Johnson & Wales Media Center

Exchange City/Earthworks Receives Support
from Staples Foundation for Learning

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – February 1, 2007 – Exchange City, an innovative interactive educational and entrepreneurial project for middle and high school students, housed on the campus of Johnson & Wales University in Providence, has received a $10,000 grant from Staples Foundation for Learning. This grant will support two programs offered by Exchange City and Earthworks.

Exchange City provides pioneering economics, government and civics programs that support a new vision of teaching and learning about American enterprise, entrepreneurialism and government. EarthWorks provides students with an intensive math and science curriculum to help improve their academic success in these subject areas.

"We are so excited to have the support of Staples Foundation for Learning," said Ken Fish, Executive Director, Exchange City. "This generous contribution will enable us to share the hands-on program of Exchange City and EarthWorks with more youngsters, who in turn will shape the economic future f Rhode Island."

"Exchange City and EarthWorks provide middle and high school students with invaluable hands-on business experience, financial education and science education," said Joy Errico, spokesperson for Staples Foundation for Learning. "Staples Foundation for Learning values the experiential learning this program provides youth throughout Rhode Island."

The Exchange City experience helps students learn and apply rigorous academic standards in math, civics, social studies, language arts and technology in real-life roles as citizens of their very own mini-town. In 2003, the Cody Foundation, a non-profit education foundation opened the first Exchange City in New England. Located in Portsmouth, N.H., more than 15,000 students participate annually.

In January 2006, Johnson & Wales University, Providence Campus partnered with the Cody Foundation to establish the nationwide project in Rhode Island. The University has contributed $800,000 through renovations to its historic Paramount Building located at its Harborside Campus where Exchange City resides.

about exchange city
Exchange City is designed to reflect three proven themes of contemporary education: experiential learning, constructivism and collaborative learning. The program models effective instructional practices and education reform for teachers, parents and students. This innovative learning model adds a layer of expectation and application not seen in other programs.

about staples foundation for learning
The mission of Staples Foundation for Learning, Inc. is to teach, train and inspire. Founded in 2002, the foundation has contributed nearly $9 million dollars to national and local charities that provide educational opportunities and job skills for all people, with a special emphasis on disadvantaged youth. Staples Foundation for Learning has also developed lasting relationships with Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Earth Force, Hispanic Heritage Foundation and the Initiative for a Competitive Inner City. In 2006, Staples Foundation for Learning expanded its reach globally by teaming with Ashoka, an organization that develops and supports social entrepreneurs around the world. For more information about the foundation or how to apply for a grant, please visit.

Johnson & Wales University, founded in 1914, is a nonprofit, private institution. A recognized leader in career education, we offer accredited degrees in business, hospitality, culinary arts, technology and education. With a diverse student body of more than 16,000 graduate and undergraduate students, representing all 50 states and 89 countries, JWU prepares students for personal and professional success by integrating rigorous academics and professional skills, community leadership opportunities and our unique career education model. The university is committed to urban revitalization and thoughtful historic renovation. Through active civic participation and by offering unique learning opportunities, JWU improves the quality of life in its campus communities in Providence, R.I., North Miami, Fla., Denver, Colo., and Charlotte, N.C. For more information visit www.jwu.edu.