the staff of the Ridgewood blog
RIDGEWOOD, NJ — The Ridgewood High School Alumni Association (RHSAA) has announced the stellar recipients of its 2025 Distinguished Alumni Awards, transforming the annual Homecoming Weekend into an even more remarkable celebration of excellence.
This prestigious honor shines a spotlight on former students who have made extraordinary contributions to society through their professional achievements, unique talents, and dedication to service.
Meet the 2025 RHS Distinguished Alumni Class
The newest class of inductees is a powerhouse trio spanning media, education, and humanitarian rescue:
- Willie Geist (Class of 1993): An Edward R. Murrow Award–winning journalist, host of Sunday TODAY with Willie Geist, and a New York Times best-selling author. Geist has become one of the most recognizable voices in morning television.
- Peter Rork (Class of 1971): The founder of Dog Is My CoPilot, a renowned organization dedicated to dog-rescue advocacy. Rork’s work has had a significant impact on animal welfare.
- Kim Smith (Class of 1985): Founder and CEO of LearnerStudio, a prominent entrepreneur, and a Henry Crown Fellow. Smith is a visionary leader in education, shaping the future of learning.
RHS Principal Jeff Nyhuis called the ceremony the “cornerstone event of this year’s Homecoming Weekend,” noting that these inductees “join a growing list of outstanding former RHS students who have created a long-lasting impact on society.”
“The Distinguished Alumni Award is the highest honor Ridgewood High School bestows upon our RHS alumni community,” added RHSAA President Mark Kossick. “We are thrilled to celebrate the remarkable achievements and enduring legacy of these three exceptional honorees.”
How to Attend the Distinguished Alumni Awards Ceremony
Alumni, family, and community members are invited to join the celebration!
- What: The Distinguished Alumni Awards presentation.
- When: Saturday, October 18th at 10:00 AM.
- Where: The Little Theater at Ridgewood High School.
Tickets are required for registered guests and include coffee before the ceremony and a light brunch immediately following. The cost is $25 per ticket.
Purchase your tickets here: https://www.rhsalumniassociation.org/product/2025-distinguished-alumni-ceremony-ticket
Note: Current RHS students with ID are welcome to attend free of charge after ticketed guests are seated. Following the brunch, student ambassadors will offer tours of the RHS campus for interested alumni, beginning at 12:00 PM.
Full RHS Homecoming Weekend Schedule
The Distinguished Alumni ceremony is just one part of a jam-packed weekend designed to bring the RHS alumni community together:
- Friday, October 17th: Friday Night Lights Football Game! Watch the RHS team take on Northern Highlands at 6:30 PM at the RHS Stadium. RHS merchandise and food will be available for sale.
- Saturday Morning, October 18th: Distinguished Alumni Awards Ceremony (10:00 AM).
- Saturday Mid-Day: RHS Campus Tours (12:00 PM).
- Saturday Night: Class Reunions! This year features special reunions for the classes of 1965, 1985, 1990, and 1995.
“With a schedule like this, it makes sense why so many RHS alumni circle Homecoming Weekend on the calendar,” Kossick remarked.
Don’t miss out on this weekend of legacy, community, and school pride!
Learn More: You can find full bios for the 2025 recipients here: https://www.rhsalumniassociation.org/distinguished-alumni
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Where’s 1975?
The big 5-O?
didn’t Willie Geist, already get recognized?