Queenie Bonsu

Queenie Bonsu of Teaneck, N.J. is a Biology major on the pre-med track with a 3.0 GPA.

At Ramapo, she has actively participated in multiple organizations including the College Programming Board, the Black Student Union, and ALMA.

In addition to her on-campus involvement, Queenie has contributed to her community as a Track Youth Coach at her local high school.

Through her academic and extracurricular efforts, Queenie aims to excel in her studies, gain clinical experience, and volunteer both on and off campus. Her long-term goal is to attend medical school and to become the first Black dermatologist in her family.

Anonymous

The recipient of this scholarship wishes to remain anonymous.

Anonymous

The recipient of this scholarship wishes to remain anonymous.

Julianna Cappello

“I am confident that Ramapo will provide me with an excellent nursing education to prepare me for my future career goals,” says Julianna Cappello of Staten Island, N.Y., an incoming freshman Nursing major that graduated with a 3.7 GPA and was a member of the National Honor Society in high school. 

Julianna was an active member of her high school community, participating in numerous clubs such as Ladies of Charity, the Health Career Initiative, the flag football team, and working a part-time job. 

She plans to join the Student Nursing Association and a Sorority during her time at Ramapo. After graduation, Julianna plans to work as a registered nurse and continue her education to ultimately become a nurse practitioner.

Anonymous

The recipient of this scholarship wishes to remain anonymous.

Anonymous

The recipient of this scholarship wishes to remain anonymous.

Gabriella Ponce

Gabriella Ponce of Oradell, N.J. is a world champion skateboarder who is studying Computer Science. She recently earned a business certificate from Columbia University. She is working as an Operations Manager and has received promotions every year at Sherwin-Williams.

Paola Paez

Paola Paez of New Milford, NJ is a Biology major. Prior to transferring to Ramapo, she earned a degree in Accounting.
“After the pandemic and return to campus, I plan to be active in the various biology, self healing and global clubs and organizations offered at Ramapo.”.

Anonymous

The recipient of this award would like to remain anonymous.

Sita Kasbarian

“With my experiences, I hope to continue gaining experience and patient care hours before applying to a Physician’s Assistant program,” says Sita Kasbarian. Sita is a Biology major and Philosophy minor and has a 3.2 GPA. She is from Fort Lee, N.J.

As a co-president of the Pre-Med/Pre-Health club at Ramapo, Sita has helped to coordinate and organize blood drives on campus, has reached out and invited professionals from the medical field to share their journey as a guest during the club’s weekly meetings, and works with her club’s advisor, other e-board members and general members of the club to maintain communication among everyone. As a Big Sister, Sita gives back to the community by staying as an active member of BBBS and providing guidance and help for those children in need. As a general member of the Armenian Club, Sita has helped coordinate fundraising for the club.

She volunteers as an EMT for Fort Lee Volunteer Ambulance Corps, where she has worked closely with other EMTs when transporting patients to the nearest medical facility. Sita also works as a part-time Patient Access Representative at Englewood Health, shadows a PA at an urgent care, and maintains full status as an Armenian girl scout.

Zoë Tucker-Borrut

Zoë Tucker-Borrut of Vancouver, Canada is a Biology major with a minor in Environmental Studies. She has a 3.2 GPA and has been on the Dean’s List for two semesters.

Zoë is involved with the International Student Organization, Students Together for Environmental Progress, the Student Government Association (SGA), and the President’s Committee for Campus Sustainability.

“As the Secretary of Sustainability for SGA, this year, I’ve coordinated two climate strikes at Ramapo.  I am also working closely with the Sustainability Committee to reduce single-use plastics on campus and implement waste diversion methods for end-of-semester residence move-out.”

In her day-to-day life, Zoë practices low-waste living by purchasing unpackaged foods and bringing reusable items wherever she goes. “I enjoy educating myself and others on sustainable living and environmental activism.”

Jessica Desiderio

“With the help from this scholarship, I will be able to take classes that will benefit me for the rest of my educational career and future job,” says Jessica Desiderio, who transferred to Ramapo from County College of Morris.

At Ramapo, Jessica is majoring in Environmental Science, and has earned a 3.58 GPA and a spot on the Dean’s List. She had an internship at Meadowlands Environmental Research Institute and likes to volunteer to assist in GIS projects on and off campus.

“I plan to go into the GIS field after graduation, possibly focusing on water quality or wastewater treatment.
Jessica is from Johnsonburg, N.J.

