When Tristain Prosper first connected with the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation as a middle school student in Neenah, Wisconsin, he was a participant in our Badges for Baseball program, where he learned core values such as respect, responsibility, and perseverance alongside local law enforcement mentors. That early exposure to mentorship planted the seeds for a journey that would ultimately be shaped by access to higher education and long-term opportunity.

In 2017, Tristain became the very first recipient of the Foundation’s Vi Ripken Scholarship Award. Through this scholarship, the Foundation provided financial assistance that supported all four years of his college education at Fox Valley Technical College. Access to this college scholarship removed financial barriers, allowed Tristain to focus fully on his studies, and helped him explore career pathways rooted in leadership, service, and community impact. College became the turning point that transformed early potential into a clear and achievable future.

With a college degree and the stability higher education provides, Tristain entered the workforce as a productive, purpose-driven young professional. After attending college, he chose to serve his community as a Community Service Officer with the Grand Chute Police Department, blending education with hands on public service. When asked what’s next, Tristain shared, “Ultimately, my true aspiration is to serve those in greater need, serve the less fortunate, and make the world a better place.” Today, Tristain continues that mission at Youth Go, a youth-serving organization in Neenah, Wisconsin where he serves as the Bridges Program & Early Intervention Mentor and is an active member of their Badges for Baseball program team. His career path reflects the lasting impact of educational access and intentional support, and it underscores why the Vi Ripken Scholarship exists, to help students succeed beyond graduation and build meaningful futures.