We Can Help You Further Your Education!

 

The Washington State Transit Insurance Pool has founded a continuing education scholarship fund in honor of long-term, retired Board member, Jeff Ristau (formerly of Community Transit).

You may apply for this scholarship if you are:

  • A current employee of any transit agency that is a member of the Pool, AND

  • Engaged in an accredited college/university, or an accredited continuing education program, AND

  • Seeking to continue your education in an area that furthers the vision, mission, ethical practices, safety and/or reduction of the cost of risk for public transportation in Washington State. 

You may be awarded up to $1,000 per calendar year. (Non-Accredited awards may be limited to $500 per year).

 

How You Apply for this Scholarship

 

Interested individuals must submit the following three things:

  1. A letter stating your request prior to the start date of the venue or class. Provide your biography including your personal contact information including preferred email, home address, and phone number where you can be reached during the day. Provide an overview of your intention of how you will use your education.

  2. A recommendation from your immediate supervisor or department head.

  3. A copy of your registration/course description and letter of acceptance.

 

When to Apply and Other Important Details

 

Applications are due by the 15th November.

A total of 20 full scholarships may be awarded each calendar year. Scholarships will be awarded based on the requirements above and at the sole discretion of the WSTIP Executive Committee. Tax liability will be the responsibility of the applicant.

The following areas will be given preference: Public Administration, Transportation Planning, Public Finance, Risk Management, Fleet Management, and Information Technology.

Send your application to:

Jeffrey S. Ristau Scholarship

c/o Washington State Transit Insurance Pool

PO Box 11219, Olympia, WA 98508

 

The Man Behind the Scholarship

Jeffrey S. Ristau

Jeff Ristau began his career at Community Transit in 1984 and eventually became Community Transit's chief financial officer. Jeff became WSTIP's first president in 1989 and was instrumental in the launch of this program. He served as president again in 1990 and 1993. Jeff was also a member of the WSTIP Executive Committee for 17 of his last 25 years.

During his years of service, Jeff helped WSTIP establish sound financial practices, ensured we had long-term economic goals, and demanded high ethical standards from the Board, staff, and vendors. Jeff personally emulated excellence, encouraged partnerships, demanded accountability from all, and still encouraged vision and creativity from the Board and staff.

Jeff was a graduate of Oregon State University and was a certified public accountant.

Jeff Ristau retired in 2013. His steadfast commitment to making public transportation better continues on with this scholarship.