Anthony Ritter received the 2018 Take Stock in Children (TSIC) Alumni of the Year award for his commitment towards the TSIC program and for his astounding achievements as an educator. He accepted his award during the 2018 TSIC Leadership Summit in Tallahassee, FL on Wednesday, January 10.

“Take Stock in Children is honored to present Anthony Ritter with this prestigious award,” said Jillian Hasner, president and CEO of TSIC. “He is a shining example of what the TSIC program can produce when a supportive mentor and strong financial support steps in. We’re thrilled he was selected for this award and couldn’t be prouder of his accomplishments and inspirational story.”

Since graduating Tavares High School in 2007, Anthony continued his education at Lake-Sumter State College, and went on to earn his Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from the University of Central Florida. He is currently pursuing a Master of Education degree in School Counseling through Lamar University. In 2016-17, he was a finalist for Teacher of the Year in Lake County for his dedication towards connecting his students with interactive STEM projects and even becoming the Robotics coach at his school, Eustis Heights Elementary School. Despite his busy schedule, Anthony has always made time to be a strong advocate for the TSIC program and help raise awareness.

“I’m excited to have been given this award,” said Anthony Ritter. “I was someone who believed would never go to college, but TSIC believed in me and helped me achieve my dreams of becoming a teacher. Through this program, I’ve gained confidence in myself and have been able to share this newfound confidence with the hundreds of elementary school students I teach daily.”

Take Stock in Children was established in 1995 to provide a unique opportunity for deserving low-income, at-risk youth to escape the cycle of poverty through education. Take Stock in Children offers its students college scholarships, caring volunteer mentors and hope for a better life through comprehensive services that start in middle school, continue through high school and include their transition into college.