Three and a half years ago, 12 deserving high school seniors were chosen as the first group of students to represent the legacy of Colleen Ritzer and her passion for teaching. Today, they are but one semester away from their college graduation and preparing to take the next step in their journey.

“Colleen’s legacy of kindness and love of teaching has been continuously honored and remembered in too many ways to count. The inaugural Colleen E. Ritzer Scholarship recipients established a deeper connection with Colleen, and all she stood for,” said the Ritzer Family. “Many of the recipients had Colleen as a teacher, grew up around the Ritzer family and were inspired by the way Colleen chose to live her life. Colleen’s legacy has inspired recipients to explore a career in education and help them through hard times.”

The inaugural recipients spoke on behalf of the impact Colleen and her legacy has had on their education and dreams of being a teacher.

With time passing quickly at Salem State University, Sarah Mountain is ecstatic to start her teaching career and carry Colleen’s love of teaching with her.

“It feels like yesterday I was a senior in high school, dreaming of becoming a teacher,” explained Mountain. “Now that I am a senior in college this dream feels even more closer and I cannot wait to carry Ms. Ritzer’s memory and love of teaching.”

Christine Aumais, a senior at the University of Massachusetts – Amherst, was inspired by Colleen’s passion and dedication during the college application process, and continues to be reminded of Colleen every day.

“So much of Colleen’s story was what inspired me to go into the field of education when I was applying to colleges, and her legacy has continued to stay with me,” Aumais discussed. “It is a constant reminder to be kind to everyone and see the good in every day. I hope that I can someday pass this on to my own students.”

Catherine Lamoly, a former student of Colleen’s and senior at Roger Williams University, has always admired Colleen and her interaction with her students. Lamoly prides herself on continuing Colleen’s legacy.

“Being one of the original recipients is the biggest honor I’ve ever received,” Lamoly said. “I have so much pride knowing that the Ritzer family felt I was capable of carrying on such an exquisite legacy and I will carry that with me into student teaching and beyond.”

Since a young age, Carly Sakellarios, a senior at Assumption College, has always admired Colleen. She has carried Colleen with her every step of the way while reaching for her dreams.

“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,” Sakellarios explained. “I am overwhelmed with gratitude.”

Courtney Comeau, also studying at the University of Massachusetts – Amherst, was honored to be chosen as a recipient to follow in Colleen’s footsteps.

“To be recognized as someone who has promise in the classroom has given me confidence and motivation to be the best teacher I can be,” Comeau said. “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.”

Andrea Lang, a senior at the University of North Carolina – Wilmington, is looking forward to the opportunity to share Colleen’s kindness with her students one day.

“…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,” Lang explained. “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.”

At the University of Connecticut, Elizabeth Dever has taken the task of continuing Colleen’s legacy to heart, a challenge she is proud to take on.

“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,” Dever explained. “It is a challenge I am excited to take on in the next few years.”

Colleen’s passion and legacy never left the mind of Mary Leahy during her educational journey at Wagner College.

“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,” said Leahy.

Emily Felter, a student at Endicott College, saw Colleen as a role model and a teacher she aspires to be like one day.

“I look up to Colleen’s legacy and hope to be as good as a teacher as she was,” said Felter. “I am proud to represent this scholarship and am so thankful to be given this opportunity.”

As a former student of Colleen’s studying at Salem State University, Samantha Walters is excited to see what the future has to hold.

“As I get ready to begin my career, I look back and feel more honored than ever to have been an inaugural recipient and I’m anxious to see where I will go from here,” said Walters.

Jessica Ferronetti, also studying at Assumption College, is looking forward to the opportunity to honor Colleen and her legacy through her work in the classroom.

“I’m glad I can help carry on Colleen’s legacy through this scholarship and through my work in the future as a teacher,” explained Ferronetti.

The most recent Colleen E. Ritzer Memorial Scholarship recipients are adjusting to college life and reaffirming why they chose education as their career path. From education classes to community service efforts, these recipients are well on their journey to teaching in their own classroom.

