When Jean Rittermann decided to make a contribution to the community, she didn't go far for inspiration. As president of the company begun by her father, Rittermann wanted to do something in honor of the passions her father instilled in her: respect for hard work; interest in engineering and the importance of education. The Alvarez Scholarship in Engineering, which is named for Rittermann's father, brings all those qualities together in one unique monetary award.

"We wanted to attract students who were keenly interested in pursuing an engineering career but because of work and family commitments had not been able to participate in the program as intensely as they would have liked. We wanted to give them the opportunity to experience one semester in which they could focus their attention solely on engineering without the pressures of the financial obligations associated with it." The Alvarez Scholarship in Engineering rewards students who have a fervor for engineering and a real drive to reach their goals. It allows Rittermann to touch the lives of students who may otherwise be overlooked on their climb to success.

As a long-time member of UMBC's Industrial Advisory Board, which bridges the gap between academics and the business community, Rittermann is no stranger to working with young adults. The Alvarez Scholarship provides an incomparable opportunity to have a direct impact on a person's life.

Did You Know?
UMBC's Industrial Advisory Board provides a forum for top experts from industry, government and academia to discuss curriculum development, instruction, research and professional development issues that are at the heart of UMBC's education enterprise and a successful industry - education partnership. IAB member organizations include BD Biosciences, Constellation Energy Group, U.S. Department of Defense, GlaxoSmithKline and NASA.