NEOMED dentistry student awarded scholarship at Cleveland Browns game
Dec. 5, 2025
By Tonya Strong-Charles
Halley Fritz, a member of the inaugural class of NEOMED’s new Bitonte College of Dentistry, experienced a moment she describes as both humbling and deeply meaningful when she was honored on the field during halftime at the Cleveland Browns game on Sunday, November 30. Halley, who grew up near Youngstown in Mineral Ridge, was recognized as a recipient of a Folds of Honor scholarship—an award that carries special significance as it honors the legacy of her late father, a dedicated first responder.
The scholarship first came to the family’s attention thanks to Halley’s mother, Karen, who discovered the program while watching a Browns game on television. “A commercial popped up for Folds of Honor,” Halley said. Karen encouraged both Halley and her sister, Bailey, to apply. They were selected as recipients and for the past two years, the scholarship has helped support Halley’s education, first as an undergraduate and now as a dental student.
Halley says her late father, John Fritz, served the community tirelessly working at the Austintown fire station, teaching at the fire school, helping with tasks around town, and lending a hand wherever needed. “He was always working,” she said. “He did so much, and I feel like he never thought he was doing enough. Now, even though he’s not physically here, what he did for the community is able to support us.”
Gameday recognition at Huntington Bank Field brought that sentiment into sharp focus. “It brings back all the sacrifices he made,” Halley said. “To know that he’s still looking out for us—it means everything.”
The day also became a rare chance for the family to spend time together. Despite frigid weather, Halley, her sister, and their mother bundled up and made the trip to Cleveland. “We thought, when are you ever going to get to go on an NFL field again?” Halley said with a laugh. “We went on a hunt for hot chocolate. Our toes were freezing, but it was worth it.”
As for dental school, Halley says she couldn’t be happier with her decision to join NEOMED’s first cohort. “Everyone here really supports us and wants to make us the best we can be—I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”
Halley shared this reflection about receiving a challenge coin during NEOMED’s White Coat Ceremony for the Bitonte College of Dentistry, held on August 22, 2025:
“One of my dad’s hobbies was to collect, trade, and to show off his challenge coins he’d gathered over the years. When (NEOMED) President Langell revealed that we’d all receive one, I felt like it was a new way to connect with my dad. I’ve carried mine with me each day as a reminder that although he might not be here physically to watch me through school, I can always have a small part of him with me each day.”
For Halley, her big day at a Browns game is a reminder that her father’s legacy continues to guide her path at NEOMED.
