Richard Russo earned a Ph.D. in Archeoastronomy, combining his passions for astronomy and Mayan culture. He shared this passion with Ramapo students as an adjunct professor of astronomy, a position he held for 30 years. While teaching at Ramapo, Dr. Russo was a “very cool and funny” math and science teacher at Fieldstone Middle School in Montvale, N.J. After Dr. Russo retired from teaching in Montvale, he started a new adventure as the Director of Field Placement for Ramapo’s Teacher Education Program. In this role, Dr. Russo tirelessly advocated for Ramapo’s pre-service teachers, creating close working relationships with numerous school districts. His accessibility, dedication, and humor was legendary among students, faculty, and staff.

At his death in 2022, the faculty of Ramapo’s Teacher Education program created this scholarship to recognize outstanding Teacher Education students preparing for a career in Science or Math education.

• The student must be currently completing their Capstone clinical practice in either science or math education
• Demonstrated academic success
• Financial need is preferred

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