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Gittens, Milton and Granville ASB Scholarship

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Milton Gittens, Ph.D joined the Ramapo College faculty in 1973. Dr. Gittens was well known for his role as cohost and assistant producer of “Issues and Education,” a weekly cable TV program broadcast on the Manhattan Neighborhood Network and produced through Ramapo College. Among his publications was a paper, “The Black Perspective in Public Administration: The Development and Application of a Research Model for Minority Administrators in the Public Sector,” produced in 1977. At Ramapo he served as convener of the Management concentration of the Business Administration major for a number of years and taught management courses.

“Dr. Gittens loved two things,” said Professor Constance Crawford. “He loved teaching and he loved his son, Granville H. Gittens.” Dr. Gittens was honored for his teaching in 2003 with induction into the Ramapo College Chapter of Delta Mu Delta National Honor Society for Business Administration.

When he died in 2010, two endowed scholarships in Dr. Gittens name were created through bequests left in his will. Both awards are intended to recognize students who are “descendants of slavery in the United States or Barbados in the West Indies.” This award is specifically for students matriculated in the Anisfield School of Business who have financial need. It is named in memory of Dr. Gittens and his father.

“Dr. Gittens was an amazing example of what a teacher is … someone who imparts knowledge and helps others,” says Professor Crawford.

  • For minority students (descendants of American, Barbados or West Indies slavery preferred)
  • Applicants must have financial need based on FAFSA and unmet need
  • In good academic standing
  • Applicants must complete a one- to two-page essay describing their career goals and how they arrived at this decision

Scholarship application is closed for this semester.


2024 Recipients

Kalme Moncavo

Kalme Dantas Silva Saraiva De Moncavo of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil is an International Business major with a 4.0 GPA. 

At Ramapo, Kalme is currently a member of the Women’s volleyball team and holds the position of team captain. 

An accomplishment that Kalme is proud of was getting into college in America and having the opportunity to major in something she is passionate about with her family’s unwavering support. “My family sees me as the family member that ‘made it,’ meanwhile I see them as daily motivation to make it happen.”

After graduation, Kalme plans to earn her Masters and intern at a big company where she can gain real-world experience in the International Business field.

Shirley Celestino

Shirley Celestino of Paterson, N.J. is a senior Finance major at Ramapo College.

Shirley has been involved with Greater Alliance Federal Credit Union where she works as a Universal Member Service Representative and trains prospective hires. She assists members with information on financial products and assistance with their accounts and transactions.

After graduation, Shirley hopes to land an internship and establish a place within a company where she can continue to grow and develop on her skills and experiences

Roselyn Martinez-Balbuena

Roselyn Martinez-Balbuena of Passaic, N.J. is an International Business Major on the 4+1 track. She has a 3.97 GPA and has received Dean’s List honor every semester. She is a proud EOF Scholar and a member of the Tri-Alpha First-Gen Chapter. 

 

At Ramapo, Roselyn is an active member of the United Asian Association, showing her unwavering support at their events. She is also a recurring member of Japanese Happy Hour sessions, which work to immerse students in Japanese cultural activities. 

 

In her hometown, Roselyn has been a part of many volunteer events including a Mayor Hector Lora’s Youth Council member. She would distribute supplies for the townspeople and participate in city cleanups. She is also a co-founder of a program called Study and Save, which launched in Passaic last year to help students improve their studying environments as well as boost their grades. 

 

After graduation, Roselyn wants to attend graduate school to refine her business abilities. Then, she hopes to travel and work in the hospitality industry to maximize her skills in intercultural communication using her Latina background, business skills, and her thirst for knowledge.  

 


Quanae’ Daniels

Quanae’ Daniels of Newark, N.J. is a Business Management major. She has a 2.1 GPA and is an EOF scholar. 

At Ramapo, she is active in the Black Student Union as the new President for the 2022-23 school year. 

Over the summer, Quanae’ recently interned at Newark City Hall in the Division of Central Purchasing. 

Ahmed Bin Rizwan

Ahmed Bin Rizwan of Mahwah, N.J. is a Information Technology Management major with a 3.7 GPA and has made the Dean’s List last semester.

At Ramapo, Ahmed is an active member of the Muslim Student Association by volunteering to come before events start to set up. Ahmed also works at the Dunkin’ on campus.

Ahmed has also assisted in the group, Young Muslims (YM), in Teaneck. 

Christine Lam

Christine Lam of Parsippany, N.J. is an honors Accounting major with a 3.9 GPA. She is a Dean’s Scholarship recipient and is part of the EOF Program. Christine has made the Dean’s List each semester and is a member of the Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society. 

At Ramapo, Christine is the 2023-2024 External Vice-President of the United Asian Association, an active contributor for the Honors Program, Biology Club, and Accounting Club. 

Off-campus, Christine strives to raise awareness for food insecurity as she continues to volunteer at the Ho Chi Minh Food Pantry whenever she visits Vietnam. Back in Parsippany, she helps at the Parsippany Emergency Food Pantry to aid those in need. Christine also creates and donates hand-made greeting cards to children’s specialized hospitals, as a way to encourage and cheer them on.


Aneesha Malla

Aneesha Malla is a senior Marketing major with a minor in Business Analytic. She has maintained a cumulative GPA of 3.82 during her time at Ramapo. 

Aneesha has completed volunteer work and served as a Counselor at Camp Sunshine, providing support and creating an inclusive environment for individuals with disabilities. She also initiated a chapter of We Light the Candle, bringing joy to children in foster care through personalized birthday cards. Aneesha has actively participated in community events addressing homelessness and food insecurity, organizing donations, and distributing care packages. 

The passion Aneesha has extends beyond business and community service. She possesses a deep love for education and an eagerness to support students both academically and personally.

