  | Rhode Island State College becomes the University of Rhode Island. | |
It happened on March 23, 1951, when Governor Dennis J. Roberts signed the bill granting the college university status. The day was selected because it marked the 63rd anniversary of the founding of Rhode Island State Agricultural School on March 23, 1888.
In this historic photo Governor Roberts is seen signing the bill in his office at the State House. Looking on are, left to right, President Carl R. Woodward; John E. Meade '15, chair of the Alumni Association Legislative Committee; J. Bernard Gorman '38, president of the Alumni Association; Hugo Mainelli '30, senior member of the Athletic Council; Robert S. Sherman '32, former president of the Alumni Association; and Vice President Harold W. Browning.
Governor Lincoln Almond '59 recreates the signing of the historic bill that named the University of Rhode Island. Looking on are, left to right, President Robert L. Carothers; Michele A. Nota '87, executive director of Alumni Relations; Alan Wasserman '75, president of the Alumni Association; John E. DeCubellis Jr. '82, president of the Rhode Island Rams Athletic Association; Phillip Kydd '81, past president of the Alumni Association; and Vice President of University Advancement Robert M. Beagle. |
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