WARWICK, R.I. — It’s official: The Community College of Rhode Island has a new President – and a historic one, at that.

In a ceremony steeped in academic tradition, CCRI inaugurated Dr. Rosemary A. Costigan as its sixth president -- and first alumna to hold the position -- on Friday, November 7, 2025. The event was not merely a change of leadership; it was an affirmation of the college's founding mission, celebrated by state dignitaries, academic leaders, and, poignantly, the very family whose lives were reshaped by Costigan and CCRI's gateways of opportunity.

Dr. Costigan, a proud member of the Class of '78, stood on the same stage where she received her Associate Degree in Nursing 47 years ago, marking a definitive "full-circle moment" for her and the college.

A Leader’s Vision

The atmosphere in the Vincent A. Cullen Fieldhouse was electric as the CCRI Chamber Ensemble's Trumpet Voluntary heralded the grand processional. The academic mace -- the Justice Murray Mace -- led a procession of scholars, delegates, and elected officials, all gathered to witness the elevation of a leader whose story is inextricably woven into the college's fabric.

The breadth of Costigan’s impact was perfectly encapsulated by Allyson Handley, a close friend and mentor, as well as a former interim vice president of academic affairs at CCRI and president at three different colleges.

“Under her leadership, CCRI has strengthened its sense of community, expanded many opportunities for students, and continued to move boldly toward a future shaped by access, innovation, and equity,” Handley told the audience moments before Costigan took the podium.

In her powerful inaugural address, Costigan captured the transformative gravity of the day, speaking directly to the large crowd of students, faculty, and alumni.

"This moment is deeply personal," President Costigan declared. "To be sworn in as the sixth President of the Community College of Rhode Island -- right here in the auditorium where I graduated 47 years ago -- is more than symbolic. It is a full-circle moment that speaks to the power of education, the strength of our community, and the promise of possibility."

She framed her journey -- from a 19-year-old first-generation nursing student to CCRI’s highest office -- not as an anomaly, but as a fitting chapter in the college’s storied history.

"My story is not unique -- it is the story of CCRI," she affirmed, articulating her belief in the institution’s role as "the great equalizer" that "democratizes education."

Costigan then laid out a clear vision, one that serves as a guiding principle for CCRI.

“We will not ask, ‘Is the student ready?’ Costigan said. “We will ask, ‘Are we ready for every student?’

“And the answer is: Yes, we are.”

The Laying of the Medallion: a Symbol of Trust

The formal installation was presided over by David Caprio, Chair of the Council on Postsecondary Education, who spoke of Dr. Costigan’s inherent qualities of service.

"Dr. Rosemary Costigan has demonstrated, through her dedication and vision, what it means to lead with integrity, compassion, and purpose," Caprio stated, noting Costigan "embodies the spirit of service that defines this institution and inspires all who call CCRI home."

Caprio bestowed upon Costigan the Presidential Medallion -- the Chain of Office -- whose secondary medallion is famously set with six gemstones, four crystals representing the campuses and two green stones symbolizing access and opportunity.

"By virtue of the authority vested in me as Chairman of the Council on Postsecondary Education, I install you in the office, clothing you with the powers, authority and opportunities pertaining to the President," Caprio pronounced, solidifying the monumental transition.

Messages from the Statehouse and Capitol Hill

Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee, a staunch champion of public education, offered soaring praise for CCRI’s new president, revealing a source of his profound confidence in her leadership. He recounted witnessing the overwhelming student support for Costigan during recent graduations.

"I didn't need to hear much more than the reception that Rosemary received at the graduations the last two years, as she told her story about how she moved up in the ranks,” McKee said. “She's never forgotten where she came from. And the responses that came from the students and the parents were overwhelming.

"At that point in time, I said to myself, 'If I have anything to say about it, Rosemary will be president of this college.’"

The governor connected Costigan’s leadership directly to the state’s broader economic vision.

"Working together, we've made the Rhode Island Promise Scholarship permanent and we've created Fresh Start Scholarships ... to reach one of our main goals in the state, which is to raise incomes in every household, and every family, in the Ocean State,” McKee said.

