Testimonials

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr Testimonial

“Through Steve Ritz, we’re telling a new Bronx story!”

– Bronx Borough President, Ruben Diaz Jr.

 

“Education should unleash human potential, which is infinite in its capacity to create, know, and solve every conceivable problem. Stephen Ritz has opened a door to this unbounded field of possibilities, which he elegantly describes in The Power of a Plant.”

– Deepak Chopra, New York Times bestselling author and author of You are the Universe

 

“Here’s proof positive that one person can make a difference. Stephen Ritz uses food plants―Green Bronx Machine―to transform kids and their school environments. You can do this too!”

– Marion Nestle, professor of food, nutrition, and public health at New York University, and author of What to Eat

 

“Building a new and effective Good Food system is everyone’s obligation, and it starts with education. Stephen’s epic story teaches us how to turn every community into a place that nourishes bodies and minds. He’s my hero.

– Will Allen, CEO of Growing Power and author of The Good Food Revolution

 

“Stephen Ritz is one of the most innovative, genuine, and tenacious educators I have ever met. He is the kind of superhero we need standing for our kids and their well-being. He uses gardening to inspire, challenge, and get kids growing in ways that transform their lives and communities. His story will touch your heart and propel you to plant a seed!”

– Nona Evans, president and executive director of Whole Kids Foundation

 

“In his new book The Power of a Plant, Stephen Ritz weaves a beautiful personal tale of how boundless passion, purpose, and hope can move generations of students in New York’s tough South Bronx to realize their untapped human potential. Stephen uses the power of kindness and purpose to not only teach kids about the world but to create a better world for all of us.”

– Daniel Lubetzky, CEO and founder of KIND Snacks

 

“The only thing bigger than the impact Stephen has had helping countless students understand the importance of their food choices is his infectious personality. The Power of a Plant outlines the remarkable work he has done to date and provides a blueprint for how educators around the world can implement his learnings effectively.”

– Tom Colicchio, chef and owner of Crafted Hospitality

 

“Stephen’s program is sustainable because he has brought in all the stakeholders, (teachers, parents, administrators, and students) and uses state accredited curriculum. By using food and plant life cycles to teach other subjects he incorporates health, wellbeing, and the environment around them with positive steps to academic success. One big take away when observing children interacting in this program is that it is not at all about the instructors, it is about the children, creating their own environment and solutions. It is creating this sense of wonder for children to explore and discover. It encourages discovery and critical thinking – skills that can be used in any aspect of life.”

– Dr. Katie Wilson, USDA, Deputy Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services

 

“Stephen Ritz personifies inspiration. In the face of adversity most people wilt – not Stephen – he turned despair into opportunity and introduced a school and a community to possibility. His words of motivation translate well beyond the South Bronx children he has thought for three decades. He is a spokesperson for the how purposeful agenda can transform any organization and solve any problem.”

– Mitch Roschelle, Partner and Practice Leader PwC, Trustee PwC Charitable Foundation

 

“Thank you! The feedback we received from our people was fantastic! You were super inspiring and we’re very much looking forward to our next event together.”

– Boston Scientific

 

“I know, for one, that your presentation to our Clinton Foundation staff energized us to dream bigger. We thank you for taking the time to do so.”

– CEO, Clinton Climate Initiative

 

“Stephen Ritz is the most inspiring and enthusiastic speaker on issues of food, sustainability, and education I have ever seen. He has the ability to take an audience on his journey to save the world through his little corner of the Bronx. The most impressive thing about hearing him speak is that he not only tells us where he’s been, he also invites us to get involved to transforming the world through local food and education activism. Si se puede!”

– Bob Brinkmann PhD., Professor and Director of Sustainability Studies, Department of Geology, Environment, and Sustainability, Director of Sustainability Research, National Center for Suburban Studies, Hofstra University

 

“Your presentation was a big success! Lots of people sent us positive comments on the entire event, but your presentation drew particular attention.”

– International Institute for Learning, Inc

 

“The hyperkinetic, self-described ‘world’s oldest sixth grader,’ Ritz only has one speed: warp”

– Fast Company

 

“You appeared in over 20% of the responses to the question ‘What was the highlight of the event for you?‘ No other speaker came even close to that rate!”

  • “The energy and passion that Stephen Ritz displayed outshone everyone else. He was amazing and his cause seems great.”
  • “Stephen Ritz was just amazing. Thanks for including him. We should all be as passionate about our work!”
  • “Green Bronx Machine was amazing!! I generally really enjoy the One Great Idea segments the most.”
  • “Stephen Ritz was amazing! We need more presenters like him who are energized, enthusiastic and passionate about their topic.”
  • “Stephen was excellent. He hit a homerun using his his passion and love for craft he has chosen.”
  • “You are such a rock star. Hundreds of people from GreenBiz Forum have been talking about you this week, and glowingly. Thank you for inspiring them.”

    – Joel Makower, Chairman and Executive Editor, GreenBiz

– Ellie Buechner, Conference Manager, GreenBiz

 

“Things went fabulous. We continue to hear from conference attendees saying how much they were inspired by Stephen.”

– West Virginia University

© 2019 Stephen Ritz