{"id":2834,"date":"2024-09-25T12:36:12","date_gmt":"2024-09-25T16:36:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/?page_id=2834"},"modified":"2026-09-28T16:16:53","modified_gmt":"2026-09-28T20:16:53","slug":"report","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/report\/","title":{"rendered":"President&#8217;s Report"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<style>\n.economic-metric {\npadding: 1.5rem;\nbackground: #f4f5f2;\nborder-radius: 1rem;\nheight: 100%;\nbox-sizing: border-box;\n}\n.economic-metric .metric {\nfont-family: \"Rubik\",\"Lato\",\"Hind\",\"Arial\",sans-serif;\nfont-size: 2rem;\nfont-weight: 900;\nline-height: 2rem;\ncolor: #168c0d;\nmargin-bottom: 1rem;\n}\n.economic-metric .caption {\nfont-size: 1.1rem;\nline-height: 1.8rem;\nmargin-bottom: 0;\n}\n.economic-metric .caption em {\nfont-style: inherit;\nfont-weight: 900;\n}\n<\/style>\n\n\n<section class=\"cl-wrapper cl-hero-wrapper\"><div class=\"cl-hero fullwidth  report-overview-hero report-hero-2026 cl-has-accessibility-controls\"><div class=\"cl-hero-proper\"><div class=\"overlay\"><div class=\"block\"><h1>Focus Forward<\/h1><p>President&#8217;s Report 2026<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"still\" style=\"background-image:url(https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2061\/2026-report-hero-overview-2.jpg);\"><\/div><div class=\"cl-accessibility-controls-container\"><div class=\"cl-accessibility-controls\"><div class=\"cl-accessibility-icon\" title=\"Accessibility controls\">Accessibility controls<\/div><div class=\"cl-accessibility-control cl-accessibility-motion-control cl-accessibility-control-hidden\"><div class=\"cl-accessibility-control-default\"><div class=\"cl-accessibility-control-button\" title=\"Pause motion\">Pause motion<\/div><div class=\"cl-accessibility-control-label\">Motion: <span class=\"cl-accessibility-syntax\">On<\/span><\/div><\/div><div class=\"cl-accessibility-control-alternate\"><div class=\"cl-accessibility-control-button\" title=\"Play motion\">Play motion<\/div><div class=\"cl-accessibility-control-label\">Motion: <span class=\"cl-accessibility-syntax\">Off<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"cl-accessibility-control cl-accessibility-contrast-control\"><div class=\"cl-accessibility-control-default\"><div class=\"cl-accessibility-control-button\" title=\"Increase text contrast\">Increase text contrast<\/div><div class=\"cl-accessibility-control-label\">Contrast: <span class=\"cl-accessibility-syntax\">Standard<\/span><\/div><\/div><div class=\"cl-accessibility-control-alternate\"><div class=\"cl-accessibility-control-button\" title=\"Reset text contrast\">Reset text contrast<\/div><div class=\"cl-accessibility-control-label\">Contrast: <span class=\"cl-accessibility-syntax\">High<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"cl-accessibility-system-setting\"><div class=\"cl-accessibility-toggle\" title=\"Apply my preferences site-wide\"><\/div><div class=\"cl-accessibility-toggle-label\">Apply site-wide<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:32px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized report-president-headshot\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1000\" src=\"https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2061\/MarcParlange-studio_20210916-NL-029F-square.jpg\" alt=\"President Marc Parlange\" class=\"wp-image-2742\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1;object-fit:cover;width:250px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2061\/MarcParlange-studio_20210916-NL-029F-square.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2061\/MarcParlange-studio_20210916-NL-029F-square-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2061\/MarcParlange-studio_20210916-NL-029F-square-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2061\/MarcParlange-studio_20210916-NL-029F-square-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2061\/MarcParlange-studio_20210916-NL-029F-square-364x364.jpg 364w, https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2061\/MarcParlange-studio_20210916-NL-029F-square-500x500.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading report-message-header\">From the President<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:75%\">\n<p class=\"type-intro wp-block-paragraph\">This past year was one of momentum and incredible growth at the University of Rhode Island, and it is clear that URI is playing a greater role in shaping the future of our state than at perhaps any other time in our history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Across healthcare, economic development, workforce preparation, research, technology, and the blue economy, the URI community is bringing its expertise to some of Rhode Island\u2019s most pressing challenges and exciting opportunities. The highlights in this report reflect a University with greater reach than ever before. We have an opportunity to use this momentum to build a stronger URI and a stronger Rhode Island\u2014and to show what a great public research university can contribute to the people and communities it serves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"report-read-more wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2061\/2026_Pres_Report.pdf\">Read more in the full report<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:25%\"><div class=\"cl-wrapper cl-card-wrapper\"><a class=\"cl-card  \" href=\"https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2061\/2026_Pres_Report.pdf\" title=\"\"><div class=\"cl-card-container media\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2061\/2026_Pres_Report_cover.jpg\" srcset=\"\" alt=\"Cover of the 2026 President's Report.