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Roger Williams University

Bristol, RI

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

Magna Est Veritas

Wikipedia
1956
Founded
Private university
Type
140 acres
Campus
3,957
Total Students
4,103
Undergrad
294
Graduate
$93M
Endowment
(2024)
$43K
Tuition (In-State)
$43K
Tuition (Out-State)
$38K
Avg Net Price
88%
Acceptance Rate
67%
Graduation Rate
6-year
79%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Ioannis Miaoulis

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Roger Williams University

Roger Williams University: A vibrant, waterfront institution fostering academic excellence and a diverse community.

Roger Williams University stands as a dynamic private institution nestled on a picturesque 80-acre waterfront campus in Bristol, Rhode Island. With a student body of nearly 4,400, RWU is dedicated to providing an engaging academic environment rooted in its motto, "Magna Est Veritas" — Great is the Truth. It's recognized for its commitment to a diverse and inclusive community, a principle woven into the fabric of its history and celebrated events.

The university's journey began in 1919 as a branch campus of Northeastern University in Providence, evolving significantly over the decades. What started as the YMCA Institute granting associate's degrees in 1948, formally became Roger Williams Junior College in 1956. By 1967, it had embraced the name Roger Williams College, a testament to its growth, and soon after, in 1969, found its permanent home on the stunning Bristol waterfront. This period of expansion culminated in 1992 when, under the leadership of President Dr. Natale A. Sicuro, it proudly adopted its current designation: Roger Williams University, concurrently establishing its School of Law.

Under the leadership of President Ioannis Miaoulis, appointed in 2019, Roger Williams University continues its trajectory of innovation and student-centric education. The university once pioneered a four-year tuition freeze policy for incoming freshmen, demonstrating a proactive approach to student affordability, though this policy was terminated in 2019. Beyond academics, the university fosters a rich student experience, marked by a campus that embraces its waterfront setting and a community that values multiculturalism, as famously highlighted by its recognition of The Beach Boys' pioneering diverse lineup on campus. This blend of historical depth, strategic growth, and a forward-looking vision positions Roger Williams University as an exciting destination for prospective students.

Key Highlights

  • A private university founded in 1956 (with operations dating back to 1919).
  • Located on a scenic 80-acre waterfront campus in Bristol, Rhode Island.
  • Home to 4,397 undergraduate and graduate students.
  • Motto: "Magna Est Veritas" (Great is the Truth).
  • Endowment of $0.1 billion.
  • Led by President Ioannis Miaoulis, appointed in 2019.
  • Known for its commitment to fostering diversity and an inclusive community.

Timeline

1919
Northeastern University opens a branch campus in Providence, Rhode Island.
1940
The YMCA board of directors begins directing the school, becoming the YMCA Institute.
1948
The YMCA Institute grants its first associate's degrees.
1956
Receives a state charter, becoming Roger Williams Junior College.
1967
Adopts the name Roger Williams College.
1969
Moves its main campus to 80 acres of waterfront land in Bristol.
1992
Changes its name to Roger Williams University and establishes the Roger Williams University School of Law.
2006
Celebrates its 50th anniversary.
2012
Initiates a four-year tuition freeze policy for entering freshmen.
2019
Ioannis Miaoulis is appointed the eleventh president; the tuition freeze policy is terminated.
🏛️
70 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within Roger Williams University

⚖️

Roger Williams University School of Law

Established in 1992 as part of the university's transition to Roger Williams University.

Leadership

via Wikipedia
Ioannis Miaoulis
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

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