CCRI to Recognize Ten Alumni for Achievements at the 2022 Outstanding Alumni Awards
CCRI to Recognize Ten Alumni for Achievements at the 2022 Outstanding Alumni Awards
October 20, 2022
Ten Community College of Rhode Island alumni will be inducted into the college’s Society
of Knights and Squires as part of the CCRI Foundation and Alumni Association’s 2022
Outstanding Alumni Awards.
The awards ceremony takes place Thursday, November 17 at 6 pm at CCRI’s Warwick campus. Tickets can be purchased online. Honorees are recognized for their professional achievements, community service,
and volunteerism on behalf of the college. This year’s Oustanding Alumni are: Central
Falls Mayor Maria Rivera ’99, Jeffrey C. Wright Jr. ’08, Adam Arabian ’06, Angela Creta ’98, Carmen Diaz-Jusino ’96, Yvette Ford ’05, Mariela Lucaj ’18, David Mota ’20, Alyse A. Smyth ’12, and Sergio Sousa ’04.
The Honorable Mayor Rivera, born in Camden, NJ, became Central Falls’ 33rd mayor in
November 2020 – 33 years after moving to Central Falls with her parents – winning
77 percent of the vote. She is the first woman mayor in the city’s history and the
state’s first Latina mayor. A 1995 graduate of Central Falls, Rivera earned an associate
degree at CCRI in 1999 and her Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration from Roger
Williams University. Growing up, she took many ESL classes to learn the English language
since her parents only spoke Spanish at home. During her administration, she has prioritized
the health and wellness of Central Falls residents during the COVID-19 pandemic along
with addressing the housing crisis, educational opportunities, nonviolence and safety,
and other key programs supporting residents.
Wright, a Providence, RI, native and current Woonsocket, RI, resident, is the Assistant
Principal at Veterans Memorial Elementary School in Central Falls. A devoted husband
and proud father of two children, Wright is a passionate educator and community advocate
who has worked with children in various settings for more than two decades. He earned
his associate degree from CCRI in 2008 and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in
History from Ashford University followed by his Master of Education from Providence
College. In addition to his role as an assistant principal, Wright is currently enrolled
in the Doctor of Educational Leadership Program at Johnson and Wales University, serves
as the Vice Chair on the Education Committee for the NAACP Providence Branch, and
sits on CCRI’s Alumni Association Assembly Board.
A Warwick, RI, native, Arabian is a U.S. Army combat veteran who served on the Army’s
10th Mountain Division and is currently Vice President, Head of Field Operations and
Oversight in the Consumer Cards business for Goldman Sachs Bank USA. In his role with
Goldman Sachs, Arabian manages the General Motors dealership co-branded card portfolio,
as well as the overall execution of the Field Engagement strategy. He joined the company
in 2021 supporting the launch of the General Motors co-branded card partnership, in
addition to assembling and pioneering Goldman Sachs first Field Engagement Team. Arabian
earned his associate degree from CCRI in 2006 and his bachelor’s degree in Organizational
Management from St. Joseph's University (New York).
Creta, a Cranston, RI, resident, is the Senior Advisor, Director Professional Practice
at Dana Farber Cancer Institute and is accountable for directing, coordinating, and
assisting with implementation and evaluation of programs and initiatives that support
nurses/nursing staff and comply with professional standards of practice. After earning
her Associate of Nursing degree at CCRI in 1998, Creta went on to earn her bachelor’s
and master’s degrees in Nursing from the University of Rhode Island and her Doctor
of Nursing Practice from Simmons College in Boston. Having participated in CCRI and
American Nurses Association mentoring programs, Creta is also a member of the American
Organization of Nurse Leaders, Association of Nurses Professional Development, and
Oncology Nursing Society in addition to being board certified by the American Nurses
Credentialing Center in both Nursing Professional Development and Nurse Executive
Specialties.
