The South County Pride Foundation recognizes outstanding members of the community with our annual Youth Scholarships and Elder Awards. Each awardee displays courage in standing up for their identity and their community.

​Awardees are selected by an independent scholarship board in the weeks leading up to the annual SC Pride Parade. Scroll down for a list of past awardees, and check back soon for details on our 2026 award cycle!

2025 Elder Award

Queer Elder Award winner Richard Muto (left), and South County Pride board member Amelia Ortega (right).

​The 2025 Queer Elder Award was awarded to Richard Muto for his upstanding role in the Rhode Island queer community and for his outstanding work with the Brain Injury Association of America. Richard has served the southern Rhode Island community, and South County Pride is honored to recognize the positive impact that his work has had. View Richard's testimonials here. 

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2025 Youth Scholarship

2025 Youth Scholarship winners (left to right): Rory Cook, Rowan Marelli, Rachel Ullucci, Hayden Puglia, and Adaline LaBossiere.

The 2025 South County Pride Young Adult Scholarships were awarded to Rory Cook, Rowan Marelli, Rachel Ullucci, Hayden Puglia, and Adaline LaBossiere. 

2024 Elder Award

2024 Queer Elder Award winner Michael Alper.

The 2024 Queer Elder Award was given to Michael Alper, for his longstanding service as a teacher in the South Kingstown school system. Michael's work as an educator and an actor has inspired countless youth to live their truth and reach for their fullest potential. 

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2024 Youth Scholarship

2024 Youth Scholarship winner Ruby Erickson.

2024 Youth Scholarship winner Addy Cook.

The 2024 South County Pride Young Adult Scholarships were awarded to SKHS graduates Ruby Erickson and Addy Cook. We are so proud of their accomplishments, and can't wait to see what they strive towards in the future!