Leadership Rhode Island (LRI) is a nationally recognized community leadership development organization founded in 1981. Its Core Program seeks to cultivate and engage a network of leaders from a variety of sectors and communities throughout the state, and give them the knowledge and tools to affect positive change. LRI’s College Program is modeled on that Core Program, yet uniquely tailored to the issues and concerns of college students. It strives to inspire, educate and engage students as they make the transition from college to career, to serve as a bridge from academia to the professional world.

This tuition-free, semester-long program provides experiential learning and direct engagement with the Rhode Island community, with a focus on the critical issues affecting our state, as well as insight into the nonprofit sector, public service and government, and the private sector’s role in community service. LRI students will deepen their understanding of community issues and community-based problem solving. The aim is to better prepare students to navigate life after college, to provide them with the knowledge and networks necessary to build their professional lives while also establishing connections to Rhode Island and encouraging them to build those lives here.

In short, LRI provides unique experiences, direct access to community and industry leaders, and a support system to keep graduates active and engaged for years to come.