Introducing Founders Day The RISD community reflects on its roots and gives back to communities around the world. Founders Day is a new spring tradition honoring the birth of RISD as an institution “for the purpose of aiding in the cultivation of the arts of design.” After establishing the school with a gift of $1,675 from the Rhode Island Women’s Centennial Commission, the founders persevered with their vision in the face of front-page editorials in the Providence Journal and the Evening Bulletin questioning the feasibility of founding a school with such a small sum that did not include a trust legacy.
Since its incorporation on March 22, 1877, RISD has challenged expectations and pushed the boundaries of creative learning. To honor the resilience of our founders— Helen Adelia Rowe Metcalf and the members of the Rhode Island Women’s Centennial Commission—the RISD community celebrated Founders Day by participating in events, a food drive and RISD Serves projects at community organizations across Providence.
If you are interested in organizing a RISD Serves project for next year, it is never too early to start planning. Please email alumni@risd.edu or call toll-free at 844 454-1877 to get started.
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