Bar Foundation Scholarships
The Rhode Island Bar Foundation is proud to support the next generation of legal professionals through its scholarship programs. These competitive, one-year, non-renewable awards are designed to assist promising Rhode Island residents entering their first year of law school in September 2026. In January 2026, the Bar Foundation will begin accepting applications for scholarships totaling up to $150,000. Each scholarship recognizes academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to service.
Students are encouraged to apply if they meet the eligibility criteria and are seeking financial assistance to begin their legal education. The deadline to submit all application materials is March 31, 2026.
For more information, click below:
Scholarship Guidelines and Application
Scholarships
Thomas F. Black, Jr. Scholarships Program
The Rhode Island Bar Foundation’s Thomas F. Black, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund was established in 1989 to support and foster high legal practice standards by assisting Rhode Island residents who show promise that they will become outstanding lawyers and who need financial assistance to study law. The Scholarship is in honor of the late Thomas F. Black, Jr., a person known for his impressive ability as a lawyer and banker, his deeply rooted legal scholarship and his notable participation in civic and charitable causes. The Bar Foundation intends to award two scholarships of $25,000 to a Rhode Island resident who will be entering their first year of law school in September 2026. The scholarship is for the first year of law school only and non-renewable.
Nicole J. Benjamin Scholarship Program
The Nicole J. Benjamin Scholarship was founded in 2023 by Past Bar Foundation President John A. Tarantino, Esq. and recognizes President Benjamin's exemplary contributions to the legal community. It aims to support aspiring legal professionals who exhibit leadership potential and a commitment to service to the community. Benjamin candidates will need to consider what makes an effective leader and explain how they possess the qualities of a good leader. The Bar Foundation intends to award one scholarship of $25,000 to a Rhode Island resident who will be entering their first year of law school in September 2026. The scholarship is for the first year of law school only and non-renewable.
Patrice A. Tarantino Memorial Scholarship Program
The Patrice A. Tarantino Memorial Scholarship Fund was established in 2022 by former Bar Foundation President John A. Tarantino in memory of his late wife, Pat. The Scholarship is a lasting tribute to Pat’s memory. The Bar Foundation intends to award one scholarship of $25,000 to a Rhode Island resident who will be entering their first year of law school in September 2026. The scholarship is for the first year of law school only and non-renewable.
Papitto Opportunity Connection Scholarships
Two scholarships from the Papitto Opportunity Connection Foundation (Papitto) in the amount of $25,000 each will also be awarded to candidates who are dedicated to serving and uplifting underserved communities. Papitto candidates must provide specific examples of strategies that have been undertaken, or will be undertaken, within both the legal profession and the broader community to support these communities. Papitto candidates should reflect on how their unique backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives have shaped their commitment to advocating for underserved populations. Founded in December 2020, the Papitto Opportunity Connection was formed by Barbara Papitto as a continuation of the long-time commitment she and her late-husband Ralph have made to creating educational opportunities and supporting underserved communities in Rhode Island.