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Category: Memorial Scholarship

Memorial ScholarshipScholarship Recipients
July 21, 2020

2020 Recipients: Inspiring and Impactful Future Educators Awarded Scholarships

(ANDOVER, Massachusetts) – Following a challenging semester that instilled in teachers and students alike a newfound sense of resiliency, the family of Colleen Ritzer, Tom, Peggie, Dan and Laura, announced the 2020 recipients of the Colleen E. Ritzer Memorial Scholarship, awarded to graduating high school seniors who plan to pursue a degree in education. The recipients of this scholarship will strive to carry on Colleen’s legacy as a caring and compassionate teacher. In addition, this year, “Inspire Kindness” scholarships were also awarded to students who exemplify the act of being kind and caring through their work in their communities.

This year, the Ritzer family awarded over $60,000 in scholarships in Colleen’s name, including $26,000 to 2020 graduating seniors and over $34,000 to previous years’ recipients. Since its inception in 2014, nearly $305,000 in scholarships have been awarded to 71 future teachers, some of whom have already begun their teaching careers and pursuing master’s degrees.

“With over 70 current and future teachers following in Colleen’s footsteps, we are in awe of the impact of Colleen’s legacy and the influence she continues to have on so many current and aspiring teachers and those committed to community service,” said the Ritzer family. “The continued support of the Scholarship from generous members of our community continues to inspire and strengthen us as a family. As we witness former recipients embark upon careers of meaning and high school graduates begin their pursuit of a teaching degree, we excitedly follow their progress. Each of the recipients are caring individuals who demonstrate passion for their chosen profession, just as Colleen did.”

This year’s recipients from Andover High School, Danvers High School and Central Catholic High School demonstrate a strong will for serving others and are excited to begin their journey towards their own classroom. Each recipient exhibited tremendous promise through their high school endeavors from National Honor Societies to participating in extracurricular activities and community service such peer mentoring and not only playing, but coaching and mentoring the athletes, in the sports they love.

The 2020 Scholarship recipients from Andover include Emma Accardi, Lauren Bessette, Matthew Comeau, Madilyn Francis, Brooke Hardock, Nicole Major, Julie Purtschert and Addison Jaromin. The Scholarship recipients from Danvers are Erin Lally, Michael Mahoney and Gabrielle Sherrick. The 2020 Inaugural Inspire Kindness recipients are Hannah Finn of Andover and Chloe Callahan of Danvers.

Learn more about each of this year’s recipients here.

The Colleen E. Ritzer Memorial Scholarship Fund is supported by donations made in the wake of Colleen’s passing in October 2013 as well as the Step Up for Colleen 5K Walk/Run and other tribute events held to honor Colleen’s life and legacy. The Scholarship is a permanent tribute to Colleen and builds upon her legacy by helping future teachers obtain a college degree so that they, too, can share their passion for teaching with future students.

A smiling woman wearing glasses and a graduation cap and gown stands in front of a gold and black tinsel backdrop.
Memorial ScholarshipScholarship Recipients
September 22, 2018

On to the Classroom: Samantha Walters

A smiling woman wearing glasses and a graduation cap and gown stands in front of a gold and black tinsel backdrop.

Hometown:
Danvers, MA

College/University:
Salem State University

High School:
Danvers High School

Major:
Mathematics

Minor: Secondary Education

Post-Grad Plans:
Samantha is currently enrolled in the 4+1 program at Salem State University, which she will receive a Master’s degree in education upon her completion. Through the program, she is working at Revere High School in Revere, Massachusetts as a paraprofessional. As a paraprofessional, Sarah will be an aide for a freshman special education math class, while also student teaching in freshman algebra classes.

Colleen’s Impact:
“Colleen stood out to me as a teacher – especially a math teacher. Her love of math was inspiring, and her class was unlike others that I’d had. I already loved math, but I knew it wasn’t everybody’s favorite. I think for many students, she made math a class to look forward to rather than previously dreading it. Additionally, her class wasn’t just about coming in to learn formulas or content. She was great at forming relationships and getting to know her students. She was professional but personable. She didn’t just teach math; she and her lasting impact have taught others how to be kind and how to keep a positive attitude. It was very clear that she loved what she was doing. I chose this profession because I want to make students feel the same way she did – about math and about being a good person.”

Note to Donors:
“I would not be in this position without your immense support and generosity, and I will always be grateful for the many ways this scholarship has made an effect on my life.”

Advice to Students Considering a Career in Education:
“My advice to anyone considering a career in education is to go for it and don’t be afraid to try! It can be overwhelming and scary at first, but at the end of the day, it feels rewarding to know that you helped even one student in each class. Think about the reasons why you want to enter the profession and always keep these thoughts in the back of your mind. Also, think of a teacher that made a lasting impact on you, and strive to be that person for someone else.”

