NEWS

College course for vets gets $99,000 grant

G. Wayne Miller
gwmiller@providencejournal.com
Mark Santow [The Providence Journal / Glenn Osmundson]

PROVIDENCE — A $99,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities will allow continuation of an innovative program serving veterans through the study of history, literature, philosophy and other disciplines.

The grant goes to the Clemente Veterans’ Initiative, in partnership with the University of Rhode Island’s College of Arts and Science, Trinity Repertory Company and Operation Stand Down RI.

According to a media release, “a group of 15 to 20 veterans will enroll in an interdisciplinary course taught by faculty from the University of Rhode Island and UMass-Dartmouth” and directed by UMass-Dartmouth history professor Mark Santow, who also is a member of the Providence School Board.

“Texts from the Ancient Greeks to contemporary literature will explore themes of war and reconciliation, considering universal human experiences and questions,” the release states. “The course will be offered free of charge to participants. Books, child care, and transportation assistance will be provided at no cost. Transferable college credit will be available from Bard College.”

Santow told The Journal: “The goal is twofold: to help vets struggling with post-service life to find community and meaning, and to help those who want to go to college to take a first step toward that in a supportive setting.”

“The Providence Clemente Veterans’ Initiative provides an amazing opportunity for our servicemen and women to learn about themselves and their peers through the historical lens of war, the humanities and the experience of transitioning from battlefield to home,” said Tyrone Smith, director of employment of Operation Stand Down RI. “This free college credit course provides a challenging and rewarding experience and eliminates the common costs often associated with college.”

Prospective students can apply online through the link at https://clementecourse.org/about-us/veterans/providence-clemente