The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at University of Rhode Island (URI) announces that registration is underway for its spring semester. OLLI provides classes for adults aged 50 and better at the URI Main Campus in Kingston, Rhode Island. Students enjoy a variety of classes, simply for the joy of learning - no grades, no tests, no stress. Selecting from over one hundred offerings, there is something for everyone, with classes in literature, history, humanities, art, and so much more. A few
Amica Celebrates 2025 Philanthropic Impact; Highlights Nearly $6.5M in Support for Mission-Driven Nonprofits Amica, through its charitable arm, the Amica Companies Foundation, reinforced its long-standing commitment to strengthening the communities it serves by contributing nearly $6.5 million in charitable grants and sponsorships in 2025. Throughout the year, Amica provided over $4,650,000 in grants and over $1,800,000 in nonprofit sponsorships, supporting dozens of
Reimagined online “Blue MBA” will elevate global leadership in ocean innovationThe University of Rhode Island has officially launched a new version of the Blue MBA program. The reimagined two-year, part-time program focuses on advancing knowledge, solutions, and talent for tomorrow’s ocean economy challenges and opportunities. The online graduate program has been updated with flexibility in mind, while retaining its commitment to an interdisciplinary approach that prepares business leaders for their next
The Preservation Society of Newport County has announced a Deaccession Initiative to support the continued growth and care of its permanent collection. As a nonprofit cultural institution charged with educating the public on Newport County’s history through historical spaces and objects, the Preservation Society has built an important collection of fine art, decorative art, archives and material culture, much of which has been received through generous donations. The Preservation Society routinely
In a rare move that places young people directly within the institution’s collecting history, teens in the RISD Art Circle (RAC) have selected a work of contemporary art for accession into the permanent collection of the RISD Museum. Their selection, Críptido y Monedas V (2025) by Argentine artist Santiago Licata, has now been formally accessioned and becomes a lasting part of the museum’s holdings. “We wanted RAC teens to see themselves as people who can shape what a museum collects,” said
Recognition from The National Jurist highlights the law school’s impact through clinics, scholarship, and community partnerships advancing justice.Roger Williams University School of Law has been ranked No. 11 among the Top Law Schools for Social Justice by The National Jurist. The rankings are based on a weighted assessment of law schools’ clinics, centers, courses, journals, related initiatives, and student diversity. The methodology underscores experiential learning and institutional commitment,
Navigant Credit Union announced today it has expanded the leadership team in its Commercial Lending Department, appointing Jay D. Farland as its new Vice President and Relationship Manager Team Leader. Farland joins Navigant Credit Union with more than 25 years of professional banking and investment experience, most recently serving as Senior Vice President and Market Manager at Customers Bank where he served as the senior banking executive for Customers’ New England market. In his new role, Farland
Bank employees volunteered 8,821 hours throughout the community. Bristol County Savings Bank announces that its Bristol County Savings Charitable Foundation awarded $2,862,888 in grants in 2025, including $245,745 directly supporting basic human needs through food and nutrition initiatives and emergency assistance programs. The Bank distributed the millions in funds to a record 282 different non-profits within the communities it serves, including Taunton, Attleboro, Raynham, Rehoboth, New Bedford,
Year was marked by the Foundation’s response to the impact of Washington’s cuts in funding for health care, housing and hunger among other services. The Rhode Island Foundation awarded a record-breaking $93 million in grants to more than 2,600 nonprofit organizations last year, which saw the organization launch its new Five-Year Action Plan. Crossroads RI, Foster Forward, the Genesis Center, the Local Initiatives Support Corporation, Progreso Latino, Providence Promise, Boys & Girls Clubs of
RWU Law expands access to timely legal conversations for Rhode Islanders through WPRI 12’s free streaming TV app Roger Williams University School of Law is expanding access to its public education podcast, Law 401, with WPRI 12. As of Feb. 24, the podcast is now streaming on WPRI 12+, the station’s free CTV app. Launched in July 2025, Law 401 explores legal issues that shape daily life in Rhode Island and translates complex topics into clear, practical conversations. Short-form episodes produced for
