of writing ability and develop techniques that would aid in teaching students to write well.” Jillian is from the Township of Washington, New Jersey and is a graduate of Immaculate Heart Academy. During her four years of high school Jillian was editor of her high school newspaper, participated in Junior Statesmen of American, and was a member of the Writer’s Guild, serving as president. She received the Silver Award from Girl Scouts. Jillian is a freshman at Ramapo majoring in Literature.

FRIENDS OF RAMAPO SCHOLARSHIP

“I plan to pursue a medical degree,” says Alyssa Johnson from Monroe Township, New Jersey. In high school Alyssa took a number of honors and Advanced Placement courses, and was a member of the National Honor Society and the Spanish Honor Society. She participated in the American Legion during all four years of high school.

awards. He was a writer and reporter for his high school newspaper during all four years. Outside of school, Martin was an active volunteer with the Helping Hand Food Pantry and Friends of the Hermitage, where he was a summer day camp volunteer. Martin has been a student with the Bergen County High School of Jewish Studies since eighth grade. At Ramapo Martin is a freshman in the Anisfield School of Business.

“The scholarship has allowed me to attend a great college and the education I receive will open the door to many wonderful career opportunities.” Alyssa Johnson

“My scholarship will assist me in my future endeavors by allowing me to afford graduate studies more easily.” Martin Cohen

“I have decided to pursue a career in law, and face any challenges that await me,” says freshman Kathleen Carpio. Kathleen is from

Joseph Lewandowski is a sophomore from Whitehouse Station, New Jersey. Joseph is majoring in communication arts with a concentration in journalism. He is a sports writer for the Ramapo News, and is involved with WRPR radio and RCTV. He has a 3.97 GPA and “aims to keep it.” He hopes to be a reporter covering sports, especially the World Series.

Hackensack, New Jersey and is a graduate of the Academy for the Advancement of Science and Technology. In high school Kathleen participated in a biology research elective, and was named a National Ventures Scholar in recognition for her academic achievement. She participated in the concert choir during three years. At Ramapo Kathleen is majoring in psychology.

“After meeting the Friends of Ramapo recently, it was further cemented in my mind how much their generosity means to me. By not having to worry about funding my way through school, I can use my time to pursue the avenues I am passionate about (such as RCTV or the Ramapo News).” Joey Lewandowski

Martin Cohen is from Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey where he graduated from Pascack Hills High School. Martin was a member of his junior varsity high school debate team for three years, earning second and third place team 91

analysis of language and brain development. Marissa’s grade point average is 3.81 and she plans to pursue a Ph.D. in psychology. Ogechi Onwubu transferred to Ramapo from Monmouth University. She is a junior from Ridgewood, New Jersey with a 3.67 grade point average and a psychology major. Ogechi has had to overcome great personal difficulties in order to succeed in college. She is interested in creative writing, nutrition, fitness, exercise and music when not studying psychology.

Andrea Powell is a junior from Camden, New Jersey majoring in social work with a 2.84 GPA. Andrea is a member of Alpha Phi Omega national service fraternity, and has worked on campus in the Business Office and the Potter Library. Andrea loves to cook, sew, crochet and embroider. She plans to do community-based social work upon graduation.

“The Jackie and Paul Garber Scholarship will ultimately help me to fulfill my passion of helping others through my studies in Psychology.The scholarship brings me one step closer to my goals.” Ogechi Onwubu

Marissa Malkowski is a senior from Lyndhurst, New Jersey majoring in psychology. Marrisa has spent a great amount of time over the last few years helping children and adults with disabilities. She is fluent in American Sign Language and plans to continue her education in graduate school in order to provide therapeutic intervention to the Deaf community through the

Brielle Crowe is a sophomore psychology major from Hawthorne, New Jersey who plans to teach at the elementary level. She earned a 3.76 grade point average and has been named to the Dean’s List every semester. Brielle has volunteered in several children’s education programs, and is also active in Future Educators of America, Ramapo’s First-Year Experience, the freshman caucus, and the Student Government Association. She is a member of the Dance Club and the Psychology Coalition.

JACKIE AND PAUL GARBER SCHOLARSHIP

ackie Fain Garber graduated from Ramapo College in 1975 and became a kindergarten and Montessori teacher. In 2001 she and her husband Paul decided to start an annual scholarship to recognize good students with financial need who may need a little help in paying their college costs. “I’ve gotten so much from my Ramapo education,” Jackie said at the time, “I would like to give back.” Students who receive the Garber Scholarships can be studying any discipline, but must demonstrate financial need and be in good academic standing.

JACKIE AND PAUL GARBER SCHOLARSHIP

Viktoriya Staneva is a senior with a 3.98 grade point average. She is majoring in finance and minors in mathematics and international business. Viktoriya was president of the Finance Club, a member of the Model UN Club, the International Students Club and the Math Club. She works on campus as a cashier and math tutor. Viktoriya is from Bulgaria and speaks four languages. She played professional basketball in high school.

Jean Semelfort is a senior majoring in psychology. He is from Newark, New Jersey and has earned a 2.88 grade point average. Jean is president of Men of Strength, is a member of the Judicial Review Board, the Psychology Coalition, the Haitian Organization for Progress and Empowerment, and is a senior advisor for Brothers Making a Difference. He is a member of the track and field team. Jean has participated in a study abroad program to China, as well as alternative spring break trips to New Orleans and Mexico. “I plan on studying forensic psychology,” he says, “and will apply to John Jay College, Fairleigh Dickinson University, and the College of St. Elizabeth.”

Emily Ozynska-Keith is a freshman from Newton, New Jersey with a 3.42 grade point average. Emily is a visual art major with a concentration in photography. “Every time I pick up a camera, all my worries seem to fade,” she says. She has participated in photography competitions sponsored by the Sussex County Art Heritage Council. Besides a love for photography, Emily is interested in cheerleading, gymnastics, and track. She works two jobs to pay for college.

Dante Dallavalle of Bloomfield, New Jersey is a freshman majoring in English literature with a grade point average of 3.45. He is a musician specializing in the guitar and is interested in philosophy, European history and global economics. Dante writes short stories and poems, and “has a passion for literature.” Brandon Martin is a law and society major from Dayton, New Jersey. Brandon is in his sophomore year at Ramapo with a 3.78 grade point average. He is a member of the Ramapo College basketball team, and the intramural flag football team. Brandon is active in student government and is a Ramapo Admissions Student Ambassador. He plays piano and is interested in music and sports.

“This scholarship will help me obtain my degree, with less loans to pay back.After graduating, I will be able to start my career without the heavy weight of debt.” Emily Ozynska-Keith 93

JACKIE AND PAUL GARBER SCHOLARSHIP

Spencer St. Clair is involved in a number of student clubs including the Haitian Organization for Progress and Empowerment, the Black

Alpha Jalloh is from New Brunswick, New Jersey. He is a senior majoring in nursing who has earned a 3.49 grade point average. He is a member of Chi Alpha Epsilon and the Nursing Club. “My plan after college is to go to grad school so I can become a nurse practitioner,” he says.

“The scholarship that I have gratefully received will prepare me to strive for scholarly excellence and allow me to pursue my education after undergraduate school. I am honored to receive such a scholarship. I would like to thank my benefactors for providing me with this opportunity.Their generosity means that I will be able to continue beyond my undergraduate education, and continue to strive for scholastic excellence.” Spencer St. Fleur

“This scholarship provides me with the motivation to work hard which will help prepare me for my future.” Alpha Jalloh 96

SIDNEY J. GELTMAN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Randy Astaiza is a senior majoring in biology. He is a member of the TAS Journal Club, the Biology Club, and Ramapo Pride. “I am currently doing research with Dr. Owen on osteoporosis,” Randy says. “We have presented our work at the Metropolitan Association of College and University Biologists conference.” Randy plans on earning a Ph.D. in anatomy and cell biology, and continuing to conduct research. He is from Garfield, New Jersey.

hen Mrs. Emily Geltman attended commencement with her son and daughter-in-law, an employee of the College, she was so impressed with the enthusiasm and accomplishments of the Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) students that she established an endowed scholarship fund for their benefit. The fund is named in honor of her husband, Susan Geltman and Sidney, “a kind and generous man who never Emily Geltman stopped learning.” The intent of the Geltman Scholarships is to provide tuition assistance for juniors or seniors enrolled in the EOF program who will attend graduate school. Students who have received the Geltman Scholarship in their junior year are eligible to receive the award again in their senior year, provided they are in good academic standing.

SIDNEY J. GELTMAN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Crystel Maldonado is a psychology major in her senior year. She is from West NewYork, New Jersey. Crystel is president of the United Cultural Greek Council on campus, and is treasurer of her sorority. She was a Peer in the First-Year Seminar for EOF students. She is also a resident assistant in Laurel Hall. Crystel has earned a 2.92 grade point average. She has applied to graduate programs at the University of Connecticut, NewYork University, Rider University, and Seton Hall University.

Student Union, Ebony Women for Social Change, Brothers Making a Difference, Organization for African Unity, and Alpha Phi Omega. She is a member of the Cahill Center Student Advisory Board. Spencer volunteers at the Shiloh Rainbow Academy Children’s Day Care and the Solid Rock Baptist Church in the praise dance ministry. She participated in the alternative spring break program in New Orleans in 2007, rebuilding houses for victims of Hurricane Katrina. She is a senior majoring in law and society with a psychology minor, and has earned a 3.11 grade point average. She plans on earning a master’s in criminal justice. “My hope is for a career as a detective or DEA agent,” she says. Spencer is from Irvington, New Jersey. Jean Semelfort is a senior majoring in psychology. He is from Newark, New Jersey and has earned a 2.88 grade point average. Jean is the men’s outreach coordinator for the Women’s Center, and the publicist for the student club, Haitian Organization for Progress and Empowerment. He is the senior advisor for Brothers Making a Difference. Jean has participated in a study abroad program to China, as well as alternative spring break trips to New Orleans and Mexico. “I plan on studying forensic psychology,” he says, “and will apply to John Jay College, Fairleigh Dickinson University, and the College of St. Elizabeth.”

“The scholarship that I have received will help me prepare for the future because it will financially help me reach one of my goals, going to graduate school and obtain a master’s in higher education.” Crystel Maldonado

“This scholarship gives me some of the funds I need to secure my future and pursue a graduate school education.” Jean Semelfort 97

THE ROBERT GIAIMO MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Ramsey resident Lauren Barbara is in her junior year at Ramapo majoring in theater while pursuing teacher certification in elementary education. By the time she was a senior in high school Lauren had been an active Girl Scout for 13 years. Lauren was the student director for three plays during her high school career, and either worked backstage or as a performer for many others. She served as president of the Ramsey High School Drama Club, and was a member of the choir and the concert choir. At Ramapo Lauren has earned a 3.61 grade point average.

obert Giaimo was a Ramapo College theater major who tragically lost his life in a car accident after the Spring, 2004 graduation ceremony, where he had performed with Voices, a College choral group. “Robert’s great love was technical theater and he was greatly admired by the Contemporary Arts staff,” said Nancy Mackin, Dean of Students. This scholarship honors Robert’s memory by recognizing a fellow Contemporary Arts student who shares Robert’s love of the theater.

“One thing I definitely learned during my 27 year friendship with Anne was not to even think of going to visit her without having first thoroughly memorized the contents of that day’s “NewYork Times.” She knew each item intimately and loved nothing better than talking about current social and political issues in considerable detail.” Dr. Pamela M. Bishoff

100

ANNE GLICKMAN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Roseanne Sessa is from Paramus, New Jersey and is a junior majoring in law and society. Her minor is psychology. She has been a volunteer at the Bergen County Police Department, and has worked at Priority Title Service. In high school Roseanne was a member of the National Honor Society, the German Honor Society. At Ramapo she has earned Dean’s List honors every semester, and was invited to become a member of Alpha Lambda Delta honor society. “Traveling around the world and experiencing other cultures has led me to develop an interest in globalization and changing relations between countries,” Roseanne says. “I plan to enroll in graduate school in the field of international studies.” Roseanne has earned a 3.95 grade point average.

n Anne Glickman’s life and in her teaching she epitomized the core of a Ramapo education: experiential learning, intercultural experiences and interdisciplinary education. A member of the founding faculty of the College, Anne Glickman taught for over 25 years in the School of Social Science and Human Services. Anne graduated from NewYork University Law School at a time when few women entered the profession, and founded the law and society major at Ramapo College. She was active in the Legal Aid Society. “She found time to be a voracious and discriminating reader, a tennis player, an experimenting chef, a peripatetic traveler, a pianist, and a gardener,” said Dr. Pam Bischoff, vice president of Student Affairs. “It is clear that her own professional and personal activities reflected the very mission of the College.” At Anne’s death in 2000, her husband, Bernard, established this endowed scholarship in his wife’s memory. Colleagues, friends, and family contributed to the fund, which recognizes outstanding female students majoring in law and society.

“As the cost of education rises, it seems the generosity of people also increases. Each year, books get more expensive but thankfully the Goldsteins have been very generous and I can now afford books next year without the undue monetary stress this would place on me.” Anthony Siciliano

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MYRTLE GOLDSTEIN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Junior Anthony Siciliano is majoring in business administration with a marketing concentration. He has earned a 3.76 grade point average. “He embraces the analytic spirit of Marketingology in his papers,” says professor Ed Petkus, convener of the marketing faculty. “And he consistently adds insightful observations and commentary in every class meeting.” Anthony is from Ramsey, New Jersey.

lan and Jackie Goldstein created this award in memory of Alan’s mother, Myrtle. Their daughter, Lindsay is enrolled at Ramapo in the School of Communication Arts, majoring in media and cinema studies. Mr. and Mrs. Goldstein are active volunteers at Ramapo as members of the President’s Parents Council, and own a promotional products firm,World Wide Specialty. “Lindsay is having such a good college experience that the Goldsteins decided to honor Myrtle’s memory with a scholarship for a Ramapo student,” says Kathleen Austin, at the Ramapo College Foundation. The Myrtle Goldstein award recognizes a marketing or communication major and is selected by the faculty.

“She also volunteers for community service projects, including performing in talent shows for the elderly and assembling Mother’s Day baskets for abused women.” SarahWarren

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HARCHAND SINGH AND JAGIR KAUR GREWAL MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Sarah Warren is majoring is business administration in the Anisfield School of Business, with a minor in psychology. She lives in Montgomery, New Jersey and has earned a grade point average of 3.82 and has been on the Dean’s list for four semesters. Sarah spent last summer in Prague as part of Ramapo College’s choir entered in the European Choir Competition. Sarah sings with the Ramapo Chorale and the women’s choir group, Skylark. She is also president of the Operation Smile Club.

n 2003 brothers Pritam Singh Grewal and Amarjit Singh Grewal created this scholarship in memory of their parents, in honor of their belief in personal excellence. Pritam is Pritam Singh Grewal president of ADPP Enterprises, which owns and operates gas stations in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The company has grown from an entrepreneurial start-up to one of the best-run gas retailers in the country. “My parents always encouraged us to put our best effort in all our endeavors,” says Mr.Grewal, “and to push the limits of excellence. This principle has been the cornerstone of ADPP Enterprises’ way of doing business. I also understand the hardships of being a student, especially for students who are striving to excel in their studies despite being saddled with the burden of arranging the finances required to pursue their studies.” The purpose of the award is to recognize the business success the brothers have achieved, thanks to values instilled by their parents, and recognize a student with “a consistently high level of academic performance.”

Since both her parents are deaf, Marissa Malkowski is fluent in American Sign Language (ASL), and has been intrigued by the cognitive abilities of deaf persons since she was small. This past summer she was an intern at North Jersey Developmental Center, and has been a volunteer at West Bergen Children’s Center. She is a member of the Psychology Coalition, Psi Chi (the psychology honor society), and helped create a website for psychology majors which includes information on different graduate schools in the area and advice on classes psychology majors should take. “I want to pursue a Ph.D. in clinical psychology,” she says. “My studies will help me provide therapeutic intervention for the deaf community and allow me to analyze their language abilities and brain development.” Marissa is a senior majoring in psychology. She has earned a 3.78 grade point average.

