CCRI to award its first honorary degrees to late Judge Caprio, award-winning journalist

(WJAR) — The Community College of Rhode Island announced that for the first time, it will be awarding honorary degrees at the 2026 commencement in May.

According to school officials, late Judge Frank Caprio will be receiving a posthumous honorary Associate in Arts degree to recognize his lifelong public service, leadership, and commitment to opportunity and education.

The judge died last year after close to 40 years on the bench. He was known around the world for his compassion.

CCRI said it will also be awarding New York Times Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author Dan Barry an honorary Associate in Arts degree for his work in journalism and storytelling.

Barry worked at the Providence Journal when the paper won the Pulitzer Prize in 1994, and has been working with the New York Times for over 30 years.

“Commencement is a moment to honor not only our graduates, but also those whose impact aligns with our mission and exemplifies what is possible through education, service, and a deep commitment to the common good,” said CCRI President Rosemary A. Costigan, Ph.D., RN. “Dan Barry’s remarkable career in journalism and his enduring belief in the power of storytelling make him a perfect choice for one of our inaugural honorary degrees. Similarly, Judge Caprio’s profound commitment to expanding educational opportunities and his uniquely compassionate approach to justice serve as an enduring inspiration to our community.”

In addition to receiving an honorary degree, Barry will also deliver the commencement address to the Class of 2026, officials said.

According to CCRI, Barry and Caprio were recommended as the college’s inaugural honorary degree recipients by the school’s Honorary Degree Committee.

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CCRI’s 2026 commencement will be held on Tuesday, May 12 at the Amica Mutual Pavilion.