We talk about raising money for scholarships often, but nothing drives home the need like looking in the eyes of an accepted freshman who shares with you that he/she will probably not be coming to RISD because they aren’t receiving enough financial aid.

 The Alumni Association has been hosting Accepted Freshman Receptions in New York, Boston, San Francisco, and Providence over the last several weeks, with another one to come in Philadelphia on April 29.   It is pure delight to see these prospective students and share with them our stories as alumni who value the education we received, and how our lives have been shaped by it.  We do our best to assure concerned parents that their kids will find an enormous amount of opportunity before them when they graduate.  We demonstrate by example that a life in the arts and design is rewarding, energizing, and exciting.

 But one thing we cannot do is assure those for whom the cost of a RISD education is out of reach that we can meet their financial needs.  Recent fund raising initiatives have helped, but we have much to do.

 If you are interested in assisting the Alumni Association by participating in a reception next year, feel free to contact me at chartley@risd.edu. I think you will find it a rewarding experience!