People’s Credit Union has announced the promotion of Yanika Reynolds to Loan Servicing Lead, reporting to Jerrica McGaw, Head of Loan Servicing. In her new role, Ms. Reynolds will work closely with McGraw in coaching and mentoring the Loan Servicing team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and member-centered service. Reynolds will also work closely with other departments by providing guidance on policies, procedures, documentation, and technical processes. “For ten years
Robinson+Cole’s partnership has elected Boston Business Transactions Partner J. Michael Wirvin as its next Managing Partner, marking a pivotal moment in the firm’s 180-year history. Effective March 1, Wirvin will become the firm’s first Managing Partner based outside of Hartford, CT, reflecting Robinson+Cole’s continued evolution and expanding geographic footprint. His election underscores the firm’s deliberate, forward-looking approach to leadership succession and long-term strategic growth. Wirvin has
RWU researchers and students partner with state and industry leaders to expand hatchery production, strengthen disease monitoring, and accelerate restoration of Rhode Island’s iconic quahog populations in Narragansett Bay. Roger Williams University’s Center for Economic and Environmental Development (CEED) is guiding a research-driven initiative to strengthen Rhode Island’s quahog fisheries in Narragansett Bay. The project integrates aquaculture, disease testing, and hands-on student training to
Beacon Financial Corporation (NYSE: BBT) (the “Company”) today announced the successful combination of four storied financial institutions under one new brand, Beacon Bank (the “Bank”), one of the 100 largest banks in the United States. With more than 145 branches and commercial centers across New England and New York, Beacon Bank differentiates itself by combining deep local roots with nearly 200 years of proven financial strength, expert guidance and highly personalized service. Unlike other banks
A media kit is a curated collection of brand information, assets, and proof points that businesses use to communicate clearly with journalists, partners, and stakeholders. For companies of all sizes, it serves as a structured introduction to who they are, what they offer, and why they matter. In an era where attention is short and competition for coverage is high, a well-built media kit can make the difference between being overlooked and being featured.At a Glance A media kit presents essential brand
Growth is a thrilling word for any small business owner. But expansion — done right — isn’t just about hiring more people or opening another location. It’s about building the kind of resilience and systems that make growth sustainable over the long haul in Rhode Island’s ever-changing business landscape.TL;DR To grow well, small businesses should focus on five key areas: clarity of purpose, financial discipline, operational scalability, legal structure, and community connection. Build systems before you
Client onboarding is more than just paperwork and welcome emails — it’s the first real impression of how your service-based business operates. A clunky, confusing, or manual onboarding process can quickly undercut trust, while a smooth, structured one builds confidence, accelerates delivery, and strengthens loyalty from day one.The Quick Summary Before diving deep, here’s what you’ll take away: Streamlined onboarding is about clarity, automation, and communication, not just speed. Systems that
In digital marketing, skillfully managing assets can be the key to success. Having resources like images, videos, and reports meticulously organized enables greater impact. The value lies not in simply possessing these assets, but in strategically using them to stay ahead. Mastering digital asset management streamlines workflows, boosts team productivity, and enhances security. Embracing best practices transforms disarray into efficiency and raw potential into measurable success.Building a Fortress: User
Being an entrepreneur is all about juggling, innovating, and growing—but what if you had a secret weapon to make it easier? Enter Adobe Acrobat, a powerful ally that streamlines your day-to-day, helping you work smarter while leaving more room for what truly drives your business forward. This Women’s Small Business Month, we’re celebrating the ways Adobe Acrobat is empowering women entrepreneurs to elevate their hustle, simplify workflows, and realize bigger dreams. Acrobat AI Assistant: Check out
Transforming your home into a space that fuels entrepreneurial success is both an exciting and rewarding venture. By optimizing your environment for productivity and creativity, you can elevate your home into a hub for innovative thinking and business growth. A well-designed home office or workspace can help you maintain focus and balance while working on your entrepreneurial goals. Implementing effective strategies and best practices will ensure that your home supports your business ambitions without