A&A Ridgewood Registered Professional Nurses Assocatiation

The A&A Ridgewood Registered Professional Nurses Association is a nonprofit 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Adler Scholarship Endowment

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

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 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 College’s 100th endowed scholarship. For their ongoing support and leadership the College recognized the Adlers with honorary degrees in 1999.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

AFT Scholarship

In 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. 

The AFT Endowed Scholarship Fund has two programs: a Graduate School Scholarship and 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Ramapo College Alumni Association

When 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 led by Board President, Mr. Jonathan Marcus, Esq.,‘93.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Alumni Service Endowment

In 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 that benefit an outstanding freshman in each of Ramapo’s five schools.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Anisfield Scholarship

An 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.

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.

Between 1977 and 1984 Mrs. Anisfield was a trustee at 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.

In the 1970s Mrs. Anisfield played an active role in the community of Montclair, 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Anisfield School of Business Scholarship

Richard 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 New York 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. 

In 2006 and 2008 the Anisfields 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. 

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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Melissa Annunziato Memorial Scholarship

Early 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 establish 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Daniel Arce Scholarship

The 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.

For Daniel, going to school was a privilege since he often was unable to attend 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 “keep a positive attitude, despite difficult situations.”

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

TAA Evelyn L. Atwater Scholarship

In 1951 Evelyn and Vernon Atwater moved to Ridgewood, NJ with their two young daughters. Evelyn soon became actively involved in the community, and devoted herself to volunteer leadership positions with 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.

When her younger daughter was two years old, Mrs. Atwater joined the Ridgewood YWCA, and began a tradition of service to that organization that would last for decades, and reach 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 been adopted in YMCA chapters across the country.

An offshoot of TWIN is the TWIN Alumnae Association (TAA), which is made up of every woman who has received the TWIN award. TAA 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 TAA’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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

The Kathy Azzara Scholarship

Kathy Azzara graduated from Ramapo College in 2002 with a degree in Psychology from the School of Social Science and Human Services. She and her husband, Michael, have been active supporters of the College for more than 10 years. In 2000 Mr. Azzara, former president and CEO of the Valley Health System, was honored at the Ramapo College Foundation’s Distinguished Citizens Dinner for his leadership in health care and volunteer organizations across New Jersey and nationwide. Mrs. Azzara established this scholarship in 2007 to give students encouragement and let them know that “someone shows an interest in you.”

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.”

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Senator Byron M. Baer Endowment

The 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 Jersey’s Sunshine Law, and he was an advocate for open government throughout his career. At his death his wife Linda and their 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Beck Endowed Scholarship Fund

The 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Audrey Crook Berntsen Scholarship

Following his mother’s death, Ramapo College alumnus David Berntsen ‘85 created this endowed scholarship in her memory. Since Audrey Crook 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 Crook Berntsen Scholarship.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Joyce Biener Scholarship

Alexander Biener, MD created this award as a surprise for his wife, Joyce, in 2010, to recognize Joyce for the kind of person she is—a supporting actress in many people’s lives— so ready to help her family and the many that come her way or live in her community. 

“Though an accomplished X-ray and Ultrasound technician, now on her third career as a make up artist, Joyce tirelessly, with dedication and insight, gets a myriad of little things done, all the while spreading warmth and understanding,” says Dr. Biener. “And in everything she does there is a flair, an unmistakable style, that belies her rich imagination and creativity, born of love for the people she  is with and does so much for. Never expecting anything in return, she seeks deep within people to find, and then give them, that which they need most. Sometimes she’s a holiday angel, a town committee member, a million times it was Mommy’s taxi or someone’s go-for. Other times it’s what only a mother’s love can accomplish. 

“I wish this scholarship for students who play one or multiple supporting roles, leaving the limelight and titles to those whose endeavors they quietly but so vitally support. This one is for them!”

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Marcel Biener Scholarship

In 2010 Dr.Alexander Biener created this scholarship in honor of his father, Marcel Biener. Marcel is a Holocaust survivor by virtue of Jagendorf’s Foundry, a factory that kept thousands of Jews alive, and his translation skills, since he is fluent in 7 languages. He parlayed these into a career as an engineering professor in Romania and Israel, before moving his family to America.

“The purpose of this scholarship is to further the understanding of survival from genocide,” says Dr. Biener. “It is offered in the hope that talking about the roots of genocide, such as bigotry and lack of education, remembering the terrible instances, and celebrating the survivors, regardless of how they survived, will bring us one step further from letting this happen again. 

“This scholarship is offered to students who demonstrate interest and understanding and compassion in these matters or who plan, through community service, or service in the Peace Corps or our armed forces, to help oppressed people everywhere. In giving to others, we hope to demonstrate the strength of the human spirit—to overcome—and that even one life saved can open a whole new universe. In fostering remembrance and study of the past, we hope to strengthen the abilities and resolve of our youth to seek a better future for all.” Marcel and other members of the Biener family will be invited to help with the selection of the recipients.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

David Blauer Memorial Scholarship

David 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

BMW North America Scholarship

The BMW Diversity Scholarship is awarded to a student in the Anisfield School of Business who demonstrates superior academic success and outstanding leadership qualities.  Wayne Orchowski, Vice President – Eastern Division of BMW of North America, knows that Ramapo College students are being prepared to work for an international corporation like BMW. Charlene King, BMW Product Business Communications Specialist, works closely with the scholarship recipient to devise an internship program that meets the needs of BMW and the interests of the student.

The BMW of North America Diversity 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 a 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Ron Brady Endowed Scholarship

In 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.

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, 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.

