Carol Anne Costa – Class of 1978
Carol Anne Costa exemplifies the spirit of public service, having dedicated over 30 years
to making a meaningful impact across Rhode Island. Her career defies the typical image
of a bureaucrat—instead, she is a dynamic force in government, education, media, and
community advocacy. From her early days in education and public relations to her
influential roles in state government, Carol’s work has spanned the courtroom,
classroom, boardroom, and beyond. She has served as a key contributor to justice
education initiatives under Chief Justice Frank Williams, revitalized the volunteer corps
at the International Tennis Hall of Fame, and developed critical public housing
resources.
A trusted problem solver, Carol continues her lifelong advocacy in new arenas. After
years of distinguished service in Governor Gina Raimondo’s administration and as
Deputy Director of Consumer Protection under Attorney General Peter F. Neronha, she
now serves as the Executive Director of the Senior Agenda Coalition of Rhode Island
(SACRI). In this role, she champions a better quality of life for older Rhode Islanders,
while also lending her expertise as a board member for the Wiggin Village housing
community. Her legacy also includes impactful civic programs such as the “Justice
Rules” the RI Judiciary’s education Initiative, Constitution Challenge for students as
well as tireless fundraising and friendraising for local civic and educational efforts.
Carol’s contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including the Charles
Hamilton Houston Award from the NAACP, The Governor John Notte Award, induction
into the High School Tennis Coaches Association Hall of Fame, and community service
honors from VFW, Cox Communications, The Providence Building Sanitary &
Education Association and others. She is a tireless advocate, bridge-builder, leader, role
model—an alumna who embodies Ponaganset pride through a life of service.
Michael J. Printer – Class of 1978
Michael J. Printer has distinguished himself through a remarkable career in military
logistics and civilian defense leadership. Now retired, he last served as the Civilian
Deputy to the Commander for the Army Field Support Battalion in Germany, Mr.
Printer played a vital role in global military readiness and supply chain operations. His
leadership was pivotal during heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula in 2011,
when he oversaw the deployment and restoration of vital Army Prepositioned Stocks
aboard the USNS Watson.
A Foster, RI native and former Tactical Air Control Party Specialist in the U.S. Air
Forces Europe, Michael’s early military service earned him numerous commendations,
including the Air Force Achievement and Combat Readiness Medals. He transitioned
seamlessly into civilian service, leading groundbreaking efforts in equipping and
modernizing key combat brigade assets afloat.
Mr. Printer’s excellence in logistics management has been widely recognized. He is a
certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and has received the Department of Defense’s
Superior Civilian Service Award, among other prestigious honors. His process
improvement strategies were featured at the national DoD symposium in 2009,
cementing his reputation as an innovator in military logistics.
Michael Printer’s career reflects leadership, precision, and dedication to national
service—qualities that bring distinction to himself and to the Ponaganset alumni
community.