Michaella Bermudez

Michaella Bermudez of Westwood, N.J. is a Spanish Language Studies major, and is also completing a teaching certificate in Elementary Education. She has a 3.95 GPA. Michaella has made the Dean’s list each semester while at Ramapo.

At Ramapo, Michaella is part of the Student Ambassador program, where she represents the Spanish Language major. She is involved in the Spanish Honor Society (where she serves as President), and the Spanish club. In 2017, she worked as a research assistant for Dr. Santamaria Laorden on her upcoming book.

Michaella is also involved in the New Jersey Special Olympics and works as a manager and hostess at PJ Finnegan’s, a local Irish pub in Westwood. Michaella is one of six children and enjoys spending time with her family and friends. After graduation she hopes to teach in an urban area/under-served community.

Awarded Scholarships

2018

Steinberger, The Ann and Karl Memorial Award

Ann and Karl Steinberger were the parents of Dr. Eva M. Ogens, a professor in Ramapo College’s Teacher Education program.  They were both from different parts of Germany, where their ancestors had resided for centuries.  When the Nazis came to power, both were forced to flee.  Ann was only 18, and Karl escaped Germany when he was 21, knowing he would never see his parents again.  He enlisted in the U.S. Army and proudly fought the Nazis throughout Europe and Northern Africa.  Ann and Karl actually had met in New York prior to his service and Ann patiently waited for Karl to come home.  They married in 1947 and spent 52 years together.  Both of them were very proud of their daughters – the first college graduates in their families.  Although Karl and Ann did not have the same opportunities, they recognized the importance of education.  They exemplified the values of integrity, devotion to family, and a strong work ethic.

Karl passed away in 1999 and Ann passed away in 2013, at which time Professor Ogens’ colleagues made contributions to create a memorial award in her name to a Ramapo student.  Professor Ogens and her sister, Susan Wallenstein, have continued the award which benefits a student pursuing teacher certification at Ramapo.