After graduation, Aneesha aspires to publish a children’s book that promotes mental health awareness. Through her writing, she hopes to positively impact the lives of young readers and contribute to the ongoing conversation surrounding mental health.


Anonymous

The recipient of this scholarship wishes to remain anonymous.


2023 Recipients

Noe Ramirez

Noe Ramirez of Paterson, N.J. is a Finance major. He has a 3.2 GPA and was on the Dean’s list in the spring of 2021.

 At Ramapo, Noe has been an active member of Alpha Kappa Psi and the Student Government Association. As President of Alpha Kappa Psi, Noe strives to empower the next generation of future business leaders during their development as young professionals. This academic year, Noe is also the treasurer of SGA , overseeing all the student government’s finances and assisting with any budgetary needs.

Off-campus Noe is an SEO Success Participant for the SEO Career Program. He completed an internship with Merrill Lynch within their Advisory Development Program, where he was able to engage in improving individuals’ financial lives. As a post-graduation plan, Noe intends to pursue a career in the field of investment banking.


Quanae' Daniels

Quanae’ Daniels of Newark, N.J. is a Business Management major with a 2.1 GPA. 

At Ramapo, Quanae’ is an active member of the community, holding the title the President of the Black Student Union for the 2022-23 semester. 

“While attending Ramapo College, I plan to receive my bachelor’s and master’s in Business Management,” says Quanae’.

Naydelin Reyes Rodriguez

Naydelin Reyes Rodriguez of Freehold, N.J. is a first-generation Business Management major with a minor in Finance. She has a 3.9 GPA and has been a Dean’s List recipient on multiple occasions. Moving from Guatemala at the age of eleven, Naydelin carries her Latin culture with pride and her Spanish accent confidently.  

At Ramapo, Naydelin is an active member as the treasurer of the Association of Latinos Moving Ahead, as well as a project leader of Enactus, a member of Roadrunner Financial Group, a member of SAIL: Sophomores Advancing in Leadership, and a member of the honors program. 

 Off-campus, Naydelin works as an assistant in the Human Resources department at Ramapo. She also works full time at ALDI supermarket during breaks. Her goal is to positively impact her family’s future generations by being the hope for success.


Mya Olive

“I have found the right major that fits me because this is something that I have struggled with. My goal is to graduate with an exceeding GPA, to involve myself in community service, and to become a fashion Influencer. I want to remind women that our gender doesn’t define our success. We can succeed just as a man can,” says Mya Olive of Hillside, N.J. She is a Marketing major with a 3.1 GPA. 

At Ramapo, Mya is an active member in several organizations, such as working at the Ramapo College Potter Library, Vice President of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Vice president of the Black Student Union, and a member of the national society of leadership and success.


Brianna Michel Carter

Brianna Michel Carter of Newark, N.J. is a Marketing major. Her 3.51 GPA has continuously put her on the Dean’s List.

Brianna also partakes in on-campus clubs and organizations such as Ramapo’s Women in Business and is an active member of Ramapo’s Women’s Basketball Team

“Every girl, no matter where she lives, deserves the opportunity to develop the promise inside of her.” – Michelle Obama. This a quote Brianna chooses to believe in because she is a young woman striving to develop the promise within her.


Shirley Celestine

Shirley Celestino of Paterson, N.J. is a Finance major here at Ramapo College.  

On campus, Shirley has been an active member of the Greater Alliance Federal Credit Union. There, she works as a Universal Member Service Representative. Shirley assists members with their finances by utilizing her knowledge of the financial products offered at the institution. 

Anticipating her future and what she can accomplish, Shirley continues to seek learning experiences within her workplace and school to become the best person she can be. She aspires to manage the finances of a big company but plans to work as a teller as her first step into finance.


Denisse Jimenez

Denisse Jimenez of Paterson, N.J. is a Management major and has a 3.6 GPA. She has also been on the Dean’s List on multiple occasions and is a current member of the Chi Alpha Epsilon Honor Society.

At Ramapo, Denisse is an active member in organizations, such as Sigma Sigma Sigma, where she held the position of treasurer and community service co-chair. She was also a peer mentor for EOF first-year students and has been a Resident Assistant for two years on campus.

Off-campus, Denisse has interned as an assistant at LVO Management, where she is able to manage her own clients such as Runner’s House. She also works closely with the Ramsey Chamber of Commerce.

After graduation, Denisse plans to earn her MBA and work within the healthcare administration system.

Aqdas Mujahid

Aqdas Mujahid is from Mahwah, N.J., and is a second-year Accounting major with a 3.6 GPA. He was on the Dean’s List for the Fall 2021 and Spring 2022 semesters.

Outside of school, Aqdas currently works at TJ-Maxx part-time and has been working there for close to 2 years. 

For the rest of his time at Ramapo, Aqdas hopes to start being more involved in organizations and different clubs and to start talking to more people. Also, to make the Dean’s List both semesters each year and to achieve more academically.

“My goal post-graduation is to do the 4+1 B.S. to MSAC Accounting Program and start working a job for an Accounting firm or look for any opportunities that will benefit my future in the field of Accounting,” says Aqdas.


Anonymous

The recipient of this scholarship wishes to remain anonymous.


2022 Recipients

Jonathan Torres

Jonathan Torres of Hoboken, N.J. is an International Business major with a 3.5 GPA. Before entering Ramapo in Fall 2019 as a freshman, Jonathan completed the Educational Opportunity Fund summer program. Jonathan was the Sophomore Representative of the Alliance of EOF and Friends, part of the Roadrunner Financial Group and the Ramapo College Indoor Soccer Club. 

Jonathan has been involved in off-campus activities such as volunteering at food drives. 

He has plans to volunteer for organizations that help underprivileged students such as himself and to eventually run his own business of supporting immigrant families.


