URI President Marc Parlange was our guest speaker. President Parlange has just completed his first year as the 12thpresident of URI. His most recent assignment was at Monash University in Australia. Last August he was visible on campus helping students move in (all wearing masks due to COVID) and running around town as he is an avid runner and hits the pavement every day.
He noted that URI will be seeing a healthy increase in first year students this fall, unlike other colleges and universities who are experiencing a decline. This represents sixty-eight nations, 23% first-year students of color, 14,572 undergraduate students, 90% receiving financial aid and 30% first generation college students.
He is proud of the URI Talent Development Program which began in 1972. On campus this summer there are over 350 students enrolled in this program prepping them for a smooth transition as non-traditional students, students of color and those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
There are over 60,000 URI Alum living in our little state of Rhode Island – recognizing that there are many alums who are members of our Rotary Club.
We quickly learned that President Parlange has a real sense of humor, as was evidenced when the talked about his application and interview, along with his interest in athletics. And he did share that he was born in Providence.
Efforts are being made to promote impactful research and entrepreneurship through programs and partnerships with an emphasis on the Blue Economy. There is also a focus on lifting local economies and attracting and educating future generations who give back to their communities in meaningful ways.
The Strategic Plan centers on creating an entrepreneurial hub for activity that will generate revenue for RI, create sustainable and equitable jobs, and bring transformative innovation, business, industry, and critical, competitive funding to the state.
President Parlange encouraged all to vote Yes on Question One.
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