Carter Roger Williams Scholarship

This annual scholarship program is intended to inspire students and their parents to think big about what’s possible for their future. Students who appreciate and embody Roger Williams’s values and legacy are encouraged to apply.

Rhode Island founder Roger Williams was a remarkable man. He came from a very modest background, and access to education was absolutely key in shaping his character, beliefs, and actions throughout his life. Roger Williams set the standard for separation of church and state that the nation adopted, and his vision and determination built the “lively experiment” that was and is Rhode Island. Many of his values are more relevant than ever.

More information about Roger Williams, his life, and legacy can be found online.

The Carter Roger Williams Scholarship was conceived of and funded by the late philanthropists Letitia and John Carter.

Scholarship Award Details

The scholarship provides up to $20,000 in educational aid, per student per year, for graduating high school seniors in Rhode Island. Awards are renewable for up to three consecutive years following the first award, with proof of continued financial need and academic good standing.

The program's intent is to help support enrollment at a college or university that may have otherwise been out of reach for the student and his/her family.

The Rhode Island Foundation administers this competitive scholarship process, which is overseen by an advisory committee of community members. The selection process consists of two stages: an initial review of completed applications to identify finalists, followed by interviews conducted by the advisory committee.

Scholarship Criteria

• Completion of a Stand-Alone Application for the Carter Roger Williams Scholarship, which may include essays, transcripts, a résumé worksheet, letters of recommendation, and other supporting documents.
• Currently residing in Rhode Island.
• Current senior at any high school (public, independent, or private) in Rhode Island.
• Accepted by an accredited post-secondary institution (by the date of the award).
• An advisory committee of community members and Rhode Island Foundation staff will evaluate potential candidates according to the following criteria:
  • Financial need (45%) Student must provide evidence of financial need, including information about their family’s financial resources and projected expenses and how this scholarship will make a meaningful difference in their educational plans.
  • Comprehension and application of Roger Williams’ legacy (35%) Student must demonstrate a strong understanding of Roger Williams’ principles and legacy and show how they embody these values in their own life. This will be illustrated through a personal essay that explains both their comprehension of his ideals and the ways they apply those principles in practice.
  • Academic record (20%) Student should exhibit a track record of strong academic performance and intellectual rigor as demonstrated by a transcript.

Deadline and Application Materials

Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. on Monday, March 2, 2026. 

Students must apply through the Rhode Island Foundation’s secure online scholarship platform.