Born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic and now living in Providence, Diaz-Jusino
is the Vice President, Community Development Officer at BankNewport. In this role,
she is responsible for developing, implementing and administering many strategic aspects
of BankNewport’s Community Reinvestment Act Program through banking relationships
with community-based, charitable, and non-profit organizations. Diaz-Jusino earned
her associate degree in Social Studies from CCRI in 1996, her Bachelor of Arts in
Psychology from the Universidad del Caribe in Mexico, and a Master of Science in Organizational
Management and Leadership from Springfield College. In addition to her role at BankNewport,
she is a past Chair of the Board of the Economic Progress Institute, the Rhode Island
Latino Civic Fund, and the Commission for the Minority Women Business Enterprise (MWBE)
for the City of Providence. She also served as a Commissioner for the Rhode Island
Commission on Women, and served on the board of the Women’s Fund of Rhode Island,
Rhode Island State Council of the Arts, South Eastern Economic Development (SEED)
Corporation, United Way of Rhode Island, and the National Association of Women Business
Centers.
A first-generation college graduate born in Providence, RI, Ford is a Senior Regulatory
Clinical Consultant for Blue Cross Blue Shield RI and also owns her own business,
Last Made First, which she launched in 2021 amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, to empower
and educate nurses and help them navigate their career with purpose to improve retention
rates within the industry. The youngest of five children in her family, Ford earned
her Associate of Nursing degree at CCRI in 2005 and returned to college a decade later
to earn her bachelor’s from New England Institute of Technology in 2015. Ford also
earned her Master of Business Administration from Walden University and crossed over
into the private insurance industry, where she assumed a variety of roles, including
Telephonic Case Manager, Medicare Compliance, and Mental Health Parity Compliance.
Born in North Kingstown, RI, Lucaj is a Registered Nurse and a current full-time Master
of Business Administration candidate at the D'Amore-McKim School of Business at Northeastern
University concentrating in Analytics and International Business. Lucaj earned her
Associate in Nursing from CCRI in 2018 and her bachelor’s in Nursing from URI in 2020
while working as an RN at Rhode Island Hospital in the neurosurgical, medical-surgical,
and acute rehabilitation units. In March 2020 amidst the beginning of the COVID-19
pandemic, she worked as a Crisis Travel Nurse for Cross Country Nurses, which took
her to Maryland, Texas, and Massachusetts. In that role, Lucaj provided nursing care
to COVID-19 patients with respiratory failure and lung infections. She has been studying
for her MBA since 2021 and is a member of D’Amore-McKim’s Consulting Club and Women
in Business Club.
Mota, a Pawtucket, RI, native and first-generation college graduate, is a Diagnostic
and Interventional X-Ray Technologist at The Miriam Hospital. He earned his associate
degree from CCRI in 2020 and is currently studying at Rhode Island College to complete
his bachelor’s degree in Medical Imaging Management. Mota aspires to lead a group
of passionate health professionals in Interventional Radiography while setting a positive
example for his younger sister. Understanding the impact education has made on his
life, Mota also participated in College Leadership Rhode Island, a youth development
program that empowers young leaders throughout the state.
Smyth, a Newport, RI, native, is a Special Assistant Attorney General at the Rhode
Island Attorney General's Office assigned to the Narcotics and Violent Crime Unit. She earned her associate degree
in Paralegal Studies at CCRI in 2012, graduating with Highest Honors, before graduating
cum laude at Roger Williams University with her bachelor’s degree in Legal Studies and Political Science. Smyth also obtained her Juris Doctor in 2018
from the Roger Williams University School of Law where she was a member of several organizations,
including the Moot Court Executive Board, Trial Team, and the Alternative Spring Break
Program as a Pro Bono Leader and Co-Coordinator.
A native of Pawtucket, Sousa is the Regional Vice President of Marketing for Bally’s
Twin River Lincoln Casino Resort and Bally’s Tiverton Casino & Hotel where he oversees
10 departments across both properties and is responsible for managing the day-to-day
operations for Advertising, Entertainment, Promotions, Player Development, and Retail.
With more than two decades of experience in the casino industry, Sousa started at
the former Lincoln Park as a slot attendant before working his way through various
departments. He earned his associate degree in Business Administration from CCRI in
2004. A proud father of three, Sousa was named to Providence Business News’ prestigious “40 Under 40” list in 2016.
CCRI and Rhode Island Energy partner to launch free utilities career exploration program
April 17, 2025
The Community College of Rhode Island and Rhode Island Energy are teaming up to offer a free exploratory program designed to give participants a window into the growing utilities industry.