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

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

William W. Briggs Scholarships I

A former executive with ITT Industries, William Briggs has audited courses at Ramapo for 20 years. The courses he has taken reflect a diversity of interests, and range from contemporary Africa to Italian, to gerontology and to meteorology. 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

William W. Briggs Scholarships II

A former executive with ITT Industries, William Briggs has audited courses at Ramapo for 20 years. The courses he has taken reflect a diversity of interests and range from contemporary Africa to Italian, to gerontology and to meteorology. 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Babette & Raymond Brown Endowed Scholarship

The 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Police Officer Michael J. Buczek Scholarship

Michael John Buczek attended Ramapo College then went on to become a New York City Police Officer in Washington Heights in Manhattan.

After answering a outline 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. 

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.

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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Rachel Bukstein Endowed Scholarship

Gregory Z. Bukstein was a beloved and generous benefactor of Ramapo College. He made significant gifts to the Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies and the Berrie Center for Performing and Visual Arts. He funded the André Z. Pascal Gallery in memory of his twin brother, and this scholarship award in honor of his mother,Mrs. Rachel Bukstein, through a bequest. 

Ramapo College worked with Mr. Bukstein to publish Survival: The Story of Two Brothers. The book recounts the story of the Bukstein brothers’ early childhood in Poland, exile to Siberia, survival during the Holocaust, life as refugees and pioneers in the then newly-created state of Israel and their eventual emigration to the United States. The book accompanied a gallery showing of Asian art the brothers owned. 

After Mr. Bukstein’s death in 2008 Ramapo College received hundreds of primarily Asian art works from his private collection. It was his desire that the works be displayed on a rotating basis in the André Z. Pascal Gallery. In addition, the Rachel Bukstein Scholarship was established for students “in great need and truly deserving of the support as a result of their hard work and efforts.”

This year a Ramapo College Foundation award recipient was named the Bukstein Scholar.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Helen Burchell Memorial Scholarship

Helen Burchell was a member of the founding faculty at Ramapo College; she
joined 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 support of grant seeking.

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.

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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Marion Pawlick Busch Scholarship

Marion Pawlick Busch is the grandmother of Ramapo College alumna Heather
Hemphill ‘05. Mrs. Busch grew up in Newark, NJ 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 has financial need.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Carole Campana Endowed Scholarship

“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 Lee 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.” Carole Campana was a member of the founding faculty at Ramapo; she joined 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 establish 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Century 21 Study Abroad Scholarship

Century 21 is one of the top general contracting and construction management firms in New Jersey, as evidenced in projects such as Newark’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 College’s Distinguished Citizens Dinner and the Ramapo College Foundation Golf Outing. This award was created by the CEO of Century 21, Mr. Anthony Marino and his wife Mrs. Gail Marino, so that students may have the opportunity to study abroad. Last October, the two scholarship recipients traveled to the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Kumasi, Ghana. Accompanied by Shalom Gorewitz, a professor of Video Art & New Media who was there on a Fulbright project, the students stayed for two weeks and participated in classes, discussions and excursions. For the students, the trip also served as a site visit to determine if the university is a viable location to establish a student exchange program.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Mahwah Regional Chamber of Commerce Scholarship

Founded 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 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. 

To support the Chamber’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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Professor Robert J. Christopher Memorial Scholarship

The Robert J. Christopher Memorial Scholarship honors the long and positive relationship between Robert J. Christopher (1937-2006), 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 a summer of study and travel in England where they were introduced to the places that produced the greats of English literature.

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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

The Columbians of New Jersey Italian Studies Award

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

The three scholarship recipients will study in Italy at the University of Urbino this summer. They are minoring in Italian or taking Italian language courses. 

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Coppertone Tuition Scholarship

Over 20 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

The Crane Fund for Widows and Children

The 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Daniel J. Cronin Memorial Endowment

“He led a life of service to others,” says Bea Cronin, Dan Cronin’s widow.  While serving in the Navy in 1966, Dan 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. 

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 the Year Award from Legal Services of New Jersey. “It was impossible to venture any where within a fifteen-mile 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.” 

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 deals, epitomized through his last words to his niece Barbara Ann Wendt: “It is what you do 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.”

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Marion C. Dugan Scholarship

Marion Marion Dugan, and her husband Pat, are former long time residents of Mahwah.  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 Metropolitan Studies. 

Marion and her husband Pat are the co-chairs of Charity Navigator, which they founded in 2001.  Charity Navigator provides free, unbiased ratings on more than 4,300 American charities. Marion was also a member of the Mahwah Board of Education for 13 years and served as President for two years. She is currently serving as a member of the Ramapo College Foundation Board of Governors. 

“When I was a student at Ramapo I saw the financial 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 return in 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Dugan Community Scholarship

The goal of the Dugan Community Scholarship 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 and graduated in 1980 with a degree in Metropolitan Studies. 

Marion has been active in numerous community organizations in Bergen County. She was a member of the Mahwah Board of Education for 13 years, served as President for two years and has been an active member of Literacy Volunteers of New Jersey. Ms. Dugan served on that organization’s Board of two years, has been active with the DARE program and Safe Homes of Orange County, New York, which serve families that are victims of domestic violence. 

Marion is also an active member of the Ramapo College Foundation Board of Governors.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Carol Duncan Scholarship

Carol Duncan is a renowned art historian who served as a faculty member in the Ramapo College School of Contemporary Arts from 1972 until she retired in 2005.  An expert in the history of museums in the United States, she is author of numerous books and articles. Her most recent work is titled  “How to Have A Museum With Brains: John Cotton Dana and the Making of A Democratic Culture in America” (Periscope, 2009). Ms. Duncan created this award to benefit a Ramapo College student in Visual Arts. It was selected by the dean of Contemporary Arts on recommendation of the faculty.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Marie and Francis J. Dwyer Scholarship

Francis 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.”

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Empathy Scholarship

The Empathy Scholarship was established 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.”