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GUILIANA FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP

ohn Guiliana is a podiatrist and managing partner at Foot Care Associates in Hackettstown, New Jersey. Dr. Guiliana has given lectures across the country on podiatry and the management of a medical practice. Dr. Guiliana and his wife Stephanie have two sons who attend Ramapo College: Stephen is a senior majoring in biology, and Justin is a freshman in the Anisfield School of Business. Dr. and Mrs. Guiliana became members of the Ramapo College Parents’ Council in 2007, and after attending an event with President Mercer and other parents, created this scholarship endowment.The intent of the Guiliana Family Scholarship is to recognize Ramapo College undergraduates who intend to continue their education in graduate school.

After graduating from high school, “the next two years of my life were filled with experiences that still to this day seem like a dream,” says Brandon Pecoraro. Brandon’s band signed with a record label, performed around the country, and successfully released a record nationwide. “From age 16 I was part of management in my own national business which became self-sustaining,” he says. “Once I had made these achievements, I kept my promise to myself to pursue higher education.” Brandon is a junior majoring in economics, and has earned a 3.92 grade point average. He is from New Milford, New Jersey.

he Haband Oaks Scholarship was created by Haband chairman Max Habernickel and his leadership staff. Headquartered in Oakland, New Jersey, Haband is a leading mail-order distributor of men’s and women’s apparel and accessories. Since so much of the company’s business depends on marketing, the executives decided that this scholarship should benefit a student in the marketing major. The recipient is selected by the marketing convening group in Ramapo’s School of Business.

HABAND OAKS SCHOLARSHIP

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The Hackett AIS Scholarship honors Ms. Hackett’s experience as a graduate of the School of American and International Studies (AIS), and recognizes outstanding students in the School. The recipient is selected by the Dean on the recommendation of the AIS conveners. “Rebecca Prince is a talented and conscientious writer and researcher, who is active in her major, school, and college,” says a member of the AIS faculty. Rebecca is a political science major with a public policy minor, and has earned a 4.00 grade point average. She is a senior from Oak Ridge, New Jersey.

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FRANCES K. HACKETT ‘80 AIS SCHOLARSHIP

he Hackett AIS Scholarship was started by Frances K. Hackett, who graduated from Ramapo in 1980 with degrees in business administration and American studies. Ms. Hackett began working at Prudential in 1974, and has had a distinguished career at the company where she currently serves as Vice President of Administration and OSGLI. Ms. Hackett has been a dedicated volunteer and supporter of Ramapo College, and was honored with the President’s Award of Merit in 2007. She is currently Vice Chair of the Ramapo College Foundation Board of Governors. She is involved with a number of Foundation Board committees, including the Executive Committee, the Distinguished Citizens Dinner committee, and the Golf committee.

Rachel Berry is a senior year majoring in business administration with a concentration in management. She has earned a 3.71 grade point average. Rachel works at LC Marketing Communications as a marketing assistant and intern, and works on campus for the Women’s Center. She is a member of a number of student clubs including Feminists United, Organization for African Unity, the Weekend Events Committee, and the Concert Core Committee. She has been an active volunteer, and participated in the alternative spring break program last year in Mexico. The marketing faculty has commended Rachel’s “extraordinary conscientiousness and analytical and creative skills.” Rachel is from Newark, New Jersey.

Ms. Hackett is currently vice president of Administration and OSGLI at Prudential. Her responsibilities include the management of Prudential’s largest group client and the pre-sale process for group insurance products and related regulatory matters. During her tenure at Prudential, Fran has held a wide range of positions in operations, account management, human resources, compliance, and project management. In addition to her work with Prudential, Ms. Hackett has served on the New Jersey Supreme Court Committee on Efficiency II, the Policy Advisory Committee of Administrative Office of the Courts, the Advisory Group for the School of Healthcare Related Professionals at UMDNJ, and the state Health Insurance Advisory Association. During her career Ms. Hackett stayed active with her alma mater, both as a volunteer and as a donor. She served on the Strategic Planning Executive Committee, the School of Business Advisory Board, as a member of the 2004-2005 presidential search committee, and is a member of the Alumni Association Board Development Committee. She is currently a member of the Ramapo College Foundation Board of Governors, where she serves as Vice Chair. Her years of dedication to Ramapo and the larger community were recognized when she was honored at the Distinguished Citizens Dinner in 2004. She was honored with the President’s Award of Merit in 2007. 112

FRANCES K. HACKETT ‘80 ASB SCHOLARSHIP

She is chairperson of the ASB Alumni Advisory Board and is actively involved with the Anisfield School and the Foundation Board of Governors. In 2005 Ms. Hackett created this endowed fund in order to leave a lasting legacy at Ramapo. Members of her staff at Prudential joined her in this effort. The purpose of the Fran Hackett Scholarship is to benefit outstanding students of limited means in the Anisfield School of Business.

rances Hackett began her education at Ramapo College in 1973 as a full-time student, and left the following year to join Prudential Financial. She returned in 1976, and continued part time graduating from Ramapo in 1980 with a degree in business administration and American studies.

Hackett Service to America Scholarship benefits Ramapo students who have served, or are currently serving in the military and are in good academic standing. The first Hackett Service to America Scholarship will be presented as the endowment increases in value.

“I want to do something for those who have done so much for our country, and help them pursue educational opportunities. Creating this scholarship ties into my role at Prudential and the OIF/OEF Advisory Committee.” Frances Hackett ‘80

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FRAN HACKETT SERVICE TO AMERICA SCHOLARSHIP

rances Hackett ‘80 is currently vice president of Administration and OSGLI in Prudential Financial’s Group Insurance department. Among her responsibilities is life insurance for the military. Mrs. Hackett also serves on the Advisory Committee for Operation Iraqi Freedom/ Operation Enduring Freedom (OIF/OEF) Veterans and Families, administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, among other volunteer positions. “I want to do something for those who have done so much for our country, and help them pursue educational opportunities,” Mrs. Hackett says. “Creating this scholarship ties into my role at Prudential and the OIF/OEF Advisory Committee.” The Fran

Matthew Alden Earle is a senior from Greenwood Lake, New Jersey. He is majoring in physics and has earned a 3.65 grade point average. He received the American Physics Society award for best teaching assistant in 2008. “Matthew is an extremely hard-working and dedicated physics major who has proved to be an excellent research assistant to the faculty, and teaching assistant to his peers,” says professor Daniela Buna, convener of physics.

TEDDY HALPERN SCHOLARSHIP

eodoro (Teddy) Halpern joined the Ramapo faculty in 1974. He served the College as a professor of physics, director and dean of the School of Theoretical and Applied Science, Dean of Schools, and Vice President for Academic Affairs. His colorful, enthusiastic lectures made him a much-loved professor, and inspiration to his colleagues. When he retired in 2001, fellow faculty members, family, and friends gathered to honor Dr. Halpern. Contributions from this event, called “Teddyfest!” created this scholarship fund named in Dr. Halpern’s honor. The Halpern award recognizes outstanding students in physics.

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James Caldera has earned a 4.00 grade point average in his Ramapo College career. He is a senior majoring in mathematics. James is from Franklin, New Jersey.

eith Hayes transfereed to Ramapo College in the fall of 2007. He was a psychology major whose dream was to become a child psychologist. Sadly, Keith passed away that semester, the result of complications of several long-term undiagnosed illnesses. He was 20 years old.

KEITH B. HAYES MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

After Keithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s untimely death, his family and friends raised funds to create an endowed fund at the Community Foundation of Orange and Sullivan. One goal of the Keith B. Hayes Foundation is to provide a scholarship in Keithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name to a Ramapo student. It is administered by the Office of Specialized Services.

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HERMITAGE HISTORY SCHOLAR

Kelly Grapentine is a senior majoring in history while pursuing teacher certification in social studies. She has earned a 3.74 grade point average. In the fall of 2008 Kelly worked at The Hermitage helping to digitize part of the collection. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Kelly helped organize and catalogue the postcard collection, so that it is now more accessible to researchers,â&#x20AC;? says Hermitage curator Kelly McCartney. Last year Kelly participated in a semester exchange at the University of Hawaii at Hilo. She has been a volunteer with the Student Literacy Corps, Relay for Life, and works as a resident assistant in Pine Hall. She is Vice President of the Student Government Association and is involved in the American Democracy Project.

he Hermitage is a historic house museum located near to the College in Ho-HoKus, New Jersey. George Washington visited the house during the Revolutionary War, and Dr. Delight Dodyk the house was the site of the marriage of Aaron Burr and Theodosia Prevost. Ramapo history faculty have used The Hermitage as a resource. To honor this relationship and recognize Ramapo history students conducting research at The Hermitage, Delight Dodyk, Ph.D., president of The Hermitage Board of Trustees, started this award in 2000.

national honor societies, working with Special Olympics, participating in Johns Hopkins Program for TalentedYouth, and summer co-op at Naval Undersea Warfare Center in Rhode Island. At Ramapo he is a member of the ultimate Frisbee team.

n the Spring of 1996 Cara Mychelle Hirschman was ecstatic to learn that she had been named to the Dean’s List. The transcript for that semester hung proudly on her mom’s refrigerator, and demonstrated a huge accomplishment for Cara, who had a learning disability. She spoke openly about the academic struggles she faced, and the compensatory strategies she employed.

“The Hirschman Scholarship will further motivate me to excel in my studies.” Christopher Lee Lowenhaupt Andrew Cozin lives in Bernardsville, New Jersey and is an environmental studies major, and mathematics minor in his senior year, and has a 3.70 grade point average. In high school Andrew played varsity baseball, was team captain and All County Baseball in 2004. He has been on the Dean’s list repeatedly and works as a peer tutor. Currently, as part of his environmental studies major Andrew is finding, identifying and testing scat samples along the New York/New Jersey state line. He is looking for evidence of lead contamination of species in the area.

Tragically, only months after receiving her Dean’s List honors, Cara was killed in a car accident at age 21. The Eleanor B. Reiner Foundation, where Cara’s mother was a board member, provided annual scholarship gifts in Cara’s memory, then in 1997, made a substantial gift to permanently endow these awards. Hirschman Scholarships are awarded to students of good academic standing who have a documented learning disability and, like Cara, are involved on campus and in the community. One award is designated each year to a graduate of Cara’s alma mater, South Brunswick High School. Christopher Lee Lowenhaupt is a junior from Hillsborough, New Jersey with a 3.04 grade point average majoring in computer science. In high school Christopher’s active extra curricular life included captain of the website sub team of his high school robotics team, member of high school and German

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CARA MYCHELLE HIRSCHMAN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Though she was declined enrollment at other colleges, Ramapo recognized the potential in this caring, intelligent, dynamic, and hardworking young woman. Cara worked closely with her counselor in the Office of Specialized Services, Ramona Kopacz, and succeeded in her studies while becoming an active member of the campus community. Cara was an officer in the Marketing Club and a tutor for the Office of Specialized Services. She volunteered for the Special Olympics, and held a co-op position at Trucolor Lab as a customer service representative and product advisor.

CARA MYCHELLE HIRSCHMAN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Freshman Eric Rittenhouse is a graduate of South Brunswick High School where he was a member of the Key Club and the Spanish Club. He was an active volunteer through the Boy Scouts and with Habitat for Humanity. For his Eagle Scout project Eric built a prayer path for his church made up of 3,000 pavers. Eric is enrolled in the Anisfield School of Business and plans to major in accounting with a minor in economics. He has earned a 3.41 grade point average. “I managed to make Dean’s List in my first semester,” he says. “Now that I feel more confident in my academic ability and have become acclimated to college, I plan to get more involved.”

Megan completed an extensive internship at the Colonial Road School in Franklin Lakes where she worked in the CAPS program with children with autism. “It was both challenging and overwhelming at times, but seeing a child succeed was heartwarming,” she says. Sarah Warren is majoring is business administration in the Anisfield School of Business, with a minor in psychology. She lives in Montgomery, New Jersey and has earned a grade point average of 3.82 and has been on the Dean’s list for four semesters. Sarah spent last summer in Prague as part of Ramapo College’s choir entered in the European Choir Competition. Sarah sings with the Ramapo Chorale and the women’s choir group, Skylark. She is also president of the Operation Smile Club.

“This scholarship allows me to fund the education I need in order to go into the profession I want to spend the rest of my life pursuing.” Eric Rittenhouse

“I am working toward becoming a professional actor,” says Dale O’Dell. He is a junior at Ramapo majoring in theater with a concentration in acting. Before enrolling in Ramapo Dale earned an associate’s degree at Rockland Community College where he was a member of the Campus Players and the

Megan Leigh Campbell is a senior from Leonia, New Jersey majoring in psychology and will receive her teacher certification in elementary teaching and eventually will be certified in special education as well. A graduate of Bergen Community College, Megan’s grade point average at Ramapo College is 3.40. A recipient of several awards and scholarships, Megan is an active worker in volunteer programs that assist persons with disabilities. 123

Rockland Shakespeare Company. He is involved with local community theatres including the Antrim Playhouse (Suffern, NY), the Small Town and Fancy Players (Mahwah, NJ), St. Catherine’s Theatre Group (Blauvelt, NY), and The Players (Montvale, NJ). Dale has earned a 3.66 grade point average and is from Garnerville, NewYork.

played soccer at FDU her freshman year. She also sings and writes songs, is an environmental activist and a volunteer for NewYork City Relief Bus organization. Larissa was an intern at CNBC Business News where she helped produce news reports, and interned at DWJ Television working as an assistant producer helping to create segments aired on various news stations.

“Ramapo College has created a warm and welcoming environment. The generosity of the faculty within the Office of Specialized Services Department has allowed me to grow as a student and gain trust in the notion that education has and will always be at the core of CHANGE!” Larissa Rota

“Receiving this scholarship has helped ease the burden of rising educational costs and is opening up opportunities for further educational pursuits.” Michael Bender

Sophomore Scott Sobol is planning to major in business administration with a concentration in management. Scott is from New City, New York and has earned a 3.42 grade point average. He has worked as a lifeguard and graphic designer. “Since 2003 I have been volunteering on weekends and vacations at the School of Adaptive and Integrative Learning at Ferncliff Manor inYonkers, NewYork,” Scott says. “Each day is a new exercise in creativity and challenge.

Larissa Rota is a junior from Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, a graduate of Indian Hills High School, and a transfer from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Majoring in media and cinema studies with a minor in psychology, Larissa’s grade point average is 3.41. In high school Larissa played varsity soccer for four years, and

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CARA MYCHELLE HIRSCHMAN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Michael Bender is a sophomore from Florham Park, New Jersey. His major at Ramapo College is International Studies and he has a grade point average of 3.38. Michael is very active on campus. He’s a DJ with WRPR, the College radio station, a member of Hillel and is an EMT with the campus ambulance squad. At home, Michael is a volunteer fire fighter and a member of the Florham Park Memorial First Aid Squad.

Patrick Sullivan is a sophomore law and society major from West Milford, New Jersey and was named to the Dean’s List for the four semesters he has been enrolled at Ramapo College. His grade point average is 3.62. Patrick runs cross country and is the Ramapo 2007 school record holder in the DMR and ECAC Qualifier in the 1000 meter run. He is also the 2008 school record holder and ECAC Qualifier in the 4X800 meter run. Patrick is a member of the College’s Philosophy Club, and is on the Stewardship Committee of St. Joseph’s Church. He was the swim team coach in West Milford in 2006-2007.

CARA MYCHELLE HIRSCHMAN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

It often brought tears to my eyes to see a child who was thrilled by their new found ability to play and engage in activities as a result of a device that I had created for them. I hope to use the knowledge that I gain at Ramapo to create adaptive devices for people with disabilities.”

“The scholarship I received will prepare me for my future by helping me pay for the education I need so that I can achieve my goals for my future career.” Scott Sobol

“The scholarship will inspire me to think about who needs help and how I can do my part to get them that help. The scholarship that I received is in honor of a Ramapo OSS student who did everything she could to be successful and played a big part in making the lives of many special Olympians better. She is someone I think of every time I get the opportunity help those with disabilities.” Patrick Sullivan

Christopher Mazawey is from Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey. He is a sophomore political science and pre-law major with a 3.00 grade point average. In Pascack Hills High School, Christopher was captain of the soccer team and played championship basketball. He also set a new school record in the 1600 meter relay. Christopher was named Athlete of the Week in 2007 by The Record newspaper.

