Naperville Parents Establish Matt Rassier Scholarship at COD to Honor Late Son

Ralph and Jan Rassier of Naperville, joined by family, friends and business associates, have established the Matt Rassier Memorial Scholarship through the College of DuPage Foundation to honor their son.

The award will provide $1,000 annually to a Computer and Internetworking Technologies student working toward a degree.

Matt died suddenly in his sleep on July 21, 2015, at the age of 30. A Benet Academy graduate, Matt first came to College of DuPage after high school and earned his Associate in Arts degree.

Years later, he returned to COD and began taking classes in the CIT program, working toward CISCO certification. The program wasn't easy for Matt at first, but he was able to find his way quickly, and Associate Professor and CIT Coordinator Felix Davis noted his progress.

"Halfway through his first semester, Matt got it," he said. "After that, whenever he completed his lab assignment, Matt would stay and help classmates. I found out later that he was helping other students outside of class as well."

Felix was even considering Matt for the student aide position in the open lab, recognizing that Matt was always giving of his free time to help fellow students with their work.

But Matt's desire to learn extended beyond the classroom, Ralph said.

"Matt had a voracious appetite for learning anything new, including all sciences and current events," he said. "He was exceptional at drawing and was near completion on a lengthy science fiction novel."

Ralph and Jan established the scholarship to help CIT students for many years to come.

"We want CIT students to benefit from Matt's memory," Jan said. "His legacy will offer financial assistance to help other students accomplish their dreams."

Eligible students can now apply for the first $1,000 Matt Rassier Memorial Scholarship that will be awarded for the first time this coming fall semester. For more information, visit www.cod.edu/tuition/financial_aid/scholarships.aspx or email financialaid@cod.edu.

The College of DuPage Foundation, established in 1967, provides for the educational development and welfare of the College and its students. Its mission is to obtain and steward philanthropic contributions to expand educational and cultural opportunities for the College of DuPage community. For information, visit foundation.cod.edu.