URI Receives Record Gift for STEM Scholarships

Imagine this: a woman graduates from the University of Rhode Island in the 1950s, a time when women pursuing higher education were rare. Fast forward to 2023, and her estate, along with her husband's, gifts URI a whopping $65 million—the largest donation in the university's history. Meet Helen Izzi Schilling, an oncologist who believed in the power of education, especially in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). This gift will fund scholarships for top students in these fields, starting in fall 2025. Each student can receive up to $20, 000 per year.

URI president Marc Parlange is thrilled, saying this will impact many generations of students. The university offers 40 STEM programs across its three campuses. The Schilling Scholars Program will focus on academic rigor, leadership, and community involvement. This gift comes at a perfect time, as URI is also building a new biomedical sciences facility. Rhode Island will benefit from attracting talented STEM students, especially with its ocean-based economy push. Helen's son, Paul, will oversee the program, ensuring her mother's legacy lives on.

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