28 September 1999 Barbara (Behrmann) Ritmann ('71)

Right now I am a mother at home. I do a lot of work with local teachers to add a little excitement to science (astronomy) in the class. I work with grade levels K-12 and undergraduates and even sometimes some grad classes. Its always interesting and different. You know- "have telescope, will travel."

When I was working outside the home I was using my VALPO education in Chemistry working for a pharmaceutical company. Right now I do our astronomy club newsletter and work on our web page. We have people working on raising money for renovating a 31 inch Cassegrain and making it part of the "Hands-On Universe." I help with special star parties for possible donors. We have several colleges and universities and also some school districts signed up to have time on it. Working in the local school districts, this is really something I like to see. High school students working with this type of telescope is great for the kids. I can't wait for it to be completed. Its usable but we still have dreams that need to come true.

Barbara