ISSUED: 29 August 2022
MEDIA CONTACT: Dana Costa
SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV — The Shepherd University Foundation announces the creation of the Michael and Dianne Rissler Alvarez Scholarship for Nursing, established in memory of Michael “Mike” Alvarez and in honor of his wife, Dianne Rissler Alvarez. The scholarship was established by members of the Alvarez family and will support students pursuing studies in nursing.
Mike Alvarez and Dianne Rissler Alvarez were both born and raised in Jefferson County, West Virginia, and graduated from Charles Town High School. Throughout their 51 years of marriage, their love for their home county continued to grow. After retirement, the two enjoyed spending time with their grand kids and relaxing on their porch in the evenings, surrounded by the beautiful mountains.
Mike attended Shepherd before joining the United States Navy and remained an avid supporter of the Shepherd Rams. In 2019, after a 48-year federal career, he retired from the National Park Service, receiving the highest award a U.S. Department of Interior employee can receive, the Department of Interior Superior Award.
Prior to his death in 2021, Mike was active in his local community. He volunteered with the Jefferson County Ambulance Authority for 17 years in several capacities, including secretary and treasurer. Dianne was also active in the community and has served in various positions working for the benefit of Jefferson County.
“Mike was the friendliest person,” explained his family. “He always had a smile on his face and was always greeting people.”
Mike and Dianne were thankful for the healthcare field. In addition to Mike’s time with the Jefferson County Ambulance Authority, both of their sons, Ryan and Chad, pursued careers in healthcare. Chad studied pharmacy as an undergrad at West Virginia University and continued at Shenandoah University for graduate school. Ryan studied nursing at Shepherd, graduating in 2002.
The Michael and Dianne Rissler Alvarez Scholarship for Nursing will help to carry on the love Mike and Dianne have always had for Jefferson County and will uphold their unwavering support for healthcare and Shepherd.
To learn more about creating a named fund through the Shepherd University Foundation, contact the Foundation at P.O. Box 5000, Shepherdstown, WV, 25443-5000, 304-876-5397, or visit the Shepherd University Foundation webpage.
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