At Westfield State University, Grayson Beherrell has learned to be more independent and organized during her first semester, while enjoying classes such as the Foundation of Number Systems. Through this class, Beherell was exposed to various teaching methods that she can use in her own classroom.

To the supporters of the scholarship fund, Beherrell shared her gratitude.

“I would just like to thank everyone who supports the scholarship fund because without them I wouldn’t be able to focus on my schoolwork and be as determined as I am to succeed,” Beherrell shared.

Caileigh Reming, a freshman at the University of New Hampshire, has made the adjustment from high school to college with improved time management skills. Through the classes she has taken, Reming strongly believes she made the correct decision and is looking forward to gaining more knowledge and applying it in the classroom with future students.

“Learning and working/helping kids is something I will always want to do,” Reming said. “Now being in college and learning all about it, I know I made the right decision and I look forward to continuing my journey through learning more about children and becoming a teacher.”

Since arriving at Assumption College, Samantha Shea has learned the importance of self-advocacy and has greatly enjoyed her Child Development class. This class has allowed Shea the opportunity to learn more regarding the stages of child development. Shea’s love of children and making a difference in the world continues to influence her desire to pursue a teaching career.

Shea shared her appreciation for the scholarship fund’s donors and supporters.

“Thank you so much for choosing me as one of the recipients of the scholarship,” Shea explained. “I feel honored to be representing Colleen’s memory at her alma mater.”

Michaela Verrette has recently completed her first semester at Plymouth State University, where she discovered teaching is the perfect career choice for her. In addition to engaging in her classes, Verrette recently spent time observing at her own elementary school, which allowed her to see various teaching techniques and styles.

Verrette also spoke to the impact the scholarship fund has had on her education.

“Not only has it helped financially but actually receiving this scholarship reassured me that I am doing the right thing and am on the right path,” Verrette shared. “This scholarship has made me want to work harder and be the best that I can be in my career.”

Kylie McDonough, a freshman at Emmanuel College, has strengthened her passion for teaching during her first semester through her first education class. McDonough’s education service learning class volunteered at the Sister Mary Hart Children’s Program in Roxbury, Massachusetts, where she spent time helping students with homework during an after-school program.

Next year, McDonough hopes to declare a major in Elementary Education and will begin the additional licensure program for teaching students with moderate disabilities.

At Salem State University, Kristen McNichol has been enjoying her education classes. She is looking forward to using the skills she’s learned in her own classroom someday with her students. McNichol has also been volunteering at the Salem Boys and Girls Club where she formed bonds with children, assisted with homework and discovered more about what it’s like to work with children.

McNichol discussed the impact of the scholarship fund and its donors on her education.

“I am beyond grateful to have been granted the honor of receiving this scholarship,” McNichol said. “It has helped me financially in getting the education that I need in order to pursue my career as a teacher, and it has given me motivation to do my best work while working to carry on Colleen’s legacy.”

Kaitlyn Sullivan, studying at Endicott College, is excited to have begun the process of receiving a degree in education. Her Introduction to Education class has encouraged and inspired her to think about how she will inspire and impact her students. Sullivan looks forward making a difference in the life of her students.

“I think that being an educator is one of the greatest things in the world because you are inspiring so many young minds to love learning and to get excited about going to school,” Sullivan explained. “I think that a teacher will leave one of the biggest impacts on a student because you are a role model to them.”

This winter, Sullivan will be participating in a  three-week internship at Fox Hill School in Danvers, Massachusetts.

Sullivan shared her appreciation of the supporters of the scholarship fund.

“To the supporters of the scholarship fund, you are truly amazing. Thank you for giving so many future educators, including myself, this unbelievable scholarship,” Sullivan said. “You are able to keep Colleen Ritzer’s memory alive and give so many great young minds the chance to change the world. You have impacted so many lives, including mine. I know that teaching is something that I want to pursue and I can’t picture myself doing anything else besides becoming an educator.”

