Two universities were given the largest private gifts in their respective histories this past week. The University of San Diego reported it had received a $75 million commitment from Darlene Marcos Shiley, and the University of Rhode Island has been given a $65 million estate gift from the late Helen Izzi Schilling, an alum of the institution.

University of San Diego

The $75 million commitment from Darlene Shiley, which will be distributed over time, will create the Shiley STEM Initiative, an initiative intended to enhance the university’s existing STEM programs.

Part of the funding from the commitment will be used to create a new space on the USD campus to integrate engineering and the natural sciences. It’s expected to help enable new majors, minors, and certificate programs. In addition, the expansion will include flexible classrooms for collaborative teaching, “Makers Spaces” for students and faculty, expanded machine shops for STEM disciplines, and more labs and shops in biomedical engineering.

The gift will also support new scholarships, fellowships and undergraduate research opportunities in various STEM fields.

As part of the university’s announcement, USD President James T. Harris, III said, “Darlene Shiley is one of the most generous and kind individuals that anyone could ever meet. She’s always looking out for humanity and the best interests of our society, and she particularly loves our students.”

“We are a better institution because of Donald and Darlene Shiley and what they’ve decided to do for this institution and what they’ve done for this world. In our vision statement we talk about leading with love, and Donald and Darlene Shiley have always led with love, “added Harris.

Shiley, whose husband Don invented a prosthetic heart valve, said that “STEM fields touch all different aspects of our lives, and I believe they can be a force for good in our society.”

“I was drawn to USD because of its emphasis on a values-based education. This gift fulfills my husband’s and my goals and makes me feel like I’ve made an impact. Now I hope it helps future students take what they learn at USD and make a positive impact of their own,” she noted in the announcement.

The Shileys have been major benefactors for the university and the San Diego community over the years. Their prior gifts helped establish USD’s Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering, the Shiley Theatre, and the Donald P. Shiley Center for Science and Technology.

University of Rhode Island

The University of Rhode Island’s $65 million estate gift from Helen Izzi Schilling, a 1954 graduate of the University, will be used to create an endowed scholarship that will provide up to $20,000 per year for four years to high-achieving undergraduate students majoring in a science, technology, engineering, or math field.

“This transformational gift shows that alumni believe in our University and in our students,” said URI President Marc B. Parlange, as part of the announcement. “We are incredibly grateful for the Schillings’ support of our mission and our students. URI has never been in a better place, due, in no small measure, to our remarkable community—the students, faculty, and staff across our campuses and the extraordinary alumni who carry their URI experience with them wherever they go.”

The Schilling Scholarships will begin to be awarded to undergraduates applying to URI for the Fall 2025 admission cycle.

After her graduation from URI, Helen Schilling worked for many years as a registered dietitian, professor and consultant. Her husband, Frank Schilling, worked at General Electric where he became a vice president and was head of GE Medical Systems.

“My mother’s education in the sciences formed the foundation of a career that was dedicated to helping people, and that started at the University of Rhode Island,” Dr. Paul J. Schilling said in the university’s news release. “She wanted to make a difference for her alma mater, but most importantly for the students going forward. I am glad that my parents will be remembered for giving students a head start to achieve their goals.”

Three Rhode Island men are facing several charges after a multi-agency investigation.

According to police, on Friday, the Pawtucket Police Department’s Narcotics Unit with the assistance of the Pawtucket Police Special Response Team, Rhode Island State Police –HIDTA, and members of the Pawtucket Police K9 Unit, conducted court authorized search warrants on Calder Street and Benefit Street in the city of Pawtucket and North Main Street in the City of Providence after a narcotics investigation involving the distribution of Cocaine and Fentanyl throughout the City of Pawtucket and surrounding communities.

As a result of the search warrants, detectives located and seized a 10mm Glock Semi-automatic handgun with an obliterated serial number, a Mini UZI semi-automatic firearm, a high-capacity magazine, approximately $18,000 in cash, approximately 600 grams of Cocaine, approximately 105 grams of Fentanyl, digital scales, cutting agents, and packaging material.