Anonymous

The recipient of this award would like to remain anonymous.

Noe Ramirez

Noe Ramirez of Paterson, N.J. is a Finance major. He has been active in the EOF Peer Mentor Program and the KPMG University Mentoring Program. In the Fall of 2021 Noe became a brother of Alpha Kappa Psi.

 At NEXT PRESS LLC, Noe interns as a Junior Accountant, where he assists the accounting department with everyday needs to efficiently run the business. Noe is also an SEO EDGE Participant, for the SEO Career Program. 

Noe looks forward to the Summer of 2022 as he will be interning for Bank of America’s Advisor Development Program, where he will get hands-on experience with the wealth management and consumer investments segment of the business.

Post-graduation Noe intends to pursue a career as an investment banker.


Brianna Michel Carter

Brianna Michel Carter of Newark, N.J. is a Marketing major. Her 3.51 GPA has continuously put her on the Dean’s List. She is also a member of Ramapo’s Women’s Basketball Team. Brianna also partakes in on-campus clubs and organizations such as Ramapo’s Women in Business.


Anonymous

The recipient of this award would like to remain anonymous.

Mya Olive

“I want to remind women that our gender doesn’t define our success,” says Mya Olive. “We can succeed just as a man can.” 

Mya is a Marketing major from Hillside, N.J. and is part of the EOF Program. She works at the Potter Library on campus. 

Post-graduation, she hopes to become a fashion influencer and real estate agent. “I am proud to say that I have found the right major that fits me,” says Mya.


Robertson Guercy

Robertson Guercy is a current MBA Candidate with a Project Management Concentration. He also obtained his Contemporary Arts: Professional Communications undergraduate degree via Ramapo College’s Degree Completion Program (DCP) in Summer 2020.

At Ramapo, Robertson has been a member of the Golden Key International and Alpha Sigma Lambda Honour Societies. He enjoys spending his leisure time with his wife and three beautiful children. Robertson is also active in his local church community and participates in various volunteer organizations in partnership with his employer focusing on financial literacy among adolescents and youth.

“After I complete my Masters of Business Administration, I plan on to receive a Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification which will allow me to grow and thrive in my current career in finance leading special project initiatives.”

He is a resident of Mahwah, N.J. He has earned a 3.7 GPA


Fatima Bartel

Fatima Bartel of Union, N.J. is a Business Administration-Management major with a Human Resource Management minor. She is a senior with a 4.0 GPA.

At Ramapo, Fatima has been active in the Women’s Center, the College Progressive’s Club, and recently the ASB Dean’s Student Council. She works with ASB staff and other dedicated ASB students to improve the overall student learning experience. Fatima is also a part of the honor society Beta Gamma Sigma.

She has interned at two companies, start-up company Super Purposes LLC and data analytics firm USEReady.


Lizzet Soto

Lizzet Soto of Hackensack, N.J. is double majoring in Finance and Marketing and double minoring in Psychology and International Business.

At Ramapo, Lizzet has been active in several organizations and activities, including APO the service fraternity of Ramapo, ASL Club, and Stock Market Club. She is currently VP of her NIM class for APO and next semester she will hold Conference Chair Officer.

Lizzet has also been involved in off–campus activities and organizations, including tutoring elementary school students who are in ESL, volunteering for the Lupus Foundation of America and the Arthritis Foundation. She also dedicates her time to give back to her community by visiting nursing homes and spending time with the seniors during the holidays, bringing them small gifts that are collected in her community.

At Ramapo, Lizzet hopes to finish her studies next year and pursue her MBA.



2021 Recipients

Lazaro Conde

Lazaro Conde of Ridgefield, N.J. is a Finance major. Off-campus, he proudly serves as a U.S. Selective Service board member, appointed on behalf of the President for Bergen County. 

“I hope to foster academic growth and innovation among my peers on campus,” says Lazaro as a member of the ASB Dean’s Student Advisory Council.

Upon graduation, he hopes to explore career opportunities in investment banking, real estate, and entrepreneurship.

Tania Carolina Hincapie

“After having to take two years off from my studies to help my household after a family accident, I am even more hungry with my educational goals and desire to create a positive impact in my community,” says Tania Carolina Hincapie, a junior Accounting major. Originally born in Cartagena, Columbia, she is a transfer student with a 3.7 GPA. 

Tania works in her community as a substitute teacher and as an administrative assistant within the city, both of which have influenced her drive to succeed academically. Completing her Accounting degree is another step in exploring her dream of becoming an entrepreneur and community leader.

Philemon, Renitho

Renitho Philemon of West Orange, N.J. is a first-generation student earning a degree in Management from the Anisfield School of Business. He currently holds a 3.0 GPA. Renitho has been involved in activities such as intramural sports and the Roadrunner Financial Group.

Jynae Glasco

“As the oldest of four and the first in my family to graduate from a four-year institution, I hope to continue breaking generational curses and pave a way for my siblings and other minorities,” says Jynae Glasco. A resident of East Orange, N.J., Jynae is in the Master’s of Accounting program. She plans to become a CPA and hopes to run her own firm one day. 

As an undergraduate, she had a 3.3. GPA, made the Dean’s List several times, and was a member of Chi Alpha Epsilon Honor Society. She was also the Vice President of Ebony Women for Social Change and the Treasurer of XAE Honor Society. 

Off campus, Jynae volunteers at gardens near her hometown and helps provide the homeless with food and care packages. This summer she will intern at Ernst & Young in their Assurance department.


Robertson Guercy

Robertson Guercy is a resident of Mahwah, N.J. and holds a 3.8 GPA. He is a current MBA Candidate with a Project Management Concentration attending the Anisfield School of Business. He also obtained his Contemporary Arts: Professional Communications undergraduate degree via Ramapo College’s Degree Completion Program (DCP) for adults in Summer 2020.