A year and a half into their college journey, the 2016 Colleen E. Ritzer Memorial Scholarship recipients are declaring majors, beginning field work and discovering more about themselves. Each day their passion for teaching and impacting future generations strengthens.

Rachel Drew, a sophomore at Boston College, has declared a major in Elementary Education and Biology and has begun assisting in a K2 SEI classroom in Brighton, Massachusetts. She greatly enjoyed her time in the classroom and her love of teaching continues to grow.

“All of the students were absolutely wonderful, and they welcomed me into the classroom very wholeheartedly,” said Drew. “It was an absolutely amazing experience, and it has definitely helped me to continuously reaffirm my decision to become a teacher.”

Drew shared her appreciation and thoughts with the donors of the scholarship fund.

“I think that the supporters of the scholarship fund should view this as not only an opportunity to provide students support in pursuing higher education, but also an opportunity to help construct our future generation of students, of learners, and of members of our society,” Drew shared. “You are not only helping to create a teacher, but you are helping to form classrooms full of successful students that will be part of our communities one day.”

At Springfield College, Maddy Reppucci has shifted her focus from Elementary Education and Special Education to Secondary Education and History. She is also a member of the Army ROTC and has considered serving in the U.S. Armed Forces prior to teaching. Through her classes this fall, Reppucci has been inspired to make a difference.

Reppucci spoke on the impact the scholarship fund has had on her.

“It’s truly amazing to be a part of this family and I am so blessed to have gotten the opportunity to make a difference as a teacher and to carry on Colleen’s legacy.” Reppucci discussed. “I appreciate all the support that this scholarship has given me and every day I feel inspired and motivated to do whatever I can to become the best teacher possible someday.”

Lillie Hodgkins, a sophomore at Assumption College, will pursue a career in Human Services and Rehabilitation with a concentration in Speech Pathology in an elementary school setting. She has expanded her horizons in this field and hopes to one day help young children.

“I will still be helping students in an elementary school setting, but this will be one on one and guided towards specific student needs rather than the overall setting,” Hodgkins explained. “…I hope to help young children progress in the same way I once was.”

Also studying at Assumption, Kristen McCarthy will major in Elementary Education with a minor in Mathematics. Through her classes, McCarthy planned her first lesson plan and worked with local Worcester fifth graders, which deepened her dedication and passion towards teaching.

“We each had three students that we were able to teach different focuses of biology to,” McCarthy said. “I found this experience to be very rewarding and motivating as we knew that this was our future. The students were so excited to learn and to be at a college.”

Lindsay Richard, studying at the University of Massachusetts – Amherst, will begin taking classes with a field work component next semester, but her current classes have allowed her to realize her excitement to work with students in the future.

Richard shared her appreciation for the supporters of the scholarship.

“I am beyond thankful to the supporters of the scholarship fund,” Richard said. “The scholarship allows for many teachers-to-be to pursue their dreams while honoring a wonderful cause.”

Erica Taft, a sophomore at Tulane University, has spent the past year interning at the New Orleans Children’s Advocacy Center, and will begin a new internship at the Tulane Parenting Education Program next semester. With a major in Political Science and Social Policy and Practice, Taft remains passionate about education and child welfare policy.

Taft expressed her sincerity to the scholarship fund and its supporters.

“I am so grateful for the opportunity to continue my studies in honor of Ms. Ritzer,” Taft explained. “To this day, she is one of my favorite teachers and I strive to radiate positivity and kindness every day as she did in our classroom.”

With only one semester left until graduation, the inaugural Colleen E. Ritzer Memorial Scholarship recipients are student teaching and taking the final steps to begin their teaching career. The inaugural recipients have immersed themselves in diverse cultures through their experiences and travels.

Christine Aumais, a senior at the University of Massachusetts – Amherst, spent the fall semester interning in an inclusive preschool classroom as part of the Developmental Disabilities and Human Services program in Amherst, Massachusetts.

