To Class of '09 Families,

Commencement represents more than an end to your student's years at RISD; it marks the exciting beginning of his or her professional life. As I complete my first year as president of RISD, I look forward to welcoming you to campus for the big day in May, and to seeing this year's graduates go on to make their marks in the world.

Before then, you may have questions about the ceremony, where to stay, how to allocate your time and what the weekend entails. If you don't find the answers you're looking for here in this area of our website, please e-mail commencement@risd.edu or call Cecile Theroux at 401 454-6600.

A few quick highlights worth noting: RISD hosts departmental receptions for graduating students on the Friday afternoon before the Saturday morning ceremony. Friday is also a good time to check out the exceptional student work - both undergraduate and graduate - shown in galleries on and off campus. And early Friday evening you are invited to join us for a small reception for graduates outside the RISD Museum of Art.

On Saturday morning, our ceremony takes place outdoors - the only place large enough for us to celebrate Commencement on campus. We always hope for clear skies, but ask you to dress with the forecast in mind.

Finally, I want to let you know that I am both humbled by and proud of the work I have seen this year's graduates produce and present at critiques, exhibitions and online. The Class of 2009 inspires great hope for our future.

John Maeda
President