$4 million in scholarships available

At the time of year when colleges are sending out their financial aid packages, $4 million in scholarships is available through the Rhode Island Foundation.

“These scholarships can make dreams come true for the students who get help and the donors who made it possible. The results of their generosity will be felt for years as these young people make their marks in their careers and on their communities,” said David N. Cicilline, the Foundation’s president and CEO.

Hundreds of scholarships are available, and the deadline to apply for most of our scholarship opportunities is this Monday, April 15.

In addition to general assistance, the Foundation offers a number of awards targeting specific majors, including the arts, nursing and filmmaking. Other scholarship funds provide assistance based on gender or family history, among other factors, as well as aid to attend trade or technical schools.

All Rhode Island students, regardless of immigration status, are eligible to apply.

Dozens of individual and organizational donors have established scholarship funds at the Foundation to help students cover the cost of tuition, fees, and books. The Robert G. and Joyce Andrew College Scholarship Fund alone helped nearly 90 students attend college last year.

“This is life-changing. Now I can make full use of all the great learning opportunities at college with no delays or issues. The support not only enables me to pursue a career in engineering; it inspires me to grow into someone who will contribute greatly to my community in the future. I feel empowered to wholeheartedly pursue my dreams,” said Blessed Adeoye, who attends Roger Williams University with the help of an Andrew scholarship.