Ashley Bonin

Ashley Bonin of Saddle Brook, N.J. is seeking her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She has a 3.05 GPA. “My two young children, ages 10 and 8, are my greatest accomplishments.” She works full time during the day, raising her two children, while going to nursing school at night. After graduating from Ramapo, she would like to further her education and obtain her Doctorate in Nursing.

Maritza Vega

Maritza Vega of River Edge, N.J. is a Nursing major with a 3.7 GPA.  Maritza works as an RN and is married with two children.  At age 35 she attended Bergen Community College for her RN Associate’s Degree.  Because she wanted to move ahead, she is now enrolled at Ramapo to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

“I have learned so much and finally understand the value of a good education,” says Maritza.  Upon completing her BSN, she plans to continue at Ramapo to obtain her MSN.  Because she beat cancer in 2017, Maritza hopes to pursue a career as an oncology nurse.

Megan Maddalena

Megan Maddalena of Matawan, N.J. is an Environmental Science major in the Teacher Education program. She has a 3.8 GPA and is a member of Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society.

On campus, Megan has been involved in Relay for Life, helping run the annual event during her four years at Ramapo. “I’m proud to say that last year the event raised over $50,000 for the American Cancer Society and had over 700 participants.” She is also part of Future Teachers, and works with Dr. Wiener on a Raptor Research Project in the Ramapo Mountains.

Megan has also been involved in off-campus activities, including clean-ups at the Ramapo Reservation, and volunteering at The Forum School to work with students with special needs. She also works as a hostess at The Shannon Rose in Ramsey. “I hope to work at a middle school and get an additional teaching certification in Chemistry.”   

Christine Cottrell

While she is studying to earn academic honors upon graduation, Biology major Christine Cottrell is also applying to Physician Assistant graduate programs. Christine is gaining valuable healthcare experience in various clinical positions. She works as a Unit Service Representative in the Urology Department of Hackensack Medical Center and shadows an Internal Medicine Physician Assistant at Valley Medical Group in Oakland, NJ. “Observing healthcare in reality has not only supported my learning at Ramapo, but it also reminds me of why I want to be a healthcare professional in the future,” says Christine. +

She is a member of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, Golden Key National Honour Society, and the American Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. At Ramapo, Christine served as Treasurer of Alpha Lambda Delta honor society.

Christine has a minor in Psychology and Neuroscience and has earned a 3.89 GPA. She is from Pompton Lakes, NJ.

Nicole Zyra Flores Abdon

Nicole Zyra Flores Abdon of Dumont, NJ is proud of her 3.4 GPA, and of making the Dean’s List in spring of 2014.  A Nursing major, Nicole plans on working in the medical field for at least two years before continuing with a Master’s degree. On campus, Nicole is Secretary of the United Asian Association.

She has worked at Bowtie Cinemas in Closter as floor staff, been involved in her church, Bible Christian Fellowship, and volunteered at Englewood Hospital.  She is also an accomplished musician, and has performed in multiple piano and violin recitals.  In 2012, Nicole played the violin at Lincoln Center for a Chinese New Year concert.

Emily Cafaro

Emily Cafaro of Whitehouse Station, NJ is an Environmental Science major. She has a 3.34 GPA and is an Academic Excellence Scholarship and Chubb Scholarship recipient.

Emily spent her fall semester 2015 in Australia where she researched the human impact on seal strandings and assisted in attaching GPS trackers on penguins.  She has held many leadership positions on campus with Theta Phi Alpha as Community Service Chair and Corresponding Secretary on the Executive Board.

Off campus, Emily has interned at the New Jersey Botanical Gardens and worked as an Educator at the Bergen County Zoological Park where she helped educate the public on environmental issues and conservation that affects wildlife. “After I graduate, I hope to continue to educate the public at zoos, aquariums or wildlife sanctuaries,” said Emily.

Christine Cottrell

Christine Cottrell of Pompton Lakes, NJ is a Biology major and Physician Assistant concentration. She has a 3.98 grade point average. Christine was inducted into the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, Golden Key National Honour Society, and the American Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.

Christine has been active in the Ramapo Admissions Student Ambassadors, Pre-Med/Pre-Health Club, and Alpha Lambda Delta National Honor Society. She serves as Treasurer of the National Honor Society.

She works as a medical assistant at The Women’s Health Center at Franklin Circle where she applies her classroom lessons to real-world healthcare situations.  She also trains as a gymnast at Riverview Gymnastics.