“I have loved working in this class, getting to know the students and being able to learn from the teacher and para-professionals,” Aumais discussed. “Because specialists are brought into the classroom, I’ve been able to learn not only about teaching, but about speech therapy, physical therapy, and many of the other services the children in the class receive.”

With a degree in Public Health with minors in Education and Psychology, Aumais plans to pursue graduate school, or a job in the field prior to returning to school for a Masters in School Counseling/School Adjustment Counseling following graduation.

Aumais expressed significant gratitude to the donors of the scholarship fund.

“My love for learning grows more and more each day, and makes me excited to someday help young people find that love as well,” Aumais explained. “I often think how lucky I am to have had the help of the scholarship, and knowing that I have the support of so many people encourages and uplifts me, especially during difficult or stressful days.”

Courtney Comeau, also a senior at the University of Massachusetts – Amherst, gained much experience in the classroom this past semester. She spent time observing a kindergarten class in a local Amherst public school, where she enhanced her knowledge of various teaching techniques and the importance of a student’s well-being.

“What I found most helpful was learning about the importance of the children’s well-being in order to succeed in and out of the classroom,” Comeau said. “In this classroom, we spent a lot of time reassuring students their importance and encouraging them to love learning.”

After graduating with a Sociology degree and a minor in Education, Comeau plans to pursue a Fellowship Program, where she will receive a Master’s degree and begin her student teaching experience.

Comeau had kind words to share with the supporters of the scholarship fund.

“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,” Comeau said. “I hope to pay it forward in the classroom someday.”

Studying at the University of Connecticut, Elizabeth Dever ill spend her final semester student teaching in the same classroom where she recently completed her observation hours in Glastonbury, CT. Through her time in the classroom, she has learned about many teaching and learning techniques.

“I have learned so much not only about building and running a classroom, but creating a classroom environment where all students can succeed,” Dever said.

Dever will graduate with a degree in Elementary Education. Following graduation, Dever plans to pursue a one-year Master’s Program in which she will focus on Moderate Special Needs Education or Elementary Education.

Emily Felter, studying at Endicott College, spent the semester student teaching in a third grade classroom at Witchcraft Heights Elementary School in Salem, Massachusetts. After Felter saw her impact on students’ growth and learning, she reflected on her student teaching experiences.

“The most important thing I have learned throughout my experience is to have confidence,” Felter said. “When I have confidence in myself the students respond well. Their learning is impacted and I feel our time together is overall more meaningful.”

After graduation, Felter is hoping to enroll in the fifth year program at Endicott College to pursue a Master’s degree in Special Education, while simultaneously working in a school.

Felter expressed her appreciation and gratitude of the supporters of the scholarship fund.

“I would like to thank the supporters of the scholarship fund for helping us reach our goals throughout our education,” Felter discussed. “Their money is going to good use and we are learning more and more every day how to become effective teachers.”

At Assumption College, Jessica Ferronetti is preparing for her final semester during which she will be student teaching at Algonquin Regional High School in Northborough, Massachusetts. In addition to spending a month in Argentina this past summer, she also spent time at a local high school, where the lessons she taught helped her find ways to further her teaching career.

“I learned that students are so much more engaged in the class if you are also engaged in the material,” Ferronetti discussed. “I taught about Argentina and I had little things that I had brought back to show them, and they were so much more interested in the lesson because of it.”

Following graduation, Ferronetti is hoping to teach abroad for another year in Argentina or Spain or pursue a career as a high school Spanish teacher. She also plans to pursue a Master’s degree in Spanish Literature to add to her Bachelor’s degree in Spanish and Secondary Education with a certificate in the Honors Program.

Also studying at Assumption College, Carly Sakellarios spent the past semester observing and assisting in a classroom with a diverse range of students. She will return to the second grade classroom at McGrath Elementary School in Worcester, Massachusetts next semester to complete her student teaching. Working in this classroom has allowed Sakellarios to watch students grow each time she is in the classroom.

