REF FOUNDATION
"Releasing Brilliance through Intelligent Minds by Advancing, Engineering, Mathematics & Science."
Rita Fraiser
Rita is a Native from Buffalo, New York. Her skills in education developed and expanded the minds of students throughout her career as a science teacher and administrator.
Rita received her advanced education from Canisius College obtaining the following degrees:
- M.S. in Administration
- M.S. in Education
Rita’s professional and volunteering positions included:
- Lead instructor for Student Teachers
- Magnet School Specialist
- Coordinator for Math, Liberty Partnership and establishing business partnerships for Future’s Academy
- Junior Achievement Advisory Board of WNY
- YMCA Humboldt Chapter Board of Directors
- Literacy Programs
- Health Organizations
Rita has been recognized and received the following awards for her achievements and commitment to education.
- Nominated for Outstanding Teacher of the Year
- Received Title 1 Distinguished Educator of the Year
- Pathfinder Award
- Recognized by the Buffalo Common Council for outstanding achievements in the field of education
Rita is an active member of the Rotary Club of Windward, and Georgia Toastmaster [Rising Phoenix], other affiliations included:
- Association for Supervision/Curriculum Development
- Phi Delta Kappa
- Past President of Xi Epsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.
- Buffalo Alliance of School Educators
After retiring from 31years in the field of education, Rita and her children established the REF Foundation Inc in 2009. The foundation will continue Rita’s effort to support and encourage minority students. It will provide programs and financial aid to help them release their brilliance through a career in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math.