At Ramapo, Robertson has been active in organizations, including the Golden Key International Honour Society. He enjoys spending his leisure time with his wife and three beautiful children, and he is also active in his local church community.

After Robertson completes his MBA, he plans on acquiring his Project Management Professional Certification, which will allow him to grow and thrive in his current finance career, leading special project initiatives.



2020 Recipients

Tyesha Forrester

Tyesha Forrester of Bogota, N.J. is a Business Administration Major with a concentration in Management. After Ramapo, she plans to attend graduate school and hopes to become the director of Human Resources for a major corporation. She has a 3.2 GPA.

On Campus, Tyesha is a part of the Peer Facilitation Program, where she helps freshman transition from high school to college. She is a member of the Enactus Entrepreneurship Club, the ASB Dean’s Advisory Board, and is Treasurer for the Black Student Union.


Jonathan Torres

Jonathan Torres of Hoboken, N.J. is a freshman International Business major and EOF scholar. He has a 3.7 GPA.

Jonathan is a member of Alliance of EOF and Friends (AEF) and works as a Student Volunteer at the Boys and Girls Club of Hudson County in Jersey City. He is also an employee at a small family-owned coffee shop, Little Grocery, in Hoboken. After he recovers from ACL surgery, he plans to volunteer for more organizations that help underprivileged students such as himself.


Lazaro Conde

Lazaro Conde of Ridgefield, N.J. is a Finance major with a 3.0 GPA.  He is an active member of the ASB Dean’s Student Advisory Council and says, “I hope to foster academic growth and success among my peers.” Additionally, Lazaro proudly serves as a U.S. Selective Service board member, appointed on behalf of the President for Bergen County.  “After completing my bachelor’s degree, I hope to explore career opportunities in investment banking, real estate, and entrepreneurship.”

Arnold Paredes-Balbuena

“After graduating, I plan to find a job as a Systems Analyst or as an IT Manager,” says Arnold Paredes-Balbuena of Little Ferry, N.J. The sophomore Information Technology Management major has a 3.5 GPA, made the Fall 2018 Dean’s List, and is a member of the Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society.

Arnold works as a Ramapo Admissions Student Ambassador, where he gives tours and helps plan events. In his spare time, he is a member of the Little Ferry/South Hackensack Soccer League, where he coaches children and guides new players.

Janiya Wade

Janiya Wade of Newark, N.J. is a Business major with a concentration in Management. She has a 3.1 GPA, is a member of the Chi Alpha Epsilon Honor Society and made the Dean’s List in the Spring 2018 and Spring 2019 semesters.

Janiya is a mentee in the Ramapo Foundation Scholars Mentor Program, where she gains one-on-one support from an experienced professional to help further her career goals. She also works as a Student Assistant in the ASB office and is a Marketing & Communications Associate at Impact Consulting Enterprises.


Renitho Philemon

“I’ve taken on every obstacle presented to me in life thus far and have found ways to prevail,” says Renitho Philemon of West Orange, N.J. The Finance major is a member of the Roadrunners Financial Group and has worked in the intramural sports program and athletics office. Upon graduation, Renitho hopes to work in finance.

Stephanie Guzman

Raised in Guttenberg, N.J., Stephanie Guzman is a senior Business major with a concentration in Finance and a minor in International Business. She has a 3.7 GPA and is in the Honors Program. Last semester, she studied abroad in South Korea where she attended Korea University. She is currently the SARM (Student Activities Revenue Management) Student Manager on campus within the Center for Student Involvement.

At Ramapo, she has served as Secretary for the Model United Nations, is currently the Treasurer for the Association for Latinos Moving Ahead, and has served on the Admissions Team and E-Board for the Honors Program. She has also volunteered at the Hoboken Homeless Shelter, Jersey City Medical Center, MEVO, and House on the Hill.

Stephanie was a part of the Citi Bank Early ID Mentorship program and has previously worked at two law offices. She plans on pursuing law school after graduation.


Jynae Glasco

“As the oldest of four and the first in my family to graduate from a four-year institution, I hope to continue breaking generational curses and pave a way for my siblings and other minorities,” says Jynae Glasco.  A resident of East Orange, N.J., Jynae is an Accounting major with a 3.2 GPA.

She is the Vice President of Ebony Women for Social Change, Treasurer of XAE Honor Society, and a member of other clubs under the Black Student Union. “This year, I look forward to hosting more on-campus community service events and discussions that focus on social issues.”

Off-campus, Jynae has participated in community service such as assisting at gardens near her hometown and providing the homeless with food and care packages. This past spring, she worked as a Tax Reviewer at the Tax Shoppe in Ramsey, N.J. She hopes one day to have her own CPA firm.



2019 Recipients

Lazaro Conde

Lazaro Conde of Ridgefield, N.J. is a Business Administration-Finance major. During high school Lazaro was Class President and the coordinator of his class’ senior prom alongside vital fundraising events. Off-campus he is an employee of Sojo Spa Club and is currently in the process of starting a fund in advocacy for progressive reform and voting rights. Lazaro also seeks a career in the financial sector as well as real estate development and entrepreneurship.

Al-Shakinah Campbell

Al-Shakinah Campbell of Newark, N.J. is an Economics major with a Criminology minor. Al-Shakinah transferred from Kean University and looks forward to contributing innovative ideas to the Ramapo college community.


At Ramapo, Al-Shakinah has been active in Ebony Women for Social Change and the Black Student Union. “Participating in club events such as Human Trafficking in Latin America has helped me become proud of who I am, and I look forward to learning about other diverse cultures.”

Her volunteer work includes helping  package over 2,500 pounds of donated goods for the Community Foodbank of New Jersey, as well as work with Habitat for Humanity. Al-Shakinah holds a part-time position with Securitas Security, and hopes to work alongside others who enjoy serving people of the community.