A graduate in a cap and gown smiles while holding a diploma cover in front of a large blue university backdrop on grass.
Memorial ScholarshipScholarship Recipients
September 22, 2018

On to the Classroom: Catherine Lamoly

A graduate in a cap and gown smiles while holding a diploma cover in front of a large blue university backdrop on grass.

Hometown:
Danvers, MA

College/University:
Roger Williams University

High School:
Danvers High School

Major:
Secondary Education, History

 

Post-Grad Plans:
Catherine is a full-time substitute teacher at Holten Richmond Middle School in Danvers. She also plans to attend graduate school in the near future.

Colleen’s Impact:
“More than anything, this scholarship has been one of my biggest motivations beginning from the day I became one of the first recipients in 2014. I feel incredibly blessed to have learned from Ms. Ritzer, and many others, the importance of a positive classroom environment, where all students know they are welcome, safe, and able to succeed. Every student needs that in their life. Although I’m unfortunately not a full-time teacher quite yet, I am fully committed to carrying on Ms. Ritzer’s legacy with the students I will be working with each day at HRMS this year.”

Note to Donors:
“Being one of the original recipients is the biggest honor I’ve ever received. I have so much pride knowing that the Ritzer family felt I was capable of carrying on such an exquisite legacy. I also thank the donors for supporting me through my years in college and beyond.”

Advice to Students Considering a Career in Education:
“This will be the most challenging and rewarding thing you will ever do. When things become difficult, never feel too discouraged because whether you’re aware of it or not, you are positively impacting your students’ lives every single day.”

A young woman in a graduation cap and dress stands beside a large Assumption College sign, surrounded by flowers, with trees and blue sky in the background.
Memorial ScholarshipScholarship Recipients
September 22, 2018

On to the Classroom: Jessica Ferronetti

A young woman in a graduation cap and dress stands beside a large Assumption College sign, surrounded by flowers, with trees and blue sky in the background.

Hometown:
Andover, MA

College/University:
Assumption College

High School:
Andover High School

Major:
Spanish, Middle and Secondary Education

Minor:
Psychology

Distinction:
Magna Cum Laude

Post-Grad Plans:
Jessica is currently teaching Spanish 1A and 2C at North Andover High School as a long-term substitute until December. In March 2019, she will travel to Argentina where she will teach English at the university level until November 2019.

Additional Information:
While at Assumption College, Jessica was enrolled in the Honors Program, where she had the opportunity to write an overarching thesis that included her study and research over four years. Her thesis was written in Spanish and was titled: Un estudio de la ética y los métodos de traducción, con una traducción de Instrucciones para salvar el mundo por Rosa Montero.

During the summer following her junior year, Jessica traveled to Argentina where she taught Spanish Literature and English at a primary and secondary school. Learn more about Jessica’s time in Argentina.

Jessica also received a Fulbright Grant for the English Teaching Assistant Program. Through the program, she will be teaching English in schools in Argentina, while also serving as a cultural ambassador for the United States. Learn more from Assumption College. 

Colleen’s Impact:
“Colleen’s quote reminded me that even on the bad days, there is something good in every day. As I start my teaching career, I am keeping that in mind and showing my students to find the good in every day and to be good to each other. Being kind to each other is such an important thing to have in a classroom, especially in a Spanish classroom where students take risks by trying a new language. I am a better teacher by listening to Colleen’s words.”

Note to Donors:
“Thank you for supporting the scholarship! It has helped me to realize my dream of becoming a high school teacher.”

Advice to Students Considering a Career in Education:
“Take some time to go observe in a classroom – at your elementary school, middle school, or high school – to find what level is best for you. I did this and I found that even though I loved the idea of elementary school, there was no way I would be a successful elementary school teacher. I found my place as a high school teacher. And don’t be afraid to go to your professors or your supervising practitioner for help – you’ll learn so much by talking to them and they’ll help you to be a better student and a better teacher. Finally, all the work is worth it when you suddenly see a group of students understand the material they have been struggling with.”

A young woman in a floral dress and graduation cap smiles while standing outdoors next to a large blue sign with white letters. There are green trees and grass in the background.
Memorial ScholarshipScholarship Recipients
September 22, 2018

On to the Classroom: Carly Sakellarios

A young woman in a floral dress and graduation cap smiles while standing outdoors next to a large blue sign with white letters. There are green trees and grass in the background.

Hometown:
Andover, MA

College/University:
Assumption College

High School:
Andover High School

Major:
Elementary Education, English

Minor:
STEM

Distinction:
Magna Cum Laude

Post-Grad Plans:
Carly is working towards her Master’s degree in early childhood education through the Teacher Education Fellowship Program at Merrimack College in North Andover, MA. Through the program, she is teaching in a K1 classroom at Lawrence Family Development Charter School in Lawrence, MA.

