Eagle Scouts, Gold Award Recipients Now Get Automatic Admission To RI Public Colleges

PROVIDENCE, RI — A new law grants automatic admission to the state’s public colleges and universities to Eagle Scouts and Girl Scout Gold Award recipients.

The legislation was introduced by state Sen. David P. Tikoian, D-Smithfield, Lincoln and North Providence, and state Rep. Tina L. Spears, D-Dist. 36, Charlestown, Westerly, South Kingstown and New Shoreham.

“The rigors, labors, commitment and dedication that define an Eagle Scout or a Gold Award recipient are unique among America’s youth,” Tikoian said in a media release.

“It’s difficult for anyone outside the Scouting world to fathom the time and energy that goes into the process of obtaining Scouting’s highest honors," Tikoian said. "Now more than ever the world needs these individuals to lead a new generation, and the least we can do is make sure that the doors of our public institutions are open wide to them.”

The new law "applies to any Rhode Island resident who has earned the rank of Eagle Scout from Scouting America or the Gold Award from the Girl Scouts of the USA and meets all minimum application submission requirements of the institution," according to the release.

“Becoming an Eagle Scout or earning a Gold Award are among the most vigorous and intensive accomplishments that any young person can achieve,” Spears said in the release.

“It shows a commitment to hard work, leadership, networking and logistics — all qualities we want in our workforce," Spears said. "It would serve our state well to keep these successful young adults in our state by guaranteeing them acceptance in our public colleges.”

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