Based on the investigation, the following individuals were charged with:

28-year-old David Benevides, Calder Street, Pawtucket

1. Manufacturing/ Delivery/Possession 1oz.-1kilo (Fentanyl)
2. Manufacturing/Delivery/ Possession 1oz.-1kilo (Cocaine)
3. Possession with Intent to Deliver (Fentanyl)
4. Possession with Intent to Deliver (Cocaine)
5. Maintaining a Common Nuisance
6. Conspiracy
7. Distribution/Manufacturing in/near school

28-year-old Nigel Almeida, Benefit Street, Pawtucket

1. Manufacturing/Delivery/ Possession 1oz.-1kilo (Fentanyl)
2. Manufacturing/Delivery/ Possession 1oz.-1kilo (Cocaine)
3. Possession with intent to Deliver (Fentanyl)
4. Possession with intent to Deliver (Cocaine)
5. Use of a Firearm while committing crime of violence
6. Alteration of Marks of Identification on Firearms
7. Large Capacity Feeding Device
8. Maintaining a common nuisance
9. Conspiracy

28-year-old Evan Santos, North Main Street, Providence

1. Manufacturing/Delivery/ Schedule I/II (FENTANYL)
2. Possession with Intent to Deliver-Schedule I/II (FENTANYL)

The investigation is ongoing.

Small but mighty Rhode Island may be one of the most underrated states for retirees in the US. While California and Florida take the lead for highest number of senior citizens, over 18% of Rhode Island’s population are over the age of 65. So, while the Ocean State may not be famous as a retirement destination, it is certainly still popular with seniors. While undeniably one of the more expensive states to retire, there are so many factors to consider beyond cost. Boasting 400 miles of coastline and some of the prettiest beaches in the country, seniors love Rhode Island for its natural splendor. Paired with world-class medical facilities, low crime rates, close-knit communities, and tons of other stunning outdoor spaces beyond its beaches, this maritime state has so much to offer. Looking at all this and more, here are 7 of the best Rhode Island towns and cities to consider calling home during your retirement years.

Newport

For seniors seeking a permanent vacation-feel during their retirement years, Newport is a top choice. While the cost of living is higher than the national average, for many, it is well worth the investment. Newport’s crime rate is lower than other US cities, too. The Newport Hospital is right in town, offering peace of mind all around. As for leisure, Newport’s coastal atmosphere is the true star. Stunning ocean views are a staple, whether hiking the town’s 3.5-mile Cliff Walk or the coastline at Brenton Point State Park. Harbor cruises are equally serene, or you can savor sand and sunshine at shores like Easton’s Beach. Ultimately, the Atlantic anchors this Rhode Island town, making it the perfect retirement destination for seniors looking to embrace the essence of a coastal vacation lifestyle.

Tiverton

About 13 miles northeast of Newport, Tiverton is a smaller town perfect for seniors seeking quieter shores. The cost of living is reasonable compared to many cities and the crime rate is reportedly lower than the national average. Tiverton offers a serene and secure environment. As with other towns in the Ocean State, you may be paying more for expenses like housing, but you are also getting the benefits of a peaceful, close-knit community. Tiverton’s welcoming atmosphere is one of its greatest features. Equally alluring, is its gateway to the outdoors. Shores like Fogland Beach are clean, well-kept, and uncrowded, even during the busier summer months. For even more seclusion, birding and hiking spots like the Emilie Ruecker Wildlife Refuge offer a scenic landscape through woods and salt marsh along the Sakonnet River. Nearby, the Seapowet Marsh and Point Fishing Area is equally serene and popular with seniors who enjoy fishing.

