The Rhode Island Foundation is offering high school seniors college scholarships of up to $20,000 a year through its Carter Roger Williams Initiative. Members of the Class of 2019 have until Feb. 12 to apply.

"Roger Williams personified principles that are as current today as they were in the earliest days of our state. Thanks to the vision of the Carter family, a new generation of Rhode Islanders will be exposed to his timeless legacy," said Jessica David, executive vice president of strategy and community investments.

Conceived of and funded by philanthropists Letitia and the late John Carter, the program honors the principles of the state's founding father. Rhode Island high school seniors are eligible for up to $80,000 over four years based on financial need and continued academic good standing.

Applicants must be residents of Rhode Island, high school seniors and attend a public, parochial or independent high school in Rhode Island. Candidates will be evaluated based on financial need, comprehension and application of Roger Williams' principles and record of academic achievement. More details about the scholarships are posted on findingrogerwilliams.com.

This is the third round of scholarships awarded through the Carter Roger Williams Initiative. Among the previous winners are Cranston's Taleen Donoyan, Diana Iglesias, and Hannah Ung, who is a first-year student at the University of Rhode Island.

"As a first generation student, this prestigious scholarship opens doors for students like me to make the most out of college. It gives me an opportunity to study abroad in Cuba this Winter break," said Ung. "Therefore, I am bringing some school supplies, toiletries and feminine hygiene products to the unfortunate women and children in Cuba. This scholarship is making my dream come true. The Carter Roger Williams scholarship is the definition of faith and hope."

The Carter Roger Williams Initiative also includes a free online education hub at findingrogerwilliams.com that offers activities and discussion starters on Roger Williams and his teachings for elementary, middle and high school educators to use in their classrooms.

“Our goal is to create a sense of place and awareness by giving all Rhode Islanders access to resources that bring to life our state's founder and his teachings," said David.

Also available online is a comprehensive collection of verifiable information about Roger Williams and his life, legacy and character.

"This initiative is intended to encourage study and examination. Roger Williams was a complex man, he was forward-thinking and yet very much a man of his time. We are committed to presenting a complete, verifiable and accurate representation of who he was and what he achieved - without bias," she said.