Costantini awarded two scholarships

This time, Gabriella Costantini was on the receiving end of two rather unique cheers.

Constantini, who graduated Friday evening with the Johnston High School Class of 2018, spent a lot of time during the past four years as a member of the Susan Parillo-coached and champion Panther cheerleaders.

So when word came out that she’d be receiving not one but two impressive scholarships, people like Ryan Barrete, who is a guidance director at JHS, were thrilled for the daughter of Phillip and Michelle Costantini of Johnston.

Likewise, Parillo was elated when she learned about Gabriella’s selection for what Barrette called “two heart-warming scholarships” that will help Costantini as she continues her post-secondary career at Rhode Island College majoring in pre-law.

She first received the PS3 Ronald A. Gill Jr. Memorial Scholarship named in honor and memory of Petty Officer Third class Donald Gill who died in a boat accident during his service within the United States Coast Guard.

“This scholarship is given to a JHS student who has demonstrated strong academics coupled with civic leadership,” Barrette explained.

Constantini was also awarded the Live for You Olivia Noel Rotondo Scholarship which is named in the honor and memory of Olivia Noel Rotondo who tragically died at the young age of 20.

“The Rotondo Memorial Scholarships recognized a student who has excelled academically while having an unquenchable thirst for life and an extraordinary spirit in cheerleading and dance,” Barrette wanted it known. “Gabriella is the perfect choice for these honors and will reflect the values and determination revered in both scholarships.”

As noted, Costantini has been a member of the Panthers’ cheerleading corps during her four years on Cherry Hill. Her future goals include becoming a lawyer and with the intent of helping others and the community she is involved in.