Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

  1. About
  2. Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

We Don't Just Talk About Our Commitment...

...At RIC, we take action! Our dedication to diversity, equity & inclusion is evident in the high-level initiatives, devoted offices and services, and resources we cultivate and emphasize as a community.

Jinnette Santana with Preparatory Enrollment Program community

We Empower First-Generation Students

Our Preparatory Enrollment Program and Project Excel initiative are designed to support the enrollment of talented first-generation and bilingual students at RIC. These alternative admissions programs provide motivated students with the higher education access they deserve.

Counselor helping student at table

We Support Foster Care Youth Mobility

The Foster Care Youth Scholarship Program provides a pathway to RIC for current and former foster youth. By addressing financial barriers and offering wide-ranging services, the program gives students the support needed to thrive.

We Honor the Land We Occupy

"Every community owes its existence and vitality to generations from around the world who contributed their hopes, dreams, and energy to making the history that led to this moment. Some were brought here against their will, some were drawn to leave their distant homes in hope of a better life, and some have lived on this land for more generations than can be counted. Truth and acknowledgment are critical to building mutual respect and connection across all barriers of heritage and difference. We begin this effort to acknowledge what has been buried by honoring the truth. We are standing on the ancestral lands of the Narragansett and Wampanoag People. We pay respects to their elders past and present. Please take a moment to consider the many legacies of violence, displacement, migration, and settlement that bring us together here today."

Our Points of Pride Tell Our Story

#1
College for Social Mobility in New England among public regional universities - 2022 U.S. News & World Report
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New Center to Improve State's Lack of Diversity in Behavioral Healthcare

The Atrévete Center of Excellence for Latinx/Hispanic Social Work Practice was created to fundamentally transform social work education and clinical services to better serve and uplift Latinx communities. 

Explore the Center

Dedicated Offices and Services

Students reading a book

Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

This Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion leads institutional initiatives that promote a diverse, inclusive, and equitable campus. In compliance with state and federal laws, the office implements anti-discrimination (Title IX) and Affirmative Action programs and facilitates access and inclusion for students with disabilities through the Center for Disability Access.

RIC students at a ceremony in Roberts Hall

Unity Center

The Unity Center is a welcoming space that affirms and promotes equity for historically marginalized and disenfranchised students. Offering transformative workshops and restorative practices, the center creates a climate for equitable opportunities and outcomes.

Military Friendly School 2024–25 logo

Military Resource Center

The Military Resource Center serves and supports military personnel, veterans, and families with information, transition assistance, education programs, counseling, and advocacy. RIC was recently designated a 2024–25 Gold Level Military Friendly School.

Food pantry

Food Pantry

Our food pantry assists all RIC students with food and/or housing insecurity by providing a private and confidential opportunity to obtain food and toiletries. New partnerships with local vendors continue to expand the pantry's food offerings.

Our Commitments Carried Forward