Biography

Michelle Fontes graduated with both her undergraduate degree in Communication Studies and graduate degree in Adult Education from URI. She joined the University in 2007 as a specialist and then assistant director in the Alumni Office. In 2012, she transitioned to a coordinator in the College of the Environment and Life Sciences (CELS) and, over the years, advanced to Assistant Director of Student Diversity Initiatives and then an Assistant Dean. Prior to joining URI, she worked in both the corporate and nonprofit sectors, always gravitating toward mentorship and education. She was appointed by President Parlange to be the interim Assistant Vice President for the Community, Equity and Diversity (CED) office in May 2022 and was recently hired into that position permanently. She is also serving as the interim Vice President for CED until a new Vice President is hired.