On Tuesday, November 19, the 2024-2025 Amy Ignatowski Memorial Award was presented to Allison Ritter at a reception held at the Barch Center for Freshwater Research and Education. This award is dedicated to the memory of Amy Ignatowski, a former Lake Superior State University (LSSU) student and U.S. Coast Guard member who tragically lost her life in 2008 while serving in Corpus Christi, Texas.
The ceremony was attended by a number of distinguished guests, including Amy’s parents, Paul and Robin Ignatowski, as well as several representatives from both the U.S. Coast Guard and LSSU. This year’s award marks the 15th presentation of the scholarship, which supports active-duty U.S. Coast Guard members, reservists, and their dependents stationed at Sector Sault in their pursuit of higher education.
A Strong Partnership in Education
The Amy Ignatowski Memorial Award is part of an ongoing collaboration between LSSU and the U.S. Coast Guard, which has been in place since 2009. This partnership encourages active-duty and reserve Coast Guard members, along with their families, to pursue undergraduate degrees while serving at Base Sector Sault.
Scott Smith, LSSU Vice President of Advancement, Legislation and Alumni Affairs, opened the ceremony welcoming those in attendance and introducing LSSU President, Dr. David Travis. Dr. Travis highlighted the significance of the collaboration between LSSU and the U.S. Coast Guard. “This award is a powerful reminder of the close-knit relationship between Lake Superior State University and the U.S. Coast Guard,” remarked Dr. Travis. “It’s a privilege to be part of a program that honors the memory of Amy Ignatowski while helping the next generation of leaders, like Allison, continue their education and make a difference in their communities.“
LSSU’s role as the U.S. Coast Guard’s National Center of Expertise (NCOE) for the Great Lakes further strengthens this bond, with the university hosting vital research on oil spill response and environmental protection in freshwater ecosystems.
Allison Ritter: A Deserving Recipient
This year’s recipient, Allison Ritter, is a freshman at LSSU majoring in Business Administration with a focus on Entrepreneurship. She is the daughter of Chief Warrant Officer (CWO) Jeffrey Ritter, who recently retired from the U.S. Coast Guard. Allison spoke about how honored she was to receive the award, and how it will help her in her educational journey. “In 2008, while stationed in Washington DC, I stood in formation at attention with the same USCG Ceremonial Honor Guard crew members that had the honor to perform Amy’s Military Honors here in Sault Ste. Marie,” Allison commented. “This is a full circle CG moment and speaks volumes to the strength and woven fabric of the Coast family and community. This scholarship means more to me than financial assistance—it’s a reminder of the responsibility I have to honor the sacrifices made by Amy and all those who serve our country. As I continue my education, I will strive to uphold the ideals that this award symbolizes.”
A Heartfelt Ceremony
The ceremony also included remarks from Sector Commander, Captain James Bendle, who acknowledged the Ignatowski family for their continued dedication to education and their support for the Coast Guard community. After his speech, Captain Bendle presented Allison with the award certificate, a moment of pride for both Allison and her family.
Paul Ignatowski, Amy’s father, then took the stage to present Allison with a traditional gift—a compass—which symbolizes guidance and direction. The compass serves as a reminder of Amy’s legacy and the path that Allison is now forging.
Looking Ahead
The reception concluded with a tour of the Barch Center for Freshwater Research and Education for those interested in learning more about the research being conducted there in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard.
The Ignatowski Memorial Award continues to support the educational pursuits of Coast Guard families, creating lasting connections between the U.S. Coast Guard, LSSU, and the community.