Michael P. Metcalf Memorial Award
Christine T. Grinavic Adventurer's Fund
(for travel, enrichment, and public service)

In 1989, the Michael P. Metcalf Memorial Fund was established at The Rhode Island Foundation to honor the memory of Michael P. Metcalf, publisher of the Providence Journal. The Christine T. Grinavic Adventurer's Fund was established in 2007 in memory of Christine Grinavic, a University of Rhode Island student with an adventurous spirit who was a crew member of the vessel Flying Colours when it was lost at sea in 2007.

The funds provide grants to college students to subsidize experiences intended to broaden their perspective and enhance personal growth. They may include travel in this country and abroad and a variety of internship and public service programs. However, the funds do not reimburse students for unearned summer wages. Traditional programs and those that are a regular part of the student’s curriculum of his/her institution’s offerings — such as a sponsored junior year abroad or a departmentally sponsored summer research program — will not be funded. Enrichment experiences for which students will receive college credit(s) would not qualify for funding. Grants are not intended for purchase of equipment or other capital expenses. Numerous awards of up to $7,500 each will be given. All applicants will be notified of the decision in March.

Selection criteria

Applications will be accepted from college freshmen, sophomores and juniors who are legal residents of Rhode Island. The enrichment experience is to occur by year end 2012. Plans must include a well-defined program and demonstrate clear purpose. Applicants must show financial need for support in completing the project. Those selected must submit a final project — in writing and perhaps another medium — communicating the value of the experience in furthering their long-term goals. Criteria for evaluating applications include: clarity and thoughtfulness of application, creativity and motivation of proposed project, evidence of self-direction and initiative, and financial need.

A complete application includes:

• Completed online application form
• Your official college transcript
• Resumé
• Financial worksheet
• A copy of your financial aid award letter
• A copy of your final Student Aid Report
• Two proofs of Rhode Island residency
• Two letters of recommendation from faculty, employers or other professional persons who understand why the proposed experience is appropriate for you
• Description of enrichment experience, including plans, preparation, amount requested and how funds will be used, breakdown of itemized expenses, and how this experience will further your goals.
• Supporting documentation concerning the proposed experience (optional).

Application deadline: January 20, 2012