Introduction to Utilities – free to anyone who meets eligibility requirements through funding from Rhode Island Energy – is a seven-hour introductory course that provides participants with foundational skills and knowledge to explore career pathways within the utilities sector, specifically with Rhode Island Energy.
Four CCRI Faculty Honored with NISOD Awards of Excellence
April 10, 2025
Warwick, RI – The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) proudly announces that four distinguished faculty members have been recognized with the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Excellence Awards. The recipients, honored for their exceptional dedication to student success and academic excellence
CCRI Achieves Gold Status as Military Friendly® School
April 10, 2025
Warwick, RI – The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) is proud to announce that it has been designated a Military Friendly® School for the fourth consecutive year, achieving Gold status for the first time during the 2025–2026 academic year. This prestigious recognition underscores CCRI's unwavering commitment to supporting military service members, veterans, and their families.
'Overjoyed' CCRI Graduate Opens Up On Getting Engaged At Commencement'
May 23, 2025
Warwick, RI -- Samantha Lescarbeau knew she would experience one life-changing event at CCRI commencement. But she never expected what would happen after she walked across the stage at Amica Mutual Pavillion on May 15.
CCRI Announces Winners of 2025 Student Film Festival
May 22, 2025
Warwick, RI -- The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) proudly announced the winners of its 2025 Student Film Festival following a weekend of cinematic talent and storytelling. The festival kicked off with a red-carpet gala on Friday, May 10, and continued on Saturday, May 11, with a full day of student film screenings. The event drew students, faculty, and local film lovers to celebrate the achievements of CCRI’s talented filmmakers.
CCRI Launches Bold Expansion of Work-Based Learning to Strengthen Rhode Island's Workforce
May 22, 2025
Warwick, RI – The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) will launch the next phase of work-based learning to increase internships for students to work directly in workplace environments, gaining valuable skills and experience necessary for college and career success.
CCRI and Delta Dental of Rhode Island Partner to Strengthen Dental Workforce for Rhode Island's Future
May 20, 2025
A partnership between the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) and Delta Dental of Rhode Island (DDRI) is building a pipeline of highly trained, workforce-ready dental hygienists to respond to a nationwide demand for dental hygienists and lay the groundwork for a stronger, more sustainable oral healthcare system in Rhode Island.
CCRI Celebrates its 60th Commencement with Powerful Speeches, Generational Milestones, and a Proud Legacy of Alumni
May 16, 2025
On Thursday, May 15, 2025, the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) celebrated a milestone achievement: its 60th Commencement Ceremony. Held at the Amica Mutual Pavilion, the event marked the culmination of CCRI’s year-long diamond anniversary celebration and was a stirring tribute to six decades of transformation, opportunity, and achievement for Rhode Islanders.
CCRI Softball Advances to NJCAA Division III World Series for Second Consecutive Year
May 14, 2025
The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) softball team is headed back to the NJCAA Division III Softball World Series for the second consecutive season following another remarkable run in 2025. With a 19-7 overall record, CCRI is currently ranked No. 6 in the NJCAA Division III national poll and will represent the Northeast District and Region XXI at the World Series, held May 21–24 at Carrier Park in Dewitt, NY.
Record-Breaking CCRI Alum and World-Renowned Artist Brendan Murphy Receives Athletic Alumni Award
May 13, 2025
Brendan Murphy, former Smithfield, RI, resident and one of the most prolific scorers in the history of the Community College of Rhode Island’s men’s basketball program, was honored recently as the college’s Athletic Alumni Award recipient at the state’s 2024–25 Scholar-Athlete Awards ceremony hosted by House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi.
CCRI Student Athletes Honored at this Year's State Scholar-Athlete Awards
May 07, 2025
Ten student-athletes from the Community College of Rhode Island were honored last week for their athletic and academic achievements as part of the annual Scholar-Athlete Awards held in House Chamber of the Rhode Island State House. The Legislative Awards are designed to provide public recognition for student-athletes from CCRI, Rhode Island College, and the University of Rhode Island for significant achievements in their academic and athletic pursuits. The honorees have also demonstrated exemplary citizenship and community service.