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

EOF Program Advisory Board Scholarship

The Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) Program Advisory Board is a group of local business leaders, College faculty and community activists who serve as a link between the program and the outside community.  Specifically, members of the EOF Program Advisory Board provide advice on the administration of the program and serve as a resource for student mentoring, internships and employment opportunities. Each year the Board allocates a portion of the earnings from its fund raising activities for student scholarships. To be eligible, students must be at least sophomore standing, have a grade point average of 3.0 or better and demonstrate involvement in the community.

The Educational Opportunity Fund Program Advisory Board Scholarship is selected later in the spring semester.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Mary K. & Salvatore J. Fanale Scholarship

After 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. 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 high achieving female students who are New Jersey residents and are age 40 or older.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Footstar/Meldisco Scholarship

Footstar, which operated leased footwear departments in Kmart and Rite Aid stores on the West Coast, had been a long-standing supporter of Ramapo College. Meldisco, a subsidiary of Footstar, was located close to the College in Mahwah, New Jersey. Meldisco began supporting Ramapo since 1987, and provided major support toward the construction of the College Bandshell. In 1999 the Ramapo College Foundation honored a 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Martha E. François Scholarship

Martha 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 University-Purdue 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. 

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Friends of Ramapo Scholarship

Jackie 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Jackie and Paul Garber Scholarship

Jackie 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Sidney J. Geltman Memorial Scholarship

When 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, Sidney, “a kind and generous man who never 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

The Robert Giaimo Memorial Scholarship

Robert Giaimo was a Ramapo College Theater major who tragically lost his life in a car accident following the spring 2004graduation  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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Anne Glickman Memorial Scholarship

“Surely in Anne’s life and in her teaching,” wrote Ramapo  College Vice President Pamela Bischoff, “we saw firsthand the value of experiential learning, of international intercultural experiences and of the interdisciplinary approach to education we so value here.” 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 New York 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,” continued Dr. Bischoff. “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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Myrtle Goldstein Memorial Scholarship

Alan 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 of the Ramapo College Foundation. The Myrtle Goldstein award recognizes a Marketing or Communications major and is selected by the faculty.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Harchand Singh and Jagir Kaur Grewal Memorial Scholarship

In 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 president of ADPP Enterprises, which owns and operates gas stations in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The company has grown from an entrepreneurial startup 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.”

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Guiliana Family Scholarship

John Guiliana is a podiatrist and managing partner at Foot Care Associates in Hackettstown, NJ. Dr. Guiliana has given lectures across the country on podiatry and the management of a medical practice. 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.

The Guiliana Family Scholarship is selected later in the spring semester.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Haband Oaks Scholarship

The Haband Oaks Scholarship was created by Haband chairman Max Habernickel and his leadership staff. Headquartered in Oakland, NJ, 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 Anisfield School of Business. 

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Frances K. Hackett '80 AIS Scholarship

The 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. 

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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Frances K. Hackett '80 ASB Scholarship

Frances 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. 

Fran 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, Fran 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 Fran 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. 

In 2005 Fran 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

David R. Hackett Scholarship

Frances Hackett started at Ramapo College in 1973, and graduated in 1980 with a degree in Business Administration and American Studies. One year after she started at Ramapo Fran began working full time at Prudential Financial, steadily working her way up to her current position of vice president of administration and OSGLI. 

In addition to her work with Prudential, Fran 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 Fran 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. 

In 2009 Fran created this endowed fund in honor of her husband, David. “David has been a dedicated member of the emergency medical squad in our town for many years,” she said at the time. “This scholarship is a fitting way to honor his service as an EMT, while recognizing students at my alma mater who share a similar dedication.”  The David R. Hackett Scholarship benefits Ramapo students who are volunteer emergency medical technicians in their own home communities, or who serve on the campus emergency medical squad. 

The first David Hackett Scholarship has not yet been awarded.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Frances K. Hackett Service to America Scholarship

Frances 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 Hackett Service to America Scholarship benefits Ramapo students who have served, or are currently serving in the military and are in good academic standing.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Haiti Relief Scholarship

In the aftermath of the earthquake in Haiti, the students, faculty and staff of the Ramapo College community pledged their support for relief efforts and assistance on behalf of Haitians everywhere who now must come to grips with this enormous tragedy. Student clubs hosted benefit concerts, and faculty and staff made contributions to a scholarship fund. Proceeds will be used to help sponsor two Haitian students to attend Ramapo College. This special scholarship is a major program for the Ramapo Haiti Relief Committee.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Teddy Halpern Scholarship

Teodoro (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. 

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Keith B. Hayes Memorial Scholarship

Keith Hayes transferred 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.

After Keith’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 Keith’s name to a Ramapo student. The award benefits students afflicted with muscular and skeletal myopathy, muscular dystrophy, and/or heart disease, or a similar disease. It is administered by the Office of Specialized Services.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Hermitage History Scholar

The Hermitage is a historic house museum located near the College in Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ.  George Washington visited the house during the Revolutionary War, and the house was the site of the marriage of Aaron Burr and Theodosia Prevost. Ramapo history faculty have used The Hermitage as a resource, as well as Ramapo students. 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.  There was no Ramapo College student working as an intern at  The Hermitage in the 2009- 2010 academic year. 

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Cara Mychelle Hirschman Memorial Scholarship

In 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. 

Though she was declined enrollment at other colleges, Ramapo recognized the potential in this caring, intelligent, dynamic and hard-working 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. 

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 may be designated to a graduate of Cara’s alma mater, South Brunswick High School.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Marion Hughes Scholarship

A 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. “She proved that academic excellence is not bound by age,” wrote her friend and Ramapo classmate Mary Ippolito ’82.

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 returning adult 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.”

