Thank You, University of Rhode Island.

David M. Dooley became the University of Rhode Island’s 11th president in 2009. As he prepares to retire this year, President Dooley expresses his gratitude for the people of URI.

Working with the people of the University of Rhode Island has been the highlight of my career. URI’s students, faculty, staff, alumni, political leaders, and friends have all contributed to the achievements and excellence that now characterize our university. There have been many challenges over the years, but the determination, perseverance, and dedication of the URI community have propelled URI to its current status as a premier public research university.

“Working with the people of the University of Rhode Island has been the highlight of my career.”
—David M. Dooley

In these pages, there are many stories that relate to our current experiences as we continue adapting to life during a pandemic. “From Assistant to Expert: Redefining Nursing” brings into focus the importance of nurses in roles ranging from patient care to leadership during times of crisis. As we commemorate the 75th anniversary of URI’s nursing program at a time in history when nurses have become the face of frontline workers, we highlight the URI nurses in communities around the globe and in every facet of health care who are touching—and saving—countless lives.

Throughout the pandemic, URI has continued to expand its commitment to the arts and the cultural experiences that connect us as humans. When Amanda Gorman confidently stepped into the inaugural spotlight to share her poem, “The Hill We Climb,” generations of people were reminded of the power of poetry and its ability to connect us on an emotional level. “Why Poetry Now?” explores this artistic expression and how many of us are finding comfort in reading, writing, and reciting poetry during these difficult times.

Nevertheless, there are many reasons to be hopeful. For example, I’m proud of the new pathways this university continues to create for accessing the best of what higher education has to offer: hope, discovery, and the pursuit of knowledge.

URI Online, for example, highlighted in “A New Way—and Good Reasons—to Go Back to School,” represents new opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to access URI’s affordable and high-quality education programs.

I am grateful for all I have experienced during my academic career. In fact, I often note that I went to college in the 1970s—and never left. As I write this final URI Magazine message to you, our Rhody community, I want to express my deep appreciation for the care and support you extended to Lynn and me from the day you welcomed us to Kingston. We will never forget the University of Rhode Island and the special community at its heart. Thank you.

David M. Dooley
President, University of Rhode Island

Photo: Nora Lewis