“The students in this class touch my heart every time I visit,” Sakellarios discussed. “Getting to know the students more deeply, as well as learning how to meet their needs as diverse learners, has been a privilege, and I cannot wait to spend more time with them in the spring.”

Sakellarios will graduate in May with a license in Elementary Education and a double major in Elementary Education and English with a concentration in STEM Education. After graduation, Sakellarios plans to pursue a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education.

To the donors, Sakellarios expressed her gratitude for the support she has received over the past four years.

“Thank you so much for being part of my journey to becoming a teacher,” Sakellarios said. “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.”

Catherine Lamoly, studying at Roger Williams University, has spent nearly 100 hours observing and assisting in a public high school in Fall River, Massachusetts that has proven immensely valuable. She will continue her student teaching next semester at B.M.C. Durfee High School in Fall River in a ninth grade World History class.

“Every day, I am learning new things about myself and becoming a teacher;  if there is one thing that I’ve taken from my senior year student teaching thus far, it’s that the students may very well teach me just as much as I teach them, if not more.”

Following graduation, Lamoly plans to teach in a ninth or 10th grade classroom for a year prior to starting her graduate degree in English Language Learners or Special Education. Lamoly will graduate from Roger Williams University in May with a degree in Secondary Education and History.

Lamoly expressed the impact the scholarship fund has had on her education.

“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,” said Lamoly, a former student of Colleen’s.  “When I talk about the kind of teacher Ms. Ritzer was, I feel incredibly motivated because I know how important it is to be a teacher that exudes the kind of positivity she did. Every student needs that in their life.”

At the University of North Carolina, Andrea Lang will apply skills learned in observations hours, time in a classroom setting and her study abroad experience to Valencia, Spain during her student teaching next semester. Lang will be student teaching in a kindergarten classroom at a local elementary school in Wilmington, North Carolina.

“Out of many lessons I have learned from both the teachers and children along the way, the most influential has been the power of patience, understanding and love,” explained Lang. “Through the successes and the challenges, it is these three things that I have found foster the relationships and environment that is vital to children’s success, both in learning and in life.”

Graduating with a major in Elementary Education and minors in Mathematics, Spanish and English as a Second Language, Lang is exploring teaching opportunities in North Carolina, the Boston area or abroad in a Spanish-speaking country following graduation. She is passionate about her desire to teach and work with children, which continues to encourage her to work with lower elementary school aged children.

Lang also expressed her gratitude to the donors of the scholarship fund and the impact they have had on her education.

“I would like to share my gratitude and appreciation for the opportunities I have been given as a result of this scholarship,” said Lang. “The experiences I have had continue to be extremely influential in shaping me into the teacher I have become and I am forever grateful.”

Mary Leahy, pursuing a degree in Psychology and Childhood General and Special Education at Wagner College, has spent time in 15 classrooms in 12 schools in Staten Island, New York during her three and a half years as an undergraduate.

Upon graduation, she will pursue teaching opportunities and begin working towards obtaining a Master’s degree as a Reading Specialist. Her dream job is described as a resource room special education teacher in an elementary school.

Leahy shared her appreciation for the donors and supporters of the scholarship fund.

“I 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,” Leahy shared. “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.” 

Sarah Mountain, a senior at Salem State University, is part of the 4+1 Graduate Program and will student teach in her final semester next year just prior to receiving a Master’s degree. Currently, Mountain is completing her field practicum in a fourth grade classroom at Molin School in Newburyport, Massachusetts.

She will receive a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and American Studies in May, prior to pursuing her Master’s degree.

Mountain offered her gratitude to the supporters of the scholarship fund.

“I would like to thank them for supporting me for the past four years, because of their help I have been able to pursue my dream of becoming a teacher,” Mountain explained. “I would also like to thank them for continuing to honor Ms. Ritzer and her passion for teaching.”

