New COD scholarship honors late Naperville student

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 Internetworking technology student working toward a degree.

Rassier died unexpectedly 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 him 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."

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

But Rassier's desire to learn extended beyond the classroom, his father 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 Rassier 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 apply now for the first $1,000 Matt Rassier Memorial Scholarship that will be awarded this fall semester. For information, visit cod.edu/tuition/financial_aid/scholarships.aspx or email financialaid@cod.edu.