Andrew Brown is a sophomore from Upper Montclair, New Jersey. He is majoring in digital film making in the school of Contemporary Arts, and earned a grade point average of 3.08 in his freshman year. Besides a full academic 125

program, Andrew is an assistant coach for the Montclair Boys Volleyball Team, manager of a dry cleaner in Montclair, works for The Food Company caterers, and is captain of a volleyball team that plays out of Ridgewood High School. He credits his receipt of the Hirschman scholarship last year as providing motivation and confidence to succeed with diverse responsibilities, and has enhanced his writing, analytical, communication and organizational skills.

volunteer fire fighter, Eagle Scout, member of the Elmwood Park Planning Board, an usher at St. Leo’s Roman Catholic Church, and director of Camp Turrell operated by the Boy Scouts of America. He is proud of the twenty-page paper he researched and wrote for his senior history seminar on Wall Street and political corruption in the early days of America.

“The scholarship I received through the Office of Specialized Services means a lot to me because of my struggle with my studies. Knowing that there are others out there who believe in my success means the world to me.” Anthony Chirdo

“The Hirschman’s generosity means a lot to me.The scholarship money will help pay for my books. Although the scholarship is based on a tragic event, it helped me realize that anything can happen, no matter what kind of person you are. So I am going to try to have more fun, but obviously school comes first.” MatthewYoung

Susan Gail Griffin is from Mahwah, New Jersey and graduated from Rockland Community College (SUNY) with a 3.34 grade point average. She is a senior psychology major interested in working with children with disabilities. Susan is a member of SADD, Phi Sigma Omicron honor society, and is a student member of the American Psychological Association.

Anthony Chirdo lives in Elmwood Park, New Jersey and is a graduate of Paramus Catholic High School and Bergen Community College. He is a senior majoring in history, and his grade point average is 3.26. Anthony is a busy 126

CARA MYCHELLE HIRSCHMAN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

“I am majoring in biochemistry so that I can become either a pharmacist or a researcher and developer for new cures,” says Matthew Young. Matthew is a sophomore and has earned a 3.31 grade point average. Matthew is a graduate of John P. Stevens High School where he played soccer and was on the bowling team. At Ramapo he is a member of the intramural bowling league, where he placed first last year.

CARA MYCHELLE HIRSCHMAN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Jeremy Blumstein is a junior who transferred to Ramapo College from Middlesex County College with a 3.23 grade point average. Jeremy is a graduate of J.P. Stevens High School in Edison, New Jersey. He is majoring in business administration and marketing in the Anisfield School of Business. Jeremy plays intramural basketball and also bowls. He has volunteered with Habitat for Humanity and Buddy Ball of Edison.

in Maryland, Florida, and Massachusetts,” she says, “to encourage disabled children to express themselves.” She has been working at the Garfield Library since 2000, and works on campus in the Advisement Center. Amanda is from Garfield, New Jersey.

“This scholarship enabled me to buy my textbooks. Cara Mychelle Hirschman inspires me because despite her disability she was a tutor and an active member of the Ramapo community.” Amanda Trott Junior Kristen Potanka is from Wanaque, New Jersey. She is majoring in sociology and has earned a 3.07 grade point average. Kristen is a resident assistant, and participates in a number of intramural activities including kickboxing, swimming, and spinning. She is an active volunteer with the Mary Therese Rose Foundation, Friendship Daycare in Paterson, and Bergen Senior Day Care in Paramus.

“It shows how I have been able to overcome obstacles in life and become the man I am today.” Jeremy Blumstein Amanda Trott is a graduate of Bergen Community College where she was involved in the Dance Team and was a peer educator. At Ramapo Amanda is a junior majoring in social science with a minor in psychology. She is involved in Ramashows and the Office of Specialized Services Coalition. Amanda is a member of Meaningful Movements Dance Company, an adaptive dance company for individuals with disabilities. “We’ve performed

“I would like to thank the Hirshmans and let them know that I will continue to develop in my leadership abilities.” Kristen Potanka

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HUGGINS-BALDWIN FUND

Sophie Okolo is originally from Nigeria and enrolled at Ramapo in 2004. Currently a senior, Sophie is a bioinformatics major. She is a member of Beta Beta Beta, the national biological honor society, the Bioinformatics Club, the International Student Organization, and the Intervarsity Christian Fellowship. She was a resident assistant in Pine Hall, and works on campus for the Center for Computing and Information Systems. She has volunteered for the Make a Wish Foundation, Pony Power of New Jersey, and the Interreligious Fellowship for the Homeless of Bergen County.

he Huggins-Baldwin Fund was created by faculty members in the 1990s. The purpose of the Fund is to provide â&#x20AC;&#x153;scholarship and short-term emergency funds for needy students, particularly students of color.â&#x20AC;?

returning adult student, Marion Hughes gave as much to the intellectual and social life she found at Ramapo as she received. She excelled in her studies, and enjoyed participating in campus activities and clubs. She graduated from Ramapo in 1980, then went on to earn a master’s degree in family and community education from Columbia University Teachers College, and a second master’s degree in social work from Fordham University. At Mrs. Hughes’ death in 1997, Mrs. Ippolito worked with Marion’s friends and family to raise enough funds to start an endowed scholarship in Marion’s memory. Each year the Marion Hughes Scholarship benefits a female returningadult student who seeks excellence in her studies. Recipients “display a desire to learn, and a love for the academic environment similar to that of Marion Hughes.”

“A common thread that runs through my life is a strong desire to serve in the fields of health and well-being,” says Robin Ivey. Robin is a psychology major from Vernon, New Jersey. Since 1975 she has worked as a dental assistant, massage therapist, and yoga instructor. She has volunteered as a tai chi instructor and massage therapist, as well as with the Sussex County Beautification Committee. Robin is a member of the American Massage Therapy Association, the RegisteredYoga Association, and the Integral Yoga Teachers Association, and is certified in stress management by the IntegralYoga Institute. Robin started at Ramapo in the early 1970s and says “returning to college at this point in my life is more of a joy than I had ever anticipated. My plan is to become a psychotherapist who combines the mind/body approach, particularly in the areas of gerontology and hospice, including stress management for caregivers.”

“She proved that academic excellence is not bound by age.” Friend and Ramapo classmate Mary Ippolito ‘82

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MARION HUGHES SCHOLARSHIP

“This opportunity helps me through a difficult time, so that I may pursue my path to helping others.” Robin Ivey

“Starting this scholarship was a way to memorialize Ruth and her appreciation of learning.” Mr. Dick Johnson

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RUTH JOHNSON INTERNATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND

Ian Morsch is a senior majoring in international studies and has earned a 2.75 grade point average. “Ian is studying abroad in Japan now and completing a co-operative education experience this summer,” says the assistant director of cooperative education. Ian is from Sparta, New Jersey.

his fund was created by Dick Johnson in memory of his wife, Ruth. The Johnsons were Mahwah residents for twenty years. Their son, Andrew, graduated from Ramapo in 1990 with a degree in literature, then worked in England as an advertising copywriter. The award benefits students who participate in a cooperative education experience abroad, and is selected by the director of the international cooperative education program.

eena Joisher graduated from Ramapo College with Latin honors (magna cum laude) in 1992. She earned a degree in business administration to enhance her work at UPS.

Meena’s daughters Purvi and Manshi earned their high school diplomas at Mahwah High School. After attending Northeastern University for a year, Purvi followed her mother to Ramapo and graduated cum laude in 2001 with a degree in information systems. She earned an MBA at Ramapo College in 2004. Manshi, too, enrolled at Ramapo, and earned her degree in 2002 in information systems with Latin honors. Meena and her husband Mukul established this award in 2003 in recognition of the difficulties international students face, especially financially, and the valuable support Ramapo administrators and international student advisors gave their daughters and the role they played in Purvi’s and Manshi’s success. The Joisher Scholarship benefits exceptional international students, particularly those from India.

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MUKUL JOISHER AND FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP

“When I was young I loved playing school and teaching other children,” says Shaima Khinjani. Shaima is a native of Afghanistan and attended Naheed Shaeed High School in Peshwar, Pakistan. “When the Taliban took control, the door of school was closed for us,” Shaima says. “I had to stay at home. I can say it was the most difficult time not only for me but for all women in Afghanistan.” Despite many obstacles Shaima started a school for girls with the cooperation of UNICEF, and taught over 100 students. She then worked as the executive assistant to the Minister of Women’s Affairs. “I would like to study diplomacy and foreign relations,” she continues. “My experience has shown me that women in Afghanistan have lots of work to do to work for our country and to improve the life of women.” Shaima is in her second year at Ramapo majoring in international studies. She has earned a 3.23 grade point average.

llen Kaiden, Ed.D. established the Dr. Ellen and Dr. Jeffrey Kaiden Urban Educator Scholarship at the Ramapo College Foundation in 2005. Ellen Kaiden is a professor of reading and education in the School of Social Science and Human Services. Her husband Jeffrey is an ophthalmologist practicing in Westwood, New Jersey. The intent of the Kaiden Scholarship is to recognize students who see the value in promoting education among urban populations, and encourage them to pursue a career teaching in an urban environment. Ellen Kaiden has been involved with Ramapo’s teacher education program for many years. In 1990 she secured a federal grant to create the Student Literacy Corps course, a program which continues to this day. The Student Literacy Corps course educates Ramapo students about illiteracy, provides them with the tools to remediate this problem, and includes a required service-learning component in an urban Bergen or Passaic County school.

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DR. ELLEN AND DR. JEFFREY KAIDEN URBAN EDUCATOR SCHOLARSHIP

Senior Xiomara Robinson is majoring in psychology at Ramapo while pursuing teacher certification in elementary education. She has earned a 3.38 grade point average. Xiomara is from Paterson, New Jersey and completed her field work for the Student Literacy Corps in her home town. “She is passionate about making a difference in the lives of children,” says professor Ellen Kaiden. “She understands the need to be both a mentor and a teacher to students who may not have a guiding academic force in their lives.” Xiomara will be doing her student teaching this spring in the fifth grade at PS 27 in Paterson. At Ramapo Xiomara was president of the student club Ebony Women for Social Change, and is currently coordinating the annual fashion show. She also teaches a dance class at a local community center in her town.

“As a nursing major, I know that Ramapo College has one of the best programs around. By receiving this scholarship, it was much more affordable for me to come here and get the best nursing education possible so I can help people in the future.” Brittany Spiegel

“To provide grants for students, particularly women, in the School of Theoretical and Applied Science.” – LastWill & Testament of Julia Keay-Chanes

“With a degree in biochemistry, I hope to enter the field of medical research,” says Jacqueline Katz. “Because I have watched my grandparents and mother suffer greatly from arthritis, I plan to dedicate my career to finding a cure for this disease.” Jacqueline is from Shrewsbury, New Jersey and is a graduate of Red Bank Regional High School. In high school Jacqueline was active in the Dance Plus Competition team, the Book Club, and the Key Club. She was a Student-to-Student peer leader. She was an active volunteer in her home community, worked part time at a confectionary, and was a peer tutor. At Ramapo Jacqueline is majoring in biochemistry.

Brittany Spiegel follows her father, a 1983 graduate, to Ramapo College. Brittany is from Stewartsville, New Jersey and is a graduate of Phillipsburg High School. She was a member of the student council and French Club during all four years of high school, as well as the chair of the Haunted High School club. Brittany played softball for three years, and was named junior varsity MVP in her sophomore year. Brittany is a freshman in Ramapo’s nursing program. She plans to pursue an advanced degree and become a neonatal nurse practitioner.

“The generosity of the benefactor of my scholarship means a great deal to me and my family. Without this generosity, I would be unable to achieve my goal of becoming a high school biology teacher.” Jacqueline Katz 138

JULIA KEAY-CHANES SCHOLARSHIP

hen she died in 1997, Julia Keay-Chanes requested that a portion of her estate be used to establish a scholarship endowment for Ramapo students “particularly women, in the School of Theoretical and Applied Science, for tuition, research, and related educational expenses.” First awarded in 2002, the Keay-Chanes Scholarships help the Admissions and Enrollment Management Office provide meaningful financial support to promising women who are entering Ramapo as freshmen or transfers.

Born in Czechoslovakia, Frank Kraus served in World War II as a lieutenant in the Republic Army. He then moved to Mulhouse, France where he earned a degree in Textile Engineering with the expectation of taking over his father’s textile business. While Frank was on a business trip to the United States, Hitler invaded Poland and Frank lost everything. In the U.S., Frank pursued a successful business career, and was a tireless leader in the community until his death in 2003. He was president of the Mahwah Board of Health, a trustee of Valley Hospital for 12 years, and member of the board of directors of the West Bergen Mental Health Center. At Ramapo, Mr. Kraus served on the board of the Friends of Ramapo, and received the Distinguished Citizens award in 1995. His wife Becky is a native of Raleigh, North Carolina. She is a professional artist and has worked for Conde Nast and Vogue magazine, and currently devotes her talents to writing and illustrating children’s books. Her work has been exhibited throughout New Jersey. Becky is active with many non-profit organizations, including Ramapo College where she is a member of the Friends Board and a major supporter of the soon-to-be-completed Salameno Spiritual Center.

“This scholarship is helping me cover my expenses for this semester. This has a direct affect on my future because I can save money for graduate school, which I plan to attend this fall, after graduating from Ramapo.” Jennifer C. Mirro

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BECKY AND FRANK KRAUS SCHOLARSHIP

Jennifer Mirro is from Wantage, New Jersey and has a 3.98 grade point average. She is a theater major concentrating in acting. Jennifer transferred to Ramapo from Sussex County Community College where she was vice president of the Student Government Association. At Ramapo Jennifer is president of Alpha Psi Omega, the theater honor society, and is a member of Omicron Delta Kappa and Colleges Against Cancer. She participated in two shows last year as an actress, Letters to a Student Revolutionary and One Touch ofVenus. She was nominated for the Irene Ryan Acting Scholarship through the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival. “I had the chance to go to Pittsburgh to participate in this festival with several other members of the theater department,” Jennifer says, “And it was a great opportunity for me as an actress.”

ong-time Mahwah residents and Ramapo supporters Rebecca and Frank Kraus created this endowed scholarship in 1988. The purpose of the Kraus Rebecca Kraus Scholarship is to recognize an upperclassman who is a campus leader. “We were both very much in favor of Ramapo becoming a part of the Mahwah community,” said Frank Kraus, who had served as Mayor of Mahwah in the 1980s. “The College has been great for Mahwah.”

BECKY AND FRANK KRAUS SCHOLARSHIP

“I received the Becky & Frank Kraus Scholarship. Frank Kraus was the former mayor of Mahwah when the college was founded and thus it is a leadership and academic excellence scholarship. I believe that Mrs. Kraus’ generosity has inspired me to be a leader with integrity at Ramapo College. Her generosity will continue to inspire me to try my hardest in everything I set myself to do now and after graduation.” Harrison Gilbert

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Cristina Melgarejo is in her senior year at Ramapo majoring in social work. Cristina has earned a 3.71 grade point average while performing over 200 hours of volunteer work every semester. She has completed internships at West Bergen Mental Health and at the Bergen County Central Trades and Labor Council (AFLCIO). At the Trades and Labor Council Cristina was an election volunteer, educating constituents on the political process. She also volunteers at Shelter Our Sisters and Citizen Action doing research on consumerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rights. Cristina plans to continue her education and pursue a masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in social work.

returning adult student in the community mental health contract major was so impressed with the dedication of her fellow students she and her husband decided to create a scholarship fund. She was particularly John Krebs, SJ impressed with those students who face daunting financial hardships or are the first in their family to attend college.

JOHN KREBS, SJ SCHOLARSHIP

The Krebs fund is named for the donorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s uncle, a Jesuit priest who served the poor in the Philippines. The scholarship is named in honor of his selfless dedication to others, which mirrors the commitment of the students in the target majors. The Krebs Scholarship is open to students who are majoring in social work or community mental health and who have a grade point average of 3.50 or higher.

