Rhode Island PBS Offers $15k Communications Scholarship

Rhode Island PBS, WSBE, is offering one high school senior interested in studying communications, journalism or broadcasting a $15,000 scholarship. The deadline to apply is April 5.

“Consistent with our commitment to education and lifelong learning, we are pleased and grateful to help aspiring broadcasters and journalists pursue this career path,” Rhode Island PBS President David W. Piccerelli said in a statement.

The scholarship is open to seniors in Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts high schools. The $15,000 scholarship can be renewed for up to four years at at a four-year post-secondary school.

"Over time, our scholarship will almost be enough to pay for a student’s education at Rhode Island College or the University of Rhode Island, which have excellent media communications programs," Piccerelli continued. "We see this as a way of encouraging students to choose journalism and communications as a profession."

To apply, students need to submit a copy of their high school transcript, a financial aid worksheet, proof of residency and a letter of recommendation from a teacher or another professional.

Rhode Island PBS launched the scholarship in 2017 through a partnership with the Rhode Island Foundation. The first recipient, Audrey Martin of Mansfield, Massachusetts, studies journalism at Boston University.

“We’re grateful to work with donors like Rhode Island PBS that understand the importance of investing in young people. The effects of their philanthropy will be felt for decades as these students join the workforce and contribute to the civic life of their professions and communities,” said Neil Steinberg, the foundation’s president and CEO.

Applications are due by April 5. For more information on applying, visit the Rhode Island Foundation website.