RI Student Wins $60,000 RI PBS Journalism Scholarship

CRANSTON, RI — A recent graduate of Cranston High School East was awarded Rhode Island PBS's $60,000 scholarship for students pursuing a career in broadcasting, communications or journalism.

Isabella Ba of Cranston was selected from 27 applicants from the station’s broadcast area in Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts. The 2023 graduate of Cranston High School East plans to major in communications at Rhode Island College.

"When I was notified I won this scholarship, I had to share the news with my mom immediately," Ba said. "Many students like me cannot help but worry about the financial costs of college. I felt a huge relief when I realized I was going to be able to now afford to attend college, live on campus, play tennis for RIC, contribute to my school community and pursue a career in broadcasting or public relations, something I have wanted to do for a long time. Being chosen as a recipient of this scholarship makes me feel seen and supported. It gives me a sense of hope knowing people believe in me and want to see me succeed and make a difference in this world."

Ba began considering a career in broadcasting in middle school, when she visited a local television station's booth at a career fair, but it was her experience with Cranston East's Bolts Broadcasting that sealed the deal.

"My mentor, Mr. Silva, was inspirational in helping me learn the skills needed to be successful in broadcasting. Speaking in front of a crowd and on the radio comes naturally to me through my experience at Cranston East," said Ba. "I want to become someone that people can rely on to bring them their news and information while doing so with joy each day as I have done for the past four years."

At Cranston East, Ba was captain of the tennis team, battalion commander for JROTC, and president of the senior class and the National Honor Society. She also participated in theater, Cranston Police Explorers and Bolts Broadcasting among other activities.

This is the sixth year Rhode Island PBS has awarded scholarships of up to $15,000 a year through a $1 million scholarship fund created at the Rhode Island Foundation.

"We are proud to have donors like Rhode Island PBS that value the importance of investing in the next generation," Rhode Island Foundation President David Cicilline said. "As the recipients graduate from college, start their careers and contribute to the civic life of their communities, the impact of these scholarships will make a difference for decades."

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