RISD nurtures the talent and creativity that enhance the quality of our lives: students, alumni, faculty and staff infuse the global culture with new ideas, brilliant design and works of art that challenge the imagination. In order to maintain this quality and reputation, we rely on the generosity of alumni, friends and parents who support RISD in a variety of ways.

To become more involved in your child’s education and RISD experience, you may wish to join the RISD Parents’ Council. This group of involved parents meets on campus twice each academic year to discuss important campus issues and initiatives with representatives from various offices. For more information about the RISD Parents’ Council, e-mail Pat Thornton or call 401 454-6679.

Gifts from parents to the RISD Annual Fund help make up the difference between tuition and fees and the actual cost of a RISD education, which is approximately $13,000/student higher. Gifts and pledges can be made online via our secure giving page. To mail a gift, please make your check payable to the RISD Annual Fund and send it to

Rhode Island School of Design
Development Office
Two College Street
Providence, RI 02903-2784 USA