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144

GARVIN LALLY ‘84 WRITER’S SCHOLARSHIP

Louis Maraj is a poet and is pursuing a triple major that includes communication arts with a concentration in writing; literature with a concentration in creative writing; and social science with a concentration in culture and identity. He is applying to graduate programs in creative writing. Louis has written numerous poems as part of an Honors seminar and he is “interested in the sonnet and the numerous ways it can be manipulated, fashioned and shaped within its tight sound structure.” Louis is from Trinidad and Tobago and is in his senior year at Ramapo. He has earned a 3.65 grade point average.

arvin Lally graduated from Ramapo in 1984 and became a freelance writer. After his death in an airplane accident in 1991, his wife, Julie Beiersdorf established this scholarship in Garvin’s memory to perpetuate his love for writing and for Ramapo College. Faculty and staff nominate students for the Lally award, who must demonstrate a strong interest in writing, literature, or poetry.

“I have decided to pursue a career in law, and face any challenges that await me,” says freshman Kathleen Carpio. Kathleen is from Hackensack, New Jersey and is a graduate of the Academy for the Advancement of Science and Technology. In high school Kathleen participated in a biology research elective, and was named a National Ventures Scholar in recognition for her academic achievement. She participated in the concert choir during three years. At Ramapo Kathleen is majoring in psychology.

“The Joseph Leone Family Fund Scholarship motivates me to keep working hard on my courses so that I can achieve my goal of becoming a doctor.” Kathleen Carpio

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JOSEPH M. LEONE FAMILY FUND ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP

r. Joseph M. Leone is vice chairman and chief financial officer of CIT Group Inc, one of the nation’s largest consumer and commercial finance firms. He holds a BBA from Baruch College of the City University of New York, and attended the Harvard University Advanced Management Program. Mr. Leone joined CIT in 1986, and has held his current position since 1995. Previously he was with Manufacturers Hanover and KPMG Peat Marwick. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, the NewYork Society of Certified Public Accountants and the Financial Executives Institute. As a Ramapo College Foundation Board Governor, Mr. Leone helped link CIT’s philanthropic goals with Ramapo students, and was instrumental in creating the CIT Scholars program in 1999, and launched this scholarship in 2004. The Leone Family Scholarships will benefit motivated students from underserved communities across the state of New Jersey.

The entire College community sought to join Mrs. Liessem’s husband, Robert and their children to launch a scholarship fund in her memory, and the Katherine Liessem Memorial Scholarship was created. Faculty members, students, and staff, together with friends, family, neighbors, and business associates contributed to the fund. To best honor his wife, Mr. Liessem determined that the Liessem Scholarship be awarded to a mature Ramapo senior with an excellent academic record, financial need, and a strong interest in the field of psychology and human services. The first awards were presented in 1983. “Katherine crossed many paths here at Ramapo College,” wrote thenpresident George Potter, “and touched many people with her generous spirit.”

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KATHERINE LIESSEM MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Senior Lovely Joy is from New Milford, New Jersey. She already holds a degree in physics with minors in chemistry and mathematics, and worked in her native India as a teacher in Bombay. “My dream was to become a nurse,” she says. When she was laid off from my job in a bank she got a job in a hospital working as an emergency room secretary during the night shift. She attended Bergen Community College during the day studying nursing, then enrolled at Ramapo. To date she has earned a 3.46 grade point average. “My goal is to work with people who can’t help themselves,” she says. “When I come back from my clinical experiences it gives me such satisfaction to see smiles on my patients’ faces; I think this is one of the most satisfying jobs I have ever had.”

atherine Liessem joined the staff of Ramapo College in 1972, just three years after the College’s founding. Ms. Liessem worked as secretary to vice president Arthur Jacobs while studying toward a degree in social science. Sadly, in 1982 she died unexpectedly at age 46. Katherine Liessem touched many on the Ramapo campus: “Her joy in living and her very real enthusiasm for Ramapo and its people — faculty, staff, and students — were deep-rooted and tangible” wrote one of her colleagues at the time.

Last year Stoyan Stoyanova worked with fellow students to establish the International Business Club, where he currently serves as vice president. He is also a member of the Model United National Club, the International Students Organization, and the Finance Club. Stoyan is from Bulgaria and is majoring in international business. He is a junior and has earned a 3.96 grade point average. Stoyan has completed several internships abroad, in the Bulgarian Ministry of Economy and Energy and the Raiffeisen Bank. “The global business environment is extremely competitive and I believe that a Ph.D. in international business management will enhance both my knowledge and my ability to succeed,” he says.

“When a person is recognized for what he does, it really motivates him to go on.” Stoyan Stoyanova

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MADDI ENDOWMENT

he Maddi Scholarship was started by Don Maddi, a member of the Ramapo College Foundation Board of Governors. Mr. Maddi is vice president for compensation and Don Maddi benefits at C.R. Bard, a provider of medical products and services. C.R. Bard has 9,000 employees worldwide, and revenue of $2 billion annually. During his over 18 year tenure with the company, Mr. Maddi has worked in human resources in positions with increasing management and executive responsibilities. He is also active in the community with the Diabetes Foundation, and the Parents Alumni Association of Villa Walsh Academy. The purpose of the Maddi Award is to recognize deserving students in the Anisfield School of Business.

Dottie David-Wilson is a sophomore from Piscataway, New Jersey majoring in nursing with a 3.82 grade point average. Dottie was accepted into the Alpha Delta Lambda honor society and is a member of Sigma Sigma Sigma sorority. Dottie plans to work in the field of pediatric oncology while studying for a master’s degree to become a nurse practitioner. Currently Dottie works as a patient care technician at Somerset Medical Center, and volunteers for several health-related community projects.

ELIZABETH MAINARDI ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP FUND

athleen Mainardi and her husband Carlo created this endowed scholarship fund in 2003 as a gift to Carlo’s mother, Elizabeth. Kathleen is a director in the Ramapo College Division of Institutional Advancement. In creating the endowment, Kathleen sought to honor her mother-in-law, who had a profound influence on Carlo’s pursuing a college degree and ultimately becoming a physician. Elizabeth Mainardi was born in 1922 in Little Falls, New Jersey and was a life-long resident of Totowa, New Jersey. She and her husband Joseph had two sons, Carlo and Donald. Elizabeth worked in the Passaic County Probation Office and was a court administrator for Passaic County. She was president of the Totowa Senior Citizens Club and treasurer of the Italian American Club in Totowa. She passed away in October of 2004. Elizabeth’s memory lives on in this endowed scholarship, which benefits Ramapo students who intend to pursue a career in health care, particularly medicine or nursing.

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Boris Glazman is from New Milford, New Jersey and is a senior majoring in international studies at Ramapo. During the summer of 2008 Boris worked in the office of State Senator Loretta Weinberg, and for the New Milford Board of Education. Boris has earned a 3.76 grade point average. “I want to obtain a graduate degree in international relations, then pursue a career in law enforcement at either the local or federal level,” Boris says.

“This scholarship will continue to inspire my academic pursuits.” Boris Glazman

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D. BENNETT MAZUR SCHOLARSHIP

his award was created in memory of D. Bennett Mazur, veteran, Ramapo College professor, Bergen County Freeholder, and New Jersey Assemblyman. A native of Fort Lee, New Jersey, Mr. Mazur displayed courage and resilience as a soldier during World War II, receiving three Purple Hearts and the Bronze Star. In 1972 Mr. Mazur was elected to the New Jersey State Assembly, where he served until he retired in 1992. He is well known for sponsoring a 1992 anti-discrimination bill making it illegal to discriminate on the basis of affectional or sexual orientation in hiring/promotion, financial loans or credit, or housing in the State of New Jersey. His experience made him a valuable asset to the Ramapo faculty. After his death, friends, fellow legislators, and members of the Bergen County community held a dinner to raise funds to establish this endowed scholarship fund, which is for students studying urban affairs or public policy. “His life as an assemblyman, professor, soldier, and great American,” wrote Fort Lee friends at Mr. Mazur’s death, “have left us with a tradition of intellect, excellence, courage, and empathy for those less fortunate; a hallmark for all of us to emulate.”

“This scholarship has given me the chance to pursue a college degree. I plan on using this education that I’m receiving to help make the difference in the lives of children.” Rebecca Pacailler Freshman Dana Branch is from Fair Lawn, New Jersey. In high school Dana was involved in the French Honor Society, student government, and the Biology League. Dana was a member of the volleyball team throughout her high school career, and co-managed the boy’s volleyball team. She participated in the Interact Club, and volunteered at her town library, a senior center, and as a tutor. After school Dana danced for seven years, and attended Chinese School every Saturday. She worked at her neighborhood Shop Rite, at a local pharmacy, and one summer as a camp counselor. Dana is majoring in biology.

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MEADOWLANDS COMMISSION ACHIEVEMENT SCHOLARSHIPS

Rebecca Pacailler is a freshman biology major from Butler, New Jersey. In high school Rebecca was a member of the National Honor Society, the French Honor Society, and the Key Club. She participated in varsity gymnastics all four years, and was a team captain in her junior and senior years. Rebecca plans to become a physical therapist, specializing in pediatric physical therapy. Her grade point average is 3.75.

n August, 2003 Ramapo College entered into an agreement with the New Jersey Meadowlands Commission to operate and expand educational efforts of the Meadowlands Robert Ceberio, Environment Center Executive Director, New Jersey Meadowlands (MEC), located in Lyndhurst, New Jersey. Commission Through this multi-million dollar effort, implemented a year later, Ramapo manages the MEC’s educational programs, including offerings for school children in grades kindergarten through 12, their teachers, and undergraduate and graduate students. The program includes scholarship funding for “entering Ramapo College freshmen who have met the achievement and scholarship award criteria requirements of Ramapo College, and who have proven interest in environmental issues.” Finalists are selected by the New Jersey Meadowlands Commission, based upon recommendations of Ramapo staff and faculty. The first Meadowlands Achievement Scholarship was presented in the 2004-2005 academic year.

Tiffany Simons is a junior at Ramapo majoring in chemistry. She has earned a 3.76 grade point average. Tiffany is also pursuing courses toward teacher certification in chemistry. She is from Vineland, New Jersey.

heodore (Ted) Michelfeld was a founding member of the Ramapo College faculty who served with distinction. At his death in 1996, Professor Michelfeld’s colleague,Theodore Sall, began contributing to the College to create an award in Dr. Michelfeld’s memory. Recipients of the Michelfeld Award are outstanding chemistry students in their junior year, and are selected by the chemistry faculty. The Michelfeld Award is selected later in the spring semester.

THEODORE MICHELFELD AWARD

“A brave heart in so many ways. He inspired all of us with his intellect, his humor and his kindness.” Dr.Angela Cristini Professor of Biology Executive Director, Meadowlands Environment Center

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Founded in 1968, the KPMG Foundation provides funds to strengthen business higher education, faculty research and development, and employee volunteerism. The KPMG Foundation is the founder of The Ph.D. Project, which encourages promising minority individuals in corporate positions to enter doctorate programs and become college professors.

“The KPMG Scholarship is specifically for accounting. Receiving this further helps my study in the field and I greatly appreciate their generosity.” Jonelyn Planillo

Mr. Milano serves on President Obama’s Board of Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and serves on numerous advisory boards and boards of directors including the Points of Light Foundation. He has served on the boards of directors of AACSB International, the accrediting body for university schools of business; the American Accounting Association, the organization of accounting professors; the Episcopal Church Foundation (U.S.); and many others. He is most proud of having served on the search committees for both the president and business school dean at Ramapo. Mr. Milano was awarded honorary doctorates from North Carolina A&T State University, an Historically Black University, and Kent State University.

“Choosing accounting as my major melds my love of math and my passion for the business world,” says Laura Zindel. Laura is in her junior year and is also pursuing a minor in information systems. She has earned a 3.61 grade point average. Laura works at a local Italian restaurant and at a medical office. She is a peer facilitator and Antioch leader, and is a member of the Accounting Club. Laura is from Hewitt, New Jersey.

Mr. Milano has been an active member of the Ramapo Foundation Board of Governors since 1992, and served as chair from 2002 to 2006. He is currently a member of the Executive Committee, as well as the Audit, Finance and Investment Committees. Mr. Milano established this scholarship fund at Ramapo in 2002. 160

BERNARD MILANO/KPMG ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP

Jonelyn Rae Planillo is from New Milford, New Jersey and is majoring in accounting with a minor in music. She is in her senior year and has earned a 3.89 grade point average. Jonelyn is a senator in the Student Government Association, a student representative to the Diversity Action Committee, and senior advisor for the Filipino American Student Association. She is a member of College Democrats and Take the Lead, the ballroom dancing club. She works at the Animal Clinic of NewYork, and last summer was an audit intern at an accounting firm in Edison, New Jersey. In the summer of 2007 Jonelyn was an intern for a Chief Strategy Officer at the United States Mint in Washington, D.C.

ernard J. Milano’s career spans over 45 years with KPMG. A graduate of Temple University with a degree in business, he started in KPMG’s Philadelphia office on the audit staff. He earned his CPA, moved into management roles and in 1975 was appointed KPMG’s first National Partner in Charge of University Recruiting. He held increasing roles of responsibility including National Partner in Charge of Human Resources and later, President of the KPMG Foundation, a role he has continued after his retirement as a partner.

Laura Gordon is a freshman nursing student from Ridgewood, New Jersey. At Midland Park High School Laura was a cheerleader, a member of the varsity track team, and ran cross country. “One of our coaches said that running in a race is not only about beating the other person, but beating yourself,” Laura says. “I was initially confused and thought this was absurd,” she continues, “but as I ran more races I realized that in any aspect of life ‘running a race’ is about self-discipline, ambition, striving for the goal, and building endurance for oneself.” She earned the Scholar Athlete Award in all four years. She worked in a pizzeria and at a bank, and was involved with her church youth group and taught catechism classes. “After working in a hospital, I am aspiring to return to school for my master’s degree in nursing and specialize in prenatal care of pediatrics,” says Laura Gordon.

Julie Cherian is a graduate of Bergenfield High School where she was an excellent student. In high school Julie played flute and piccolo in a number of musical groups and ensembles, and was a member of the choir and chorus. She worked as a piano and flute teacher, and volunteered as an instrumentalist at her church. Overcoming initial fears, Julie took a mission trip to Ecuador in her senior year.

“This scholarship has been vital to my college choice and my education in preparing to become a nurse. I am very grateful for the scholarship providing a way for me to pursue my life goal.” Laura Gordon 162

FRANK E. AND LILLIAN A. MUTTER SCHOLARSHIP

“The trip turned out to be one of the memorable experiences of my life,” she says. “I met Ecuadorians who seemed to possess a happiness that privileged Americans should have but do not. I also learned that it is important to look beyond my fears to the opportunities that lie ahead.” Jule is pursuing the biology/physical therapy program at Ramapo College.

he Frank E. and Lillian A. Mutter Scholarship is one of the largest endowed scholarship programs at Ramapo. The Mutter Scholarships evolved through the efforts of Mr. Arthur Campbell, the Mutters’ attorney, and executor of Mr. Mutter’s will. A long-time resident of nearby Ho-Ho-Kus, Mr. Campbell was aware of Ramapo College’s commitment to quality education, and convinced Mr. Mutter that he and his wife’s memory would be “well served by supporting students at Ramapo in their endeavors to improve themselves and others through education.” Specifically, Mr. Mutter requested that the fund provide scholarships for “students residing in Upper Saddle River, New Jersey, who need financial assistance; but if there are no such needy students, then for students from any other part of Bergen County, New Jersey, who need financial assistance.” The first Mutter Scholarships were awarded in 1991. Thanks to Mr. Campbell’s foresight and Mr. Mutter’s generosity, as many as 20 Ramapo students receive Mutter Scholarships in any given year.

FRANK E. AND LILLIAN A. MUTTER SCHOLARSHIP

Thomas Curran is a graduate of Saddle Brook High School where he was an outstanding student. In high School Thomas was an honors student in Spanish, and was a member of the concert choir. At Ramapo College he is a freshman majoring in computer science.

School every Saturday. She worked at her neighborhood Shop Rite, at a local pharmacy, and one summer as a camp counselor. Dana is majoring in biology and plans to become a physician. Mark Farrell is a freshman in Ramapo’s biology major, with a concentration in the physician’s assistant program. He is looking forward to a career in the medical field. Mark is from Ridgewood, New Jersey. At Westwood High School Mark was active in student government, serving as class president. He was a member of the swim team and the wrestling team. He also played in the jazz band, and was a founding member of the chess club. “There is always something new to learn,” he says.

