WARWICK, RI (WLNE) — The Community College of Rhode Island has received the largest anonymous donation in its 60-year history.
Interim President Dr. Rosemary Costigan announced during the CCRI’s 60th anniversary inaugural meeting that the institution had received a $2 million donation.
“I am thrilled to announce this historic gift. For too long, gifts of this magnitude have been limited to four-year institutions, but this donor saw the potential for a disproportionate impact in improving equity and access to higher education,” said Dr. Rosemary Costigan.
The funds will finance a free, three-year pilot program called CCRI Advantage, which is designed to increase student success and shorten the path to graduation.
CCRI Advantage is a seven-week program that focuses on student success in the second half of their first semester with individualized academic coaching, tutoring and support services.
The donation will cover the cost of tuition fees, laptops, course materials and other expenses.
“This program is more than just a stepping stone; it’s a launching pad for our students,” said Dr. Costigan. “With tailored support from day one, CCRI Advantage exemplifies our commitment to innovative approaches that meet our students where they are.”