“The knowledge I am gaining in the classroom is very applicable to my activities outside the classroom. Over my two undergraduate years as a Biology major thus far, I have learned much in the various sciences, met plenty of personable professors, and created lots of memories with my new friends.”

Lauren Schmidt

Lauren Schmidt of Emerson, NJ is a Biology major and a member of the teacher certification program. She has a 3.941 GPA. Lauren was inducted into Beta Beta Beta, Kappa Delta Pi, Omicron Delta Kappa, and Golden Key International Honor Society.

Lauren has been involved in the Ramapo College Honors Program, the Ramapo Chorale, and the Music Club,  She is also a valued lab assistant in the Biology department.  In addition, through Leaders in Service, she has helped incoming freshmen transition to college life and worked with peers on local civic engagement projects.

Lauren interned at the Meadowlands Environment Center in Lyndhurst, NJ and worked as a Summer Teaching Fellow at North Star Academy College Preparatory High School in Newark, NJ. She currently works as a Campus Ambassador for Uncommon Schools.  In the fall 2016, she will be teaching 9th grade biology at North Star Academy.

“I believe the best way to promote stewardship of the environment is through education and appreciation.”

Eun Cho

Inna Ivanova

Inna Ivanova Boycheva of Plovdiv, Bulgaria is a computer science major in her junior year. She was enrolled on a presidential scholarship and has maintained a 3.8 grade point average throughout her college education.

At Ramapo, Inna has been active in several organizations and activities, including her position as Math Club publicist, member of the Computer Club and the International Students Organization. She has also been employed at the Ramapo College Web Team, working on the college’s website since her freshman year.

After graduation, Inna hopes to pursue a Master’s Degree in Computer Science.

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Kaitlyn Reilly

Kaitlyn Reilly of Toms River, NJ is a Mathematics major who will pursue Teacher Education certification. Kaitlyn serves as president of the Pi Mu Epsilon Mathematics Honor Society, vice president of the Math Club, philanthropy chair of Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority and is a member of the Future Teachers at Ramapo Club. She also tutors math and works with students registered in the Office of Specialized Services. Kaitlyn plans to become a middle school or high school teacher. She then would like to put her mathematical skills to use for a corporation. “Receiving a scholarship is a great honor. It is evidence that my hard work has paid off,” she said. Kaitlyn has a 3.71 grade point average.

Jennifer Aroche

Jennifer Aroche is a graduate of Immaculate Conception High School in Lodi, NJ. In high school, Jennifer was active with the Poverelle Club, which assists the needy, the Ecology Club, the Science Club and the Spiritual Reading Club. She played softball and worked on the yearbook. Outside of school, Jennifer volunteered at her church and a local child care program. She participated in Justiceworx, an intensive inner-city program for youth seeking to work for justice and serve the poor. At Ramapo, she is majoring in Computer Science and has a 3.92 grade point average.

Courtney Lichtenberger

Courtney Lichtenberger of Secaucus, NJ is interested in Forensic Chemistry. While at High Tech High School in North Bergen, NJ, she completed a number of Honors and AP courses. Courtney was a member of the school’s ASTRO Science Club and participated in Hudson County’s Student Art Expo. She was also a member of the Junior Varsity Soccer team, the Vocal Ensemble, and wrote a short story that was published in the Anthology of Short Stories byYoung Americans. She also received the President’s Volunteer Service Award. Courtney volunteers her time at a hospital and in nursing homes. She lives by the words shared by an elderly woman she met while volunteering: “I want you to enjoy every day of your life. Look at how old I am. I’ve done everything I’ve wanted and I’m happy with who I am so I want you to be happy.” Currently a freshman at Ramapo, Courtney has a 3.75 grade point average.

The scholarship will go towards my education as a Chemistry major.With this major I hope to work in a state crime lab and service our justice system with science.

Emily Price

Emily Price of Montville, NJ has learned to cope with serious illness, surgery and a leave of absence from school. From the day she was diagnosed with her illness, she searched for answers that her doctors couldn’t provide. Knowing uncertainty and fear first-hand, for both child and parents, Emily plans to become a pediatric gastroenterologist. She has begun the path to doctor by declaring Biology as her major. She says medicine “is called a practice for a reason; we sometimes fail more than we succeed. Each time we fail, we learn more, improve and are able to help one another.” Emily has a 3.92 grade point average.