Janiya Wade

“I will be my parent’s first child to graduate from college and therefore I take my education very seriously,” says Janiya Wade of Newark, N.J. Janiya is a Business Major with a concentration in Management. She has a 3.1 GPA.  Janiya works on campus as a student assistant in the ASB Graduate Program office.

“I’m proud to have earned a spot on the Spring 2018 Dean’s List, and to have been inducted into the Chi Alpha Epsilon Honor Society in the Spring 2018 as well. These accomplishments are a result of my hard work ethic and discipline.”

Janiya’s goal post graduation is to work for a media or entertainment company. “I want to put my degree to work, and also be a successful representative of women of color.”


Jessica Suarez

Transfer student Jessica Suarez graduated from Ocean County College with a 3.4 GPA. She is a Marketing major and is from Brick, N.J.

She has become active immediately at Ramapo, taking part in Relay for Life and the Enactus Team. Jessica has also worked a part-time job for LADACIN Network Inc. as a Human Resources Assistant. Her job consisted of basic personal/payroll related clerical duties associated with maintaining employment and payroll records and basic functions relative to ensuring proper record-keeping of departmental documents.


Warren Semper

“I make every effort I can to broaden my horizons. There is always more to discover and it is my purpose to strive towards it,” says Warren Semper, who has traveled and studied at Kansai Gaidai University in Osaka, Japan.

He is from Dumont, N.J. and is a Junior Literature major with a concentration in Creative Writing. Warren is an Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) student and works as an Office Assistant in the EOF Office on campus.


Brandon L. Rodriguez

Brandon L. Rodriguez of Passaic, N.J. is a double major in Economics and Literature. He has a 3.5 GPA.  He is a member of Omicron Delta Epsilon – The International Economics Honor Society and Sigma Tau Delta – International English Honor Society, as well as others.

At Ramapo, Brandon started a wrestling club and became his fraternity chapter’s treasurer, helping to fundraise and manage the finances.

He is a coach for a youth wrestling club.

Renitho Philemon

“I have taken on every obstacle presented to me in life thus far and have found ways to prevail. I value my education and enjoy pursuing my degree in Finance at Ramapo,” says Renitho Philemon.

Renitho is a member of the Roadrunners Financial Group. He has worked on campus as an intramural referee as well.

“I hope to work in the financial field post-graduation.”

Stephanie Guzman

Stephanie J. Guzman of Guttenberg, N.J. is a Business major with a concentration in Finance and a minor in International Business. She has a 3.9 GPA.  Stephanie is an Honors student who has made Dean’s List since she was a freshman. She works on campus at the Center for Student Involvement under SARM (Student Activities Revenue Management).

At Ramapo, she has served as Secretary for Model United Nations and is a member of the Honors Admissions Team. She is currently the Vice-President for the Association for Latinos Moving Ahead and is on the E-board for the Honors Program. Stephanie has also volunteered at the Hoboken Homeless Shelter and Jersey City Medical Center, MEVO, and House on the Hill.

Stephanie was a part of the Citi Bank Early ID Mentorship program where she learned a lot about the banking industry from her mentor. She previously worked at two law offices, and plans on pursuing law school after graduation.



2018 Recipients

Akira Burgos

Akira Burgos of Hackensack, N.J. is a Business Administration major with a concentration in Marketing and a minor in International Business. She has a 3.29 GPA. She is in the Chi Alpha Epsilon honor society and was placed on the Dean’s List for the Fall 2017 semester. “I am exceptionally proud that I will be graduating with a GPA above 3.0.”

At Ramapo, Akira has been active in Alpha Sigma Alpha, where she held the position of public relations chair. She managed all of the social media accounts, and worked with her committee to maintain and improve the image of the organization. She has also been involved in the Peer Facilitation program, and the Marketing Club.

Akira currently works as an administrative assistant in The Housing Authority of Bergen County. She does daily office work and helps the tenants with whatever they need. She is also a community member of College Fashionista.  After graduation she hopes to hone her marketing skills and experience in the fashion industry. “Since I studied abroad in Rome, I hope to continue to travel to new places, discover the world and enjoy life.”

Jacob Stirling Scott-Spann

“I am proud to be the first person in my family to go to college,” says Jacob Stirling Scott-Spann of Vauxhall, N.J. Jacob is a Business major with a Marketing concentration. He has a 3.65 GPA

He has attended and helped host Black Student Union events on campus such as Black Solidarity Week. He has also been a supporting member of the Brothers Making a Difference group, attending workshops and meetings. He is learning and helping invest in diverse stock portfolios as part of the Roadrunner Financial Group, gaining valuable experience in his field of study. Jacob has a job on campus in the Educational Opportunity Fund Program Department.

Jacob is part of his high school’s Presidential Ambassadors Club that orchestrates academic workshops, tutoring, and advice sessions for parents. Recently, he secured a position with DialAmerica. After graduation he plans to earn a MBA.

Bianca Monee Griffin

Bianca Monee Griffin of Belleville, N.J. is a Business Administration major with a concentration in Marketing.

At Ramapo, Bianca had been involved in the Accounting Club, College Programing Board, and Culture Club.

Bianca and her mother founded “You’re Not Invisible,” an organization dedicated to helping the homeless. Each month they feed and distribute clothing to the homeless in Jersey City.

She also works at Abercrombie and Fitch. “I love my job because it involves selling, which is related to my Marketing studies.”

Terrell Fridy

Terrell Fridy of Newark, N.J. is a Business major with a concentration in Finance. He has a current GPA of a 3.0.

At Ramapo Terrell is part of the Roadrunner Financial Group, the Brothers of M.A.S.T and works as an intramural referee.

