URI Board of Trustees Meeting

The University of Rhode Island (URI) Board of Trustees held a meeting on June 26, 2026, focusing extensively on the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on higher education. A panel of experts discussed AI's influence on teaching, research, and university management, highlighting ongoing AI-related research grants totaling $2-5 million and the need for faculty and student AI literacy. The board also reviewed URI's capital improvement plan for FY 2028-2032 and received updates on state appropriations, including a general obligation bond for an integrated health sciences building and the medical school funding. Additionally, the board discussed new P3 legislation modeled after URI's dormitory project, diversity and inclusion efforts, and the university's response to sweeping proposed federal grant administration rule changes that could affect research funding and collaborations. The board approved several action items via omnibus vote, including salary adjustments and capital projects, and emphasized the need for continued investment in AI expertise and infrastructure to maintain URI's leadership in this area.