2026 TRIS Scholars
Tristan Boyns
Bishop Hendricken High School
Tristan’s big idea is to build RhodeReach, an app that connects Rhode Islanders with the nonprofits they need. With just a few taps, users can donate or sign up to volunteer with verified local organizations, turning goodwill into action.
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Snigdha Kethineni
Lincoln High School
Snigdha’s big idea is Cycle Sense, a program that will strive to create menstrual equality in Rhode Island so that every woman will have the products and necessary information to not only take care of themselves, but to thrive and achieve whatever they desire.
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Ella Kauffman
East Greenwich High School
Ella’s big idea is a statewide music mentorship network that will remove financial and transportation barriers by providing free instruments and music lessons to underserved elementary and middle school students.By expanding access to music education across Rhode Island, this initiative would strengthen academic success, support mental health, and build confidence and community.
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Gabriela Neves
Cumberland High School
Gabriela’s big idea is to create a way for students who receive free or reduced lunches to have access to food during the summer months when school is not in session.
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Hope Carlson
St. Mary Academy – Bayview
Hope’s big idea is a pop-up program where teens upcycle secondhand clothes into something they’re proud to wear. Inspired by her own thrift store creation, Hope wants young people, especially those facing hardship, to experience the joy of making something with their hands, in community, and saying, “Thanks, I made it.”
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Abigale King
Cumberland High School
Abigale’s big idea is The Rhody Relief Van. It is a mobile wellness unit that will provide Rhode Islanders with immediate mental health support. Featuring free meditation sessions and therapeutic experiences, this project proactively reduces crises by bringing care, joy, and resources directly to local neighborhoods.
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Mateo Ullaguari
Blackstone Valley Prep
Mateo’s big idea is to improve mobility access and create meaningful, lasting change for Rhode Island’s disabled community through the stRIde initiative. stRIde is designed to expand accessibility, affordability, and sustainability in mobility support by integrating equipment access, transportation, repair services, and home modification support. This comprehensive approach empowers individuals at every stage of their mobility journey.
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Evan Perez
The MET High School
Evan’s big idea is Mobile Foundry, a creative studio on wheels designed to bring professional tools, ethical AI, and mentorship to Rhode Island students who otherwise wouldn’t have access. Built to empower human creativity, not replace it, Mobile Foundry hosts structured sessions on school campuses during the day and travels statewide after school to meet students where they live. Inside, students gain access to the tools, knowledge, and space they need to create something real.
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Leydi Maritza Ramos Sam
Nowell Academy
Leydi’s big idea is to build clean, safe, and reliable restrooms in parks across Rhode Island, starting with high-need areas where the lack of facilities is most noticeable. Her proposal would help make Rhode Island’s parks more welcoming, accessible, and dignified spaces for every resident.
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Rio VieraSpears
The MET High School
Rio’s big idea is to create a program that places high school students at senior centers and housing authorities to teach technology workshops and build intergenerational relationships. Youth will earn meaningful job experience, strengthen their communication and teaching skills, and gain a stronger sense of community. Older adults will build confidence using technology, reduce loneliness and isolation, and gain access to tools that improve daily life.
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