\"><\/div><div class=\"cl-card-container text\"><\/div><div class=\"cl-card-container button\">download full report (PDF)<\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<section class=\"cl-wrapper cl-hero-wrapper\"><div class=\"cl-hero fullwidth  report-section-hero\"><div class=\"cl-hero-proper\"><div class=\"overlay\"><\/div><div class=\"still\" style=\"background-image:url(https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2061\/2026-report-hero-p1.jpg);\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n\n\n<p class=\"report-eyebrow wp-block-paragraph\">Strategic Priority 1:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading report-section-header\">Broadening Our Impact<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"type-intro wp-block-paragraph\">The University of Rhode Island will serve as a national model for the role a flagship public research university can play in driving transformative change for the betterment of its state and the global human condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"economic-metric type-sans\"><p class=\"metric\">$2 Billion<\/p><p class=\"caption\">URI generates $2.0 billion in statewide economic activity annually<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"economic-metric type-sans\"><p class=\"metric\">$17.39<\/p><p class=\"caption\">For every $1 invested by the state, URI returns $17.39 to the state\u2019s economy<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"economic-metric type-sans\"><p class=\"metric\">17,799<\/p><p class=\"caption\">URI supports 17,799 jobs across Rhode Island<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"economic-metric type-sans\"><p class=\"metric\">1 in 33<\/p><p class=\"caption\">1 in every 33 jobs statewide is connected to the University<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"type-sans small fullwidth wp-block-paragraph\">Findings are from a new <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/about\/economic-impact\/\">economic impact study<\/a> conducted by Tripp Umbach to assess the University\u2019s total impact in Fiscal Year 2025.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">URI&#8217;s impact is everywhere. Researchers are advancing a promising new cancer treatment, shedding light on hidden homelessness in America to aid policymakers, and studying how Mars\u2019 gravity could affect the human musculoskeletal system during future missions to the Red Planet. Two new studies will provide the most detailed picture yet of how Block Island\u2019s shoreline and salt marshes have changed over the past century, and a collaborative effort between URI and the Department of Environmental Management will reestablish the W. Alton Jones Campus as a premier natural resource center and environmental education hub.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">URI is helping chart Rhode Island\u2019s strategy for artificial intelligence, positioning the state as a national leader in AI while ensuring businesses and communities across the state can benefit from the technology. To help fill Rhode Island&#8217;s news gap, URI is bringing media coverage to communities by partnering advanced journalism students with local publications. And in 2026, the state approved an initial $5 million investment to establish a public medical school at URI, building on the institution&#8217;s longstanding leadership in advancing health and wellness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">In Action<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"cl-tiles thirds report-story-grid\">\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/03\/new-study-shows-university-of-rhode-island-generates-2-billion-in-annual-economic-impact\/\">URI Generates $2 Billion Annually for Rhode Island Economy<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/06\/fy27-state-budget-positions-uri-for-expanded-healthcare-leadership\/\">Building Rhode Island\u2019s First Public Medical School<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/03\/student-success-state-investment-celebrated-at-annual-uri-day-at-the-state-house\/\">Celebrating Statewide Impact<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/03\/dem-and-uri-to-reopen-and-revitalize-w-alton-jones-campus\/\">Restoring a Rhode Island Treasure<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/05\/genetically-reengineered-bacteria-targets-cancerous-tumors\/\">URI Research Advances Promising New Approach to Fighting Cancer<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/05\/counting-the-overlooked-hidden-homeless\/\">Research Sheds Light on Hidden Homelessness<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/05\/sweet-outcome-surf-therapy-program-receives-fogarty-foundation-grant-expands-to-serve-those-with-visual-impairments\/\">URI Surf Therapy Program Expands Opportunities for Children