Deadline looms for R.I. Foundation scholarships

Apply soon for college aid honoring the legacy of Roger Williams

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PROVIDENCE – High school seniors have until Feb. 16 to apply for college scholarships of up to $80,000 from the Rhode Island Foundation. The scholarships are intended to promote the legacy of Roger Williams, generally considered to be the father of religious freedom in America.

“This annual scholarship program is intended to inspire students and their parents to think big about what’s possible for their future and to value the role of education,” said Jessica David, senior vice president of strategy and community investments. The Roger Williams Scholarship was conceived, and funded by, philanthropists Letitia and John Carter.

“Rhode Island founder Roger Williams was a remarkable man. He came from a very modest background, and access to education was absolutely key in shaping his character, beliefs, and actions throughout his life. Roger Williams set the standard for separation of church and state that the nation adopted, and his vision and determination built the ‘lively experiment’ that was and is Rhode Island. Many of his values are more relevant than ever,” she said.

The Foundation will award up to three scholarships per year. The maximum scholarship will be $20,000 per year per student. The awards are renewable for up to three consecutive years following the first award, based on proof of the recipient’s continued financial need and academic good standing.

To be eligible, students must be residents of Rhode Island, be seniors at any high school in Rhode Island and have been accepted by an accredited post-secondary institution by the time the scholarship is awarded.

Students must submit a completed application; a written, video or audio personal essay; proof of residency, such as a driver’s license or letter from their school; an academic transcript; a letter of recommendation; a Student Aid Report and a financial need worksheet online at findingrogerwilliams.org. The personal essay should be no more than five written pages, or no more than five minutes in a video or audio format.  

Applicants will be evaluated based on their financial need, understanding and embodiment of Roger Williams’ legacy and academic and community service achievements.

The website also includes a free education hub offering activities and discussion starters on Roger Williams and his teachings for elementary, middle and high school educators to use in their classrooms. Also posted on the website is a comprehensive collection of verifiable information about Roger Williams, his life, legacy and character.

“We wanted to establish a sense of place and awareness for all Rhode Islanders by providing access to resources and opportunities inspired by our state’s founder and his teachings,” said David.

“This initiative is meant to encourage review and reflection. Roger Williams was a complex man, he was forward-thinking and yet very much a man of his time. We are committed to presenting a complete, verifiable and accurate portrayal of who he was and what he accomplished – without bias,” she said. 

The Rhode Island Foundation is the largest and most comprehensive funder of nonprofit organizations in Rhode Island. In 2015, the Foundation awarded more than $41.5 million in grants to organizations addressing the state’s most pressing issues and needs of diverse communities. Through leadership, fundraising, and grant-making activities, often in partnership with individuals and organizations, the Foundation is helping Rhode Island reach its true potential. For more information, visit rifoundation.org.