PROVIDENCE – At its 30th anniversary gala, Portuguese-language radio station Radio Voz do Emigrante will honor 10 organizations, including Rhode Island College’s Institute for Portuguese and Lusophone World Studies.
The college’s program will be presented the Outstanding Organization award in recognition of its contribution to the area’s Portuguese-speaking population. These efforts include the establishment of a Portuguese major in RIC’s Modern Languages Department – the only such program in the state – which enrolls 300 students in its associated courses each year.
“We are proud that the institute plays such a central role in connecting Rhode Island College to Lusophone communities,” said RIC President Frank D. Sánchez in prepared remarks. “Through academic programming, educational events and significantly expanded study-abroad opportunities, the institute has shared the Portuguese culture across New England and contributed greatly to our diverse community. We are honored that the institute is being recognized.”
Launched in 2006, the program was established to support and promote Portuguese studies at RIC and act as a bridge between the college and surrounding Lusophone communities.
Silvia Oliveira, IPLWS director and RIC associate professor of Portuguese studies, said in a statement: “More than 10 percent of Rhode Island’s population claim ancestry from Portugal [the majority from the Azores archipelago], Cabo Verde and other Lusophone countries – the highest percentage of any state in the union. The history and contributions of this population are an integral part of the rich fabric of the state.”
More than 1,000 guests are expected at the event, which will take place March 17 at 6 p.m. at the Milo Restaurant in Swansea.
Emily Gowdey-Backus is a staff writer for PBN. You can follow her on Twitter @FlashGowdey or contact her via email, gowdey-backus@pbn.com.