“This scholarship is helping me learn so many things that will shape the adult I become.While I plan to never stop learning, an education at Ramapo College is a great start. Upon receiving the Frank and Lillian Mutter Scholarship, I was the proudest I have ever been in my life.The generosity of those who endowed this scholarship is an example of the great character that I aspire to be in my own life.” Thomas Curran

Kerry Barrett is a freshman from Ridgefield Park, New Jersey. She is majoring in international studies at Ramapo. Kerry is a graduate of Bergen County Academies, Academy for Culinary Arts and Hotel Administration. In high school Kerry was captain of the volleyball team and led the team to a league championship. She was also a campaign coordinator for Amnesty Inernational, president of a community service club, and was sports editor of the yearbook. Kerry plans to continue her education in graduate school.

Freshman Dana Branch is from Fair Lawn, New Jersey. In high school Dana was involved in the French Honor Society, student government, and the Biology League. Dana was a member of the volleyball team throughout her high school career, and co-managed the boy’s volleyball team. She participated in the Interact Club, and volunteered at her town library, a senior center, and as a tutor. After school, Dana danced for seven years, and attended Chinese 163

FRANK E. AND LILLIAN A. MUTTER SCHOLARSHIP

Rami Alrabaa is a freshman majoring in biochemistry from North Arlington, New Jersey. At Bergen County Academies Rami played basketball and volleyball. He was a member of the Health Occupations Students Association, and volunteers at a community pool and at his church. He volunteered at Clara Maaas Continuing Care Center, where his experience with patients taught him to be calm in critical situations and “the satisfaction of saving someone’s life or simply mollifying their pain.” His goal is to become a physician.

“The Mutter’s generosity shows how education is valued and without such generosity I would probably not be here.” Rami Alrabaa A graduate of Paramus High School, Christine Lundquist is a freshman at Ramapo College. In high school Christine was a member of the basketball team, where she was the junior varsity team captain for two years. She was an active volunteer and wrote for the school newspaper.

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Arnold Mytelka started a scholarship at Ramapo in his mother’s memory in 1983, and created this award in memory of his father in 2006. The Herman Mytelka Scholarship recognizes entering Ramapo College freshmen from any public high school in Jersey City, with preference given to students from Dickinson High School.

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HERMAN D. MYTELKA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Richard McAdams is a freshman from Jersey City, New Jersey where he graduated from McNair Academic High School. He played the saxophone and the oboe in his high school’s jazz band, and participated in the musical program Little Shop of Horrors. He has taught himself to play the electric and string bass guitar. At Ramapo Richard is enrolled in the School of Contemporary Arts and has a 2.90 grade point average.

rnold Mytelka was chairman of the Ramapo College Board of Trustees from 19791980. Both of Mr. Mytelka’s parents were educators in the Jersey City public school system: his mother taught seventh and eighth grade English and his father was a math teacher and former principal of Dickinson High School. Herman Mytelka also taught at James J. Ferris High School in Jersey City.

American Club, and a member of the Visual Artist Society, and Alpha Phi Omega (a national service fraternity), and works on campus in the darkroom laboratory. She is a volunteer with the Edgewater Alliance to Prevent Drug and Alcohol Abuse. “I would like to be a working artist and work in graphic arts as a designer,” Brooke says, “and combine my backgrounds in communications and fine arts.” Stephen Ferraro is a senior majoring in psychology, while pursuing the Business Essentials certificate. He has earned a 3.93 grade point average. In high school he volunteered as a tutor, library assistant, as a teacher at his church, and helped build two War Memorials in his home town of Fort Lee, New Jersey. In college Stephen has been an active volunteer for Habitat for Humanity, Shelter Our Sisters, and the Fort Lee Office of Emergency Management. He is an intern at Kiewit Constructors in the human resources department. “My career interests include law enforcement, industrial/organizational psychology, human resource management, and teaching,” Stephen says.

Brooke Dalton is from Edgewater, New Jersey and is majoring in communication arts with a concentration in design and interactive media. Brooke is a senior and has earned a 3.61 grade point average. She is president of the Irish

“The Mytelka Scholarship keeps telling me to continue my success in academics. I thank the donor very much.” Stephen Ferraro

“My scholarship will help me prepare for my future by enabling me to buy the photographic equipment I need.” Brooke Dalton 168

JEANNETTE KRIEGER MYTELKA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

eannette Krieger Mytelka taught seventh and eighth grade English in the Jersey City public schools. “Before others recognized the need, she introduced Black writers and poets in her classroom,” says her son Arnold Mytelka. “She was an excellent, professional teacher. Many teachers had discipline problems, my mom never did.” Arnold Mytelka served as chairman of the Ramapo College Board of Trustees from 1979 to 1980. At his mother’s death in 1983, Mr. Mytelka searched for the most appropriate way to memorialize Jeannette’s love of education and teaching. “I thought that a scholarship at Ramapo would be the most effective,” he explained. “It’s the kind of thing that my mom would have been pleased to have set up.” The Mytelka scholarships are awarded to academically outstanding seniors of financial need who have completed three years at Ramapo College.

“I’m honored to have received this scholarship as it truly means a lot to know the communication arts department recognizes my efforts to be a better journalist.” Kaitlin Chieco

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NORTH JERSEY MEDIA GROUP FOUNDATION/ THE RECORD SCHOLARSHIP

Senior Kaitlin Chieco is majoring in communication arts with a concentration in journalism. “Kaitlin is a very hard working, conscientious student who is a really good journalist,” agree professors Edna Negron and Regina Clark. Kaitlin works in J-Lee’s on campus to help support her education, and is currently an intern at NJN News with Sara Lee Kessler. Kaitlin has earned a 3.47 grade point average. She is from Brick, New Jersey.

or 25 years North Jersey Media Group staff worked closely with Ramapo College director Helen Burchell to implement The Record Debate Classic. Each year debate team members from high schools throughout Bergen County compete in this prestigious event, which hones their debating skills and builds awareness of a timely public policy issue. Life-long learning, increasing the quality of public education, and the ability to convey oneself effectively in the spoken and written word were very important to Helen Burchell. She was a member of Ramapo College’s founding faculty in teacher education, and also served as director of academic outreach and grants advisor. In addition to coordinating The Record Debate Classic, Dr. Burchell served on the Donald and Flora Borg Merit Scholarship Award Committee, named for leaders of The Record. At Dr. Burchell’s death in 2005 the North Jersey Media Group Foundation made a generous commitment to the College in Helen’s memory, to be used for a scholarship for students in literature or journalism.

Senior Tyler Kneidl is majoring in physics. He is also pursuing teacher certification in physics. Tyler is from Montague, New Jersey and earned his associate’s degree in electronics engineering technology from DeVry University before attending Ramapo. He is an assistant varsity football coach at Sussex County Technical School, his alma mater. At Ramapo Tyler is president of Tau Delta Phi Fraternity and the Inter-Fraternity Conference, and has been involved in a number of volunteer activities. “While we must accept and understand differences, as educators we cannot allow that to deter an equal education,”Tyler says. “I believe we need to teach students with high expectations.”

Ramapo students in their third or fourth years of study can qualify for up to $20,000 in awards through the Noyce Scholarship program. At Ramapo, Noyce scholars participate in a support program during their first two years as teachers. The program also includes a paid summer institute at the Meadowlands Environment Center, mentoring, and ongoing communications between the new teachers, Ramapo College faculty, and school district staff.

Patrick Wall is majoring in mathematics while pursuing teacher certification also in mathematics. Patrick is a junior and has earned a 3.83 grade point average. Since 2006 Patrick has been a lifeguard at the Tenafly Swim Club, where he has also been a diving coach and swim instructor. He has also been a lifeguard and pool assistant manager at the Alpine Country Club and the Englewood Field Club. Patrick plans to teach high school mathematics.

Jonathan Rosenthal majored in biology with minors in chemistry and Latin American studies. He is from Verona, New Jersey and earned a cumulative grade point average of 3.42. During his Ramapo College career Jonathan worked as a tutor for Brainstorm Tutoring and the Office of Specialized Services. He was also a tennis instructor at Raza’s Tennis Camp, and a museum guide at the Liberty Science Center. He has been a member of the Verona Rescue Squad since 2002. This fall Jonathan is conducting his student teaching in the Newark Public Schools, teaching biology and environmental science.

The NOYCE scholarship is important to me because it helps to provide a better education to those in high needs districts.” PatrickWall

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ROBERT NOYCE SCHOLARSHIP

he Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship program seeks to encourage talented science, technology, engineering, and mathematics majors and professionals to become K-12 mathematics and science teachers. The program provides funds to institutions of higher education to support scholarships, stipends, and programs for students who commit to teaching in high-need K-12 school districts. The Noyce Scholarships are funded by a grant from the National Science Foundation and are administered by Ramapo College. Mathematics professor Lawrence D’Antonio and chemistry professor Carol Frishberg submitted the successful proposal.

Lori Oldenhage had earned a bachelor of arts degree from Pace University and later a master’s degree in marketing. Her commitment and love for her family went beyond all bounds. Moments around the pool with her sisters, creative assignments at Trans World Marketing with her dad, special outings with her mom, and many loud Sunday afternoons at Giants Stadium with her husband helped Lori celebrate her enthusiasm for life. The donors of this scholarship sought to honor Ms. Oldenhage with this scholarship that recognizes a female Ramapo College student who is majoring in marketing, and who demonstrates an “enthusiasm for life.” The recipient is selected by the convener of the marketing faculty.

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LORI ANN OLDENHAGE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP I

“During the privatization of state-owned enterprises in my country, Bulgaria, my parents lost their jobs and faced hardship trying to satisfy even the basic needs of our family,” says Veselina Stoyanova. “I became extremely motivated in understanding the dynamics of the business environment.” Veselina is a senior at Ramapo majoring in international business. Her minor is French, and she has earned a 3.97 grade point average. Veselina has spent her summers working at the Ministry of Economy and Energy, Raiffeisen Bank, the Bulgarian United Bank, and with a grain distributor, all in Bulgaria. At Ramapo Veselina is a member of the Model United Nations Club and the International Business Club, where she serves as president. She plans to continue her education in international business and marketing.

he Oldenhage Scholarship was created by family members of Lori Ann Cavaluzzi Oldenhage. Lori and her husband, David, were expecting their first child when she was faced with the challenge of unbeatable cancer. In 2002, shortly after her son William was born, Lori succumbed to the disease.

Lori Oldenhage had earned a bachelor of arts degree from Pace University and later a master’s degree in marketing. Her commitment and love for her family went beyond all bounds. Moments around the pool with her sister, creative assignments at Trans World Marketing with her dad, special outings with her mom, and many loud Sunday afternoons at Giants Stadium with her husband helped Lori celebrate her enthusiasm for life. The donors of this scholarship sought to honor Ms. Oldenhage with this scholarship that recognizes a female Ramapo College student who is majoring in marketing, and who demonstrates an “enthusiasm for life.” The recipient is selected by the convener of the marketing faculty.

“The scholarship I have received has made a tremendous difference in my life. It has helped reduce the financial burden that paying for college would place on me and my family. I would like to thank the benefactors for their goodness and generosity.” Rachel Coviello

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LORI ANN OLDENHAGE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP II

“I am interested in market/consumer research, marketing promotions, and event marketing,” says Rachel Coviello. Rachel transferred to Ramapo from Bucknell University and is currently a senior majoring in business administration with a concentration in marketing. She has been an intern at Pearson Education and Unilever DRT. Rachel is a member of the Anisfield School of Business Student Advisory Board and Chi Alpha Sigma, the national collegiate athlete honor society. She is captain of this year’s varsity women’s swim team. Rachel is from Wayne, New Jersey and has earned a 3.80 grade point average.

“This is certainly an appropriate way to memorialize one of the “founding fathers” of Ramapo College, an outstanding teacher who cared deeply about students and teaching.” Dr. SydneyWeinberg, Convener of History May 19, 1993

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DOMINICK PALAZZOTTO SCHOLARSHIP

“Working as a resident assistant in Pine Hall and being a peer facilitator for first year students cemented my decision to enter the teacher education program,” says Kelly Grapentine. Kelly is a senior majoring in history while pursuing teacher certification in social studies. She has earned a 3.74 grade point average. Last year she participated in a semester exchange at the University of Hawaii at Hilo. Kelly has been a volunteer with the Student Literacy Corps, Relay for Life, and at The Hermitage. She is Vice President of the Student Government Association and is involved in the American Democracy Project. “If I were not becoming a teacher, I would have tried to be a politician,” she says. “I love making people excited, and hearing their concerns and then doing something about it.”

ne of the founding members of the Ramapo College faculty, Dominick Palazzotto served Ramapo in a number of capacities, most notably as director of the School of International Affairs, director of American and International Studies, and convener of the history faculty. “Most important,” wrote Sydney Weinberg, a fellow history professor, “Dom was a master teacher who cared deeply about the students he worked with during his many years at Ramapo.” Contributions from Ramapo faculty, staff, alumni, and members of Professor Palazzotto’s family created this endowed fund, which honors his memory while recognizing outstanding students in history.

Paragon is now one of the largest credit unions in New Jersey with over 62,000 members, and offers a full range of no or low-cost products and services. In addition, Paragon’s Community Charter allows the credit union to serve members based on where they live, work, worship, or attend school. Paragon FCU has branches in Mahwah,West Orange,Westwood, Oakland, Englewood Cliffs, Elizabeth, Franklin Lakes, Union City, and Hackensack, New Jersey. There are also two branches in Pennsylvania. Paragon’s headquarters are in Montvale, New Jersey. In keeping with its commitment of community involvement Paragon established this scholarship in 2006 to benefit students in the Anisfield School of Business. Matthew Letinski is from Dayton, New Jersey and is in his junior year at Ramapo. Matthew is majoring in business administration with a concentration in finance, and has earned a 3.57 grade point average. He has worked at Pearson Education as a finance and accounting intern, and at Wachovia Bank. He is currently working in a cooperative education experience as a financial analyst at UPS. On campus Matthew is a member of the Student Government Association, Ramapo College Republicans, and is the alternate student representative to the Board of Trustees. 180

PARAGON FEDERAL CREDIT UNION SCHOLARSHIP

Sarah Warren is majoring is business administration in the Anisfield School of Business, with a minor in psychology. She lives in Montgomery, New Jersey and has earned a grade point average of 3.82 and has been on the Dean’s list for four semesters. Sarah spent last summer in Prague as part of Ramapo College’s choir entery in the European Choir Competition. Sarah sings with the Ramapo Chorale and the women’s choir group, Skylark. She is also president of the Operation Smile Club.

aragon Federal Credit Union began in 1936 with assets of $143 and a membership of seven Bergen County teachers. The teachers decided to pool their savings in order to “promote thrift to their fellow members and provide a convenient place where the membership could borrow money at a reasonable rate of interest.”

Monika Arnaudova is originally from Sofia, Bulgaria and is in her sophomore year at Ramapo College. Monika is majoring in international studies and has earned a 3.53 grade point average.

“This scholarship means a lot to me and it reminds me every single day how lucky I am to be one of the chosen.This scholarship opens doors for me and gives me more opportunity for the future.” Monica Arnaudova

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PURVI PAREKH AND MANSHI JOISHER SCHOLARSHIP

eena Joisher graduated from Ramapo College with Latin honors (magna cum laude) in 1992. Her daughters, Purvi Parekh and Manshi Joisher are also Ramapo College alumnae. Manshi Joisher Ms. Joisher and her husband Mukul established this endowed scholarship in their daughters’ names to recognize the educational opportunities Ramapo College provided their family. The intent of this scholarship program is to help international students in good academic standing defray their college expenses. This is the Purvi Parekh second endowed scholarship Mr. and Mrs. Joisher have created at Ramapo.

ernard J. Milano, a member of the Executive Committee of the Ramapo College Foundation, established two endowments in honor of his wife, Sharon G. Pierson.

