After Two Decades on Campus, Alumna Takes on New Challenge

^{Above: Keri Rossi-D'entremont '01, MA '03 on her last day of work at RIC, with gifts presented to her by her colleagues in honor of her contributions to the college.}

For almost two decades Keri Rossi-D’entremont ’01, MA ’03 has been a part of the Rhode Island College community, either as a student or staff member. As Assistant Dean of Students for Accessibility and Inclusion, a role in which she oversaw the Disability Services Center (DSC), she has shown her tenacity and love for helping others overcome challenges to achieve success. 

On December 30 she will become the new Director of Postsecondary Success at the College Crusade of RI, a comprehensive college readiness program.

“This was a decision that tugged at my heart strings because I adore working with RIC students and my valued colleagues,” says Rossi-D’entremont. “But, I am also excited for what the future holds, for expanding my scope.”

Each year, The College Crusade supports around 4,200 Rhode Island students, helping them become the first in their families to attend and complete college. Students participate in programs that focus on academic enrichment, personal development, career exploration and preparation for college, starting as early as sixth grade. This mission speaks to her because she grew up in Providence and was the first in her family to go to college.

In her new role, Rossi-D’entremont will provide strategic and operational direction to the postsecondary team, and design, oversee and evaluate programming geared toward postsecondary success. “They were looking for someone to expand and lead their postsecondary retention initiatives, as well as re-engaging students who paused their dreams of going to college,” she explains.
 
Although her colleagues at RIC are sad to see her go, Rossi-D’entremont makes clear that this is not a complete separation from her alma mater. “The good news is that Rhode Island College is already a partner school and has a College Crusade coach stationed in Learning for Life,” she notes. “I will cherish that continued connection.”

Rossi-D’entremont will also continue advocating at the state level for policies that benefit the Rhode Island disability community through membership on several statewide councils and in her role as a Commissioner for the RI Governor’s Commission on Disabilities. “I co-chair the Employment Committee, which focuses on equal access in postsecondary education, training and employment for Rhode Islanders with disabilities,” she explains.

As her time on campus comes to an end, Rossi-D’entremont looks back fondly on the many years she spent as both a student and a supporter of students. “RIC will always feel like home to me and I plan to stay connected as alumni,” she concludes.