Alice Jean Sater Ritchey graduated from Rio Grande County High School (now Monte Vista High School) in the late 1930s. She graduated as a registered nurse in 1942, served her country in World War II, and retired as a Navy Lieutenant Commander in 1966. She worked in a civilian hospital in Washington state until her second retirement. 
After her passing at the age of 94, her estate contacted the Monte Vista School District about her wishes to leave a very large sum of money to be used for scholarships for Monte Vista students.
The school district entrusted the Monte Vista Education Foundation with the money so it could be invested in order to positively affect as many students as possible. Several renewable scholarships will be offered each year for as long as funds are available.

Central Auditorium has been renamed to honor this amazing and generous individual for her impact on the students at Monte Vista Schools.