Erica Colavito

Erica Colavito of Middletown, NJ, a Biology major, is a well-rounded individual. She has served as editor-in- chief of her high school’s newspaper; prior to that position she was a writer and sports editor for the publication. She is a peer leader and received special training to work with the freshmen. Erica also volunteered to work on math skills with an autistic boy and at a camp for children in need of social skills training. She also worked with children aged 3 through 5 at a summer camp program and organized hikes in the park. With several classmates, she initiated a collection of soccer equipment that was distributed in Africa. In school, she carried a demanding course load and participated in Soccer and Indoor and Outdoor Track, on the JV and Varsity level. She has a 3.82 grade point average.

Lauren Geyman

At East Brunswick High School Lauren Geyman was a member of the varsity swim team for three years and works with the East Brunswick swim program for young children. She was a member of the Class Council, Principal’s Council and Homecoming Committee. In the summer before her junior year, she participated in the People to People Ambassador program. In her community Lauren volunteered with mentally disabled adults who are part of the youth council and played with the East Brunswick Soccer Club. Lauren is a freshman majoring in Biology with a concentration in Optometry. Her grade point average is 3.92.

The scholarship allows me to seize all of the opportunities that Ramapo has to offer—placing me one step closer to seizing the opportunities that the world has to offer.

Morgan Reinhart

Morgan Reinhart is a freshman from Fords, NJ. At Woodbridge High School Morgan was captain of the varsity cross country team and participated in spring track in all four years. She was selected to be a Her and Cool Kid, a group of athletes who meet athletically and academically high standards. She was a member of theTrinity Youth Group and taught Sunday school to pre-schoolers.

Alyssa Connors

Alyssa Connors is in her first year of the Biology/PhysicalTherapy joint degree program between Ramapo and the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. In high school Alyssa excelled academically and athletically. She earned college credits from Seton Hall University, was a member of the Student Council, Spanish Club, Key Club, editor-in-chief of the newspaper, SADD, Peer Leaders, captain of the Cheerleading Squad, Varsity Softball and Winter and Spring Track, among other activities. Her guidance counselor notes that Alyssa looks forward to working with rehab patients and to “restore and return them to excellent physical condition.” Alyssa is from Hasbrouck Heights, NJ and has earned a 3.75 grade point average.

By receiving this scholarship, I’m able to continue my learning beyond high school. I am accomplishing all of my goals; without this support it wouldn’t be possible.

Ashley Netanel

Ashley Netanel was enrolled in a high school in Staten Island and spent two years at Mosenzon High School in Israel. There she served as junior editor of the school newspaper and a member of the Student Council. While in Staten Island, she participated in the Discovery Institute Summer Honors Research Program sponsored by the College of Staten Island. She graduated from Fair Lawn High School. Immersed in Israeli political and cultural issues, she volunteered with Israel Scouts of Fair Lawn, helped promote immigration to Israel with that country’s Elite Academy Program and served as a counselor with Camp Gan Israel. At Ramapo Ashley is a freshman majoring in Biology who has earned a 3.70 grade point average. She plans to attend medical school.

This scholarship has given me the opportunity to pursue something I believe in, leading me closer to the kind of person I hope to be in the future.

Brittany Spiegel

Brittany Spiegel follows her father, a 1983 graduate, to Ramapo College. Brittany is from Stewartsville, New Jersey and is a graduate of Phillipsburg High School. She was a member of the student council and French Club during all four years of high school, as well as the chair of the Haunted High School club. Brittany played softball for three years, and was named junior varsity MVP in her sophomore year. Brittany is a freshman in Ramapo’s nursing program. She plans to pursue an advanced degree and become a neonatal nurse practitioner.

As a nursing major, I know that Ramapo College has one of the best programs around. By receiving this scholarship, it was much more affordable for me to come here and get the best nursing education possible so I can help people in the future.

Jacqueline Katz

Jacqueline Katz of Red Bank, NJ is a Biology major and a Chemistry minor. She is also pursuing teacher certification in Secondary Education. On campus she is co-chair of the Relay for Life Planning Committee, co- sponsor and chair of the Biology Club, a member of the Dance Club, and a Ramapo Admissions Student Ambassador. “This scholarship will assist me in achieving my goal of teaching Biology/Chemistry in an urban school district.” Jacqueline, who has a 4.00 grade point average, also plans to attend graduate school to study Molecular Genetics.

The generosity of the benefactor of my scholarship means a great deal to me and my family. Without this generosity, I would be unable to achieve my goal of becoming a high school biology teacher.