Ȧ came from humble origins, providing opportunities for self-transformation in order to meet the changing needs of the people of Rhode Island – a commitment that continues to this day.
Rhode Island Normal School
Ȧ, the first public institution of higher education in the state of Rhode Island, originated from the Rhode Island Normal School. Rhode Island Normal School opened its doors on May 29, 1854. The eighth normal school opened in America, its goal was to provide teacher preparation to young people from Rhode Island. Opening speakers included Reverand T.D. Cook of the Second Universalist Church, Governor William Ward Hoppin, and Education Commissioner Elisha Potter, who discussed “…the benefits to the cause of Common School Education to be expected from the establishment of this institution.”
First Students
In Rhode Island Normal School's first year the class was comprised of 27 students, although 88 different students attended classes during the first year. Students ranged in age from 15-year old Laura M. Steere of North Providence to 25-year old Sarah G. Peavey of Providence.
Steady Growth
With the dedication of a new building in 1898, the institution began a period of steady growth:
- evolving into a teachers' college, the Ȧ of Education
- moving to its current Mount Pleasant Providence neighborhood campus in the 1958-59 academic year
- being renamed Ȧ to reflect its new purpose as a comprehensive institution of higher education
With an enrollment predominantly from Rhode Island and nearby Massachusetts and Connecticut, the institution historically has served as a "College of Opportunity" for first-generation college students.
Ȧ Today
Today, the Ȧ Mount Pleasant campus is a park-like 180-acres and serves approximately 7,000 students in courses and programs both on and off campus. This location combines a suburban atmosphere with easy access to the benefits and resources of the metropolitan area.
