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The Papitto Opportunity Connection has at its roots a life-long commitment to education by Ralph and Barbara Papitto. That recognition by them that educational opportunity has the power to transform lives, especially for those in traditionally underserved communities, led to the creation of the Read to Succeed scholarship program in 2008 and was the nexus for Barbara starting the Papitto Opportunity Connection. In keeping with that commitment, we currently support the following dedicated educational scholarships.
The Papitto Opportunity Connection Law School Scholarships are offered on an annual basis to any Rhode Islander who has an undergraduate degree and has been accepted into an accredited law school anywhere in the United States. These scholarships, administered by the Rhode Island Bar Foundation, provide $25,000 annually and are renewable for two additional years. Criteria for awarding these scholarships are modeled after the Thomas F. Black Jr. Memorial Scholarship Program, and applications for both scholarships can be found on-line at ribar.com under Rhode Island Bar Foundation-Thomas F. Black Jr. Memorial Scholarship Program.
The POC/Brown Urban Education Fellowship Program invests in rising teachers by providing financial support for Urban Education Fellowship participants so they can focus on academics. The Brown Urban Education Fellowship program prepares teachers to serve in Providence-area urban schools in a way that improves student outcomes in a culturally responsive manner. The intensive, year-long course of study reflects a commitment by each fellow to the state’s urban community and requires participants to teach in urban schools for three years after finishing the program. Upon completion of the commitment, Brown University forgives each fellow’s student loans. The application and guidelines for this scholarship can be found at brown.edu.
Transform RI Scholarship
Giving Rhode Island youth a voice, and power to change our communities with the greatest need, one big idea at a time.
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Sylvio Gario never imagined he would want to become a teacher. Immigrating from the small Caribbean island of St. Maarten to the United States, Gario’s elementary school teachers encouraged him to improve his behavior, but he was unwilling to listen.
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Sofia DeSimone and Lauren Arthenayake, two powerful young women of color who aspire to create change, are the recipients of the Papitto Opportunity Connection Law School Scholarship.
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