with Disabilities<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/06\/course-applications-now-open-for-fall-food-recovery-for-rhode-island-program-at-uri\/\">Tackling Food Waste<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/05\/scientists-are-reading-block-islands-past-to-protect-its-future\/\">New URI Studies Will Guide Block Island\u2019s Coastal Future<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/03\/do-we-have-the-muscle-for-mars\/\">University Research Supports Future Missions to Mars<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/03\/uri-professors-aiding-states-push-to-become-national-leader-in-artificial-intelligence\/\">URI Helps Shape Rhode Island\u2019s AI Future<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2025\/10\/uri-harrington-school-launches-new-lab-to-bolster-local-news-coverage\/\">URI Community News Lab Strengthens Local Journalism<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/03\/risbdc-helping-small-and-family-owned-businesses-blossom\/\">Growing Small Businesses<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/01\/tuning-in-to-the-weather-uris-sara-sweetman-sharing-expertise-on-award-winning-pbs-kids-show\/\">URI Helps Bring Award-Winning PBS KIDS Weather Series to Young Learners<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2025\/10\/a-rhode-island-fisheries-model-for-asia-pacific-nations\/\">A Rhode Island fisheries model for Asia-Pacific nations<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/06\/uri-coastal-institute-receives-u-s-state-department-support-to-advance-sustainable-fisheries-work-in-philippines\/\">URI Coastal Institute receives U.S. State Department support to advance sustainable fisheries work in Philippines<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2025\/10\/uri-tech-showcase-highlights-startup-talent-sparks-momentum-for-innovation\/\">URI Tech Showcase Highlights Research with Real-World Impact<\/a>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"report-read-more wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2061\/2026_Pres_Report.pdf\">Read more in the full report<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:32px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<section class=\"cl-wrapper cl-hero-wrapper\"><div class=\"cl-hero fullwidth  report-section-hero\"><div class=\"cl-hero-proper\"><div class=\"overlay\"><\/div><div class=\"still\" style=\"background-image:url(https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2061\/2026-report-hero-p2.jpg);\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n\n\n<p class=\"report-eyebrow wp-block-paragraph\">Strategic Priority 2:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading report-section-header\">Enhancing Student Achievement<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"type-intro wp-block-paragraph\">By fostering an active and engaged learning environment, the University of Rhode Island will be a community where students are empowered to lead their own academic journey with access to resources and support that places value on inclusion, well-being, and holistic development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"economic-metric type-sans\"><p class=\"metric\">#1<\/p><p class=\"caption\">Public university in New England<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"economic-metric type-sans\"><p class=\"metric\">#9<\/p><p class=\"caption\">Ranked among the nation&#8217;s public flagship universities<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"economic-metric type-sans\"><p class=\"metric\">#34<\/p><p class=\"caption\">Ranked among all public universities<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"economic-metric type-sans\"><p class=\"metric\">#76<\/p><p class=\"caption\">Ranked among all universities<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"type-sans small fullwidth wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2025\/10\/uri-once-again-ranked-no-1-public-university-in-new-england-among-nations-best-by-wall-street-journal\/\">Rankings<\/a> rated by The Wall Street Journal\/College Pulse 2026 Best Colleges in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">URI is exceptional. For the second consecutive year, the University of Rhode Island was named the best public university in New England by The Wall Street Journal, which also ranked URI No. 9 among the nation&#8217;s public flagship universities. Fifteen URI students received Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarships to study around the world, bringing the total to 177 Gilman Scholars since 2001. And 2026 marks the 18th consecutive year that URI students have earned the highly competitive Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship, with more than 50 URI students selected since its inception in 2005.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">URI trustees approved a record financial aid package, increasing the University\u2019s financial aid budget to more than $158 million\u2014the largest in URI\u2019s history. The University also received notable philanthropic support from alumni, totaling in the millions of dollars. The new Kent and Diane Fannon Institute for Student Success reflects URI\u2019s commitment to student achievement, career readiness, and holistic support. And a Blue Fellows initiative was launched, supported by a $954,000 National Science Foundation grant to recruit and support doctoral fellows while strengthening the state\u2019s future ocean workforce.