Inaugural Shawmut Scholars Graduate, New Scholarships Announced for 2025

Bristol, Rhode Island, March 04, 2025 /GLOBE NEWSWIRE/ — Roger Williams University (RWU) celebrates the graduation of its inaugural cohort of Shawmut Scholars, who have benefited from four years of practical training and mentorship provided by Shawmut Design and Construction, a national construction management firm. These students, set to graduate this spring, are equipped to lead in the construction industry with real-world experience and full tuition support.

The Shawmut Scholars program, established in 2021, aims to develop a diverse workforce in the construction management sector through scholarships, paid internships, professional development, and mentorship for students majoring in construction management or engineering. Participants experienced hands-on learning through site visits and direct communication with industry professionals.

“Shawmut Design and Construction is proud to celebrate the inaugural class of Shawmut Scholars at Roger Williams University, students who have gained real-world training and are ready for great careers in construction management,” said Les Hiscoe, CEO of Shawmut. “Now, we look forward to seeing all they accomplish in the industry, including two of the scholars who will soon join Shawmut as full-time employee-owners upon graduation.”

Amy Parrilla, a senior majoring in Construction Management with a minor in Business from Medford, Massachusetts, shared the program’s impact on her growth. “The Shawmut Scholars program has given me a sense of community that I didn’t have before,” said Parrilla. “It made me realize that I can succeed, that I do belong here, and I can handle the challenges that come my way.”

During her time in the program, Parrilla worked on notable projects such as a historic mansion in Newport, which enhanced her project management skills. She also contributed to a schools project in North Providence, where she gained insight into client relations.

Sierra Zschirnt, Director of External Relations at RWU, emphasized the significance of the Shawmut Scholars program. “It offers our students not only the opportunity to gain valuable internships but also professional guidance and mentorship necessary to navigate an industry where they may lack connections,” said Zschirnt.

Another participant, Jenifer Gomez, a senior double majoring in Construction Management and Spanish with a minor in Business from Providence, Rhode Island, noted that the program was a decisive factor in her choice to attend RWU. “It provided me with early access to industry professionals, hands-on experiences, and a supportive community,” Gomez said.

Gomez assisted with significant projects, including a large-scale commercial build in downtown Providence, enhancing her understanding of construction logistics and contractor coordination. “The Shawmut Scholars program played a pivotal role in my decision to attend RWU,” she added.

Bryant Olivo, a senior Civil Engineering major with a minor in Mathematics from Providence, expressed gratitude for the hands-on experience gained through the program. He remarked, “The most valuable lesson I learned is the importance of communication in every phase of a project.” Olivo worked on multiple projects, including renovations at Brown University, enhancing his problem-solving and communication skills.

As the graduates prepare to enter the workforce, Parrilla and Gomez have already accepted job offers with Shawmut, while Olivo has received a job offer but will relocate after graduation. “The Shawmut Scholars program has become an integral part of the Roger Williams University community, and its impact continues to grow,” said Elizabeth Fongemie, Director of Advancement at RWU.

Looking ahead, the Shawmut Scholars program will offer another four scholarships for the 2025 fall semester, available to incoming first-year students majoring in construction management or those in business or architecture who commit to a construction management minor. This partnership aims to build a strong pipeline of talent for the construction industry.

For more information on the RWU Shawmut Scholars program, contact Jill Pais at Roger Williams University, 401-254-3332 or [email protected].