“I wasn’t the greatest student in high school, but after realizing that my future was in jeopardy I started to focus more on my studies and worked very hard and was admitted to Ramapo for early decision.”  Terrell hopes to work in the financial field in New York, and become an entrepreneur in the future.

Janiya Wade

“I take my education very seriously and it is something I am passionate about. I’m proud to be the first child in my family to graduate from college,” says Janiya Wade of Newark, N.J. Janiya is a Business Administration major with a concentration in Management. She has a 3.0 GPA.

Janiya works on campus as an office assistant in the Center for Innovative and Professional Learning. “My goal post graduation is to work at a Fortune 500 company, preferably in Newark, because not only do I want to put my degree to work, I want to work in the very city I was born and raised.”


Al-Shakinah Campbell

Al-Shakinah Campbell of Newark, N.J. is an Economics major with Criminology minor. Al-Shakinah transferred from Kean University and looks forward to contributing innovative ideas to the Ramapo community.

At Ramapo, Al-Shakinah is part of Ebony Women for Social Change and the Black Student Union. “Participating in events such as Human Trafficking in Latin America has helped me become proud of who I am and I look forward to learning about cultures different than my own.”

She has been involved in Habitat for Humanity and the Community Foodbank of New Jersey where she helped package over 2,500 pounds of donated goods. She works part-time for Securitas Security, and one day hopes to work alongside others who enjoy serving people of the community.


Stephanie Guzman

Stephanie Guzman is a sophomore majoring in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance.  She also has a minor in International Business.

Her involvement at the College includes serving as secretary for both the Association for Latinos Moving Ahead, and for Model United Nations.  She is also a part of the Honors Executive Board and an active member of the Honors Admissions Team and International Student Organization.  “My hope is to attend law school after receiving my business degree.”


Miyah Meadows

Miyah Meadows of Bloomfield, N.J. is an Accounting major with a minor is Psychology. She has a 3.6 GPA.

She holds several leadership positions on campus, including Vice President of the Accounting Club, Service Leader of Beta Alpha Psi, and Secretary for Omicron Delta Kappa.

Miyah has also been involved in off-campus activities, including Math Adventures and World Play, a tutoring program for students in grades K-12 in Teaneck, New Jersey.



2017 Recipients

Brial Bradley

“Ramapo College changed me and made me grow as a person,” said Brial Bradley of Elmwood Park, N.J.  She is a Business Administration major with a concentration in Management.

Brial has volunteered off campus with the Hackensack YMCA and Englewood Ebenezer Baptist Church “Feed the Need” organization.

Tahji DeVore-Young

Tahji DeVore-Young of Prospect Park, NJ is a Business Administration major with a concentration in Management. At Ramapo, he is an active member of the Society for Human Resource Management. Apart from his campus involvement, he has volunteered with the Mahwah Environmental Volunteers Organization and for the Boys and Girls Club of Passaic, NJ.

Tahji currently works as a Customer Service representative at TD Bank, and hopes to work there full time after graduation.  He recently received the bank’s quarterly WOW Star Award for two consecutive quarters.  His award will be recognized at a ceremony at the Beacon Theatre in NYC.

“Since I was 6, football has been my number one passion, said Tahji, “and although my dreams of making it to the NFL did not come true, my plan is to volunteer my time as a volunteer youth football coach after graduation.”

“From a young age, I always believed that hard work and dedication pay off in the long run,” added Tahji.

Dayra Cerda

“I am proud to be the first person in my family to pursue a bachelor’s degree and I hope to earn my masters in Higher Education Administration,” said Dayra Cerda, a Business Administration major from Passaic, NJ.

Dayra has a concentration in Marketing and was inducted into the Chi Alpha Epsilon Honor Society and Rho Alpha Sigma Society.

Dayra works two jobs on campus.  She is an Assistant Residence Director for The Village and student assistant in the Contemporary Arts Office.  She also serves as the community service chair for Rho Alpha Sigma.


Nathalia Marius

Nathalia Marius of Garfield NJ is an Integrated Science major with a concentration in Business Administration. She has a 3.2 GPA and has been inducted in Chi Alpha Epsilon Honor Society as well as in Alpha Lambda Delta National Honor Society for First Year Students.

At Ramapo, Nathalia is a resident assistant and part of the e-board for Chi Alpha Epilson Honor Society as well as Chi Upsilon Sigma National Latin Sorority, Inc.

She volunteers at Camp Snowflake, a daycare for special needs kids.

“I’m proud to have been a part of the Biomedical Careers Program in Rutgers University this past summer. I hope to be part of the business side of a hospital post-graduation,” said Nathalia.

Wesley May

Wesley May of Newark NJ is a double major in Business Marketing and Philosophy. He has a 3.0 GPA.

At Ramapo, Wesley is the President of Cru (Crusaders for Christ) where he developed a mission statement and coordinated schedules for time organization for time management to accommodate first year students, transfer students, and commuters. Wesley is also the president of BMAD (Brothers Making a Difference) where he has improved the overall system of communication and enhanced the level of influence the organization had at Ramapo College.  Wesley is a Peer Mentor for EOF students where he teaches about goal setting, problem solving and college common sense.


Abdulai Gad Swaray

Abdulai Gad Swaray  is a senior Information Technology Management major from Sierra Leone.  While at Ramapo, he founded Young Vision Africa (YVA), a non-profit to empower young leaders in developing nations to achieve a sustainable change in their communities by showing them God’s love in action and spirit.  YVA has already been able to provide housing, education, clean water and health services to the people of Sierra Leone.   The nursing faculty and students at Ramapo, as well as other American sponsors, have joined the effort. “My involvement with Young Vision Africa has provided me the opportunity to speak here on campus about the needs and challenges in Africa including the Ebola crisis,” says Abdulai.  He was a featured speaker at the opening ceremony for the college’s focus on Sub-Saharan Africa.