CCRI and RIC Launch New Fully Online RN-to-BSN Program
May 06, 2025
The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) and Rhode Island College (RIC) are proud to announce the launch of a new, fully online Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-to-BSN) program. This innovative partnership offers CCRI nursing graduates a seamless, affordable, and flexible pathway to earn their BSN while delivering the academic rigor and clinical relevance that Rhode Island’s healthcare system demands.
CCRI Partners with United Way to Open 211 Satellite Office
April 29, 2025
The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) has partnered with United Way of Rhode Island to establish a 211 satellite office on CCRI’s Warwick campus, expanding access to essential community resources for students. This collaboration underscores CCRI’s ongoing commitment to removing barriers to student success and ensuring students have the support they need to thrive both in and out of the classroom.
CCRI Launches Free Ophthalmic Technician Training Program
April 23, 2025
Warwick, R.I. – The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) is proud to announce the launch of a new Ophthalmic Technician training program through its Division of Workforce Partnerships. This 120-hour program, beginning in May 2025, is free of charge and designed to prepare participants for immediate employment in a fast-growing healthcare field.
CCRI Foundation Elects Four New Members to its Board of Trustees
April 23, 2025
The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) Foundation has appointed four new members to its Board of Trustees. We are honored to welcome these four distinguished leaders to the CCRI Foundation,” said Rosemary Costigan, Ph.D, RN, Interim President of CCRI. “Their diverse backgrounds, deep ties to the community, and shared dedication will support us in advancing the college’s mission of access, equity and opportunity.
CCRI and Rhode Island Energy partner to launch free utilities career exploration program
April 17, 2025
The Community College of Rhode Island and Rhode Island Energy are teaming up to offer a free exploratory program designed to give participants a window into the growing utilities industry.
Introduction to Utilities – free to anyone who meets eligibility requirements through funding from Rhode Island Energy – is a seven-hour introductory course that provides participants with foundational skills and knowledge to explore career pathways within the utilities sector, specifically with Rhode Island Energy.
Four CCRI Faculty Honored with NISOD Awards of Excellence
April 10, 2025
Warwick, RI – The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) proudly announces that four distinguished faculty members have been recognized with the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Excellence Awards. The recipients, honored for their exceptional dedication to student success and academic excellence
CCRI Achieves Gold Status as Military Friendly® School
April 10, 2025
Warwick, RI – The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) is proud to announce that it has been designated a Military Friendly® School for the fourth consecutive year, achieving Gold status for the first time during the 2025–2026 academic year. This prestigious recognition underscores CCRI's unwavering commitment to supporting military service members, veterans, and their families.
'Overjoyed' CCRI Graduate Opens Up On Getting Engaged At Commencement'
May 23, 2025
Warwick, RI -- Samantha Lescarbeau knew she would experience one life-changing event at CCRI commencement. But she never expected what would happen after she walked across the stage at Amica Mutual Pavillion on May 15.
CCRI Announces Winners of 2025 Student Film Festival
May 22, 2025
Warwick, RI -- The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) proudly announced the winners of its 2025 Student Film Festival following a weekend of cinematic talent and storytelling. The festival kicked off with a red-carpet gala on Friday, May 10, and continued on Saturday, May 11, with a full day of student film screenings. The event drew students, faculty, and local film lovers to celebrate the achievements of CCRI’s talented filmmakers.
CCRI Launches Bold Expansion of Work-Based Learning to Strengthen Rhode Island's Workforce
May 22, 2025
Warwick, RI – The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) will launch the next phase of work-based learning to increase internships for students to work directly in workplace environments, gaining valuable skills and experience necessary for college and career success.
CCRI and Delta Dental of Rhode Island Partner to Strengthen Dental Workforce for Rhode Island's Future
May 20, 2025
A partnership between the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) and Delta Dental of Rhode Island (DDRI) is building a pipeline of highly trained, workforce-ready dental hygienists to respond to a nationwide demand for dental hygienists and lay the groundwork for a stronger, more sustainable oral healthcare system in Rhode Island.
CCRI Celebrates its 60th Commencement with Powerful Speeches, Generational Milestones, and a Proud Legacy of Alumni
May 16, 2025
On Thursday, May 15, 2025, the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) celebrated a milestone achievement: its 60th Commencement Ceremony. Held at the Amica Mutual Pavilion, the event marked the culmination of CCRI’s year-long diamond anniversary celebration and was a stirring tribute to six decades of transformation, opportunity, and achievement for Rhode Islanders.