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

The Theresa Inserra Scholarship

This scholarship was established by the Ramapo College Foundation to honor the memory of Theresa Inserra, who passed away in 2009.  She was born in Newark, and later resided for 41 years in Upper Saddle River with her family. Her husband, the late Lawrence R. Inserra, was the founder of Inserra Supermarkets. Mrs. Inserra was mother to Lawrence R. Inserra, Jr., Marie Larsen, Laura Dupont and her predeceased son Carl Inserra.  Mrs. Inserra was a long-standing supporter of many charities and educational institutions, and was particularly loyal to the Inserra family of employees. The intent of this scholarship is to continue Mrs. Inserra’s encouragement of Inserra employees, and recognize those who share her commitment to community service.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Ruth Johnson International Scholarship Fund

This 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.  "Starting this scholarship was a way to memorialize Ruth and her appreciation of learning," Mr. Johnson has said.  The award benefits students who participate in a cooperative education experience abroad, and is selected by the director of the international cooperative education program.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Ruth Johnson International Scholarship Fund

This 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.  "Starting this scholarship was a way to memorialize Ruth and her appreciation of learning," Mr. Johnson has said.  The award benefits students who participate in a cooperative education experience abroad, and is selected by the director of the international cooperative education program.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Mukul Joisher and Family Scholarship

Meena 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Drs. Ellen and Jeffrey Kaiden Urban Educator Scholarship

Ellen 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, NJ.  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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Julia Keay-Chanes Scholarship

When 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Dr. Gary Kettlitz Memorial Scholarship

Gary Kettlitz was a beloved member of the faculty in the Anisfield School of Business (ASB) for 13 years. He was a member of an ad-hoc group of faculty who played tennis every week, and suffered from juvenile diabetes. He had a strong interest in social justice and demonstrated a desire to make the world a better place.  Dr. Kettlitz often talked about these issues in his Human Resources Management courses.

At his death in 2009 faculty members from across the campus contributed funds in his memory, and this endowed scholarship fund was created. The intent of the scholarship is to recognize students who “demonstrate an interest in social justice and a desire to make the world a better place” and who demonstrate financial hardship or suffer a significant illness. Students of any major are eligible, but Management majors or students with an interest in health care are preferred.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Becky and Frank Kraus Scholarship

Long-time Mahwah residents and Ramapo supporters Rebecca and Frank Kraus created this endowed scholarship in 1988.  The purpose of the 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.”

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 Condé 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 Spiritual Center.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

John Krebs, SJ Scholarship

A 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 impressed with those students who face daunting financial hardships or are the first in their family to attend college. 

The Krebs fund is named for the donor’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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Garvin Lally '84 Writer's Scholarship

Garvin 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Joseph M. Leone Family Fund Endowed Scholarship

Mr. Joseph M. Leone, recently retired, 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 New York Society of Certified Public Accountants and the Financial Executives Institute. As a governor on the Ramapo College Foundation Board, Mr. Leone helped link CIT’s philanthropic goals with Ramapo students, and was instrumental in creating the CIT Scholars program in 1999. He launched this scholarship in 2004. The Leone Family Scholarships will benefit motivated students from underserved communities across the State of New Jersey.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Katherine Liessem Memorial Scholarship

Katherine 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. 

The entire College community sought to join Mrs. Liessem’s husband, Robert and their children to launch a scholarship fund in her memory, and this endowed 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 then- president George Potter, “and touched many people with her generous spirit.”

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Alice R. Lightner Scholarship

Alice Lightner, mother of Ramapo College Trustee Gail Brady, passed away in October 2008. At age 88 Mrs. Lightner was an avid bridge player and loved any type of card game. She also ran the Verona, NJ Seniors trip programs for 18 years. She was an organizer and kept immaculate records for the receipts and expenses for the trips. Without a college education she taught herself basic bookkeeping and kept her mind stimulated with bridge. She would love knowing that a student could continue his or her education in Accounting in her memory.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Maddi Endowment

The Maddi Endowed Scholarship was started by Don Maddi, a member of the Ramapo College Foundation Board of Governors.  Mr. Maddi is vice president for compensation and 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 18-plus 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Elizabeth Mainardi Endowed Scholarship Fund

Kathleen 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, NJ and was a life-long resident of Totowa, NJ. 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Don Manzo Memorial Music Scholarship

William “Donnie” Manzo graduated from Ramapo College in 1977 with a degree in history. He was a talented, dedicated musician who played a number of instruments and taught guitar. At the age of 16 Donnie and his friends started a band that performed together for 30 years. He died suddenly from a brain aneurysm in 2009 at the age of 53. Since he inspired so many musicians who still play in bands around the region, Donnie’s family and friends held a tribute concert in 2009.  A “house band” of Donnie’s former students performed at the concert, and part of the proceeds were used to create this Scholarship. The intent of the Manzo Scholarship is to recognize Ramapo College students who share Donnie’s commitment and dedication to music.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

D. Bennett Mazur Scholarship

This 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, NJ, Mr. Mazur displayed courage and resilience as a soldier during World War II, and received 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 affection 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.”

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Ina Anisfield-Meyers Family Endowed Scholarship

One day in 2006 Ina Anisfield-Meyers decided to search the Internet for other people with the name Anisfield. She found a press release from Ramapo College, announcing a large donation from Richard and Millicent Anisfield to name and strengthen the business school. Richard’s name sparked a memory from 1939, when she and her family went to Paterson, NJ to visit relatives.

“My father and his father went off to play golf and our mothers went shopping, and Richard, who was my age, went go play with his friends, ”Ms. Meyers recalled. “I spent the whole day in this big house all by myself.” Ms. Meyers contacted Mr. Anisfield, believing him to be her only living family member.  She spoke with Mr. Anisfield’s wife, Millicent.  “We just had a delightful time on the phone,” says Ms. Anisfield. “She was so grateful to have found some family.” When Ms. Meyers began planning her estate, she sought the Anisfield’s advice since she had no next of kin and had already given to her chosen charities.

