This spring, URI introduced a new tradition and format for the 2024 commencement ceremonies to better celebrate graduates and provide an enhanced and inclusive experience for graduates and guests. The University honored graduates over three days, May 17-19, in formal ceremonies at the Ryan Center, and hosted other celebratory events throughout the weekend. The ceremonies recognized both undergraduate and graduate degree candidates from their respective colleges.

Honorary Degree Recipients included revered artist, activist, producer, philanthropist, and New York Times best-selling author, Viola Davis, who is one of just 19 individuals to ever achieve EGOT status—a designation given to those who have won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony awards. She received an honorary Doctorate of Letters.

Charles M. Royce, and Deborah Goodrich Royce were awarded honorary Doctorates of Humane Letters. Charles M. “Chuck” Royce is chair and portfolio manager of Royce and Associates, LLP, a firm that he founded in 1972. He has served as a trustee for Brown University, establishing fellowships and professorships to support undergraduate teaching and research. A best-selling and award-winning author, Deborah Goodrich Royce, is renowned for her thrillers that examine puzzles of identity. She also hosts Ocean House Author Series, a salon-style conversation that brings world-class authors to Watch Hill, Rhode Island.