Distinguished Alumni, Memorial Alumni & Dee Swanson Honorees
The Ravenna Community Educational Foundation (RCEF) is dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for students in Ravenna Schools. As part of this mission, we proudly present the Distinguished Alumni Award, Memorial Alumni Award and the Dee Swanson Award, three prestigious honors recognizing the achievements of Ravenna High School graduates and Ravenna School community members.
Memorial Alumni Award:
Established in 2015, this award recognizes Ravenna High School graduates who have not only achieved professional excellence but also distinguished themselves through significant contributions to society. The impact of their work exemplifies the lasting influence Ravenna alumni have on their communities.
Honorees:
2015-Paul V. Sangren
2016-Merrill Bailey
2017-Burt Kennedy
2018-Tom Herremans
2019-Mary Thatcher
2022-Donald Nutt
2023-Melvin Thompson
2024-Joy (Young) Nelson
Dee Swanson Award: (New in 2025)
Established in 2025, this award honors individuals who are not graduates of Ravenna High School but have made a significant impact on the Ravenna school community. Their commitment to education, service, and student success embody the values Dee lived out as the visionary founder of RCEF.
Honorees:
2025-
Distinguished Alumni Award:
Established in 2011, this award honors Ravenna High School graduates who have achieved outstanding careers that reflect positively on Ravenna High School. Their professional success serves as an inspiration to current and future students.
Honorees:
2011-Hon. Thomas Linck
2013-Sheri (Jones) Rucinski
2014-John Swanson
2015-Kevin Drake
2016-Dr. Tim Beechnau
2017-Ralph Rogers
2018-Dr. James Linck
2019-Kevin Patterson
2022-Lt. Col. Bob Waller
2023-Gary Blackmer
2024-Don Swanson
The Ravenna Community Educational Foundation accepts nominations for the Distinguished Alumni Award, Memorial Alumni Award and Dee Swanson Award year-round. If you know of an individual who deserves recognition for their outstanding career achievements or significant contributions to society, we encourage you to submit a nomination. Please provide a written explanation of why you believe the nominee is deserving of the award. Nominations can be sent by email to ravennacef@gmail.com or by mail to RCEF P.O. Box 13, Ravenna, MI 49451. We look forward to celebrating the incredible achievements of Ravenna High School alumni!