Site Search

When Vito Paglia immigrated to the United States from Italy as a young man, he carried with him values that would define his 88 years of life: hard work, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to supporting his family, friends, and community. These same values now live on through the Vito Paglia Memorial Scholarship, established at the Rhode Island Foundation to support North Providence High School students who embody a strength of character, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to help others. 

For 65 years, Vito owned and operated Vito's Hair Salon in North Providence, where he was much more than a hair stylist, he was a trusted confidant to countless clients. "What happened in the chair, stayed in the chair," recalls his daughter Maria, a retired North Providence High School teacher. "He was a barber but often like a counselor for people. He was trustworthy—I think that's why he had so many friends. It was reassuring for people to have someone to talk to, someone they could rely on to keep their confidence." 

Vito's compassion extended far beyond his salon. Having navigated the immigration process himself, he sponsored others making the same journey to America. There was always an extra plate at his dinner table for family, friends, or someone working at this house. His wife Dolores, with whom Vito shared 67 years of marriage, remembers him as "a hardworking, generous man" who made a difference in more lives than they ever realized. 

"We had no idea how many people he had touched and who loved him," Dolores reflects, recalling the many who attended his wake and funeral, each sharing stories of Vito's kindness and support. 

Beyond his work as a barber, Vito had a passion for winemaking that brought him national and international awards, but more importantly, it brought his loved ones together. Family and friends would gather for the preparation process, working side by side, and then share celebratory dinners—moments that created memories and deepened the connections he treasured. 

After Vito's passing, Maria—who taught for 37 years at North Providence High School and served as Special Education Department Chair for much of her career—witnessed firsthand the transformative power of scholarships through her work on the school’s scholarship committee. To honor her father's legacy, she explored the options for establishing a scholarship fund, and the school’s guidance director recommended the Rhode Island Foundation. 

The Foundation’s endowment approach was a perfect fit with investment earnings providing annual scholarships, ensuring the fund will grow over time to support deserving students – and making certain that Vito's spirit of quiet generosity continues in the community he called home.