Mel Rising Dawn Cordeiro
News Editor
Rhode Island College entered a new chapter in its history with the formal installation of Dr. Jack Warner as the institution's 11th president on Nov. 15, 2024. The ceremony marked the beginning of an exciting era for the school, with Warner taking the helm during a time of growth and transformation.
Warner, a seasoned higher education leader, assumed the role of president in July 2024, but his official installation was celebrated with faculty, students, alumni, and dignitaries present. As RIC’s new president, Warner inherits a community at a pivotal moment, with the college poised to expand its academic programs, foster greater community engagement, and further solidify its mission to provide access to higher education for all Rhode Islanders.
The installation ceremony was attended by several prominent figures, including Governor Dan McKee, Senator Jack Reed, David Caprio, the Chair of the RI Council on Postsecondary Education, President Emeritus John Nazarian and numerous local college and university presidents. They made it known that they agree that Warner’s leadership experience has set a course for future success for RIC.
In his inaugural address, Warner expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead RIC and outlined his vision for the future of the college. He emphasized the importance of inclusivity, academic excellence, and innovation while stressing RIC’s commitment to serving students from diverse backgrounds.
“Rhode Island College is at a crossroads,” Warner said in his address. “Together, we can shape a future that is rooted in academic rigor, driven by a commitment to equity and inclusion, and focused on preparing students to thrive in an ever-changing world.”
Warner’s appointment comes at a critical time for RIC, following several years of institutional growth and strategic planning. Under his leadership, the college aims to continue building on its successes, focusing on expanding student success initiatives, increasing enrollment, and strengthening community partnerships.
Before joining RIC, Warner served as the Chancellor of the Massachusetts State University System, where he led several initiatives aimed at improving student outcomes and increasing access to higher education. His leadership style has been described as collaborative and forward-thinking, and many expect his approach to positively impact the college's academic and administrative culture.
Dr. Dana Mohler-Faria, President Emeritus of Bridgewater State University and friend of Warner for over 40 years, said that he has never witnessed any other institution “having more spirit or dedication to students” than RIC has under Warner.
In addition to Warner’s leadership experience, his passion for student success was evident during his address. As part of his ongoing efforts to engage students, faculty, and staff in the college’s mission, he announced a new initiative to increase academic support services and create more pathways for student involvement in research and internships.
Warner also discussed the college’s role in the larger Rhode Island community, emphasizing that RIC’s work extends beyond the campus. He reiterated the importance of building strong partnerships with local businesses, nonprofits, and government entities to ensure that students are not only prepared for successful careers but are also positioned to make meaningful contributions to the state’s economy and society.
As RIC embarks on this new era under Warner’s leadership, there is a sense of optimism and anticipation. Warner’s deep commitment to student success, inclusive education, and community engagement positions the college to continue making an impact, both within Rhode Island and beyond.
Warner said in his closing remarks that it is his task to “show love like I have for my family to this school.” Warner promises to advocate for students, to lead with clear values, to promote strong arts and science programs, to not shy away from hard work and to be optimistic. He says that we “need to have the courage to trust in one another” to make our shared vision for RIC come to light. Warner also assures the students, faculty and staff of RIC’s dedication to its individuals, for “by our people, we will invest in them.”
For students, faculty, and staff alike, this marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter at Rhode Island College—a chapter filled with promise and the collective effort to ensure the success of every student.