Samantha Walters, also studying at Salem State University and a former student of Colleen’s, has been spending time at Danvers High School as part of her pre-practicum in the classroom with one of her own high school teachers.

“I can’t begin to describe how grateful and excited I’ve been to have the opportunity to spend time back at my hometown high school with one of my favorite teachers,” Walters explained. “Every day that I go, I’m reminded of why I’ve wanted to be a teacher and what inspired me to choose this path.”

Walters will graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics with a minor in Secondary Education. Upon graduation, Walters will be returning to Salem State University for the 4+1 Graduate Program to receive a Master’s degree, where she will have the opportunity to student teach.

 

The parents and siblings of Colleen E. Ritzer, Tom, Peggie, Dan and Laura, announced the 2017 recipients of a scholarship in Colleen’s name, which are awarded to graduating high school seniors who will pursue education as a major in college to carry on Colleen’s legacy as a caring and compassionate teacher. This year, the family will award a total of $53,000 in Colleen. E. Ritzer Memorial Scholarships, including $18,000 to 2017 graduating seniors and $35,000 to previous years’ recipients. Since 2014, $138,000 in college scholarships have been awarded to future teachers.

The 2017 scholarship recipients from Danvers include Kylie McDonough, Kristin McNichol, Megan O’Leary, Stephany Pallazolla and Kaitlyn Sullivan. Scholarship recipients from Andover include Grayson Beherrell, Caileigh Reming, Samantha Shea and Michaela Verrette.

The scholarship fund is supported by individual donations that were made in the wake of Colleen’s passing in October 2013 as well as the Step Up for Colleen 5K and other tribute events held to honor Colleen’s memory. The scholarship fund 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.

“The recipients of Colleen’s scholarship continue to amaze us with their passion for teaching and who seek to make a difference in the lives of their future students,” said the Ritzer Family. “Through the scholarship fund, we are able to ensure that the light of Colleen’s legacy will never be extinguished. We are grateful to the many individuals and organizations who continue to support the fund, as they will always play a significant role in allowing the scholarship recipients to pursue their goals to become caring and compassionate teachers.”

Applicants were required to complete an application that requested information such as extra-curricular activities, awards and recognitions and plans for college. They were also asked to submit a 500-word essay describing why they plan to pursue a degree in education and what, or who, inspired them to do so. The last piece of the application encouraged applicants to reflect on words shared by Colleen in her college essay in which she wrote:

“Teachers have been an inspiration to me ever since I was just a young girl. Starting in pre-school, I knew I loved helping the teachers and would one day want to be just like them. My dream is to become a teacher, one who shapes the minds and lives of children. My goal has always been to become a teacher that will impact students’ lives.”

Eligible applicants must be Andover or Danvers High School seniors who plan to pursue a degree in the field of education at an accredited four-year college or university. Guidance counselors encouraged well-rounded students who plan to major in education or a specific subject (i.e. math, science, etc.) with a concentration in education to apply for a competitive scholarship.

Applications that met eligibility requirements were reviewed by a selection committee comprised of family members and educators including: Tom Ritzer, Colleen’s Dad; Peggie Ritzer, Colleen’s Mom; Susan Craig, Colleen’s Aunt; Todd Butterworth and Sarah Giaquinta, Danvers High School Math Teachers; Kimberly Bergey, Andover High School Guidance Counselor; and Kimberly Rocha, Nashoba Regional High School English Teacher.

DANVERS HIGH SCHOOL RECIPIENTS

Kylie McDonough will attend Emmanuel College in Boston, Massachusetts in the fall to pursue a career in elementary education and special education. McDonough has obtained immense leadership experience including: secretary of Best Buddies; co-founder of Women of the World Club and broadcast station “Falcons Nest for News;” writer for the school newspaper; and more. She received academic honors every year and also volunteered for various organizations.

