Omario Ricketts Honored with Belle K. Ribicoff Prize

Omario Ricketts ’23

Bachelor of Science, Biology, College of Arts and Sciences

Belle K. Ribicoff Prize

Awarded annually to an exemplary graduating senior who has demonstrated academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, originality of thought, and a commitment to extracurricular activities and community service.

Even as a student at the University of Hartford, Omario Ricketts has the distinction of being a sought-after teacher and leader. As a laboratory instructor, a coach for general and organic chemistry, and a student ambassador, he is often singled out as a true innovator. These roles had been suggested by his mentors at the school, and once Ricketts accepted each new responsibility, he proved to be exceedingly well-organized and effective in meeting every challenge. 

A pre-med student with an interest in medical research, Ricketts is earning a bachelor of science degree in biology. His time at the University mixed academic classroom work with laboratory experiments from microbiology to genetics, which proved to him that he was headed in the right vocational direction. 

In conjunction with mentors and professors, Ricketts worked on such projects as an exploration of a human pathogen called Staphylococcus aureus as it affected the student population, and an examination into the effects of climate change on the prevalence of a bacterium in oysters called vibrio. This particular project also serves as his senior honors thesis.

Due to the complex and consequential nature of his work as a scholar, researcher, and assistant, Ricketts finds himself engaged in activities somewhat beyond the scope of many others in his peer group, such as speaking in front of regional medical research conferences and authoring serious scientific manuscripts. A regular on UHart’s Dean’s List and President’s List, he has recorded a 4.0 grade point average.

“Omario is always prepared, his lab reports are well written, and he is always willing to help his fellow students,” says Adam C. Silver, associate professor in the Department of Biology. In addition to excelling as an undergraduate, a researcher, instructor, and even a student recruiter, Ricketts also held leadership positions in the Student Government Association and as president of the Pre-Med Club. “Plus, he has become a sought-after instructor,” Silver adds.