“I learned a lot about Ramapo from Richard and Millicent; they had given so much of themselves to the College, so I became very interested, ”Ms. Meyers said. She decided to leave a bequest to Ramapo.  Ms. Meyers passed away in 2009 at the age of 87, and part of her estate was used to create this endowed scholarship. The Anisfield-Meyers Family Scholarship is intended for upperclassmen in the Anisfield School of Business who have demonstrated academic achievement and have financial need. The first Anisfield-Meyers Scholarship recipient will be selected in the 2010-2011 academic year.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Theodore Michelfeld Award

Theodore (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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Bernard Milano/KPMG Endowed Scholarship

Bernard 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.

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. 

Mr. Milano served on President Bush’s Board of Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and 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, a historically Black university, and Kent State University.

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, the Audit Committee, and serves as Treasurer and Chair of the Finance Committee.  Mr. Milano established this scholarship fund at Ramapo in 2002.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

The Minority Faculty Staff Association Scholarship

This annual award was created by members of the Ramapo College Minority Faculty Staff Association in 2008.  The goal of the award in its first two years is to help minority students meet the costs of study abroad, so that they can take advantage of this important experiential experience. The Minority Faculty and Staff Association Scholarship is selected later in the spring semester.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Frank E. and Lillian A. Mutter Scholarship

The 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 the 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, NJ, 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Herman D. Mytelka Memorial Scholarship

Arnold Mytelka was chairman of the Ramapo College Board of Trustees from 1979- 1980. 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.

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 Ramapo College students from any public high school in Jersey City, with preference given to students from Dickinson High School.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Jeannette Krieger Mytelka Memorial Scholarship

Jeannette 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

North Jersey Media Group Foundation / The Record Scholarship

For 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Robert Noyce Scholarships

The 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. 

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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Lori Ann Oldenhage Memorial Scholarship I

The 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Lori Ann Oldenhage Memorial Scholarship II

The 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Dominick Palazzotto Scholarship

One 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Paragon Federal Credit Union Scholarship

Paragon 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.” 

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, NJ. There are also two branches in Pennsylvania. Paragon’s headquarters are in Montvale, NJ.

In keeping with its commitment of community involvement Paragon established this scholarship in 2006 to benefit students in the Anisfield School of Business.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Purvi Parekh and Manshi Joisher Scholarship

Meena 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. 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 second endowed scholarship Mr. and Mrs. Joisher have created at Ramapo.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Parents Council Scholarship

Each year parents of current Ramapo College students have the opportunity to give to this special endowed fund that provides a scholarship to a Ramapo student. The award is  administered by the President’s Parents Council, a group of parents who take an active role in College life. The award is selected by senior administrators in the Office of Student Affairs.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Sharon G. Pierson Scholarship I

Bernard J. Milano, a member of the Executive Committee 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 New York 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.

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 benefits students in Communication Arts.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Sharon G. Pierson Scholarship II

Bernard J. Milano, a member of the Executive Committee 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 New York 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.

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 benefits students in Communication Arts.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

President's Cabinet Scholarship

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

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Prestige Family of Dealerships Endowed Scholarship

The Prestige Family of Dealerships have been supporters of Ramapo College since 2003. Many Ramapo graduates have chosen to become sales associates with the Prestige dealerships, which sell 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.  For the 2009-2010 academic year, Prestige Family of Dealerships has provided an incredible internship for two of our environmental studies students. Chris Turner, General Manager of Prestige BMW, offered our students the opportunity to work with the MINI project manager in the design, development and construction of the new MINI dealership.  This two semester internship has given our students real work experiences that have also enriched their academic studies.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

R and N Family Scholarship

The intent of the R and N Family Scholarship is to benefit Ramapo College students who are involved in their communities and have financial need. The R and N Scholarship is an endowed award and was started in 2008 by the family of a current student in recognition of their son’s positive experience at Ramapo. This is the first year the R and N Scholarship is being made.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Sebastian J. Raciti Endowed Scholarship

For 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Ramapo College Community Student Enrichment Endowment Fund

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

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Ramapo College Foundation Scholarships

The 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, chaired by Robert Tillsley, is committed to increasing this endowment each year.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Beate Riesterer Returning Minority Women Scholarship

When 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Robert G. Ripston Leadership Award

Before 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, NJ. 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.”

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Willie and Pat Rubel Memorial Scholarship

Jason 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.” Hertha Rubel, like her husband, fled Germany at the age of 10 with only the clothes on her back. Hertha 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.”

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

The Joseph and Jennie Sall Memorial Scholarship Award

This 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.

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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Carol Schaefer Human Services Award

Carol Demuth Schaefer 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 the Yale Child Study Center. 

Carol graduated from Ramapo in 1984 and currently serves on the Foundation’s Board of Governors. Instituted in 1987, the Carol D. Schaefer Human Service Award encourages students to continue with graduate studies in the mental health field. Carol serves on the Board of Per Dev Perceptual Development Center in New York City, which diagnoses and treats individuals with learning differences. She also consults and serves on the Board as secretary of the American Skin Association in New York. 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. 

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

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.

Carol has been married to Chuck Schaefer for 45 years and they reside in Franklin Lakes, NJ. 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Michael J. Scully Performing Arts Scholarship

This award was created by the Friends of Ramapo and is named for a former member of Friends of Ramapo Board, 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 day of its conception, and he was eager to be involved in its success,” wrote his wife Josephine at the time. Dr. Robert Scott concurred, writing, “Mike made wonderful contribution [to Ramapo] with his energy and ideas.” The Scully award is presented to a Music or Theater student.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Dr. Ernest Simon Book Award

Dr. 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.”

