Mission and History
Since 1863, Bryant University has been defined by the success of its graduates — and their desire to create a better future. Driven by a mission to “educate and inspire students to discover their passion and become innovative leaders with character around the world,” Bryant has helped generations of students develop the insights, experience, and integrity to lead with purpose and drive positive change.
A History of Innovation
Bryant was founded by entrepreneurs Henry Bryant and John Stratton, who designed an institution that would prepare students for the growing American economy. Unlike many other schools, women were welcomed as students from day one and, early on, served as instructors.
Since its founding, the integration of interdisciplinary studies into the curriculum has provided ˿Ƶ graduates with an important edge that has helped them find professional success and personal fulfillment. As the school grew, its curriculum expanded to include courses in the arts, humanities, and sciences including philosophy, history, languages, and higher mathematics.
In 2004, Bryant College became Bryant University — a change reflecting a broader academic scope, including the addition of programs in health sciences, communication, data science, and many others. The campus has also continued to grow with the addition of state-of-the-art facilities that enhance student life and learning.
Today, Bryant University is known for its rigorous academic programs, focus on experiential learning, and close-knit community. Its reputation for preparing students for leadership roles, no matter their chosen field, has made it a sought-after destination for students from all over the world.
The Archway Tradition
Bryant University’s iconic wrought iron archway bridges the university’s past with its present. Originally dedicated to the Bryant community as the Senior Class Gift of the Class of 1968, the archway was originally part of ˿Ƶ first campus in Providence and was relocated to the school’s new home in Smithfield in 1971.
Each year, ˿Ƶ graduating class marches beneath the archway on their way to the university’s Commencement Ceremony. Tradition dictates that passing through the archway before Commencement is bad luck, and legend has it that students who walk through it beforehand will not graduate. The Class of 1987 donated the brick pathway detouring around the archway to encourage students to honor this tradition and ease their journey. In 2008, through the generosity of the Class of 2008, the archway was refurbished, and expanded brick walkways were installed.
Bryant University’s iconic wrought iron archway bridges the university’s past with its present. Originally dedicated to the Bryant community as the Senior Class Gift of the Class of 1968, the archway was originally part of ˿Ƶ first campus in Providence and was relocated to the school’s new home in Smithfield in 1971.
Each year, ˿Ƶ graduating class marches beneath the archway on their way to the university’s Commencement Ceremony. Tradition dictates that passing through the archway before Commencement is bad luck, and legend has it that students who walk through it beforehand will not graduate. The Class of 1987 donated the brick pathway detouring around the archway to encourage students to honor this tradition and ease their journey. In 2008, through the generosity of the Class of 2008, the archway was refurbished, and expanded brick walkways were installed.
Bryant University Presidents
- , 1878-1916
- , 1916-1961
- , 1961-1968
- , 1968-1970
- , 1970 (Acting President), 1975-1976
- , 1970-1975
- , 1976-1989
- , 1989-1996
- , 1996-2020
- Ross J. Gittell, 2020-
- , 1878-1916
- , 1916-1961
- , 1961-1968
- , 1968-1970
- , 1970 (Acting President), 1975-1976
- , 1970-1975
- , 1976-1989
- , 1989-1996
- , 1996-2020
- Ross J. Gittell, 2020-