Emily Ryan, daughter of Middletown Police Chief Jason Ryan, is among five students to receive scholarships from the Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association.
Ryan is attending Colby College in Maine, where she is studying biology and pre-health.
The association announced the 2025 scholarship recipients this week, recognizing children of active sworn law enforcement officers pursuing higher education.
“Behind every student is a network of support, and this program recognizes both the hard work and dedication of these young scholars and the families who have helped guide them,” said Chief Thomas F. Oates III, chief of Woonsocket police and immediate past president of the association. “We are proud to stand behind them as they take this important next step and continue our commitment to honoring the families of law enforcement officers and investing in the future of our communities.”
The other 2025 recipients are Olivia Morrissette, daughter of Warren Police Officer Joel Morrissette, attending Southern Connecticut State University for business and finance; Vanessa Javery, daughter of Johnston Lt. David Galligan, attending the Community College of Rhode Island’s sonography program; Zachary Sweet, son of Cumberland Capt. Peter Sweet, attending Bryant University for accounting and finance; and Madeline St. Pierre, daughter of Bristol Capt. Stephen St. Pierre, attending Roger Williams University for architecture.
The scholarship program is funded in part by proceeds from the association’s annual golf tournament and is open to sons and daughters of active sworn law enforcement officers from agencies led by chiefs who are active members of the association.