CCRI Softball Advances to NJCAA Division III World Series for Second Consecutive Year
May 14, 2025
The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) softball team is headed back to the NJCAA Division III Softball World Series for the second consecutive season following another remarkable run in 2025. With a 19-7 overall record, CCRI is currently ranked No. 6 in the NJCAA Division III national poll and will represent the Northeast District and Region XXI at the World Series, held May 21–24 at Carrier Park in Dewitt, NY.
Record-Breaking CCRI Alum and World-Renowned Artist Brendan Murphy Receives Athletic Alumni Award
May 13, 2025
Brendan Murphy, former Smithfield, RI, resident and one of the most prolific scorers in the history of the Community College of Rhode Island’s men’s basketball program, was honored recently as the college’s Athletic Alumni Award recipient at the state’s 2024–25 Scholar-Athlete Awards ceremony hosted by House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi.
CCRI Student Athletes Honored at this Year's State Scholar-Athlete Awards
May 07, 2025
Ten student-athletes from the Community College of Rhode Island were honored last week for their athletic and academic achievements as part of the annual Scholar-Athlete Awards held in House Chamber of the Rhode Island State House. The Legislative Awards are designed to provide public recognition for student-athletes from CCRI, Rhode Island College, and the University of Rhode Island for significant achievements in their academic and athletic pursuits. The honorees have also demonstrated exemplary citizenship and community service.
CCRI and RIC Launch New Fully Online RN-to-BSN Program
May 06, 2025
The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) and Rhode Island College (RIC) are proud to announce the launch of a new, fully online Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-to-BSN) program. This innovative partnership offers CCRI nursing graduates a seamless, affordable, and flexible pathway to earn their BSN while delivering the academic rigor and clinical relevance that Rhode Island’s healthcare system demands.
CCRI Partners with United Way to Open 211 Satellite Office
April 29, 2025
The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) has partnered with United Way of Rhode Island to establish a 211 satellite office on CCRI’s Warwick campus, expanding access to essential community resources for students. This collaboration underscores CCRI’s ongoing commitment to removing barriers to student success and ensuring students have the support they need to thrive both in and out of the classroom.
CCRI Launches Free Ophthalmic Technician Training Program
April 23, 2025
Warwick, R.I. – The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) is proud to announce the launch of a new Ophthalmic Technician training program through its Division of Workforce Partnerships. This 120-hour program, beginning in May 2025, is free of charge and designed to prepare participants for immediate employment in a fast-growing healthcare field.
CCRI Foundation Elects Four New Members to its Board of Trustees
April 23, 2025
The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) Foundation has appointed four new members to its Board of Trustees. We are honored to welcome these four distinguished leaders to the CCRI Foundation,” said Rosemary Costigan, Ph.D, RN, Interim President of CCRI. “Their diverse backgrounds, deep ties to the community, and shared dedication will support us in advancing the college’s mission of access, equity and opportunity.
CCRI and Rhode Island Energy partner to launch free utilities career exploration program
April 17, 2025
The Community College of Rhode Island and Rhode Island Energy are teaming up to offer a free exploratory program designed to give participants a window into the growing utilities industry.
Introduction to Utilities – free to anyone who meets eligibility requirements through funding from Rhode Island Energy – is a seven-hour introductory course that provides participants with foundational skills and knowledge to explore career pathways within the utilities sector, specifically with Rhode Island Energy.
Four CCRI Faculty Honored with NISOD Awards of Excellence
April 10, 2025
Warwick, RI – The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) proudly announces that four distinguished faculty members have been recognized with the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Excellence Awards. The recipients, honored for their exceptional dedication to student success and academic excellence
CCRI Achieves Gold Status as Military Friendly® School
April 10, 2025
Warwick, RI – The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) is proud to announce that it has been designated a Military Friendly® School for the fourth consecutive year, achieving Gold status for the first time during the 2025–2026 academic year. This prestigious recognition underscores CCRI's unwavering commitment to supporting military service members, veterans, and their families.