ROSANNE SOMERSON NAMED PROVOST OF THE RHODE ISLAND SCHOOL OF DESIGN

Rosanne Somerson has been named provost of the Rhode Island School of Design, effective July 1. Over the past few decades, Somerson has worked as a professor, department head, interim associate provost, and interim provost at the school. She is credited with playing a significant role in founding its furniture design department in 1995 and is also an alumnae, having graduated from the industrial design department in 1976.

“Rosanne’s career as a respected teacher and sought after practitioner exemplifies our vision for art and design education. After working with Rosanne this past year as she served as interim provost, and observing her leadership of the academic mission with the deans, I am confident that Rosanne will perform this role with generosity, courage, and integrity,” said president John Maeda. “She will bring a passion and energy that embodies the finest values we try to instill in our students and will continue to bring out the best in our community.”