Sharon G. Pierson

After graduating with honors from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Ms. Pierson enrolled in an honors graduate program in England, studying Shakespeare. She worked as a professional actress in regional theater, and in television in NewYork City. Ms. Pierson then moved from the entertainment industry to business, working as a management consultant for the Merrill Lynch Relocation Management Division. Ms. Pierson retired from Merrill Lynch when she and Mr. Milano moved to New Jersey, and she became an active volunteer, serving in leadership positions with the Junior League of Bergen County, the Church of the Epiphany, the Allendale Foundation for Educational Excellence, the Boy Scouts of America, and others.

“This scholarship is more than a mere monetary hand-out. In addition to the financial support, it comes with moral support.This shows that the Ramapo Foundation recognizes your academic achievements and your potential. They’re saying:‘We believe in you.’ That’s the most important part.” Kenneth Nicholas

She earned her master’s degree in teaching and curriculum at Columbia University,Teacher’s College, and is currently pursuing her doctorate in history and education, also at Columbia University. She teaches courses in communication arts in Ramapo’s School of Contemporary Arts. The Pierson Scholarships commemorate Ms. Pierson’s “love of teaching and her commitment to her students and to the College,” and benefit students majoring in communication arts.

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SHARON G. PIERSON SCHOLARSHIP I

“I never dreamed I would be sought after and paid to choreograph, teach, and supervise stage fights,” says Kenneth Nicholas. Kenneth is a senior majoring in communications arts/ journalism with a minor in theater. He is from Pompton Lakes, New Jersey and has earned a 3.89 grade point average. Kenneth has completed stage combat training and teaches classes throughout the year in various techniques including rapier, unarmed, falling, and whip cracking, and has choreographed fights for community playhouses, high schools, theaters, and college productions (including Ramapo). He is a member of the Society of American Fight Directors.

commemorate Ms. Pierson’s “love of teaching and her commitment to her students and to the College,” and benefit students majoring in communication arts.

ernard J. Milano, a member of the Executive Cpmmittee of the Ramapo College Foundation, established two endowments in honor of his wife, Sharon G. Pierson. After graduating with honors from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Ms. Pierson enrolled in an honors graduate program in England, studying Shakespeare. She worked as a professional actress in regional theater, and in television in NewYork City. Ms. Pierson then moved from the entertainment industry to business, working as a management consultant for the Merrill Lynch Relocation Management Division.

“The scholarship that I have received is the Sharon Pierson Communications Scholarship II. Not only is this scholarship helpful to me in my college experience, but it places aspiration and goals into communication majors to strive for academic achievements.As my previous teacher, Sharon Pierson has inspired me to believe in succeeding in all my future endeavors.” Lindsay Goldstein

Ms. Pierson retired from Merrill Lynch when she and Mr. Milano moved to New Jersey, and she became an active volunteer, serving in leadership positions with the Junior League of Bergen County, the Church of the Epiphany, the Allendale Foundation for Educational Excellence, the Boy Scouts of America, and others. She earned her master’s degree in teaching and curriculum at Columbia University,Teacher’s College, and is currently pursuing her doctorate in history and education, also at Columbia University. She teaches courses in communication arts in Ramapo’s School of Contemporary Arts. The Pierson Scholarships 186

SHARON G. PIERSON SCHOLARSHIP II

Lindsay Goldstein is a communication arts major with a concentration in media and cinema studies. She is a junior with a 3.64 grade point average. Lindsay transferred from Arizona State University and is from Monsey, NewYork. She is a writer for the Ramapo News, and was inducted into the National Communication Honor Society. Last summer she volunteered on construction projects in a village in the Dominican Republic, where she used her sign language skills. Lindsay has worked as an intern at Movado Group. “I have decided to pursue a master’s degree in marketing,” she says.

financial need who plan to continue their education in graduate school. The award can be used toward the recipient’s graduate school application fees or graduate school preparation courses.

he President’s Cabinet includes the top leadership of the College. On special occasions members of the group decided to donate to a scholarship fund as a meaningful way to honor a member’s birthday or celebrate a holiday. The President’s Cabinet Scholarship is for outstanding Ramapo College seniors with

The President’s Cabinet Scholarship is selected later in the spring semester.

PRESIDENT’S CABINET SCHOLARSHIP

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PRESTIGE FAMILY OF DEALERSHIPS ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP

Matthew Letinski is from Dayton, New Jersey and is in his junior year at Ramapo. Matthew is majoring in business administration with a concentration in finance, and has earned a 3.57 grade point average. He has worked at Pearson Education as a finance and accounting intern, and at Wachovia Bank. He is currently working in a cooperative education experience as a financial analyst at UPS. On campus Matthew is a member of the Student Government Association, Ramapo College Republicans, and is the alternate student representative to the Board of Trustees.

he Prestige Family of Dealerships have been supporters of Ramapo College since 2003. Many Ramapo graduates have chosen to become sales associates with the Prestige Chris Turner of dealerships, which sell Prestige automobile brands such as Land Rover, Porsche, Lexus, and Mercedes. “Our internship program and Ramapo’s job fairs have provided us with valuable investments in our future,” says Joseph Dockery, president of Prestige Management Services. In 2006 the company established this endowed scholarship fund which benefits outstanding students with financial need in the Anisfield School of Business.

“The Raciti Scholarship is named after an esteemed business professor whose legacy has set the standard for teaching the subjects I am studying. Hoping to one day be a professor of Economics, the generosity of the Raciti family provides me with the means and the drive to continue.” Adam Ira Biener

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SEBASTIAN J. RACITI ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP

Adam Biener is a junior majoring in economics. “I hope to complete a math minor and a music minor as well,” he says. This year Adam was elected as a senator to the Student Government Association. He is a peer facilitator and teaching assistant for freshman seminar classes, and a tutor for fellow students in economics and corporate finance. He is a production manager for WRPR, the College radio station, as well as a DJ. Adam participated on Ramapo’s Fed Challenge team, competing against schools from throughout the country at the Federal Reserve Bank of NewYork. He is from River Vale, New Jersey.

or 31 years Sebastian Raciti, known as Sib, served in various roles that were instrumental in the development of Ramapo College. Dr. Raciti was one of Ramapo’s founding faculty, arriving in the College’s second year. He held various posts during his tenure including director of the School of Metropolitan and Community Studies, dean of the School of Administration and Business, vice president for Academic Affairs, vice president of Institutional Advancement, and professor of economics. He was also the director of the Governor’s School for International Studies, a summer program for gifted high school students. In his administrative roles, Dr. Raciti helped design new academic programs, raised funds to support new initiatives and scholarships, and recruited new faculty. He earned bachelor’s, master’s and Ph.D. degrees from Fordham University.

The first Ramapo College Community Student Enrichment Scholarship will be presented as the endowment increases in value.

his fund was created in 2005 with contributions from employees of the College. Each year gifts from faculty and staff in all units and divisions help to grow the endowment, which is designed to benefit a deserving Ramapo College student.

RAMAPO COLLEGE COMMUNITY STUDENT ENRICHMENT ENDOWMENT FUND

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and second team all division in cross country. He attended the NationalYouth Leadership Forum in Washington, D.C. in the spring of 2007. Jeff is majoring in computer science at Ramapo College and has earned a 3.52 grade point average. Jake Strasser is from Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey. A graduate of Pascack Hills High School, Jake took all honors and advanced placement courses. He participated in a forensics program and public affairs program sponsored by Syracuse University’s Project Advance. He is enrolled in the Anisfield School of Business and has earned a 3.42 grade point average after his first semester.

“I believe that today a technical education is important,” says Jeffrey Stellitano. “I am pursuing an education in mathematics or computer science toward the goal of a career in law enforcement or law.” Jeffrey is a graduate of Cinnaminson High School where he ran track, cross country, and winter track. He was first team all division in track during all four years,

Kyle Ulscht is a graduate of Waldwick High School. He has practiced tae kwon do throughout high school and has earned a second degree black belt. He has volunteered at his church as a CCD teacher and was a member of the youth group. He was a member of the student council and the Chess Club. Kyle is a freshman majoring in law and society and has earned a 4.00 grade point average.

“In these times of economic crisis, the slightest donations are greatly appreciated.They can mean the difference between graduating or not. No one knows what the future holds and I’m very appreciative of the opportunity.” Jeffrey Stellitano

“The generosity of this scholarship will allow me to devote more time to my school work and to my goal of becoming an attorney.” Kyle Ulscht

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RAMAPO COLLEGE FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS

he mission of the Ramapo College Foundation is to “provide the resources that make the difference in Ramapo College’s quest for education excellence.” A critical means of fulfilling this mission is to provide scholarships for outstanding freshmen, thereby helping Ramapo College to continue to recruit talented students. The Board of Governors of the Foundation is committed to increasing this endowment each year.

RAMAPO COLLEGE FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS

At Sayreville War Memorial high School Alex Simon ran cross country, winter track, and spring track. He was a member of the Theatre Society, where he served as student director, and the Improv Troup, where he was vice president. He was a member of the Spanish Honor Society in his junior and senior years. Alex is a freshman at Ramapo and has earned a 3.67 grade point average.

Matthew Jenisch is from Pompton Plains, New Jersey. He is a freshman majoring in history and has earned a 3.50 grade point average. At Peuannock High School Matthew played baseball all four years, and was a member of the school choir. He also was a member of the a capella singing group and the Select Choir. Matthew plans to pursue teacher certification and teach at the elementary school level.

Amy Blood’s Ramapo College Foundation Scholarship is named in honor of Judy and Frank Rodriguez, who established a gift annuity this year.

Freshman Rosemary Orr is a graduate of Haddon Township High School. In high school Rosie was a member of the German Honor Society, the Rebel Club, and performed in a series of one-act plays. In her junior year she attended a NationalYouth Leadership Conference in Washington, DC. She is majoring in psychology and has earned a 3.60 grade point average.

Freshman Amy Blood is from Barnegat, New Jersey. She is a graduate of the Marine Academy of Technology of Environmental Sciences, and has taken classes at Ocean County College. At Ramapo Amy is pursuing the challenging bioinformatics major and has earned a 2.75 grade point average. In high school Amy participated in the Chemistry Olympics, and taught “You Can Make A Difference” workshops to middle school students through the Clean Ocean Action Student Summit. She was an active member of the Distributive Education clubs of America, qualifying for regional and states conferences. Amy was also a volunteer at her local library and peer leader in high school.

Keith Fullum is a graduate of Midland Park High School. He is a freshman enrolled in the School of Social Science and Human Services. His grade point average after his first semester is 2.42. He played soccer all four years in high school, and is a member of the Ramapo soccer team. He also played drums in his high school band, and was a pole vaulter in his senior year. “I either want to pursue finance or some field of psychology,” he says.

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Julianne Candio Sekel’s Ramapo College Foundation Scholarship is named in honor of Liberty Hyundai, a lead sponsor of the Performing Arts Dinner Series.

Freshman Julianne Candio Sekel is from North Arlington, New Jersey. At Queen of Peace High School Julianne was captain of the basketball team, and was named most dedicated and most valuable team player. Julianne was recognized for leadership in the Service in God’s Name club. She was a math and Spanish tutor, and peer minister. Julianne was entertainment editor of the school newspaper. At Ramapo she has earned a 4.00 grade point average and is enrolled in the Anisfield School of Business.

Patrick Mulkeen’s Ramapo College Foundation Scholarship is named in honor of Inserra Supermarkets, a lead sponsor of the Performing Arts Dinner Series.

Freshman Masae Hori is from South River, New Jersey. In high school she was a member of the Art Club, the Enrichment/Gifted Club, and the Earth Club. She played soccer, earning a varsity letter. Masae was an active volunteer with her church and the Girl Scouts. At Ramapo Masae is enrolled in the School of Contemporary Arts and has earned a 3.82 grade point average.

Freshman Patrick Mulkeen is from Waldwick, New Jersey and is a graduate of Paramus Catholic High School. Patrick was a member of the varsity cross country team and the baseball team in high school. He was also a student ambassador, a member of the French Club, and a member of the International Honor Society. At Ramapo he is enrolled in the physical therapy program (biology major) and has earned a 3.00 grade point average. Kyle MacCloud is a freshman from Tinton Falls, New Jersey. He is a psychology major with a 3.07 grade point average. At Monmouth Regional High School Kyle was a member of the Latin Club, representative to the Student Council, and drummer with the marching band. He also was a drum instructor with the Atlantic Watch Pipe Band. 198

RAMAPO COLLEGE FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS

Freshman Christina Finnegan is a graduate of Wayne Valley High School. She was a member of the French club, serving as vice president then president. Christina was a member of the cross country team and earned the bronze medal for long jump in her sophomore year. She was a Special Olympics volunteer, peer leader, and camp counselor during two years of high school. She has been a member of her church choir since seventh grade. “I plan on pursuing a career in publishing,” says the literature major. Christina has a 3.57 grade point average.

RAMAPO COLLEGE FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS

Michael Chananie’s Ramapo College Foundation Scholarship is named in honor of Salma and Marc Goldstein, who established a gift annuity this year.

“Last summer I was a student ambassador with People to People International,” says freshman Albert Camwell. “We traveled through England, Ireland, and Wales. Aside from the interesting sights and history, the trip taught me that understanding other cultures helps us overlook differences.” Albert is an avid piano player and plans to further develop his interest in music at Ramapo. Albert is a graduate of Neptune High School where was inducted into the National Honor Society, the Math Honor Society, and the Spanish Honor Society. He also played golf during all four years of high school. At Ramapo Albert has earned a 3.40 grade point average.

Michael Chananie is a freshman from Paramus, New Jersey. He is majoring in business administration, concentrating in management, with a minor in environmental studies and has earned a 3.92 grade point average. When he was six years old Michael was walking with his family to temple when a car ran a red light and struck him. “My recovery was smooth and fairly quick,” he says, “but the memories of that night still lurk in my mind, and since then, life has had more meaning for me.” Since then Michael has been accepted into and graduated from Robert Wood Johnson Mini Medical School, attended the Bergen county EMT training, and volunteered weekly at The Valley Hospital emergency room.

Kristenelle Coronado’s Ramapo College Foundation Scholarship is named in honor of Liberty Subaru, a lead sponsor of the Performing Arts Dinner Series.

Albert Camwell’s Ramapo College Foundation Scholarship is named in honor of Sharp Electronics, a lead sponsor of the Performing Arts Dinner Series.

Melissa Guieb’s Ramapo College Foundation Scholarship is named in honor of Professor Charles Carreras, who established a gift annuity this year.

Kristenelle Coronado is from Saddle Brook, New Jersey and is a graduate of Paramus Catholic High School. She was a member of the French Club, the French Honor Society, the Science Club, and SADD. She was an active volunteer for the Visitation Academy after school care program and the Mission Church Vacation Bible School. She is a freshman majoring in communication arts, and has earned a 4.00 grade point average.

Melissa Guieb is from Lake Hiawatha, New Jersey and is a freshman at Ramapo in the physical therapy program. At Parsippany High School Melissa played varsity tennis, softball, and was a member of the indoor track team. She played flute in the concert band all four years, and was a member of the Key Club, Spanish Club, Ski Club, and Asian American Club. She also was an active volunteer. In 2007 she spent two weeks in Spain in a student exchange program, and she has been a student 199

of the German language since 2002. Melissa and her family hosted exchange students from Spain and Germany while she was in high school. To date Melissa has earned a 3.45 in her Ramapo career.

was the most difficult time not only for me but for all women in Afghanistan.” Despite many obstacles Shaima started a school for girls with the cooperation of UNICEF, and taught over 100 students. She then worked as the executive assistant to the Minister of Women’s Affairs. “I would like to study diplomacy and foreign relations,” she continues. “My experience has shown me that women in Afghanistan have lots of work to do to work for our country and to improve the life of women.” Shaima is in her second year at Ramapo majoring in international studies. She has earned a 3.23 grade point average.

Enkhbat Mandukhai was born in Ulaangaatar, Mongolia. She is a graduate of Granite Bay High School in California, where she was on the honor roll every year, and received the Academic Merit Award for superior scholasrtic achievement. She was a member of the Hip-Hop Crw, Square Rooter Club, Gay/Straight Alliance, and the Fashion Club. “Her resume lists numerous volunteer positions working with kids, working at two health care facilities, and working with elderly women,” says one of her teachers. Enkhbat was a member of the MongolianYouth Club. “We informed others about third world countries, and collected over 200 stuffed animals to send to a charity orphanage in Mongolia,” she says. Enkhbat is a freshman at Ramapo where she is majoring in nursing, and has earned a 3.92 grade point average.

