The Vermont Italian Cultural Association (VICA) has named one of our three annual scholarships in honor of VICA members, retired Senator Patrick Leahy and his wife, Marcelle Leahy. The naming recognizes the Leahy’s enduring commitment to promoting and sharing Italian history and cultural heritage in Vermont. The Leahys have been VICA members since 2012.

The Leahy Scholarship provides financial assistance to Vermonters and individuals with strong connections to the state who seek to broaden their knowledge of Italy and Italian culture and history through research and study. From 2025, a grant or scholarship, honoring Senator Patrick J. Leahy and Marcelle Leahy, will be awarded to an individual with Italian heritage who lives, works, or studies in Vermont.

The individual's pursuit should be focused on one of the disciplines of fine arts, agriculture, or food.

Naming this scholarship in honor of Patrick and Marcelle is only fitting—they have done so much to help promote the Italian American experience and highlight its impact in Vermont. For years to come, recipients will benefit from this scholarship in the Leahy name and learn about the rich history and culture of Italy.

Upon learning of this honor, Patrick Leahy expressed, “My Italian heritage means so much to me. I am thrilled that this VICA scholarship will bear our name and help foster an appreciation for the arts and culture of Italy and the deep Italian roots that run throughout Vermont.”

The VICA Scholarships and Grants program is funded by VICA members, annual fundraising, and private donations. Since its establishment in 2016, the program has funded over $20,000 in projects that have included Italian language, arts, music, history, and culture. Each year VICA awards three recipients up to $1,500 each for their projects. Recent recipients have included studies in writing and filmmaking, opera performance and production, and archaeological and agronomic research. Upon complet-ing their work, recipients are asked to share their experiences and learning at VICA-hosted events for the broader Vermont community.

The 2025 Scholarships and Grants application cycle will begin November 1. Additional information and how to apply can be found on the VICA website.