2 Newport High School Students Win Scholarships Worth Up To $320K

NEWPORT, RI — The Rhode Island Foundation will send two Rogers High School graduates off to college with scholarships worth up to $320,000 over four years.

Antonio Boyd and Brettyn-Olivia Newsome of Newport were among just five students selected statewide based on their academic achievement, financial need, appreciation for Roger Williams’ values and record of community service. About 70 students across Rhode Island competed for the scholarship assistance.

The scholarships are part of the foundation's Carter Roger Williams Initiative, which was launched by philanthropists Letitia Carter and the late John Carter.

"Thanks to the continued generosity of the Carter family, these students are able to think big about their future," foundation President David Cicilline said. "By finding inspiration in Roger Williams, they are on the path to creating their own inspiring stories."

Boyd said he plans to attend George Washington University to pursue a business and innovation degree and an internship with the CIA. At Rogers High School, Boyd participated in the National Honor Society, the honors and key club. He also works at Cold Fusion and Perfection Valet Parking.

"I began high school in Nevada, but the education was very behind compared to Rogers," Boyd said. "I have been at Rogers since my junior year. I will graduate with a much better education. I knew it was the best thing long-term for my future."

Newsome plans to attend Abilene Christian University and study communication and sciences disorders. Her goal is to become a speech pathologist.

"I am told that I am a true helper, and I would love to make a difference in the world," Newsome said. "It is so important to be able to help people have a voice and language so that they can clearly communicate their needs, wants, desires and beliefs."

At Rogers High School, Newsome's activities included student council, sailing, cross-country, gymnastics, the yearbook and the National Honor Society. She also received the R.I. Secretary of State’s Civic Leadership Award.

Additionally, she volunteers at the OceanPointe Christian Church and community events such as Night to Shine, a prom for teens and adults with special needs; and Seniors for Seniors, a card-writing campaign for residents of the Grand Islander nursing home during the pandemic.

In her application, Newsome shared how she relates to Roger Williams’ values.

"Like Mr. Williams, I have a love for languages and have seen the benefits of this gift," Newsome said. "I know that being multilingual will be helpful to assimilate in any culture that I may journey to as well as assist me in my future profession. While I know that I cannot be fluent in every language, I can learn a few to better understand people I may encounter in my community."

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