A Volunteer of Distinction!

Tia Scigulinsky Is Our 2020 Andrus Award Winner

PROVIDENCE, RI – Tia Scigulinsky of Portsmouth will be honored December 11 by AARP, the nonprofit organization for people 50 and older, as its 2020 AARP Rhode Island Andrus Award for Community Service -- the organization’s most prestigious and visible state volunteer award for community service. 

AARP Rhode Island chose Scigulinsky for her outstanding service, which has greatly benefited Rhode Islanders, supporting AARP’s vision and mission, and inspiring other volunteers.  

Watch the Andrus Awards on Zoom Recording Now

“We are delighted to provide this recognition to Tia,” said AARP State Director Kathleen Connell. “She has been a shining star in our corps of volunteers, contributing many years of volunteer service to AARP and other Aquidneck Island organizations that have lifted by her dedication and expertise.

“This annual award is a symbol to the public that we can all work together for the greater good,” added Connell. “AARP has long valued the spirit of volunteerism and the important contributions volunteers make to their communities, neighbors, and the programs they serve. Tia’s service embodies the words of our founder, Ethel Percy Andrus, whose motto was, ‘To serve, not to be served.’”

“It is a privilege to be recognized by AARP,” Scigulinsky said.” Upon my retirement I joined the thousands of AARP volunteers to support the many issues that AARP promotes. AARP has the ability to focus on relevant issues, not only for the 50+ population, but for all Americans. Health care, drug prices, homelessness and livable communities continue to be priority concerns.

“During this extremely challenging time that has drastically altered our normal lives, AARP has done a phenomenal job of keeping members advised and connected,” she added. “The use of social media and Zoom chats have informed and educated members while allowing a means of social interaction. It is a pleasure serve in company with the hundreds of Rhode Island AARP volunteers who function in so many capacities.”

AARP will present the Andrus Award via Zoom on Friday, December 11, at 11 a.m. You can register at https://aarp.cvent.com/AndrusRI2020 or call 1-877-926-8300.

Tia Scigulinsky was born in the Netherlands during the WWII Nazi occupation, immigrated to Seattle as a teenager and became an American citizen. After graduating from the University of Washington with a BA in history and education, she taught in Washington, California, Virginia, Italy and Rhode Island as she traveled with her naval officer husband Ken and raised a family. She has lived in the Ocean State since 1976.

Tia taught for 30 years and was chair of the Social Studies Department in the Newport School System. She served on the Board of Directors of the RI National Education Association and, on the national level, was the NEA Chair of Women and Children Issues and represented the organization at the United Nations National Commission of Women in 2005.

After retiring in 2005, Tia became active in AARP and served in various capacities including five years as president of Rhode Island Retired Teachers and five years as RI Chapter #207 president. She currently chairs AARP Rhode Island’s State Legislative Committee. She also has served as a leader of the AARP East Coast Chapter Advisory Team, which promotes unity on issues and  guides chapter building and growth.

Tia’s other volunteer activity includes trustee of the Portsmouth Library, Secretary of NEA Retired RI, executive member of the Partnership for Families and Children, Secretary of Rhode Island PBS board and a sponsor of foreign officers attending the one-year course at the Naval War College.

Andrus Award recipients across the nation were chosen for their ability to enhance the lives of AARP members and prospective members, improve the community in or for which the work was performed, and inspire others to volunteer.

Recognition in the Age of COVID....