Freshman Robert Romaniello is enrolled in the School of Social Science and Human Services. He has earned a 3.17 grade point average. Robert is from Cliffside Park, New Jersey and is a graduate of Bergen County Technical High School in Teterboro. Robert studies Aikido, a Japanese martial art, and in high school was a member of the Mock Trial team.

RAMAPO COLLEGE FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS

Enkhbat Mandukhai’s Ramapo College Foundation Scholarship is named in honor of Margaret Mullen, who established a gift annuity this year.

RAMAPO COLLEGE FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS

Alexa Russo is a freshman from Pompton Plains, New Jersey and is majoring in psychology. She has earned a 4.00 grade point average after her first semseter. At George F. Baker High School Alexa was a member of Students Against Destructive Decisions, and the Diversity Club. She was a contributor to the literary magazine and volunteered at the West Milford Animal Shelter. “I am committed to a psychology major,” Alexa says, “and the variety of classes I can take at Ramapo will help me decide what aspect of psychology to pursue, whether school psychologist, clinical or child psychology.”

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BEATE RIESTERER RETURNING MINORITY WOMEN SCHOLARSHIP

hen she retired in 1994, School of Social Science and Human Services professor Beate Riesterer asked that she not be given a gift, but that the money collected be used to start a scholarship fund. Those gifts, plus the proceeds from an on-campus tag sale organized by the students at the Women’s Center, garnered the funds to create this award. “The scholarship fund was a gift to me in honor of my contributions to the College, which I now pass on to deserving women,” Dr. Riesterer wrote in 1999.

“The scholarship gave me is not only a chance to receive in-depth knowledge in the field of international business but also an opportunity to meet friends all over the world and to expand my knowledge of world cultures.” Veselina Stoyanova

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ROBERT G. RIPSTON LEADERSHIP AWARD

efore joining Ingersoll-Rand in 1973, Robert G. Ripston was an executive at General Electric for 20 years. Mr. Ripston also served as a director and former chairman of the Commerce and Industry Association of Northern New Jersey, and vice president of the Bergen Council of the Boy Scouts of America. After retiring in 1994, he founded and served as president of the Leadership Center in Upper Saddle River, New Jersey. Mr. Ripston was an active member of the Ramapo community, serving as a governor on the Foundation Board, and teaching as an adjunct professor in the School of Business. “Mr. Ripston believed that students too often left school without the necessary skills to achieve success in the working world, and he took action to bring about change,” wrote The Star-Ledger at his death. The Ripston Award recognizes business students with financial need and a “free market orientation.”

ason Simon ’93 and his wife Rachel established this scholarship in memory of Jason’s grandparents. Willie Rubel understood the challenges of adjusting to a new environment, as he was an immigrant to the United States during WWII and narrowly escaped persecution in his native Germany. Willie worked hard and tirelessly for his family and served as a constant source of encouragement for Jason throughout his time at Ramapo. Jason wrote, “He will always be remembered for his quiet demeanor, care for his family, and the way he overcame so many obstacles to create a better life for those around him. He would be exceptionally touched to see a scholarship in his name.” Pat Rubel, like her husband, fled Germany with only the clothes on her back at the age of 10. Pat worked her entire life as a hairdresser. Jason added, “ She was always concerned about the success of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and truly believed in me and my success at Ramapo and beyond.”

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WILLIE AND PAT RUBEL MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Brandon Martin is a law and society major from Dayton, New Jersey. Brandon is in his sophomore year at Ramapo with a 3.78 grade point average. He is a member of the Ramapo College basketball team, and the intramural flag football team. Brandon is active in student government and is a Ramapo Admissions Student Ambassador. He plays piano and is interested in music and sports.

Ruth and Ted Sall his award was created in 2000 by Dr. Ted Sall and his wife, Ruth in memory of Dr. Sall’s parents. Dr. Sall joined the Ramapo faculty in the College’s first year, in 1971, as a professor of biology. He continued to teach full time until 1991, and still teaches a course occasionally. For his many years of distinguished service and teaching the College bestowed on Dr. Sall the title of professor emeritus in biology.

Lorraine Brenner is majoring in biology, with a chemistry minor. Lorraine is a senior and has earned a 3.69 grade point average. “Lorry was just accepted to the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey Dental School,” reports professor Rena Bacon. “She is also a top-notch student with a great smile!” Lorraine is from Montville, New Jersey.

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THE JOSEPH AND JENNIE SALL MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP AWARD

Born and raised in northern New Jersey, Dr. Sall received his Ph.D. in microbiology from the University of Pennsylvania. His research endeavors included investigations with bacteria that could digest oil sludge. During his career at Ramapo Dr. Sall taught courses in microbiology, fundamentals of biology, and senior seminars. The Sall Award recognizes seniors who are continuing their education in medical school or dental school. In addition to a cash award, the chemistry faculty have arranged for the Sall recipients to each receive a copy of Webster’s New World Medical Dictionary from the publisher.

Carol has been appointed to the Board of Trustees of the Hackensack University Medical Center and is working on a variety of committees including the Heart Advisory Committee, the Strategic Planning Committee, and the Conflict of Interest Committee. She also supports the cancer research of Dr. Andre Goy. Her husband, Chuck, also serves on the HUMC Board.

arol Demuth Schaefer ‘84 is a retired psychotherapist who maintained a private practice in Ridgewood, NJ and was a clinical instructor at theYale Child Study Center where she supervised and taught master level social workers and psychologists. Still active in the field, she has recently joined the Executive Council of the Associates, a leadership group at theYale Child Study Center.

Carol has been married to Chuck Schaefer for 45 years and they reside in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey. Both are interested in making a difference through their commitment on various boards through their family foundation,The Shepherd Foundation, which supports research and education. The Schaefers implemented and are major supporters of the HUMC Heart Fellowship Program. The new fellows will both do day-to-day patient care and conduct research in the field of heart failure. Carol is the mother of three children, Carolyn, Betsy and Chuck, and has three grandchildren.

Carol also serves on the Board of PerDev Perceptual Development Center in NewYork City which diagnoses and treats individuals with learning differences. Carol instituted the Carol D. Schaefer Human Service Award in 1987 to encourage students to continue with graduate studies in the mental health field. She also consults and serves on the Board as Secretary of the American Skin Association in NewYork. The ASA is dedicated to saving lives and alleviating the suffering caused by the full spectrum of skin diseases and cancer through leading-edge research, education and advocacy.

The Schaefer Awards are selected later in the spring semester.

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CAROL SCHAEFER HUMAN SERVICES AWARD

Because of Mrs. Schaefer’s interest in and love of music, she is a patron of the NewYork Philharmonic and the Metropolitan Opera and has been Chairman of the NY Philharmonic’s Patrons Tours since 1995. She helps organize and goes with the orchestra when it goes on tour, and has journeyed with them to over ten different countries. She also serves as CoPresident of the Board of The Little Orchestra Society in NewYork which engages audiences of all ages in live music experiences.

day of its conception, and he was eager to be involved in its success,” wrote his wife Josephine at the time. The Scully award is presented to a music or theater student. Sean Jans is a junior at Ramapo majoring in theater with a concentration in acting. He is from Waldwick, New Jersey.

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MICHAEL J. SCULLY PERFORMING ARTS SCHOLARSHIP

his award was created by the Friends of Ramapo and is named for a former member of the Ramapo College Board of Trustees, Michael J. Scully. At his death in 1986, Mr. Scully’s family and friends contributed to this award in his memory. “Michael welcomed the arrival of Ramapo College in Mahwah from the very first

Kimberly Rath is from Augusta, New Jersey. She is a junior majoring in literature with a minor in Spanish. Kim is also taking courses toward teacher certification in English, and has earned a 3.92 grade point average. The literature faculty commends “her dedication to her studies and class performance” as well as her “insightfulness and the freshness she brings to oft-read texts.”

r. Ernest Simon was a professor of literature at Ramapo from 1973 until his retirement in 1998. A group of his former students started this fund a number of years ago to honor their teacher and benefit Ramapo seniors in the literature major. Dr. Simon appreciated the gesture and he and his wife Christiana contributed to the fund. Mrs. Simon further enhanced the fund after Dr. Simon’s death in 2003. “One of the things I most enjoyed about Ernie Simon was that he never tired of sharing what he knew,” says his friend and colleague, professor Ira Spar. “He approached our discussions, his teaching, and his students with the same energy that he gave to all that he did, and I count him among the best teachers Ramapo has ever had.” This faculty-nominated award recognizes an outstanding literature major who shows a “commitment to reading and research.”

“This scholarship will aid my studies in literature and education. I am honored to be the recipient of this award. I have truly enjoyed my time here at Ramapo, and look forward to the future. I thank my benefactor for this honor and appreciate all that they have helped me to accomplish.” Kimberly Rath

“I received the Ernest Simon award, which is for a literature student. I am very proud to be recognized within my major. My time at Ramapo has really helped me grow as a lit student and a person. I am grateful for this generosity bestowed upon me.” Melissa Adamo

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DR. ERNEST SIMON BOOK AWARD

“Melissa Adamo is one of the most hardworking students I’ve met in 20 years of teaching,” says professor Ed Shannon. “She cares about literature, and is curious, insightful, and reads deep into and around the literature.” Melissa is a junior majoring in literature and is also taking courses toward teacher certification in English. She has earned a 3.70 grade point average. Melissa is from Middletown, New Jersey.

an endowment in order to permanently fund the scholarships. The intent of the fund is to provide social work students the “opportunity to enhance their formal education through attendance at NASW or other professional social work meetings or conferences.” The recipient of the Social Work Student Conference Fund award is selected later in the spring semester.

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SOCIAL WORK STUDENT CONFERENCE FUND

n 2002 the Bergen Unit of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) presented the Ramapo College Foundation with a gift to benefit undergraduate social work students. “The Bergen Unit has had fund raising events for the past 15 years with the expressed intention to provide conference scholarships and educational assistance to local social work students,” wrote the chair, Gail Bates, MSW, LCSW. The gift was used to create

“This scholarship gives me some of the funds I need to secure my future and pursue a higher education.” Jean Semelfort

Kristen Potanka is a junior from Wanaque, New Jersey majoring in sociology with a 3.07 grade point average. Kristen plans to become a kindergarten teacher and a school administrator. She is a resident assistant in Laurel Hall and is editor of its newsletter. Kristen is active in the Student Government Association, intermural athletics, and was a member of the Ramapo College lacrosse team. Kristen transferred from Widener University, and helps other transfer students feel welcome and aids them in their transition to Ramapo College.

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BOB SPROUL EMPATHY SCHOLARSHIP

Jean Semelfort is a senior majoring in psychology. He is from Newark, New Jersey and has earned a 2.88 grade point average. Jean is the men’s outreach coordinator for the Women’s Center, and the publicist for the student club, Haitian Organization for Progress and Empowerment. He is the senior advisor for Brothers Making a Difference. Jean has participated in a study abroad program to China, as well as alternative spring break trips to New Orleans and Mexico. “I plan on studying forensic psychology,” he says, “and will apply to John Jay College, Fairleigh Dickinson University, and the College of St. Elizabeth.”

he Bob Sproul Empathy Scholarship was started by professor Bob Sproul in 2006. Colleagues in the School of Social Science and Human Services and friends gathered to celebrate Bob’s birthday that year, and instead of gifts, made contributions to start this annual scholarship fund. Bob Sproul was introduced to Ramapo College while he was executive director of The Center for Help in Time of Loss, a mental health and social service community-based non-profit where Ramapo students worked as interns. He became more closely involved in the Ramapo community when he began teaching as an adjunct professor in 2000. Professor Sproul’s intention with this award is to “provide meaningful financial support for Ramapo College students who are committed to improving the quality of life for disadvantaged or marginalized people.”

he Student Affairs Division Scholarship was launched by Dr. Pamela Bischoff,Vice President of Student Affairs. Rather than exchange holiday gifts with each other, Dr. Bischoff and her staff in the Division of Student

Affairs have pooled their resources and created this scholarship fund. The award is for students who are active in student leadership or voluntary service. Recipients are selected by a committee of staff in the Student Affairs Division. The Student Affairs Division Scholarship is awarded later in the spring semester.

STUDENT AFFAIRS DIVISION SCHOLARSHIP

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survivor of the Holocaust, Josef A. Ross was born in Skarzysko, Poland. In the fourth grade, his primary education in the local public school abruptly came to an end with the Nazi invasion of September, 1939. The rest of his youth coincided with the horrific years of the Second World War and its immediate aftermath. On May 9, 1945, he was liberated from Terezin (Thersienstadt) Concentration Camp. Four years later he came to the United States and eventually settled in NewYork City. Having already received some vocational training, he was able to obtain a job as a mechanic in a luggage factory, where he rose through the ranks and soon became the plant manager. Seven years later he founded his own luggage manufacturing business.

“I had been thinking about doing something to recognize current service men and women,” Mr. Ross recalled in 2004. “The best solution was to set up a scholarship. First, I wanted to pay back the American forces that liberated the concentration camps,” he says. “Second, I was forbidden to attend any schools during the war in Europe, so I know how it feels not to have an education.” The Ross Family Survivor to Survivors Scholarship is available to the children of any U.S. service personnel who have lost their lives in a recent conflict. The award will cover tuition and expenses at Ramapo College for the duration of the student’s undergraduate career. Candidates can be from any state in the country. The scholarship is funded by an endowment established by the Ross family.

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ROSS FAMILY SURVIVOR TO SURVIVORS SCHOLARSHIP

“In between,” as he describes it, he married his dear wife Roz, had two daughters, and contributed his talents and energy to a number of organizations including the Skarzysko Society, the Prime Minister’s Club of Israel Bonds, the Luggage and Leather Goods Association and the National Association of Sporting Goods. He has also been a member of the board of the Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies at Ramapo College, a member of the President’s Council of the World Jewish Congress, and an active supporter of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. Mr. and Mrs. Ross founded the American Stage Company based at Fairleigh Dickinson University.

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ANGELO TARALLO MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Ramapo majoring in international business. Her minor is French and she has earned a 3.97 grade point average. Veselina has spent her summers working at the Ministry of Economy and Energy, Raiffeisen Bank, the Bulgarian United Bank, and with a grain distributor, all in Bulgaria. At Ramapo Veselina is a member of the Model United Nations Club and the International Business Club, where she serves as president. She plans to continue her education in international business and marketing.

he Angelo Tarallo Scholarship is awarded to students interested in majoring in law, international business, or international studies. Recipients must demonstrate competence in writing, which was one of Professor Tarallo’s many interests. Angelo Tarallo was a beloved professor who taught at Ramapo for over ten years. During a distinguished international business career at The BOC Group, Professor Tarallo held a number of positions including Chief Executive-Legal Affairs in Windlesham, UK, and President and Board Director in Murray Hill, New Jersey where he also served as Chairman of the Pension Committee. While at BOC Professor Tarallo taught at Ramapo as an adjunct professor in business. He joined the full-time faculty in 2002, and inspired students and colleagues with his intellect and dedication to education. In addition to teaching, Professor Tarallo led study abroad programs in Italy and arranged for international co-operative placements for Ramapo students. After his death in 2003, his family, friends, and colleagues established this scholarship program to recognize students who embody Angelo Tarallo’s commitment to internationalism and academic excellence.

endowment was established in honor of James Napolitano, President of the Bank at the time. These scholarships are intended to recognize Bergen Community College graduates who have transferred to Ramapo College. Recipients must have financial need and demonstrate strong academic performance. Andrew Tucci is junior majoring in accounting. He is a participant in the New Jersey STARS program, and transferred to Ramapo from Bergen Community College. Andrew has earned a 3.75 grade point average. He is from Midland Park, New Jersey.

he Ramapo College Foundation was pleased to recognize James Napolitano and TD (formerly Commerce) Bankâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many years of service to the community and to Ramapo College at its 21st Annual Distinguished Citizens Dinner. At the Dinner, the Bankâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s then-chairman and president Vernon W. Hill II, announced the creation of a scholarship fund at the College. The

TD BANK SCHOLARSHIP HONOR OF JAMES NAPOLITANO

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Fred Thomases was a textile industry executive, internationally known for his innovations. He was a leader in the community, serving as a trustee of Temple Emanu-El in Englewood, the New Jersey Jewish Community Center on the Palisades in Tenafly, and as a National Board Member of American ORT, an international Jewish organization focused on technological and vocational education. Mr.Thomases died in 2000, but leaves a legacy through this scholarship of his commitment to education.