Westerly

Thanks to its strong sense of community, healthcare, and low crime rates, Westerly is another beautiful beachfront town for retirees. As of the 2020 census, 18% of Westerly locals are 65 or older, and 42% are 50 or older — numbers that have likely grown. It is one of the state’s most sought-after places to live out one’s golden years. Paired with this strong kinship, Westerly is famous for its rich history and natural beauty. First settled in 1669, this coastal community served as a shipbuilding hub during the War of 1812. Today, historic attractions like the 200-year-old Watch Hill Lighthouse are a year-round reminder of the town’s vibrant past. As for the town’s natural beauty, there are endless ways to unwind or stay active outdoors. From birdwatching at the Napatree Point Conservation Area to beach strolls at Misquamicut State Beach, your retirement can be as busy or laid-back as you wish.

Providence

No list of Rhode Island retirement towns would be complete without mentioning its glorious state capital. The city’s top-notch healthcare, including facilities such as the Miriam Hospital, Rhode Island Hospital, and Providence Community Health Centers, provide specialized and comprehensive care for people of all ages. Public transportation is also a huge perk for those living in the city, and USA Today ranked Providence the second-most walkable city in the United States in 2024. With a population of nearly 200,000, Providence is equally praised for having endless attractions and amenities for retirees. Like most cities, culture and art are ingrained in its attractions, like the Museum of Art, Rhode Island School of Design (RISD Museum) and Providence Performing Arts Center. But there is also a nice blend of outdoor spaces, like Roger Williams Park and India Point Park, which sits near the confluence of the Seekonk and Providence rivers.

Central Falls

Central Falls is the smallest city in the country’s smallest state. It’s also one of the most densely packed cities in America — with 22,000 residents in an area of just 1.3 square miles. For many, the city offers the best of both worlds. With Providence less than 20 minutes away by car, retirees can appreciate a smaller, urban feel with access to big-city healthcare and amenities just a short drive away. Additionally, Central Falls’ housing costs are 23.3% more affordable than Providence’s, meaning this small city offers big savings for seniors on a budget. With affordable housing projects also currently underway, affordability is definitely one of the best features of this Rhode Island community. Paired with its charming historic areas and beautiful green spaces, such as Jenks Park, Central Falls is an ideal place to embrace a laid-back lifestyle in an urban setting.

Narragansett

While often thought of as a summer getaway destination, Narragansett is also a beautiful place for year-round living. Like other beach towns, its prime location makes for a more expensive cost of living. But for retirees looking to spend their retirement years in the sand, Narragansett is an ideal investment. Similar to Newport, Narragansett is home to several of the state’s most popular beaches, so life in this coastal town is like a permanent vacation. Narragansett Town Beach is known for being the ideal of a classic New England coastal beach. The 19-acre shore is clean, accessible, and seasonal passes are free for seniors 62 and older. Seniors 65 and older also receive 50% parking discounts for Scarborough State Beach. With 2,325-feet of sand along the Atlantic, this park offers saltwater fishing, picnic areas, shaded pavilions, and everything else needed to experience endless tranquil days in the sun.

Bristol

About an hour northeast of Narragansett, Bristol is a charming deep water seaport named after the British city. The town is known for its classic New England atmosphere with a vibrant maritime culture. It is also known for its low crime rates. For panoramic views of Narragansett Bay, Colt State Park is a gorgeous space to explore for free on a regular basis. The 464-acre park offers four miles of scenic paved paths, year-round bike trails, an accessible fishing pier, and a kayak launch. Adjacent to the park, Bristol’s Coggeshall Farm Museum is a great experience for history enthusiasts. The living history museum delves into 18th-century farm life, offering a fascinating look into Bristol’s agricultural past. Also next door, the Bristol Town Beach and Sports Complex is a great place for seniors to stay active and involved in the community.

Why Retire to These Rhode Island Cities and Towns?

Rhode Island is often overlooked as a retirement destination due to its higher cost of living in many of its cities and towns. But whether you find more affordable towns like Bristol or invest in more costly cities like Newport, these Rhode Island communities have something to fulfill every retiree’s needs. From beachy towns like Narragansett to bustling cities like Providence, whatever you are looking for in retirement, these seven Rhode Island towns and cities to retire to have lots to make your post-working years as good as they can be.