Jamieson Ritter
The University is honoring the memory of alumnus and fallen Cleveland, Ohio, police officer Jamieson Ritter ’19 with the establishment of a scholarship in his name. Beginning in 2025, the Jamieson Ritter Memorial ROTC Scholarship will be awarded to an ROTC student who is pursuing a career in military or civilian law enforcement. Ritter, who was part of the Army ROTC at Syracuse, was killed in the line of duty while serving with the Cleveland Division of Police on July 4.
“Jamieson Ritter’s life of dedicated service represents the very best of Syracuse University,” says Mike Haynie, vice chancellor for strategic initiatives and innovation and executive director of the D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families. “This new scholarship will honor Jamieson’s memory by assisting students who follow his example in seeking to serve their country and community in uniform.”
The scholarship was established in consultation with Ritter’s family.
Originally from Rochester, New York, Ritter graduated from McQuaid Jesuit High School before coming to Syracuse University to complete a degree in communication and rhetorical studies from the College of Visual and Performing Arts. Upon graduating from Syracuse, Ritter was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Army National Guard.
In November 2020, Ritter joined the Cleveland Division of Police as an officer. As a member of the Ohio Army National Guard, he deployed to Syria in 2022 and returned to continue his service with the Cleveland Division of Police in 2023.
Ritter grew up with an aspiration to serve others. “From an early age, Jamieson possessed an innate understanding of selfless service to the nation and a strong desire to serve his community,” his family shared with the Cleveland Police.
If you are interested in donating to the Jamieson Ritter Memorial Scholarship Fund, please visit the Office of Veteran and Military Affairs website.