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Social Work Student Conference Fund

In 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 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.”

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Student Affairs Division Scholarship

Rather than exchange holiday gifts with each other, some 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 selected later in the spring semester.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Ross Family Survivor to Survivors Scholarship

A 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 New York 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. 

“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.

“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 veterans and 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Angelo Tarallo Memorial Scholarship

The 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, NJ 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

TD Bank Scholarship in Honor of James Napolitano

At the Annual Distinguished Citizens Dinner in 2003, the Ramapo College Foundation was pleased to recognize executives of TD Bank (then Commerce Bank) and the Bank’s many years of service to the community and to Ramapo College. That night the Bank announced the creation of this endowed scholarship, named in honor of then-president (Commerce Bank/North) James R. Napolitano. Mr. Napolitano has always been an advisor and stronger supporter of both Ramapo College and the Foundation. He has served as a trustee for Bergen Community College (BCC), and as a member of the BCC Foundation board. He was also a member of the board at the Hackensack University Medical Center, the Bergen County Economic Development Commission, and other community organizations. This scholarship honors Mr. Napolitano’s involvement at Ramapo and BCC, and recognizes BCC graduates with financial need who have demonstrated strong academic performance. 

Currently, Mr. Napolitano is the Executive Vice President, Real Estate Manager for TD Bank.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Adele and Reuben Thomas Specialized Services Scholarship

Adele Thomas joined the Ramapo College staff in 1977. She was an employee of the College for 19 years, serving as a counselor in the Center for Personal Development. She long championed the cause of greater access for students with disabilities: Adele helped write a major proposal to the federal government to start the Office of Specialized Services, and worked with others to have a lift installed in the gymnasium swimming pool. The Board of Trustees approved a resolution to name the pool in honor of Adele and her husband Reuben on the occasion of Adele’s retirement in 1996. 

In 1992 Mr. and Mrs. Thomas created this endowed fund “for the express use of the Office of Specialized Services, for the benefit of the disabled students of Ramapo College.” This year a portion of the proceeds from the Thomas endowment was used for scholarships for students registered with the Office of Specialized Services.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Fred and Florence Thomases Scholarship

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

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 his commitment to education lives on through this scholarship. 

After 40 years, Florence Thomases is still a loyal friend of Ramapo College, and visits campus to meet with recipients of the Thomases Scholarship.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Marina and William Topken Scholarship

Marina 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 were 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 education students who demonstrate community service and leadership at Ramapo.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Marina and William Topken Undergraduate Nursing Scholarship

The 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Marina and William Topken Graduate Nursing Scholarship

The 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Union Foundation Scholarship

The Union Foundation provides grants for endowment and capital projects, with particular emphasis on projects in Union County, NJ. “Preference is given to organizations ... which show efforts to encourage individuals to help themselves.”

In 1999 the Warren, NJ-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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Edward & Stella Van Houten Scholarship

This foundation was established in 1978 in memory of Stella Van Houten, a resident of Bergen County, and her husband Edward.  The Van Houten Fund provides funding for health and human services, education, education of medical professionals and the care of children, and is managed by the Wachovia National Bank of Summit. Ramapo College is proud to have earned the support of the Van Houten Memorial Fund again in the 2009-2010 academic year. Van Houten support is used to provide scholarships for Ramapo College Nursing students who are from an underrepresented minority group or who are financially needy.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Verizon Scholarship

The Verizon Foundation focuses its grant-making on the issues of education/literacy and safety/health. “Our goal is to help people achieve the skills they need to live, learn, and work in the 21st century,” writes Patrick Gaston, president of the Verizon Foundation.  In the area of education/literacy, grant making targets student achievement, regardless of the student’s age.

“We also recognize that students of different abilities will play a key role in society and in our business,” says Diana Vargas, an executive in Verizon’s corporate human resources office in Basking Ridge. “This scholarship program allows Verizon to give students with disabilities the recognition they deserve.

At Ramapo, the Verizon Scholarships benefit students registered with the Office of Specialized Services. Recipients must be majoring in Business or Computer Science, fields which have direct relevance to Verizon’s core business values. Recipients must also be from states served by the company.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Jeffrey and Andrea Warren Scholarship

Jeffrey 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.

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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

May H. Weis Environmental Internship/Scholarship

This 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, NJ. 

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. 

“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 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. 

“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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Elaine Winshell Award

This award honors Elaine Winshell, former Dean of the School of Theoretical and Applied Science, and professor of biology. Dr. Winshell is chair of the College’s Quartery 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Wiss & Company Scholarship

Founded in 1969,WISS & Company, LLP rank as one of the top 10 accounting firms in New Jersey, with offices in Livingston, Iselin, and New York City. Clients range from small businesses and middle market commercial companies to not-for-profits and government entities. In 2008WISS was named by NJ Biz as one of the “Best Places to Work in New Jersey,” ranking 12th among the firms being honored in the medium-sized company category. A number of Ramapo graduates are currently working at the firm. The company created this scholarship program in 2008, which benefits accounting majors at the junior level who have a grade point average of 3.00 or higher. The recipients were selected by the accounting faculty.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Stuart Craig Wood III Scholarship

Stuart 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.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

The Bernice Yampell International Student Scholarship

Upon her retirement from the Ramapo College staff in 2000, Bernice Yampell 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 is intended to recognize needy students from overseas who are “quietly striving to complete their education.” The recipient of the Yampell Scholarship is selected later in the spring semester.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Charles Carreras Latin American Studies Scholarship

Dr. Charles Carreras joined the Ramapo College faculty in 1971, two years after the College’s founding. Over the next 37 years he taught courses and presented papers on Latin American history, culture, human rights, and the region’s relationship with the United States. In addition to Latin America, Dr. Carreras’ research interests centered around Mexico and the local history of Mahwah. 

