Today in Black History the Talent Development Program would like to highlight TD’s early struggle for survival. Since its early days there has been opposition to the program which was oftentimes met with civil disobedience by scholars and staff alike.

In 1971, the University proposed a budget cut that would ultimately eliminate the program. In response, TD scholars took over the URI Administrative Building, making demands that included the restoration of TD’s budget, increased Black faculty and staff and a Black Studies Program. The late, great Assistant Director Mr. Leo DiMaio came to the aid of his scholars when the state police, in full riot gear, smashed down the doors to the building. The article below details the accounts that took place.