Briana Gomez

Briana Gomez of Cresskill, NJ is an American Studies major and Spanish minor with a 3.93 GPA. She is pursuing a Teacher Certification in Elementary Education. Briana has received Dean’s List since starting Ramapo in the Fall of 2013. She has also been inducted into the Alpha Lambda Delta, Golden Key, and Kappa Delta Pi honor societies.

On campus, Briana serves as the Ambassador of American Studies. Currently, she is student teaching in a first grade classroom in Cresskill, NJ, an experience she loves.

In the future, Briana plans to pursue her Spanish language certification and Special Education certification.

Awarded Scholarships

---

2017

Palazzotto, Dominick Scholarship

This scholarship will be awarded in Spring 2024. Please check often for application opening dates. 

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.

Topken, Marina and William Teacher Education 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 and tutors children in underserved schools in Paterson, NJ. Mrs. Topken has been a steady supporter of the College’s The Fund for Ramapo College since 1997. She and her husband William have been involved with the Friends of Ramapo for many 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 and their commitment to education. Specifically, the Topken Scholarship benefits teacher education students who demonstrate community service and leadership at Ramapo.