Public Service Award

The Jamieson Ritter Foundation Public Service Award is presented in honor of Jamieson R. Ritter, who tragically lost his life in the line of duty on July 4, 2024, while serving as a Cleveland Police Officer. The award aims to recognize, honor, and empower another young Knight exemplifying his memory.

Jamieson is fondly remembered for his charisma, intelligence, spontaneity, and passion for life. A 2015 graduate of McQuaid Jesuit, he went on to attend Syracuse University, where he participated in Army ROTC. Jamieson was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Army National Guard and, after joining the Cleveland Department of Police, deployed to Syria under Operation Inherent Resolve, earning the Combat Action Badge. He served with distinction and established himself as a leader at a young age.

The Jamieson Ritter Foundation Public Service Award is presented each April, is in the amount of $10,000, and is intended to support the recipient’s higher education expenses.

Selection will be based on the following criteria:

  • The student is a graduating senior in good standing with McQuaid Jesuit, both academically and otherwise;

  • The student is pursuing higher education immediately following graduation from McQuaid Jesuit;

  • The student has a desire to serve in the United States Military (ideally pursuing admission to a United States Military Academy or an ROTC contract or scholarship) or is interested in a field of study that highlights military science, national defense, politics, law, history, forensic science, and/or international relations;

  • The student is a resident of New York and was born in the United States;

  • The student has served at least one JUG (from the Latin word jugum, meaning burden; detention); and

  • The student exemplifies one or more of the following:

    • Jamieson’s love of country, his sense of duty, and commitment to public service.

    • Jamieson’s family background of military service, public service, and local community involvement.

    • Jamieson’s eager and enthusiastic participation in athletics and extracurriculars, and his love of animals and pets.

Jamieson’s direct family members serving on the Board of Directors will select award recipients, following consultation with the McQuaid Jesuit Administration.