“I came to Ramapo to pursue Latin American studies and devoted almost 40 years to educating students about Central and South America,” says Dr. Carreras. After his retirement in 2008, Dr. Carreras created a gift annuity that will later create an endowed scholarship fund, the Professor Charles Carreras Latin American Studies Scholarship. The Carreras Scholarship will benefit students with a minor in Latin American Studies.  The recipient will be selected by the Carreras family and members of the Ramapo College international studies faculty. 

“With this gift I can continue to support Latin American studies at Ramapo, even in retirement,” Dr. Carreras says.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Mackin-Robinson Scholarship

For a college to achieve greatness, there needs to be vision from its leaders, passion from its faculty and talent and curiosity from its students. Nancy Mackin and her husband, Timothy Bay Robinson embody all of these characteristics. Both are founding members of Ramapo College; she as an administrator and he an academic. Mrs. Mackin served as registrar and then moved to the Division of Student Affairs where she served as dean of students, from which she retired in the spring of 2009. Mr. Robinson was dean of Academic Services for more than 10 years before joining the faculty in 1984 as convener of the Information Systems major. He, too, is   retired. 

Mrs. Mackin and Mr. Robinson have established the Mackin-Robinson Endowment to benefit Ramapo College students who are wards of the court or who are former foster children. They wish to offer this assistance based on their experience with their own foster children and having witnessed the plight of other foster children who are in dire need of funds to purchase everyday items to live on campus – items many take for granted including a computer, supplies for the residence hall room, clothing and transportation to internship or co-op sites.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Tammy and Jonathon Marcus Scholarship

Jonathan Marcus graduated from Ramapo College with a bachelor’s degree in Law and Society in 1993. He then received a jurist doctor degree from Seton Hall University School of Law in 1996. Mr. Marcus then went on to work as an attorney for Sills Cummis Radin & Gross and Weil Gotschal and Manges. He now works as assistant general counsel for KPMG, LLP. Mr. Marcus was honored by Ramapo College with the President’s Award of Merit at commencement ceremonies in 2009.

Mr. Marcus decided to have the scholarship benefit Law and Society majors in good academic standing who have financial need, to mirror his own experience when he enrolled at Ramapo. The Tammy and Jonathan Marcus Scholarship will be selected by the faculty.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Carolyn Merkel and Larry Wilson Scholarship

Carolyn Merkel graduated from Ramapo College in 1978 with a degree in chemistry. She went on to earn a Ph.D. in chemistry from Columbia University, post doctoral work at the University of Texas in Arlington, and a master’s degree in management from New Jersey Institute of Technology. Dr. Merkel worked in research for Pepsi, and was director of product development for McNeil Specialty Products, a unit of Johnson & Johnson, where she worked on the development of the company’s low-calorie sweetener, Splenda.

Dr. Merkel has stayed in touch with Ramapo College since she graduated, first through one of her chemistry professors Grace Borowitz, who urged her to attend graduate school. Dr. Merkel and her husband Larry Wilson have been consistent donors to the College as well, supporting the construction of the Berrie Center for Performing and Visual Arts, the Annual Fund, and other causes.  He was honored at the Ramapo College Foundation’s Distinguished Citizens Dinner in 2003. She currently serves as the chair of the School of Theoretical and Applied Science Alumni Advisory Board, and on the Anisfield School of Business Networking Roundtable.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Allan & Marguerite Morehead Scholarship

Pamela Morehead Bischoff began working at Ramapo College in 1969, the year the College was founded. She started as a counselor in the College’s first building on Route 17, and played a leadership role in organizing the student services division. She rose to the position of Vice President of Student Affairs, and retired after 40 years of service to the College in 2009.  Dr. Bischoff was so beloved and respected by both students and colleagues alike that a residence hall was renamed in her honor. 

“I wanted to create the endowment to honor my parents, who lived in Paterson, N.J., and were both educators,” she says. “They cared greatly that city children receive a top-notch education and worried that the children weren’t receiving the quality of education they should.” 

The endowment will benefit Ramapo College students enrolled in the Teacher Education Program who plan to teach in New Jersey inner city schools. Preference will be given to economically challenged students in the College’s Educational Opportunity Fund. “I want to encourage our graduates hailing from New Jersey’s cities to return to them as highly educated teachers.”

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Founding President George T. Potter Scholarship

As Ramapo College’s inaugural president, George Potter played the role of academic visionary, overseeing scores of founding faculty members, construction of a brand new campus, and instilling academic values that now define the College. 

George Potter was born in England, the son of a boatman. He earned degrees from Stanford Hall, Loughborough and Oriel College, Oxford, where he developed adult education and extension programs. He continued this work at the University of Alberta in Canada, then helped plan the new Grand Valley State College in Michigan, where he progressed to Vice President for Academic Affairs. It was from this post that he took the post of president at the highly experimental Ramapo College of New Jersey.

From the beginning of the College’s history Dr. Potter and his wife Loretta championed programs that increased access to Ramapo for women, veterans, minorities, and people with disabilities.  Mrs. Potter in particular was instrumental making sure that persons with disabilities felt welcome at Ramapo, and helped launch what is now the Office of Specialized Services. The College’s academic buildings were constructed to be accessible to persons with disabilities, well before the Americans With Disabilities Act required such measures. 

