We are excited to share our preliminary plans for the fall 2021 semester. These plans are subject to change as we learn more about the virus and vaccine distribution and any U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and/or Rhode Island Department of Health guidelines that may emerge. We will continue to communicate with you as changes are made to enhance the health and safety of our community. We are proud of the work our students, faculty, and staff have done to combat COVID-19, while participating in and offering a mix of in-person and virtual learning.
Academics: For fall 2021, we hope to re-establish the URI campuses as the centerpieces of learning, academic scholarship, and vibrant and collegial communities of students, faculty, and staff. At this time, we are planning for course offerings to be predominantly in person, along with online and blended courses that were available before the pandemic. The safety of our students and the rest of our community will remain our top priority, and we will continue to keep our classrooms safe and clean as we carefully monitor the status of the virus. As you know, we have beautiful state-of-the-art teaching and learning facilities, including contemporary active learning classrooms, and look forward to making full use of them.
Housing: We look forward to bringing our students to our beautiful campus and living and learning communities. New students will be living in double rooms, and our residence halls will provide opportunities for active engagement. On-campus housing information for returning students will be available soon from Housing and Residence Life.
Dining: Our award-winning dining staff looks forward to bringing students together in Hope Commons, Butterfield Hall, the Ram’s Den, FujiSan Sushi and the new Brookside Bistro. Also, be sure to follow the location of Rhody Eatz, the URI Foodtruck!
Student Life Engagement: We offered a rich array of events this year, and student organizations, clubs, and intramural sports remained active in creative ways. We look forward to returning to in-person events and programs across campus and a full slate of opportunities to cheer for our athletic teams starting in the fall.
Health and Wellness: From the state-of-the-art Fascitelli Fitness and Wellness Center, to our seven-day-a-week Health Services operation, to classes on health and mindfulness, we focused on the well-being of our students this year and will do so again next year. Our Counseling Services are available 24-hours per day.
Support Services: Through our Academic Enhancement Center, Center for Career and Experiential Education, Disability Services, and Academic Advising, we will continue to support our students.
Multicultural Student Services Center, Gender and Sexuality Center, Women’s Center: Our centers have offered programs including speakers, events, book clubs and more. The Center for Student Leadership Development helps you discover your strengths in becoming a confident leader through inclusive and fun classes and activities, while building great friendships throughout your college career.
The University recognizes these are bold plans in uncertain times. We look forward with hope and optimism to the coming months when we are able to be together. We will provide updates as they become available. We are all in this together, and we are grateful for your support.