After graduation, Abdulai plans to continue his education in information technology management with a concentration in networking.  “My goal is to someday use my education to affect change in my community and around the world.”


Lenin Veras

Lenin Veras of Passaic, NJ is a Finance major with a GPA of 3.02.

Lenin was inducted into the National Honor Society and Chi Alpha Epsilon.  He was a Resident Assistant and is now the Assistant Residence Director for Laurel Hall. In addition, he is President of his fraternity, Lambda Theta Phi and serves as Scholarship Chair for the Interfraternity Council.  He also works part-time as an Office Assistant/Mail Room Coordinator in Residence Life.

Lenin has also volunteered for both OASIS (a haven for women and children), and House on a Hill, a daycare for children.


Tyisha Smith

Tyisha Smith is a Business Administration major with a concentration in Management.

Josuwha Ford

Josuwha Ford is a Business Administration major with a concentration in Marketing.

Darryl Dixon

Darryl Dixon is a Business Administration major with a concentration in Finance.


2016 Recipients

Dayra Cerda

Dayra Cerda of Passaic, NJ is a Business Administration major, concentrating in Marketing with a minor in International Business. She has a 3.2 GPA.  Dayra was inducted into the Chi Alpha Epsilon Honor Society.

At Ramapo, Dayra is a Resident Assistant, Peer Facilitator and the secretary of the Association of Latinos Moving Ahead.

Dayra is proud to be the first person in her family to pursue a bachelor’s degree and hopes to earn her masters in Higher Education.


Anthony Morales

Anthony Morales of North Bergen, NJ is a Business Administration major with a concentration in Management. He has a 3.3 GPA. Anthony was inducted into the National Society of Collegiate Scholars and Chi Phi Epsilon Honor Society.

Anthony has been active in several organizations and activities, including A Better Tomorrow, Enactus, ALMA, and Residence Life, as a resident assistant. Off campus he is a volunteer for Oasis, the Haven for Women and Children.


Lenin Veras

Lenin Veras of Passaic, NJ is a Finance major with a GPA of 3.02.

Lenin was inducted into the National Honor Society and Chi Alpha Epsilon.  He was a Resident Assistant and is now the Assistant Residence Director for Laurel Hall. In addition, he is President of his fraternity, Lambda Theta Phi and serves as Scholarship Chair for the Interfraternity Council.  He also works part-time as an Office Assistant/Mail Room Coordinator in Residence Life.

Lenin has also volunteered for both OASIS (a haven for women and children), and House on a Hill, a daycare for children.


Jasmina T. Hawkins

Jasmina T. Hawkins of Newark, NJ is a Business Administration major with a Finance concentration. She was inducted into both Chi Phi Epsilon Honor Society and the Center of American Women in Politics New Leadership Organization.

Jasmina has been active in the Boys and Girls Club mentoring program, the math tutoring program, and the InterVarsity Christian Fellowship Organization.

She also volunteers with the Dr. E. Alma Flag Elementary school, is a junior trustee at her home church in Newark, NJ and is a mentee with the KPMG University Mentoring Program.

“Because of this scholarship I can now focus on my last semester as an undergrad…my plan is to finish this undergraduate journey with memories that will last a lifetime.”


Jennifer Lopez Javier

Jennifer Lopez Javier of Paterson, NJ is a Business Administration major with a concentration in Finance.  She has a 3.1 GPA and has been on the Dean’s List during each semester at Ramapo.

Jennifer has been active in several organizations and activities, including Association of Latinos Moving Ahead (ALMA) and A Better Tomorrow (ABT).  Within each organization Jennifer holds an executive position; she is the event coordinator for ALMA and public relations chair for ABT. She is also a peer educator.

Off campus, Jennifer serves as a volunteer for the Paterson Public Library.


2015 Recipients

Lenin Veras

Lenin Veras of Passaic, N.J. is a finance major. He has a grade point average of 3.0. Lenin was inducted into the National Honor Society, Chi Alpha Epsilon.

At Ramapo, Lenin serves as a Resident Assistant. He is Vice President of the Lambda Theta Phi fraternity. Lenin also serves as Secretary of the United Cultural Greek Council. He also works as a part-time Office Assistant/Mail Room Clerk in the Office of Residence Life.

Lenin also has been involved in off-campus activities and organizations, including serving as a volunteer for OASIS “A haven for women and children,” and House on a Hill, a daycare for children.

Anupama Upadhyay

Anupama Upadhyay is a junior from Kathmandu, Nepal  majoring in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance.

At Ramapo, Anupama has been active in several organizations and activities, including the International Student Organization and Yoga club. She serves as an event coordinator of the Yoga Club. She also works as student aide for Center for Student Involvement and at the Bradley Center.

Solange Alvarado

Solange A. Alvarado of Paterson, N.J. is an accounting major. She has a 3.7 grade point average. She was inducted to Beta Gamma Sigma Business Honor Society, Omicron Delta Kappa Leadership Honor Society, and Chi Alpha Epsilon National Honor Society. She is also a sister of Chi Upsilon Sigma National Latin Sorority Incorporated.

At Ramapo, Solange has been active in several organizations and activities, including serving as Community Service Chair in her sorority, Co-President of Chi Alpha Epsilon and Treasurer of Omicron Delta Kappa Society.

Solange has also been involved in off –campus activities, she has held two internships and volunteered at the Paterson Habitat for Humanity.


Tiffany Ramirez

 Tiffany Ramirez of Woodland Park, N.J. is a business administration major with a concentration in marketing. She has a 3.3 grade point average.

At Ramapo, Tiffany has shown her leadership abilities as Vice President of Pine Hall, a delegate of the Student Government Association and a member of RASA.