At his death in 2009 friends, family, and former colleagues of Dr. Potter contributed to this endowed scholarship fund. The purpose of the fund is to recognize outstanding upperclassmen registered with the Office of Specialized Service who intend to continue their education in graduate school.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Judith Martinez Rodriguez and Francis J. Rodriquez Environmental Science Scholarship

Francis J. Rodriguez, M.S., CPhT, a past president of the Friends of Ramapo, serves on the Ramapo College Foundation’s Board of Governors. He also serves on the Planned Giving Task Force Committee, where he has taken an active role in assisting the Foundation to obtain financing for scholarships, faculty research and building initiatives. To demonstrate his desire to support the work of the Foundation, and to make a charitable gift, Mr. Rodriguez and his wife, Judith, established the Judith Martinez Rodriguez and Francis J. Rodriguez Environmental Science Scholarship to recognize students pursuing a degree in Environmental Science. 

Mr. Rodriguez wanted to establish the scholarship to commemorate their 45th wedding anniversary and his wife’s many years in pharmacy and community involvement. Mrs. Rodriguez is a registered pharmacist in community practice and serves on the New Jersey Drug Utilization Review Board. 

“Supporting the College’s wonderful goals and encouraging students to continue their education is so important to us,” he says. “From among those students, I’m confident we’ll find leaders of tomorrow.”

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Judith Martinez Rodriguez and Francis J. Rodriguez International Business

Scholarship Judith and Frank Rodriguez are residents of Midland Park, NJ and have been members of the Friends of Ramapo for many years. Mrs. Rodriguez is a registered pharmacist in both New Jersey and New York. While pursuing her professional career she has also served in elected and appointed government and community service positions. Mrs. Rodriguez has received a number of awards for her teaching and service to the field.

Mr. Rodriguez’ career has included management positions with Telecommunications Analysis, RAM Communications, and Western Union. He is currently a senior consultant for RCC Consultants.  He and Mrs. Rodriguez were the owners of Raysol Pharmacy in New York. Mr. Rodriguez has General and Amateur Radio Operators licenses from the FCC. He is active in many civic and community organizations, including the American Pharmaceutical Association, MENSA, and the Radio Club of America. 

In their home town, the Rodriguez’ have been active with the Board of Health, the Historic Society, the Library Board of Trustees, and the Board of Education. On the county and state level, the Rodriguez’ have been involved with a number of organizations including Bergen County’s Northwest Regional Health Commission, the Medical Reserve Corps, and the Pharmaceutical Society, as well as the NJ Drug Utilization Review Board, the NJ Dept. of Education’s Advisory Committee on Bilingual Education, and the NJ Pharmaceutical Association. 

The intent of the Rodriguez International Business Scholarship is to recognize outstanding upperclassmen pursuing a degree in International Business and who are interested in international trade.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Ryan-Weber Family Scholarship

Lisa Ryan graduated from Ramapo College in 1984 with a degree in communications. She began working in retail, with Kids ‘R Us, Federated Department Stores, and Mandees, in positions of increasing responsibility. Today she is Vice President of Sales for Graphic Technology Services in Fairfield.

Lisa has been a member of the Alumni Association since she was a student at Ramapo, and served for many years as the organization’s president. “I got involved with the Alumni Association because they needed a student representative,” she says. “I was very active in athletics, helping to raise funds for the athletic program. This got me interested in community service and giving back.” She is still active at Ramapo, serving as chair of the Athletic Hall of Fame Committee, the Athletic Advisory Board, and as a member of the Foundation Board of Governors. The athletics program has honored her with its Distinguished Alumnus Award.

“I’d been thinking about creating a family scholarship for a while,” Lisa says about what prompted her to start the Ryan-Webber Family Scholarship. “After attending yearly scholarship receptions and meeting the students I knew it was an important thing to do. I was fortunate enough to be on the selection committee for the Alumni Service Scholarship, which is geared towards students who exhibit exceptional community service. I met the chosen students and was really impressed with their selflessness. The time was right to create this scholarship.”

“Making a small difference is one of the greatest feelings,” she continues. “I hope my gift will encourage other alumni to explore the possibilities of giving back to Ramapo College.” The Ryan- Webber Family Endowment will benefit Ramapo College students with financial need.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Margaret V. Witte Scholarship

“It is my honor to be able to invest in someone’s education in my Mom’s name,” says Margaret Mullen, a long-time member of the Friends of Ramapo. Mrs. Mullen lives in Midland Park, New Jersey and was elected president of the Friends in 2008. That same year Mrs. Mullen created an endowed scholarship fund through a planned giving vehicle, a charitable gift annuity.  “I was moved to participate in the planned giving effort at Ramapo College during the final weeks of 2008 when the financial markets looked bleak,” Mrs. Mullen continues. “It just seemed like the right moment for me to give a scholarship.”  The Margaret V. Witte Scholarship is named in memory of Mrs. Mullen’s mother. The intent of the Witte Scholarship is to benefit upperclassmen who are pursuing a baccalaureate degree in nursing at Ramapo. “My Mom had been sick for a long time, and we were both so grateful to the many nurses who helped ease her suffering. Mom would have been so pleased.”

Help Support our Annual Scholarships

Book Awards

The Ramapo College Foundation provides book awards to deserving students in honor or special individuals. Student recipients are often selected to reflect interests or similar backgrounds of the person the award is recognizing. The Book Awards are used to recognize leadership donors to the annual Stephen and Mary Birch Fellowship. Book Awards also provide a meaningful way for the Ramapo College Foundation to express its sympathy to individuals who support and impact Ramapo College in the event of the death of a loved one. Awards were presented to students... In honor of Robert B. Hiden, Jr., a member of the Ramapo College Foundation Board of Governors, who became a member of the President’s Council of the Stephen and Mary Birch Fellowship. In memory of Ethel Rosenberg, mother of Sam Rosenberg, Dean of the School of Social Science and Human Services.

Help Support our Annual Scholarships