This award exists to perpetuate the memory of Krista Weller Burns by honoring talented RI individuals who wish to pursue a life in the arts. Krista believed in the magic of art to create joy and make meaning of the human condition. She was passionate about music, film, theater and dance and was a budding actor, screenwriter and creative culinary goddess. She aspired to make a difference through her artistic talents having experienced the power of art to empower, heal, inspire, soothe, excite and bring people together in significant ways.
Passing so young, she left behind all she had hoped to accomplish as an artist. Sending her younger sister a note of encouragement during a challenging time, she wrote, “We are driven to succeed, not for fame or fortune…well… maybe a little:) … but for the sake of creating change… of sticking it out until our stories are told and we have nothing left to say.”
Inspired by Krista’s compassionate spirit, her wonderful joy for life, her thirst for learning, and her zeal to set seemingly impossible goals, we established The Aspire Higher Art Scholarship.
It is a fitting tribute, as while she was busy pursuing her dreams in the arts, she willingly shared her talents to help and encourage others to do the same. “Reach for your dreams!” was her mantra. We can’t think of a better way to continue Krista’s story than by helping aspiring artists reach for their own dreams!
Scholarship Details & Qualifications
Applications are available upon request.
Up to five $1,000 scholarships are awarded each year to qualified applicants chosen at the discretion of the Selection Committee.
- Must be a RI High School graduating senior. (Homeschoolers are also eligible)
- Must be planning a career in the arts in one of the eligible concentrations. (See note below).
- Must be pursuing further college or workshop studies in the arts upon graduation from high school.
- Must submit a completed application by April 1st.
NOTE: Art Concentrations: Performing Arts/Dance/Theater/Music… Film/Video/Animation/Gaming… Creative Writing/Screenwriting… Fine Arts/Painting/Illustration/Sculpture… Design/Product/Fashion/Jewelry/Graphic/Interior… Photography… Horticulture/Landscape Design… The Culinary Arts…
RI SCHOOLS
CHS-Chariho High School
CHSW-Cranston High School West
EJCA-Exeter Job Corps Academy
EWG-Exeter/West Greenwich High School
JHS-Johnston High School
JMWALSH- JM Walsh School for The Arts
NARR-Narragansett High School
MET- The Met High School
MHBW-Mt Hope Bristol/Warren High
NKHS-North Kingstown High School
SKHS-South Kingstown High School
TAPA-Trinity Academy of Performing Arts
WVETS-Warwick Vets Memorial High
Kiki's Garden 
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