KINGSTON, R.I. – March 18, 2025 – The University of Rhode Island recently honored 150 staff and faculty members for their years of URI service at the second annual Employee Milestone Celebration in the Memorial Union Ballroom.

President Marc Parlange, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Barbara Wolfe, and Vice President for Human Resources Becky Hill greeted the honorees who reached a milestone anniversary – 5 to 50 years – in 2024.

“What makes URI so special is its people, and there’s no better example of how incredible our people are than this celebration,” said Parlange. “You have all chosen to bring your talents to URI and to work every day alongside your colleagues to serve our students, advance our mission, and educate the next generation of Rhode Islanders.”

“Today is all about you—our dedicated, hardworking, and truly remarkable employees—the faculty and staff that make URI an incredible place to study, teach, research and work,” said Hill. “This event is a chance to come together, celebrate your service milestones at URI, and show our deep appreciation for everything you do.”

Among those honored were Gordon Dash, professor of finance in the College of Business, who marked 50 years of service last year, and Michael McDonald, a building construction inspector with Housing and Residential Life and a 45-year veteran of URI. Dash was honored with an armchair engraved with the University’s emblem, and McDonald received a silver-framed mirror with a photo of URI’s Green Hall inset at the top.