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reflections

Celebrating the Presidency of
Robert L. Carothers, 1991-2009

Timeline

Clock atop Green Hall

The year was 1991. Rhode Island was in the midst of a major fiscal crisis. On campus, roofs leaked, residence halls and buildings suffered the effects of years of deferred maintenance and there was little opportunity for scholarships to attract top students. The University had developed a solid reputation as the nation's number one party school, and there was a tremendous sense of cynicism.

This is where President Carothers began the makeover to improve the University's structure, infrastructure, and curriculum. He walked onto campus with a whole new vision, language, and leadership approach.

Click on a date below to show or hide the events that took place during that year.


1991
SSRC/CPRC building

Dr. Robert L. Carothers named URI's 10th president

Set the tone for his leadership style -- cancelled inauguration celebrations due to budget

Mackal Field House, the $8.3 million recreational facility dedicated.

Whispering Pines Conference Center, Sycamore Lodge construction begins at W. Alton Jones Campus

Social Sciences Research Center, home of the internationally known Cancer Prevention Research Center

Center for Atmospheric Chemistry, Narragansett Bay Campus

President Carothers Arrives - Atmospheric Chemistry - CPRC
1992
Centennial - Research University - Black Student Leadership
1993
Library Expansion - Residential Life - Independence II
1994
Capital Campaign - Memorial Union
1995
Centennial Scholars - Alcohol Policy - Kirk Engineering Expansion
1996
Partnership Program - Football Forfeit - Shepard Building
1997
Campaign Finale - Leadership Appointment - Student Leadership Development
1998
Ocean Technology Center - Elite 8 - Multicultural Center
1999
Contract Renewal - Diversity Convention - Nonviolence and Peace Studies
2000
Freshman Village - Master Plan - Social Science Research Center
2001
New Traditions - Smoke-free Initiative - Coastal Institute
2002
New Openings - Ryan Center - Freshman Village
2003
Biotech Begins - Back to Business in Ballentine - Green Hall Restored
2004
Leadership - Aquaculture Center - Voter Support
2005
College with a Conscience - Alumni Center - ZBT
2006
Brand Initiative - Voter Support: Pharmacy
2007
Hope Commons - Safety Award - Carbon Footprint
2008
Lifetime Achievement - Explosives - Lippitt Hall
2009
43,000 degrees conferred - Biotechnology and Life Sciences - Pharmacy

GENERAL Facts

Enrollment:

  • In 1991, there were 10,717 undergraduate and 2,370 graduate students.
  • In 2009, there are 13,096 undergraduate and 1,870 graduate students.