Stephen Miceli is from New Milford, New Jersey and has earned a 3.64 grade point average. He is a sophomore in the Anisfield School of Business who plans to major in international business. Biology major Asra Khan is in her junior year. She is from Edgewater, New Jersey and has a 3.91 grade point average.

After 39 years, Florence Thomases is a loyal friend of Ramapo College, and still visits campus to meet with recipients of the Thomases Scholarship.

Scott Harrigan is a sophomore at Ramapo majoring in psychology. He is from Lodi, New Jersey. In high school Scott was a member of the Drama Club, the Science Club, the Chess Club, and the Fishing Club. He plans to be a special education teacher.

“Thank you for the Adele Thomas Scholarship. It is an honor for me to receive this recognition of my hard work.The Office of Specialized Services has always given me the means to achieve success at Ramapo College.” Ari From

Freshman Laura Brown is enrolled in the School of Social Science and Human Services and is in her freshman year at Ramapo. She has earned a 3.77 grade point average. Laura is a graduate of Ocean City High School, where she was an active member of the student council and the Psychology Club. She also was a volunteer with Community Action Now and worked as a teacher’s aide in a local preschool. “I would like to help disadvantaged children become successful adults,” Laura says of her future plans.

April 21, 2005

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FRED AND FLORENCE THOMASES SCHOLARSHIP

Devin Halek is a sophomore from Middletown, New Jersey where she volunteered in several community activities. Devin is majoring in history and has earned a 3.86 grade point average. She has run winter and spring track and field events. She plans to attend graduate school to earn a master’s degree in special education, and then will teach in that field.

amapo College has benefited from the foresight and commitment of two long-time Bergen County residents, Fred and Florence Thomases. Mrs.Thomases was a member of the founding Florence Thomases Ramapo College Board of Trustees, entrusted with the mission of creating Ramapo College and finding it a home.

FRED AND FLORENCE THOMASES SCHOLARSHIP

Veronica Cavera is from Dumont, New Jersey and is majoring in biology at Ramapo. The sophomore has earned a 3.60 grade point average. In high school Veronica was a member of the Spanish Honor Society and the Spanish Club. She sang in the chorus, where she was a soprano section leader, and had various positions with Periscope, the student newspaper. She ran winter track in all four years. She plans to pursue a career in genetics.

the Berrie Center. In addition, Jason has performed in one-act plays this year. Jason is from North Arlington, New Jersey. Kenneth Walsh is from Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey. He is majoring in information systems and is in his junior year. Kenneth has earned a 3.89 grade point average.

“This scholarship helps prepare me by providing me with the means to further my education, which will, in turn, make it possible for me to achieve all of my goals.” Veronica Cavera

“A scholarship allows me to more readily prepare myself for my future as well as serve as a motivation to continue to work harder.” KennethWalsh

Jason Whelpley is a graduate of Bergen Academies, Culinary Arts and Hotel Administration. There he received the Exemplary Competitive Spirit award, and earned a top state honors and bronze national honors in formal waiter food and beverage service competitions. During an internship in his senior year, Jason realized he wanted to become an elementary school science teacher. At Ramapo he is a sophomore majoring in integrated science studies and has earned a grade point average of 3.86. He is a resident assistant and works in the Curtain Call Cafe in

Robert Power is a sophomore majoring in law and society. He has earned a 3.50 grade point average. Robert is from River Edge, New Jersey. In high school Robert was a member of the Business Club all four years. He was also active in the Drama Club, REBEL, New Jersy Boy’s State, and the Debate Team. He plans to attend law school.

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arina Topken graduated from Ramapo College in 1987 with a degree in American and International studies. She taught and translated German at several language institutions in the area. Mrs.Topken has been a steady supporter of the College’s Annual Fund since 1997. She and her husband William have been involved with the Friends of Ramapo for a number of years, and have been instrumental in raising funds for the Friends. Mrs.Topken served as the Friends’ president, and Mr.Topken as the group’s treasurer. In 2006 Mr. and Mrs.Topken established this endowed scholarship fund to honor the positive relationship they have shared with the College. Specifically, the Topken Scholarship benefits teacher certification students who demonstrate community service and leadership at Ramapo.

“This scholarship will serve as a reminder that hard work, dedication, and passion rarely go unnoticed.This scholarship motivates and encourages me to pursue my journey of becoming an art educator.This scholarship also allows me to continue creating my own art – something that I am very passionate about. My hope is that my love and enthusiasm of the arts will inspire my future students to embrace their passions and pursue them.” Christine Steinmetz 230

MARINA AND WILLIAM TOPKEN SCHOLARSHIP

“My goal is to become an art educator — teaching children to discover and appreciate the value of art and its positive impacts,” says Christine Steinmetz. Christine is a senior majoring in visual arts with a concentration in drawing and painting. She is also pursuing teacher certification in art. In October, 2008 Christine exhibited 65 of her drawings and paintings on campus. She will be student teaching in spring 2009 at a middle school in Montvale, New Jersey. She is an active volunteer, and has been working at Kings Supermarket for six years. Christine has earned a 3.94 grade point average.

Domenico Esposito is in his senior year of the generic nursing program. He is also taking courses toward a minor in psychology and has earned a 3.16 grade point average. Domenico is from Westwood, New Jersey.

“The scholarship I have received will help me to be able to continue my professional career as a nurse. And I hope to one day be able to give back to the future of nursing professionals.” Domenico Esposito

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MARINA AND WILLIAM TOPKEN UNDERGRADUATE NURSING SCHOLARSHIP

he intent of the Marina and William Topken Undergraduate Nursing Scholarship is to benefit undergraduate nursing students at Ramapo College. Members of Marina’s family practiced medicine, including her father, a surgeon, her grandfather, and uncle. She also would like to recognize the important work nurses do.

he intent of the Marina and William Topken Graduate Nursing Scholarship is to benefit graduate nursing students at Ramapo College. Members of Marina’s family practiced medicine, including her father, a surgeon, her grandfather, and uncle. She also would like to recognize the important work nurses do.

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MARINA AND WILLIAM TOPKEN GRADUATE NURSING SCHOLARSHIP

Anita Pazcoguin is from New Milford, New Jersey. She is pursuing both the master’s in nursing education and the master’s in educational technology at Ramapo. She has earned a 3.97 grade point average. “If there was the perfect candidate to gain the most from both programs and be successful, it is Anita,” says Dr. Angela Cristini, director of master’s programs.

Gabriela Serrano is from Elizabeth, New Jersey. She is a sophomore majoring in biology, while pursuing a minor in Italian. She has earned a 3.46 grade point average.

he Union Foundation provides grants for endowment and capital projects, with particular emphasis on projects in Union County, New Jersey. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Preference is given to organizations ... which show efforts to encourage individuals to help themselves.â&#x20AC;?

UNION FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP

In 1999 the Warren, New Jersey-based Foundation awarded a grant to Ramapo College to establish the Union Foundation Endowed Scholarship. Students from Union County are eligible to receive these awards. Recipients must be majoring in areas of interest to the Union Foundation: environmental science, environmental studies, or nursing.

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effrey Warren was a member of Ramapo’s first graduating class, receiving a bachelor’s degree in 1973. He went on to leadership positions at Hackensack Medical Center, Cathedral Healthcare System, Parke-Davis,Warner-Lambert, and Pfizer. He is currently senior advisor to the National Pharmaceutical Council, Inc. and a principal at JR Market Strategies, LLC a healthcare consulting practice.

Lori Maltz is a senior from Manalapan, New Jersey. “When I got into middle school my resource room English teacher noticed the problems I was having and did not ignore them,” Lori says. “He encouraged me to stay after school and get involved with the technical crew in the theater. From there I fell in love with the theater.” Lori attended Brookdale Community College, where she held an e-board position in the Theater Club. At Ramapo Lori is majoring in theater with a concentration in design and technical theater. She has worked on three Berrie Center productions on the costume/wardrobe crew and in set construction. Lori has earned a 2.71 grade point average.

Mr.Warren is past president and current board member of Gilda’s Club of Northern New Jersey, and serves on the boards of the New Jersey Commission of Cancer Research and the Institute for Medication Access and Compliance among others. He was honored at the 2006 Ramapo College Distinguished Citizens Dinner for his outstanding service to the community and Ramapo College. His gift of Pfizer stock in 2000 created the endowment which funds these scholarships. Mr. Warren and his wife, Andrea, determined the criteria, selection process, and essay topic, and the first Warren Scholarships were awarded in the Summer of 2001. The intent of the Warren Scholarships are to recognize deserving undergraduates who pursue a degree in the School of Contemporary Arts and have a documented physical or learning disability.

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JEFFREY AND ANDREA WARREN SCHOLARSHIP

Currently in his sophomore year, Andrew Brown is a communication arts major concentrating in digital filmmaking. Andrew started a club volleyball team at Ridgewood High School, and is the assistant coach of the boy’s volleyball team at Montclair High School. He also works at a caterer and manages a local dry cleaner. Andrew has earned a 3.08 grade point average. “With all the new things I have applied myself to, I kept organized and on task and met with success in my work and school,” Andrew says.

College, Lawrence University, and the University of Wisconsin Fox Valley. He retired after 36 years of active teaching in 1988, but continued his family’s tradition of sharing knowledge.

his award was started with a generous donation in May Weis’ memory by her son, Leonard W. Weis, Ph.D. It is a joint program between Ramapo and the Weis Ecology Center in Ringwood, New Jersey.

“A few years ago my wife, Donna and I were able to found the Weis Earth Science Museum, located at the University of Wisconsin Fox Valley campus,” Dr.Weis continues. “I am one of the docents that leads student and adult groups on tours and trains other docents.” Recipients of the May Weis award participate in a paid summer internship at the Weis Ecology Center in Ringwood, receive a full tuition scholarship at Ramapo College, and a stipend for books.

“My mother was a graduate of Barnard College in 1912,” writes Dr.Weis. “She and my father always stressed that no one can ever take one’s education away, which is why it is so valuable.” Dr.Weis took this to heart, and spent a career teaching at the University of Rhode Island, Coe

The Weis Internship/Scholarship is selected later in the spring semester.

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MAY H.WEIS ENVIRONMENTAL INTERNSHIP/SCHOLARSHIP

May Weis represented the Women’s Alliance of the American Ethical Union at the United Nations, and always had an interest in the care of the environment. She created an endowment to preserve the land and buildings of the American Ethical Union’s conservancy, which was renamed the Weis Ecology Center in her honor.

Century Club, and is member of the Ramapo College Foundation Legacy Society. The Winshell Award is given to an outstanding biochemistry student, and is selected by the biochemistry convening group based on academic excellence and extracurricular activities.

his award honors Elaine Winshell, former Dean of the School of Theoretical and Applied Science, and professor of biology. Dr.Winshell is chair of the Collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Quartery

Bethany Walton is a biochemistry major from Ringwood, New Jersey. She is in her junior year and has earned a 3.72 grade point average.

ELAINE WINSHELL AWARD

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love of math and my passion for the business world,” says Laura Zindel. Laura is in her junior year and is also pursuing a minor in information systems. She has earned a 3.61 grade point average. Laura works at a local Italian restaurant and at a medical office. She is a peer facilitator and Antioch leader, and is a member of the Accounting Club. Laura is from Hewitt, New Jersey.

WISS EDWARD W. O’CONNELL MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

ounded in 1969,Wiss & Company, LLP ranks as one of the top 10 accounting firms in New Jersey, with offices in Livingston, Iselin, and NewYork City. Clients range from small businesses and middle market commercial companies to not-for-profits and government entities. In 2008 Wiss was named by NJBiz as one of the “Best Places to Work in New Jersey,” ranking 12th among the firms being honored in the medium-sized company category. The company provided these scholarships to accounting majors at the junior and senior level who have a grade point average of 3.00 or higher. The recipients were selected by the accounting faculty. Mark Quinn is from Medford, New Jersey and is in his junior year at Ramapo. Mark is majoring in accounting with a minor in information systems. He has earned a 3.69 grade point average. “Choosing accounting as my major melds my

“I am honored by the recommendations of my professors and look forward to using the scholarship to continue my education in accounting.” Mark Quinn

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Anne Liberman is a senior enrolled in the School of Contemporary Arts. Anne is majoring in both theater with a concentration in design/technical theater, as well as visual arts concentrating in drawing and painting. She has earned a 3.75 grade point average. “Anne plans to go to graduate school in costume design,” says Steve Perry, dean of Contemporary Arts. Anne is from Rockaway, New Jersey.

STUART CRAIG WOOD III SCHOLARSHIP

tuart Craig Wood III was a professor of theater from the earliest years of the College. When he died suddenly in April, 1987 fellow faculty members, administrators, friends, and family contributed to this scholarship fund in his memory. “Stuart gave us so much life through his love of living that we will miss him all the more,” wrote president Robert Scott at the time. A former student remembered him as “a dedicated teacher, director, performer, and an unforgettable personality.” The Wood Award is presented each year to a graduating senior in theater who plans to attend graduate school or begin a career in professional theater. The Wood Scholarship is selected later in the spring semester.

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THE BERNICE YAMPELL INTERNATIONAL STUDENT SCHOLARSHIP

Magdalena Dimeska is from Macedonia and is a senior majoring in literature and has earned a 3.28 grade point average. She transferred from Bergen Community College where she earned an associate’s degree. Magdalena came to the United States when she was 16 to pursue studies in mathematics or physics, however her passion was to study literature. “My mother said that a person who goes to the USA carrying 70 pounds of books (including ten copies of Dante’s Inferno) can never be a good math professor,” Magdalena says. In her home country Magdalena earned first place in a literary contest in 2001 and was a delegate to the Model United Nations for three years. “I would like to get my master’s and then Ph.D. in literature,” she says. “I believe the day will come when I can go home to Macedonia to pass on the knowledge I have gained and make a difference.”

pon her retirement from the Ramapo College staff in 2000, BerniceYampell and her husband established a scholarship award in her name. Mrs.Yampell started working at Ramapo in 1987 as an assistant in the student activities office, working her way up to director of International Student Services. This annual award recognizes students with financial need from overseas who are “quietly striving to complete their education.”

Bonnie Franklin, who served at the College since 1995, most recently as assistant Vice President for Communications and Public Affairs

he Ramapo College Foundation provides book awards to deserving students in memory of special individuals. Student recipients are often selected to reflect interests or similar backgrounds of the individual the award is recognizing. The Book Awards provide a meaningful way for the Ramapo College Foundation to express its sympathy to individuals who support and impact Ramapo College.

Alice R. Lightner, mother of Trustee Gail Brady Ina Anisfield Meyers, who left a major bequest to the Anisfield School of Business Catherine Miller, wife of Ramapo College Foundation Board Member Daniel Miller

In 2008 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2009 Book Awards were made in memory of the following individuals:

Arthur C. Ramirez, former member of the Ramapo College Board of Trustees

Gregory Bukstein, art collector benefactor and Legacy Society member

BOOK AWARDS

Marion Pawlick Busch, mother of Jacqueline Hemphill and grandmother of Heather Hemphill â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;05

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Joseph and Diane De Angelis Scholarship Endowment

he Ramapo College Foundation is pleased to announce the following scholarship funds created through an endowment or planned gift over the past year. On behalf of the Ramapo students the following awards will benefit, we acknowledge with gratitude the donorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; foresight in creating or augmenting these funds:

Marc S. Goldstein and Salma M. Goldstein Scholarship Endowment Mackin-Robinson Endowment R and N Family Scholarship Endowment Judith Martinez Rodriguez and Francis J. Rodriguez Scholarship Endowment

Daniel Arce Scholarship Endowment

Margaret V.Witte Scholarship Endowment

Professor Charles Carreras Latin American Studies Scholarship Endowment

NEW SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS

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