Colleen’s Impact:
“Colleen was a person that I looked up to as a child. Knowing that she was symbolically with me through this journey to becoming a teacher has been more meaningful than I can express. I am overwhelmed with gratitude.”

Note to Donors:
“Thank you so much for being part of my journey to becoming a teacher. Having some financial relief with the help of this scholarship has enabled me to focus more on learning from amazing professors and volunteering more in elementary classrooms, so I am very grateful.”

Advice to Students Considering a Career in Education:
“There will always be people who will try to talk you out of teaching because it is a hard job and they like to focus on the salary. But don’t let those discouraging people stop you from pursuing education. When you are in your own classroom changing the lives of your own students you’ll know that all of the hard work was worth it.”

A young woman wearing a graduation gown and medal stands in front of a UMass Amherst backdrop, smiling at the camera.
Memorial ScholarshipScholarship Recipients
September 22, 2018

On to the Classroom: Christine Aumais

A young woman wearing a graduation gown and medal stands in front of a UMass Amherst backdrop, smiling at the camera.

Hometown:
Andover, MA

College/University:
University of Massachusetts, Amherst

High School:
Andover High School

Major:
Public Health

Minor:
Education, Psychology

Concentration/Specialization:
Developmental Disabilities and Human Services

Post-Grad Plans:
Christine is currently applying for graduate school, where she would like to pursue a degree in school counseling. She is also excited to find a position in which she can combine everything she’s learned in school, such as organizations that provide training to individuals in the healthcare field regarding the best approach to working with patients that have developmental or intellectual disabilities.

Colleen’s Impact: 
“In entering a new and transitional time, Colleen’s legacy has been particularly important in guiding me in the right direction. At times it can be stressful to not have the long-term plans that I am so used to and accustomed to, and the message of seeing the good in every day has helped relieve so much of that stress. Through application processes and studying for pre-requisite exams, I am often reminding myself that the ability and opportunity to do this is a gift, and I have prepared myself to be successful in these endeavors. It has helped me shift my nerves and uncertainty for what the future holds, to the excitement of the possibilities.”

Note to Donors:
“During my time at UMass, my love for learning grew exponentially as I could study and explore the topics that I was most interested and passionate about. Even more so, it was made so much more special by knowing that there were so many people supporting me and encouraging me. I hope that I someday inspire such love of learning in my own students, and have the opportunity to be a part of the community that encourages, supports and uplifts them the way that you all have for me.”

Advice to Students Considering a Career in Education:
“My advice to students considering a career in education is to just give it a try. Taking a course or two in an education department can give you an idea of whether or not it is something you want to pursue, or the specific area in education that you may be interested in. If you take a class in education, even if you decide that it’s not something you want to continue with, you still will have gained knowledge and perspective that you did not have prior, so there is no harm in just trying it out! Personally, I felt that along with affirming that I want to pursue a career in education, these courses also helped me in communicating with my own teachers and even peers more effectively. I was able to include things I learned in my education classes in how I delivered presentations in other, entirely unrelated classes. Also, after taking a course called “Educational Psychology” I realized that although I think I would love teaching, my demeanor and skills are better suited to that of a school counselor, and it is where I think I could make the greatest impact on students.”

A young woman in a navy blue graduation cap and gown stands outside, smiling and holding a University of Connecticut diploma, with people and trees in the background.
Memorial ScholarshipScholarship Recipients
September 22, 2018

On to the Classroom: Elizabeth Dever

A young woman in a navy blue graduation cap and gown stands outside, smiling and holding a University of Connecticut diploma, with people and trees in the background.

Hometown:
Andover, MA

College/University:
University of Connecticut

High School:
Andover High School

Major:
Elementary Education

 

Post-Grad Plans:
Elizabeth will be attending the Teacher Education Fellowship Program at Merrimack College in North Andover, MA where she will get her Master’s degree in special education: moderate disabilities. Through the 12 month program, she will be working full time at Summer Street Elementary School in Lynnfield teaching second grade, while taking classes at night.

Additional Information:
Elizabeth had the opportunity to spend four weeks in Cape Town, South Africa, where she taught extremely underprivileged students. It was a life changing experience for her that taught her lessons of empathy, compassion and patience, which she continues to carry into her teaching experiences. Learn more about Elizabeth’s time in South Africa.

Colleen’s Impact:
“I have carried on Colleen’s legacy throughout my college career, but it will be a whole other responsibility to carry on her legacy in my future classroom. It is a challenge I am excited to take on in the next few years.”

Note to Donors:
“Thank you so much for supporting me through my undergrad degree, it has been quite the journey that has flown by.”