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rhody pride continued to build this year as teams achieved historic milestones both on the field and in the classroom, including the football program\u2019s first outright Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) championship and women\u2019s basketball winning a program-record 28 games, capturing its second Atlantic 10 regular-season conference title and first A-10 conference tournament title.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">In Action<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"cl-tiles thirds report-story-grid\">\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2025\/10\/uri-once-again-ranked-no-1-public-university-in-new-england-among-nations-best-by-wall-street-journal\/\">URI Again Named New England\u2019s Top Public University by The Wall Street Journal<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/06\/hayden-scholarship-assists-233-uri-students-in-its-second-year\/\">Making College Dreams a Reality<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/03\/uri-named-top-producer-of-gilman-scholars-as-program-celebrates-its-25th-year\/\">URI named top producer of Gilman Scholars<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/06\/trio-of-uri-students-traveling-to-taiwan-next-year-as-boren-scholarship-recipients\/\">Trio of URI students traveling to Taiwan next year as Boren Scholarship recipients<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/05\/35-uri-students-honored-with-rhode-island-foundation-fellowships-to-support-foreign-language-study-abroad\/\">35 URI students honored with Rhode Island Foundation fellowships<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/uri-language-student-alum-awarded-national-critical-language-scholarships\/\">URI language student, alum awarded national Critical Language Scholarships<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/three-uri-students-named-2026-noaa-hollings-scholarship-awardees\/\">URI Students Excel in Oceanic and Atmospheric Sciences<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/05\/uri-creates-blue-fellows-program-to-support-graduate-students-with-954000-nsf-grant\/\">Supporting Graduate Education and the Blue Economy<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/03\/uri-receives-1-6-million-gift-from-trustee-for-new-engineering-scholarship-program\/\">URI receives $1.6 million gift from trustee for new engineering scholarship program<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/uri-board-of-trustees-chair-spouse-gift-2-145-million-for-new-endowed-scholars-program\/\">URI Board of Trustees chair, spouse gift $2.145 million for new endowed scholars program<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/02\/uri-receives-2-million-gift-to-establish-new-athletic-endowment-rename-football-practice-field\/\">URI receives $2 million gift to establish new athletic endowment<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/gorhody.com\/news\/2025\/11\/22\/rhode-island-clinches-caa-football-title-by-beating-hampton.aspx\">Rhode Island Clinches CAA Football Title By Beating Hampton<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/gorhody.com\/news\/2026\/3\/8\/womens-basketball-rhode-island-wins-a-10-championship-punches-ticket-to-the-dance.aspx\">Rhode Island Wins A-10 Championship, Punches Ticket to the Dance<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/gorhody.com\/news\/2026\/5\/3\/mens-track-field-rams-win-17th-atlantic-10-outdoor-title.aspx\">Rams Win 17th Atlantic 10 Outdoor Title<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/gorhody.com\/news\/2026\/5\/16\/womens-rowing-rams-claim-12th-atlantic-10-crown.aspx\">Rams Claim 12th Atlantic 10 Crown<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/uri-pharmacy-students-win-national-therapeutics-skills-competition\/\">URI Pharmacy Students Earn National Honors in Healthcare Decision-Making<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2025\/10\/uri-launches-kent-and-diane-fannon-institute-for-student-success\/\">Meeting Students\u2019 Evolving Needs<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/05\/commencement-2026-pomp-and-circumstance-aplenty-as-uri-celebrates-achievements-of-4000-plus-graduates\/\">URI Graduates More Than 4,000 Students and Looks Ahead with Hope<\/a>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"report-read-more wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2061\/2026_Pres_Report.pdf\">Read more in the full report<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:32px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<section class=\"cl-wrapper cl-hero-wrapper\"><div class=\"cl-hero fullwidth  report-section-hero\"><div class=\"cl-hero-proper\"><div class=\"overlay\"><\/div><div class=\"still\" style=\"background-image:url(https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2061\/2026-report-hero-p3.jpg);\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n\n\n<p class=\"report-eyebrow wp-block-paragraph\">Strategic Priority 3:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading report-section-header\">Fostering an Inclusive Culture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"type-intro wp-block-paragraph\">The University of Rhode Island will be a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community\u2014a vibrant, integrated university that celebrates the uniqueness of its members and fosters a culture of valuing people, excellence, and giving back.