“My traits of being known as a positive, friendly, caring person, passionate about Best Buddies and being inclusive to people with disabilities assures that I have the mindset of a teacher. As a future elementary school teacher my dream is to spread happiness to students as I teach a new generation the importance of kindness,” explained McDonough in her essay. “In my professional career I hope to become a role model and emulate the characteristics of my most beloved teachers who demonstrated unconditional compassion.”

Kristin McNichol will attend Salem State University hoping to major in elementary education. Her extra-curricular activities include: waitressing at Brooksby Village; gymnastics team manager; member of Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) Club; and member of the World Language National Honor Society (WLNHS).

McNichol’s guidance counselor describes her as “dedicated herself to academics, athletics, work, and volunteering,” and continued to speak highly of her, “I am confident she will become a highly skilled and impactful teacher.”

“Since my adolescence, I have never thought twice about wanting to become a teacher. Pursuing a career in education means I would be able to instill a love for learning for the next generation of children,” wrote McNichol in her essay. “Ms. Ritzer allowed her students to experience an environment that encouraged them to grow and be better each and every day. Her passion was heartfelt and I hope that I can be as influential to my students as she was to me. I want to continue Ms. Ritzer’s legacy by sharing my love for learning to my future students just like she did.”

Attending Salve Regina University in Newport, Rhode Island, this fall Megan O’Leary plans to work toward a degree in education. She hopes to gain experience in the classroom, discover new passions and develop new skills. During her time at Danvers High School, she participated in various activities including: Ingrid Sound: A Cappella as a bass singer; Mixed Chorus as an alto singer; Academy Theatre as an actress and student director; Tomorrow’s Teachers and Danvers Cares Youth Leadership as a member; and Stiles Pond Day Camp as a Junior Camp Counselor.

“Colleen Ritzer was a teacher that I will always model myself after. She had a relatable and gentle way about her. One of the most inspiring things about Ms. Ritzer was her determination to teach every child; she had the mindset that every child has the ability to learn,” mentioned O’Leary in her essay. “I respect and admire this philosophy greatly because I myself believe with different approaches and tools, every single child is able to learn and grow. It is teachers such as Colleen Ritzer who have inspired me to become the great educator that she proved exists.”

Stephany Pallazolla plans to attend the University of Massachusetts Amherst to major in elementary education with the hope of working towards her dream of becoming an elementary school teacher. She believes educating others is her calling, and will do everything she needs to become the teacher she can for her students. Pallazolla’s extra-curricular involvement includes: DHS Academy Theater as a member of the student board; Tomorrow’s Teacher Club; working as a cashier and in customer service; National English Honor Society; World Language National Honor Society; and Danvers Performing Arts Project Volunteer.

“Stephany has found great meaning within DHS Tomorrow’s Teachers program. This ‘work’ has become her passion, and Stephany has found her true calling in life. She is able to connect with the students through activities and games, and finds great meaning by creating happiness for others,” wrote Pallazolla’s guidance counselor in a recommendation letter.

“Pursuing a career in education would mean that I get to fulfill my dreams and do what I love most: teaching children and exciting them about learning new things,” explained Pallazolla in her essay. “Much like Ms. Ritzer, being a teacher is my dream, and I believe that my passionate and caring attitude will allow me to become a teacher who will make an impact. By being a teacher, I know I will make my mark on this Earth and make a difference to others. Ms. Ritzer inspires me to leave behind a legacy, and being an inspirational and dedicated elementary school teacher is the legacy I will leave behind.”

Kaitlyn Sullivan will attend Endicott College to pursue a degree in education, which she would like to follow with a Master’s Degree in teaching. She hopes through the various internships required at the College she will gain the exposure and experience that will allow her to have her own classroom teaching first grade within a year or two following her college graduation. Sullivan has gained responsibility and leadership through various activities including: working as a sales associate at a clothing store; Tomorrow’s Teachers; Yearbook Club; Book Club; Art National Honor Society; World Language National Honor Society; playing tennis and more.