Advice to Students Considering a Career in Education:
“To anyone considering a career in education: although the days may be tough and take a lot of hard work and dedication, every second is worth it. Receiving a “thank you” or a hug at the end of each school day makes you realize how great of an impact you can make on young minds.”

A graduate in cap and gown stands on a stone sign that reads “Wagner College,” surrounded by blooming red and yellow flowers and green trees on a sunny day.
Memorial ScholarshipScholarship Recipients
September 22, 2018

On to the Classroom: Mary Leahy

A graduate in cap and gown stands on a stone sign that reads “Wagner College,” surrounded by blooming red and yellow flowers and green trees on a sunny day.

Hometown:
Danvers, MA

College/University:
Wagner College

High School:
Danvers High School

Major:
Childhood General and Special Education, Psychology

Distinction:
Summa Cum Laude

Post-Grad Plans:
Mary is a fourth grade special education teacher at the Burke School in Peabody, Massachusetts and plans to begin applying for graduate school this winter. She plans to focus on being a successful and positive teacher with a goal of making a lasting impression on her students. While planning her class for the year, Mary has made a tremendous effort to incorporate Colleen’s legacy of positivity and kindness into her classroom.

Colleen’s Impact:
“I feel honored to be able to carry on Ms. Ritzer’s legacy as a teacher. Throughout college, I have always had Ms. Ritzer on my mind to ensure that I am becoming the best teacher that I can be, and making sure I find the good in every day.”

Note to Donors:
“I just want to thank all of the supporters of the scholarship fund for not just honoring Ms. Ritzer, but providing me and my fellow aspiring teachers the opportunity to become caring, passionate teachers, just like Ms. Ritzer. The scholarship has gone a long way in helping me fund my education, and I look forward to using what I have learned, to give back to my future students and community.”

Advice to Students Considering a Career in Education:
“Follow your heart. Teaching in my mind is a calling. It is something that we educators are born to do. If you have ever had a thought that you were made to help others than you most likely were born to be a teacher. I know for me, my lifelong dream has come true and I cannot wait to start this chapter of my life.”

A smiling graduate wearing a black cap with a yellow tassel and gown stands in the foreground, with another graduate in similar attire blurred in the background.
Memorial ScholarshipScholarship Recipients
September 22, 2018

On to the Classroom: Courtney Comeau

A smiling graduate wearing a black cap with a yellow tassel and gown stands in the foreground, with another graduate in similar attire blurred in the background.

Hometown:
Andover, MA

College/University:
University of Massachusetts, Amherst

High School:
Andover High School

Major:
Sociology

Minor:
Education

 

Post-Grad Plans:
Courtney is currently working at West Elementary School in Andover, MA as a special education assistant in the Bridge Program. In this position, Courtney has the opportunity to work one-on-one with autistic children and watch them succeed. In addition to working as an assistant, she also works at West’s Kids Care after school, where she has been able to further connect with the students throughout the school.

Colleen’s Impact:
“I would love to follow in Colleen’s footsteps and be known as the teacher who cared, who put in the extra effort, and truly cared about their students.”

Note to Donors:
“This scholarship has meant so much to me and I am so proud of it.  You have given me the opportunity to further my teaching career and thanks to Colleen, I will always remember to bring kindness into every day and to help others. I hope to pay it forward in the classroom someday.”

Advice to Students Considering a Career in Education:
“My advice is, stick with it! It’s the most challenging and rewarding jobs out there!”

A woman in a graduation cap and gown stands smiling in front of a chalkboard with cursive letters. She wears a light blue stole, honor cords, and stands next to an American flag.
Memorial ScholarshipScholarship Recipients
September 22, 2018

On to the Classroom: Andrea Lang

A woman in a graduation cap and gown stands smiling in front of a chalkboard with cursive letters. She wears a light blue stole, honor cords, and stands next to an American flag.

Hometown:
Danvers, MA

College/University:
University of North Carolina Wilmington

High School:
Danvers High School

Major:
Elementary Education

Minor:
English as a Second Language, Mathematics, Spanish

Distinction:
Summa Cum Laude

Post-Grad Plans:
Andrea is beginning her teaching career as an elementary co-teacher at a Montessori School in Wilmington, NC following the completion of an eight-week intensive training program at the Montessori Center for Teacher Education in San Diego, CA.

Colleen’s Impact:
“Being an inaugural recipient meant that I was immediately given the opportunities and inspiration to share Colleen’s legacy with every group of children I would meet during my college career and beyond. It is also exciting to be a part of a group of future teachers who share a similar perspective and inspiration, and a focus on kindness and positivity that we will all share with our students.”

Note to Donors:
“I would like to share my gratitude and appreciation for the opportunities I have been given as a result of this scholarship and the honor and pride I feel to be representing such an inspirational teacher and her legacy. The experiences I have had continue to be extremely influential in shaping me into the teacher I have become and I am forever grateful.”