Sept. 21, 2026 

Dear URI Community, 

Each of us plays a vital role in creating and maintaining an environment free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation, in alignment with the University’s mission. As you embark on a new semester, our team, which serves as the University’s civil rights designee, is here to support you. 

As you begin this new semester, consider familiarizing yourself with our website and the many resources available to you.  

What to expect next? Over the next weeks, you will receive messages offering resources and inviting you to lunch-and-learn events, designed to introduce you to institutional resources on the topics of ADA compliance, equal opportunity, language access, and anti-discrimination and retaliation.  

Need to connect? We have moved to a fully accessible space, located in Suite 1 on the garden level of the Carlotti Building. To learn more about the scope and jurisdiction of the Office of Equal Opportunity, please visit our website or contact a member of our team to schedule a consultation. 

We look forward to working with you during the 2026 fall semester and beyond.  

Sincerely, 

Dorca P. Smalley 
Director, Office of Equal Opportunity 
ADA Coordinator 
Language Access Coordinator 
Equal Employment Opportunity Coordinator 
Permissible Affirmative Action Program Coordinator