The resolution celebrates the Talent Development Program (TDP) at the University of Rhode Island, which was established in 1968 to support students of color and those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Under the leadership of Director Gerald R. Williams, the program has grown from 13 initial students to 1,000 enrolled scholars and nearly 4,900 alumni. The TDP focuses on recruiting Rhode Island high school graduates with college potential, emphasizing values such as respect, academic excellence, mental health, and scholar success. The program boasts an impressive 83.6% first-year retention rate and an average graduation time of 4.62 years.

Additionally, the resolution highlights the contributions of Senior Academic Advisor Edward Steven “Ted” Shear, who has been with the program since 1995 and has played a significant role in its success. The resolution acknowledges the collective efforts of the TDP leadership and staff in providing educational and career opportunities to marginalized individuals. It concludes by congratulating the program on its milestone of reaching 5,000 graduates by 2025 and directs the Secretary of State to transmit a certified copy of the resolution to Director Williams.