Alan Shawn Feinstein, the Rhode Island philanthropist whose dedication to education and service inspired generations of young people to “do good deeds,” passed away on Saturday. He was 93.
Known for his unwavering commitment to charitable causes, Feinstein founded the Cranston-based Feinstein Foundation in 1991, which became a pillar of philanthropy in Southern New England. The foundation’s core mission—encouraging children to be kind and help those in need—resonated deeply with both educators and students, with over 600,000 young people earning the designation of “Feinstein Junior Scholars” through the foundation’s leadership program.
Feinstein’s impact on education in Rhode Island extended beyond the classroom. Many schools throughout the region have been recognized as “Feinstein Leadership Schools,” fostering a culture of service. Rhode Island College honored his legacy by naming its School of Education and Human Development after him, a testament to his profound influence on the state’s academic landscape.