WARWICK, R.I. -- The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) on Monday celebrated the opening of its newly renovated One Stop Student Services Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony joined by Governor Dan McKee, Speaker of the House K. Joseph Shekarchi, Senate President Pro Tempore and Chair of the Senate Education Committee Hanna Gallo, and other state and community leaders. The event marked the launch of a modern, accessible, and student-focused hub designed to simplify and improve the college experience.

The renovation was made possible by a $12 million General Obligation bond approved by Rhode Island voters in 2021. Completed on time and on budget, the project reflects the state’s strong commitment to public higher education and CCRI’s leadership in delivering results with fiscal responsibility.

“We are so grateful to Rhode Island voters for their investment in CCRI through the 2021 General Obligation bond, which made this project possible,” said Dr. Rosemary Costigan, President of the Community College of Rhode Island. “This new One Stop Student Services Center is more than just a renovation; it is a promise to our students. We listened to what they needed, and we created a space that is open, accessible, and designed to make their college journey easier. From enrollment to financial aid, counseling to workforce connections, every service is now under one roof to ensure our students have the support they need to succeed.”

“Investing in our students means investing in the next generation of leaders, entrepreneurs, and people who will help Rhode Island thrive," said Governor McKee. "The new One Stop streamlines the student experience and makes it easier for them to navigate their college careers and futures. I'm grateful to the Rhode Island voters for realizing the potential of this project."

“I am extremely proud of how the Rhode Island General Assembly has demonstrated its commitment to making education more accessible for our students,” said Speaker Shekarchi. “In 2021, we made the Rhode Island Promise program permanent to provide up to two years of free tuition at CCRI. We also authorized the $12 million General Obligation bond to fund this new One Stop, which will improve educational outcomes for CCRI students. By investing in student services, we are investing in futures – reducing barriers to success so students can achieve their academic and career goals.”

“I am forever grateful for the connections I made at CCRI, and for the opportunities my experience as a student opened up for me,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Hanna Gallo (D-Dist. 27, Cranston, West Warwick), who chairs the Senate Committee on Education. “I know thousands of Rhode Islanders have similar stories. The new One Stop Student Services hub will strengthen the CCRI experience for students, now and in the years ahead, and it represents an important investment in an institution that is so critical to our state’s prosperity.”

A Central Hub for Student Success

The new One Stop represents a transformational change in how CCRI delivers student support. For the first time, students will find all essential services in one place, eliminating the need to navigate multiple offices and buildings. The renovated space houses:

• Admissions, Records, Registration, Financial Aid, and Bursar’s Office – providing streamlined enrollment and payment processes.
• Disability Services – offering comprehensive support to ensure equitable access for all learners.
• Advising and Counseling – guiding students in course selection, transfer pathways, and personal support to help them stay on track.
• Benefits Hub in partnership with United Way of Rhode Island – connecting students with food, housing, and financial stability resources.
• Student Veterans Services – centrally located to serve Rhode Island’s veteran and military-connected students.
• IT Help Desk – providing immediate technical support for students, faculty, and staff.
• Office of Apprenticeships and Workforce Partnerships – linking academic programs to career pathways and hands-on training opportunities.

This “one door” approach ensures that no matter what a student needs -- whether enrolling in courses, securing financial aid, meeting with an advisor, or accessing wraparound services -- they can find it easily in one location.

Designed for Accessibility and Inclusivity

The renovation was designed with accessibility and inclusivity at its core. Features include a new elevator, intuitive wayfinding, upgraded technology, and comfortable, modern common areas. Energy-efficient LED lighting with automatic and dimmable controls ensures a sustainable and welcoming environment.

A Collaborative Effort

The project encompasses 30,700 square feet and represents years of thoughtful planning and execution. Design began in August 2019 by Aharonian & Associates Inc, led by President John Aharonian and Associate David Horton. Ahlborg Construction Corporation, with Vice President & Director of Construction Projects Glenn R. Ahlborg and Project Manager Cole Ahlborg, served as General Contractor. Furnishings were provided by Department of Corrections Correctional Industries, and project oversight was led by Mark Libutti, CCRI College Projects Manager. Construction began in September 2022 and reached substantial completion in March 2025, six months ahead of schedule. Final completion is anticipated in December 2025.

An Investment in Students and the Future

The One Stop Student Services Center is not just an investment in infrastructure -- it is an investment in people. Students now benefit from faster, easier, and more coordinated support, while employees enjoy workspaces that foster collaboration and efficiency. This new hub positions CCRI to better serve Rhode Island for decades to come.