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most University of Rhode Island students, faculty, and staff report a strong sense of community, according to the University\u2019s fall 2025 Snap Climate Survey. URI\u2019s Office of Community, Equity and Diversity received the Organizational Leadership in Diversity and Inclusion Award from the Rhode Island nonprofit Diversity and Inclusion Professionals, recognizing its commitment to advancing equity, belonging, and inclusion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The University also recognized individuals and programs that have made outstanding contributions to building an inclusive campus culture during its annual Inclusive Excellence Awards ceremony in April. And, URI honored 370 faculty and staff members for their dedication and service during the third annual Employee Milestone Celebration, including five who were recognized for 45 years of service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Funds raised through the 17th annual Be 5K Walk\/Run for Mental Health Awareness and Suicide Prevention benefited the Heather Fund, which supports services and outreach programs focused on the prevention and treatment of depression and suicide within the URI community. URI\u2019s College of Engineering hosted the Northeast Regional Higher Education Neurodiversity Coalition Conference, bringing together educators, researchers, and advocates to explore how colleges and universities can better support neurodivergent students. And, URI was ranked No. 17 nationally\u2014out of 357 higher education institutions\u2014in Military Times\u2019 2025 Best for Vets: Colleges rankings, placing the University among the nation\u2019s top institutions for serving military veterans and military-connected students.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">In Action<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"cl-tiles thirds report-story-grid\">\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/02\/uri-shares-2025-snap-climate-survey-results\/\">Building an Inclusive Culture<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/inclusive-excellence-award-winners-honored-at-uri\/\">Honoring Inclusive Excellence<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/uri-honors-employees-years-of-service-with-third-annual-milestone-celebration\/\">Celebrating Dedication and Years of Service<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2025\/12\/uri-named-among-best-universities-in-u-s-for-military-veterans\/\">Welcoming Military Veterans<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/02\/uris-office-of-community-equity-and-diversity-recognized-for-leadership\/\">URI Team Honored with Award for Leadership in Diversity and Inclusion<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2025\/10\/uplifting-energizing-impactful-uris-be-5k-walk-run-for-mental-health-awareness-and-suicide-prevention-set-for-oct-25\/\">Raising Mental Health Awareness<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2025\/08\/uri-set-to-host-a-two-day-conference-on-neurodiversity-with-world-renowned-author-and-autism-advocate-temple-grandin\/\">Advancing Neurodiversity In Higher Education<\/a>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"report-read-more wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2061\/2026_Pres_Report.pdf\">Read more in the full report<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:32px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<section class=\"cl-wrapper cl-hero-wrapper\"><div class=\"cl-hero fullwidth  report-section-hero\"><div class=\"cl-hero-proper\"><div class=\"overlay\"><\/div><div class=\"still\" style=\"background-image:url(https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2061\/2026-report-hero-p4.jpg);\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n\n\n<p class=\"report-eyebrow wp-block-paragraph\">Strategic Priority 4:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading report-section-header\">Powering the University of the Future<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"type-intro wp-block-paragraph\">The University of Rhode Island will invest in and implement administrative and financial practices that position the University for long-term success and that transform the institution into a high-performing, fiscally sound, and agile university with the physical facilities necessary to achieve its strategic vision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A new comprehensive campus plan will serve as a strategic roadmap for improving the University\u2019s campuses over the next 20 years. Providing a formal blueprint to enhance facilities and the overall campus experience, the plan spans every aspect of University life across all campuses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">URI is building two new residence halls with apartment-style suites and reconstructing the Graduate Village Apartments complex for graduate students \u2014 adding more than 1,100 on-campus beds by the fall of 2028. The new track and field complex is part of a broader $65.8 million Rhode Island Capital Plan investment that also includes upgrades for Meade Stadium, Tootell Aquatic Center, Beck Field, the URI Softball Complex, and the URI Soccer Complex. And, URI celebrated a major milestone in revitalization of the Narragansett Bay Campus with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Ocean Robotics Laboratory. As part of its commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions, URI is implementing a new geothermal system on the Narragansett Bay Campus to heat and cool the new Ocean Frontiers Building.