PROVIDENCE, RI – Scarlett Biancuzzo is this year’s recipient of the Rhode Island PBS and The Public’s Radio Scholarship for high school seniors or college students pursuing a career in broadcasting, communications or journalism. The award – up to $60,000 – is renewable for up to four years.
“At a time when trusted, independent journalism is more essential than ever, we have both the privilege and responsibility to nurture the next generation of thoughtful, curious media professionals who tell the stories that matter and cover the issues that affect us all. This scholarship reflects our commitment to strengthening that pipeline,” said Pam Johnston, president and CEO of Ocean State Media, formerly Rhode Island PBS and The Public’s Radio. “Congratulations to Scarlett—we’re proud to support her journey into a field so vital to our communities and our democracy.”
The Barrington High School Class of 2025 graduate was selected from 38 applicants from the station’s broadcast area in Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts. She plans to major in journalism and political science at the University of Missouri.
“Receiving this award is validation that the perseverance I have put forth over the past four years has paid off. The generous PBS scholarship will, no doubt, significantly decrease the financial burden of college while simultaneously allowing me to focus on my ultimate goal of becoming a broadcast journalist,” said Biancuzzo.
Although a resident of Bristol, she attended Barrington High in order to explore her interest in journalism through its Career and Technical Education program in Television Production.
“Television production is deeply rooted in journalism, specifically broadcast journalism. I learned how to pose questions that encourage meaningful responses and provide opportunities for others to tell their stories in their own voice,” she said.
“My interest in journalism was supported by my parents and Eagle News Network advisor, Mr. West. They have all helped me continue to follow my dreams and I would not have made it without them! In particular, my advisor has presented me with endless opportunities that have helped me grow in the broadcasting field,” she explained.
Biancuzzo says the highlight was researching, filming and editing a news package that centered on the well-being of health care workers during the Covid crisis.
“I decided to study the overall impact the pandemic was having on nurses,” she remembered. “I quickly began calling various hospitals and was finally granted an interview at Newport Hospital. I can honestly say, without a doubt, that this news package project was the impetus for my love of journalism.”
At Barrington High, Biancuzzo participated in Eagles News Network and Sunrise, was president of Best Buddies, was inducted into the National Honor Society, was a member of the Crew team, received the Rhode Island Civic Leadership Award and the Principal’s Leadership Award, and was named an AP Scholar.
This is the eighth year Rhode Island PBS and The Public’s Radio has awarded scholarships of up to $15,000 through a $1 million scholarship fund created at the Rhode Island Foundation. The selection was made by a review committee coordinated by the Foundation.
“We are grateful to have partners like this that value the importance of investing in young people. As the recipients graduate from college, start their careers and contribute to the civic life of their communities, the impact of these scholarships will pay dividends for decades,” said David N. Cicilline, the Foundation’s president and CEO.
Students had to submit an essay, a current academic transcript, a financial aid worksheet, proof of residency and a letter of recommendation from a teacher or professional attesting to the applicant’s merit towards a successful career in broadcasting, communications or journalism.
For more information about applying for a Rhode Island PBS and The Public’s Radio scholarship next year, visit rifoundation.org.
Rhode Island PBS and The Public’s Radio is operated by the Rhode Island PBS Foundation and The Public’s Radio, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that serves Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts. Rhode Island PBS broadcasts content on two channels: WSBE (digital 36.1) and Learn (digital 36.2). The Public’s Radio can be heard over the air at 89.3 FM and via smartphone apps. For local stories, digital content and educational resources, visit oceanstatemedia.org.
