The Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC), in collaboration with the Keri Anne O’Donnell Memorial Fund, has awarded the 2026 Outstanding Greeter Grant to Carolyn Richer, a senior at Portsmouth High School. The grant honors a student in PPAC’s High School Greeter program who demonstrates dedication and enthusiasm in welcoming patrons before shows in the Taco and The White Family Foundation Broadway Series. The program allows students aged 15 to 18 to greet guests, distribute programs, and enhance their social skills while earning community service hours.

The Outstanding Greeter Grant was established by the O’Donnell family to honor Betty Benedetti, PPAC’s longtime Greeter Coordinator and Senior Marketing Assistant. Frank O’Donnell, president of Keri’s Fund, highlighted the program’s positive impact on the social development and theater appreciation of their own children, who were volunteer greeters. PPAC’s Director of Marketing, P.J. Prokop, praised the program’s role in creating welcoming experiences for patrons and congratulated Richer on her achievement. Richer expressed gratitude for the recognition and enjoyment of her involvement in the program. Applications for the 2026/2027 Greeter Program are currently open.