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The University\u2019s new Institute for AI and Computational Research, launched in September, positions URI to advance leadership in artificial intelligence, data science, high-performance computing, and quantum computing. And, URI expanded its emergency communication capabilities with the introduction of Alertus, a mass notification system designed to quickly reach community members and visitors during campus emergencies. Following a historic blizzard, the University received StormReady status from the National Weather Service, highlighting URI&#8217;s strong weather emergency preparedness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">In Action<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"cl-tiles thirds report-story-grid\">\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/01\/home-sweet-home-uri-gilbane-break-ground-on-new-on-campus-student-housing\/\">Breaking New Ground<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2025\/10\/uri-takes-big-stride-forward-with-groundbreaking-of-new-track-and-field-facility\/\">Track and Field Complex<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2025\/11\/uri-taps-geothermal-energy-for-new-ocean-frontiers-building\/\">Tapping Into Renewable Energy<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/06\/underwater-ribbon-cutting-ushers-in-new-uri-ocean-robotics-laboratory\/\">Ushering in a New Age for Rhode Island\u2019s Blue Economy<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2025\/09\/uri-board-of-trustees-approves-new-campus-plan-charting-bold-vision\/\">Charting a Bold Campus Vision<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/02\/alertus-notification-system-enhances-uris-ability-to-communicate-during-emergencies\/\">Ensuring Emergency Preparedness<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2025\/09\/uri-receives-first-ever-nih-t32-award-to-launch-transdisciplinary-biomedical-research-training-program\/\">Creating Transdisciplinary Training Opportunities<\/a>\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2025\/09\/uri-launches-new-institute-to-lead-in-ai-and-computational-research\/\">Growing Interdisciplinary Research, Education and Collaboration<\/a>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"report-read-more wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2061\/2026_Pres_Report.pdf\">Read more in the full report<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Past reports<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"cl-wrapper cl-card-wrapper\"><a class=\"cl-card  \" href=\"https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/report\/pr2025\/\" title=\"\"><div class=\"cl-card-container media\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2061\/2025_Pres_Report_cover.jpg\" srcset=\"\" alt=\"\"><\/div><div class=\"cl-card-container text\"><\/div><div class=\"cl-card-container button\">2025<\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"cl-wrapper cl-card-wrapper\"><a class=\"cl-card  \" href=\"https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/report\/pr2024\/\" title=\"\"><div class=\"cl-card-container media\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2061\/2024_Pres_Report_cover.jpg\" srcset=\"\" alt=\"Front cover of the Focus Forward: President's Report 2024\"><\/div><div class=\"cl-card-container text\"><\/div><div class=\"cl-card-container button\">2024<\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>From the President This past year was one of momentum and incredible growth at the University of Rhode Island, and it is clear that URI is playing a greater role in shaping the future of our state than at perhaps any other time in our history. Across healthcare, economic development, workforce preparation, research, technology, and [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1338,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"class_list":["post-2834","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2834","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1338"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2834"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2834\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3124,"href":"https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2834\/revisions\/3124"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/web.uri.edu\/president\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2834"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}