LYNN — The Ditchfield AI Scholarship, funded by a significant gift from Allan and Priscilla Ditchfield, is available to students from Lynn who have been accepted to Northeastern University’s College of Professional Studies and attended a community college, completed college-level coursework, including workforce training, and/or have expressed interest in artificial intelligence.
The scholarship will cover up to 75% of tuition costs, with other scholarships available as well. There is also a component that will provide professional development in AI for Lynn Public Schools teachers.
“When Priscilla and I were thinking about ways we could best invest back in the community that has meant so much to us, we knew it would be about education and opportunity,” said Allan Ditchfield. “Future jobs depend on staying relevant with emerging technology, notably Artificial Intelligence, and being able to be a part of ensuring the folks from Lynn are equipped to meet that future is a blessing.”
The scholarship is open to students who have graduated from Lynn English, Lynn Classical, or Frederick Douglass Collegiate Academy. Students who receive the scholarship must enroll in the academic term they have applied. This scholarship will remain in effect for the duration of a student’s degree program, provided they remain in good academic standing.
Allan Ditchfield grew up in Lynn and graduated from Lynn English High School. He went on to study at Northeastern and graduated in 1968 from the College of Professional Studies, where he gained hands-on experience that complemented the practical skills he acquired in the classroom. He retired after a successful career as a chief information officer at several large corporations. His wife, Priscilla, is retired and serves as a community volunteer and philanthropist.
“We are sincerely grateful for the investment the Ditchfields have made in this scholarship program, which will benefit many students,” said Mayor Jared C. Nicholson, a former law professor at Northeastern. “It is especially exciting to see opportunities made available to students who may have taken a non-traditional route on their educational journey.”
Ditchfield Scholars will have the opportunity to earn an Artificial Intelligence certification via a course in AI technology covered by the scholarship.
“We are so grateful for the Ditchfield’s vision and generosity,” said Jared Auclair, dean of Northeastern’s College of Professional Studies. “AI is a required tool for the future, and this investment is an investment in the future for Lynn area students. It is a true testament to the shared values of our broader Husky community to give back when they can to pay forward the opportunities Northeastern has given them.”
“We appreciate the opportunity LPS graduates will have in pursuing this meaningful and innovative scholarship,” said Lynn Superintendent of Schools Dr. Evonne S. Alvarez. “We are also looking forward to our educators having the ability to receive professional development in this emerging area of technology.”
For more information on the scholarship program, contact Mary McCarthy at [email protected].
