Distributed August 23, 2002
For Immediate Release

News Service Contact: Kristen Cole



City of Providence Scholars

Brown awards scholarships to two Providence public high school grads

Evelyn Duran of Hope High School and Ansu Baysah of Classical High School were recently named City of Providence Scholars for the Class of 2006. They will receive financial support from an endowment earmarked for students from local public schools.


PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Two Providence high school graduates have been named City of Providence Scholars for the Class of 2006 and will receive financial support throughout their four years at Brown. Hope High School graduate Evelyn Duran and Classical High School graduate Ansu Baysah received the scholarships, drawn from a $2-million endowment earmarked by the University for students from local public schools.

Established in 1991, the scholarship program emphasizes Brown’s commitment to supporting talented applicants from the area. It is based on financial need and covers a portion of the student’s financial aid package. The total cost for the 2002-2003 academic year, including tuition, room, board and fees, will be $36,356.

Two scholars are selected each year.

Evelyn Duran entered the Providence public school system six years ago unable to speak much English; last spring, she graduated from Hope High School as valedictorian of her class. She was involved in Direct Action for Rights and Equality (DARE), a grassroots civil rights organization, and the Latin American Student Organization (LASO). Duran competed on the debate team and coached students involved in the Urban Debate League. Among the many awards she received were the Charles E. Dennis Award for loyalty to community and school, and the U.S. Air Force Math and Science Award. “What she accomplished can be held up to anyone in this city, in the nation and in the world,” said Shirley L. Johnson, director of guidance at Hope High School.

At Classical High School, Ansu Baysah tutored his peers and competed in the Science Olympiad. He was involved in the Times (2) Program for math and science students and focused on the field of engineering. He competed on the football and track teams and received several varsity letters for his athletic ability. Within the community, Baysah also performed community service at his place of worship. “I believe that Ansu Baysah is an exceptional and remarkable young man who possesses the best qualities of today’s youth,” said Robert A. Fascitelli, guidance counselor at Classical High School.

Brown received 14,612 applications for admission to the Class of 2006. Of those 1,467 are expected to matriculate this fall.

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