Tiffany also has been involved in off-campus activities such as a member of the Relay for Life organization and the American Heart Association.

Cristhian Vera

Cristhian Vera of Hasbrouck Heights, N.J., carries a double major in economics and international business. He also carries an international studies minor. Cristhian is a member of the International Honor Society for Economics: Omicron Delta Epsilon. Cristhian has a 3.73 grade point average.
Off campus, Cristhian has been active in the Ecuadorian and Colombian communities as a member of a civic committee and he teaches ESL to immigrants. He completed an internship at the United Nations where he worked in the second commission dealing with economic and financial issues.
Cristhian plans to pursue a doctorate degree in economics. He is particularly interested in economic development. His goal is to design effective public policies for the best use of resources for education, the eradication of poverty and other global issues.



2014 Recipients

Solange Alvarado

Solange A. Alvarado of Paterson, N.J. is an accounting major. She has a 3.7 grade point average. She was inducted to Beta Gamma Sigma Business Honor Society, Omicron Delta Kappa Leadership Honor Society, and Chi Alpha Epsilon National Honor Society. She is also a sister of Chi Upsilon Sigma National Latin Sorority Incorporated.

At Ramapo, Solange has been active in several organizations and activities, including serving as Community Service Chair in her sorority, Co-President of Chi Alpha Epsilon and Treasurer of Omicron Delta Kappa Society.

Solange has also been involved in off –campus activities, she has held two internships and volunteered at the Paterson Habitat for Humanity.


Daniel Rosario

Daniel Rosario of Hawthorne, NJ is an Accounting major. He is vice president of Finance for Enactus, and serves as treasurer for his fraternity, Lambda Theta Phi. He is a member and chief financial officer of the National Association of Black Accountants. Daniel has set a number of goals for himself. He will continue to work as a junior accountant at a CPA firm, complete the requirements to earn a CPA license and then take the GMAT to pursue a Ph.D. in Accounting. He envisions his career path first as a professor and then as dean of a business school or president of a college. “As a scholarship recipient, I am a living example of the type of student that Ramapo College hopes to create,” he said. “It is an honor to be a student of Ramapo College and to receive this scholarship.” Daniel has 3.15 grade point average.


Tiffany Ramirez

 Tiffany Ramirez of Woodland Park, N.J. is a business administration major with a concentration in marketing. She has a 3.3 grade point average.

At Ramapo, Tiffany has shown her leadership abilities as Vice President of Pine Hall, a delegate of the Student Government Association and a member of RASA.

Tiffany also has been involved in off-campus activities such as a member of the Relay for Life organization and the American Heart Association.

Claude Barnes

Claude Barnes of Teaneck, NJ is pursuing two majors: Accounting and Economics. He serves as treasurer of Brothers Making a Difference, is establishing a chapter of the National Association of Black Accountants on campus and was inducted into the Chi Alpha Epsilon Honor Society. He is a box office attendant and usher in the Berrie Center. Off campus, he is a representative of NJSCPA Pay It Forward and an AICPA Legacy Scholar. Claude plans to sit for the CPA exam and accept a position as an auditor with Ernst & Young and, would also like to pursue an MBA. “This scholarship means a lot to me since I grew up in a household where every penny counts,” he said. “It is a relief to receive some assistance to pay for school.” Claude has a 3.22 grade point average.


Cristhian Vera

Cristhian Vera of Hasbrouck Heights, N.J., carries a double major in economics and international business. He also carries an international studies minor. Cristhian is a member of the International Honor Society for Economics: Omicron Delta Epsilon. Cristhian has a 3.73 grade point average.
Off campus, Cristhian has been active in the Ecuadorian and Colombian communities as a member of a civic committee and he teaches ESL to immigrants. He completed an internship at the United Nations where he worked in the second commission dealing with economic and financial issues.
Cristhian plans to pursue a doctorate degree in economics. He is particularly interested in economic development. His goal is to design effective public policies for the best use of resources for education, the eradication of poverty and other global issues.


Ashley Orlando

Ashley Orlando of Hazlet, N.J., is a business administration major with a concentration in management. She has a 3.95 grade point average.
At Ramapo, Ashley said she has learned the power of dedication and determination. She is a consultant at the Center for Reading and Writing and a fitness center supervisor in the Bradley Center. She is treasurer of SHRM, vice president of Beta Gamma Sigma and fundraising chair for Alpha Kappa Psi.



2013 Recipient

Macrae Francis

Macrae Francis of Paterson, NJ is an Accounting major and an Economics minor. She is completing an internship at Konica Minolta Business Solutions. Macrae is a senior advisor for the Students of Caribbean Ancestry Club, a member of the Black Student Union and financial secretary for the National Association of Black Accountants of Ramapo College. He was named to the Golden Key Honor Society, the Chi Alpha Epsilon Honor Society and Beta Gamma Sigma Honor Society. Macrae plans to become a CPA and work in an accounting firm, either in auditing or taxes. He also would like to attend graduate school to complete an MBA degree. “I am able to continue pushing educational boundaries at Ramapo College without the added financial limitations that are often in place,” he said. Macrae has a 3.87 grade point average.



2011 Recipient

Anthony Keastead

Anthony Keastead of Budd Lake, NJ challenged himself by taking advanced placement courses at Mount Olive High School. He earned college credits in Calculus, English Literature, Physics and Statistics. Other accomplishments include receiving a letter of commendation from the National Merit Scholarship organization and passing the College-Level Examination test in Financial Accounting. As a member of the Robotics Team during his sophomore year, Anthony contributed to the team’s regional championship. He also was a member of the marching band’s pit crew, responsible for loading and transporting equipment. Anthony, who has a 4.00 grade point average, is enrolled in the Anisfield School of Business.


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