Sullivan’s high school guidance counselor described her as “a self-motivated, intuitive student who has continually excelled in every area of the curriculum.” “Kaitlyn is devoted to all that she commits to, and gives 110 percent. Empathetic and always cheerful, she believes that what you reflect will be embraced by those around you,” continued her guidance counselor.

As a result of a teaching class Kaitlyn took as a senior, she stated: “I think the thing that I loved most about teaching is seeing the student’s excitement when they would raise their hand and confidently answer the question.” She continued in her essay, “I want to pursue a field in education because I think that it is so rewarding to see kids learn, and to see them grow. I love knowing that I will have shaped them into the person that they are. I honestly couldn’t think of anything more rewarding than being with children and watching them grow as individuals.”

The Colleen E. Ritzer Memorial Scholarship Fund is held at the Essex County Community Foundation.

 

 

 

 

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You are invited to watch the following video that includes sights and sounds from race day!

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Thousands to Descend Upon Andover on May 1 in Memory of  Beloved Teacher, Friend, Sister and Daughter Who Continues to Inspire

(ANDOVER, Massachusetts) – Thousands of walkers and runners will gather in Andover’s Central Park on Sunday, May 1, for the Third Annual Step Up for Colleen 5K, to be held in memory of beloved teacher Colleen Ritzer. The 5K begins at 9:00 a.m. following a brief 8:45 a.m. opening ceremony. Proceeds from the event will benefit college scholarships awarded to graduating Andover, Danvers and Nashoba Regional High School seniors who plan to major in education in college. Online registration is available at www.stepupforcolleen.com.

Race director Nina Caron expects thousands of walkers and runners again this year.

“Colleen Ritzer continues to inspire people throughout our community,” she said. “Many have searched for a way to honor Colleen. This race is one way that those who knew her, or those who have been touched by her story, can do something ‘good’ by generating resources for a scholarship in her name to benefit future, caring teachers.”

“As a family, we have once again endured a difficult year, however the runners, walkers, volunteers and all who turn out for the Step Up for Colleen remind us of the love that Colleen shared with so many,” said Tom, Peggie, Dan and Laura Ritzer. “We are incredibly grateful to the thousands who selflessly give of themselves each year on a Sunday morning in May to take a moment to remember, and recognize, Colleen. Through the race and those who volunteer, we are reminded of the good that exists in this world, the good that Colleen sought to share each and every day.”

Attendees are asked to wear pink, Colleen’s favorite color. Pink bows will line the USA Track & Field certified course, which winds through Phillips Academy’s scenic Moncrieff Cochran Sanctuary. This year’s Step Up for Colleen 5K will feature more post-race offerings, including family-friendly features such as face-painting, balloon artistry, a live broadcast from 92.5 The River, a photo booth and more.

Prizes will be awarded to the top three male and female overall finishers, as well as top finishers in each age group. Race shirts are guaranteed to the first 3,000 registrants.

About Colleen Ritzer
Colleen Ritzer, a lifelong resident of Andover, passed away on October 22, 2013. She was a 2007 graduate of Andover High School and a 2011 graduate of Assumption College. Colleen was a math teacher at Danvers High School and was pursuing a graduate degree at Salem State College. She adored spending time with her family and friends, and was an amazing daughter and big sister to her brother and sister, Daniel and Laura. She made a lasting impression on everyone she met. From a young age, Colleen knew she wanted to be a teacher and worked diligently to achieve her goal. Even though teaching was her profession, it was also one of her favorite hobbies and her passion. She spent countless hours finding unique and creative ways to inspire and teach her students.

About the Step Up for Colleen Fund
The Step Up for Colleen Fund, held at the Essex County Community Foundation, supports charitable activities that honor the legacy of Colleen Ritzer, including the Colleen E. Ritzer Scholarship Fund, which benefits graduating Andover, Danvers and Nashoba Regional High School seniors who demonstrate a passion for teaching, academic excellence, and love of family. Since its inception, the Colleen E. Ritzer Scholarship Fund has awarded more than $50,000 to 21 deserving students.