Patricia Rissmeyer ‘78

Consecutive years giving: 15

For Patricia Rissmeyer, there’s no separating a distinguished 45 year career from her UHart education, one she feels fortunate to have received.

Arriving at the University of Hartford with dreams of becoming a teacher, Patricia came from a generation where many women didn’t have the opportunity to attend college. With the support of financial aid, Patricia was able to do what many of her peers couldn’t: pursue an advance degree, which she received in 1978. Years later, as a College Dean and Vice President of Student Affairs, Patricia came to truly understand the financial struggles many students face, from the need for books to food insecurity. This realization and her gratitude for her own financial aid led her to support her alma mater, knowing that even a small contribution could make a significant impact on students' lives.

Rissmeyer who later earned a master’s degree, and a doctorate admits she could only contribute modestly while paying off her own school loans. But in her work as an administrator in higher education she came to understand, “Many small gifts add up, and it’s not just about the amount, but the act of giving, that truly matters.”

In 2006, Rissmeyer marked a milestone in her philanthropic journey, establishing the Mrs. “M” scholarship with the family of UHart’s beloved former resident director Amelia Balcezak Mogielnicki. Today, the Mrs. "M" (Amelia Balcezak Mogielnicki) First Generation Scholarship—brought to fruition with continued support from Mrs. “M”’s two sons and other alumni—continues Mrs “M”s’ legacy of giving, by impacting a new generation of students.

“Financial contributions directly affect the quality of education and the opportunities available to students,” says Pat. “My personal and professional success started at UHart, and I'm forever grateful for that foundation.”