News Summary
At the Providence College commencement ceremony, retired Judge Frank Caprio inspired graduates to embody compassion and kindness in their future endeavors. Caprio, a longstanding advocate of ‘compassionate justice,’ shared insights from his career and urged students to ‘wear a heart.’ He was honored with a special recognition during the event, which culminated in a historic standing ovation. Caprio’s messages resonate deeply in the Rhode Island community, fostering a legacy of empathy and understanding among the college graduates.
Providence – Retired Judge Frank Caprio delivered an inspiring message at the commencement ceremony for Providence College on February 5, 2025, encouraging graduates to embrace compassion and kindness as they transition into the next phase of their lives. More than a thousand students gathered for the ceremony, where Caprio, recognized for his tenure as Chief Municipal Judge from 1985 to 2023, emphasized the importance of treating people with empathy and understanding.
Caprio, a graduate of Providence College in 1958, has become a household name through his web series “Caught in Providence,” where he showcases his unique approach to justice that emphasizes compassion. During his speech, he urged the graduates to “wear a heart,” suggesting that kindness should be at the forefront of their professional and personal endeavors. His message resonated strongly with attendees, leading to a resounding standing ovation, which was reportedly the largest in the history of Providence College’s commencement ceremonies.
In recognition of his significant contributions to the community and the impact he has made through his judicial career, Caprio was honored with a retired jersey featuring his name during the ceremony. His son, Frank Caprio, Jr., noted the long-lasting impression his father has left on the school and the surrounding community.
Caprio’s legal philosophy revolves around what he terms “compassionate justice.” This approach considers the individual circumstances of defendants, often resulting in dismissed charges for those who may be facing hardships, such as single parents or individuals striving to rehabilitate their lives. His decisions reflect a deep empathy and understanding shaped by his upbringing in a poor immigrant family, allowing him to relate to many who appear before him in court.
The remarkable popularity of “Caught in Providence” has further elevated Caprio’s profile. The show began airing on public access television and gradually transitioned into a nationally syndicated program on over 200 stations. It currently boasts a massive online following, with more than 20 million followers and billions of views, capturing the hearts of audiences across the nation. The series has also been recognized with four Daytime Emmy Award nominations, highlighting its impact in the realm of television and justice.
Caprio has extended his compassion beyond the courtroom environment by creating the “Filomena Fund,” which aids those in financial difficulty, funded by donations from viewers worldwide. This initiative aligns with his overarching goal of helping individuals in need while promoting the values of kindness and generosity.
During the same weekend as the Providence College commencement, other universities in Rhode Island, including the University of Rhode Island (URI), Salve Regina, and Bryant University, held their graduation ceremonies. At Bryant University, 646 students participated in the graduation festivities, which included a traditional march through an archway. The commencement address was delivered by David Beirne, a venture capitalist and member of the Providence College Class of 1985, who shared insights with the graduates of Bryant University.
As a beloved figure in the Rhode Island community, Caprio’s legacy extends far beyond the bench. His emphasis on kindness, empathy, and understanding remains a guiding principle for both his career and the lives of those he has inspired, including the graduates at Providence College, who carry forward his message as they embark on their future endeavors.
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Additional Resources
- Turn to 10 News
- Wikipedia: Frank Caprio
- ABC 6 News
- Google Search: Frank Caprio
- WPRI News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Judicial Compassion
- ABA Journal
- Google News: Judge Frank Caprio