"I believe in Rosemary. I believe in the leadership that's here at the Community College of Rhode Island. We believe we have the right staff in place, the right teachers in place. And the students are responding in record numbers."

Adding federal weight to the moment, Senator Jack Reed, participating via video from Washington D.C., highlighted the unique, invaluable perspective Costigan brings to the institution. The Senator acknowledged her powerful representation for students everywhere who dare to dream big.

"Doctor Costigan has a deep commitment to CCRI and the community it serves,” Reed affirmed. “As a first-generation college student, and a graduate of CCRI, Doctor Costigan brings a unique understanding of the student experience. She is an example of where a CCRI education can lead.”

Michael Grey, Chairman of the Rhode Island Board of Education, echoed the sentiment:

"Her story embodies the promise of public higher education in Rhode Island,” Grey said of Costigan. “Today, we celebrate not only a new chapter of leadership for the Community College of Rhode Island, but also a reaffirmation of the transformative power of education to change lives and strengthen communities."

A Nursing Legacy

The roots of President Costigan's leadership are firmly planted in CCRI’s esteemed Nursing program -- a profession defined by selflessness and empathy. The current generation of students spoke directly to this profound connection, with Chloe Olson, President of the CCRI Student Nurse Organization, offering a student perspective.

"President Costigan is the symbol that a nurse’s compassion and duty of service stretch far outside the halls of hospitals,” Olson said. “The fact that she is the first CCRI alumna and nurse to lead this college is not only historic -- it’s deeply inspiring. Her presidency marks a powerful milestone for our community.”

For current students navigating the rigorous program, Costigan serves as a powerful mentor figure.

“We can only hope to follow your amazing example in our own careers and be grateful that we are walking this long and worthwhile path called nursing much like you did before,” Olson said.

The importance of this legacy was also underscored by Mary Mycroft, President Costigan’s former nursing instructor and retired CCRI Associate Professor, who lauded the qualities of the college's sixth president.

"It is especially fitting that our first alumna president comes from nursing — a profession built on compassion, critical thinking, and service — all qualities Rosemary embodies," Mycroft said.

In a parallel tribute, Rick Metters, Governance Chair of the CCRI Foundation Board of Trustees, announced the creation of the Presidential Legacy Fund, a new effort dedicated to investing in CCRI students. The fund was launched with a generous $150,000 matching challenge, specifically targeting financial assistance for aspiring nurses.

"We are excited to share that the Fund has early momentum thanks to a generous $150,000 matching challenge from the Hayden Family Foundation,” Metters revealed. The first $150,000 raised will support financial assistance for nursing students, in tribute to President Costigan’s inspiring path from CCRI nursing graduate to president.

"Through the Presidential Legacy Fund, we honor her leadership, her vision, and her unwavering belief that education changes everything. This commitment ensures that the President’s foundational vocation will continue to uplift the next generation of caregivers.”

Family Reflections

Perhaps the most heartfelt moments of the day came from President Costigan’s family, demonstrating that her powerful leadership is deeply rooted in the values she instilled at home.

Costigan’s son, Pawtucket Police Patrol Sergeant Michael Costigan, accompanied his mother to the stage as part of the opening procession.

The event’s emcee duties were filled by Henry Kinch Jr., Costigan’s nephew who serves as Rhode Island’s Executive Director of the Joint Committee on Legislative Services. Kinch imbued the event with energy, gravitas – and a touch of humor.

“Rose, on behalf of our entire family, which took a bus to get everyone here, we respect, admire, and love you,” Kinch said during his opening remarks. “Thank you so much for letting me participate in this special day.”

Costigan’s daughter, Cathleen Costigan Duffy, Esq., painted a vivid portrait of her mother's tireless resolve, recounting the early days of pursuing education while simultaneously raising five children.

"That was my mom: determined, resourceful, and always putting family first," Cathleen shared, before offering a powerful summary of her mother's career.

"Her story is proof that education is not just about degrees -- it’s about dignity, opportunity, and transformation. President Costigan – Mom -- your journey inspires us all. You’ve shown us what it means to lead with heart, to serve with purpose, and to love without limits."

The multi-generational tribute culminated with Aislinn Costigan, President Costigan’s eldest granddaughter, stepping to the podium. Aislinn spoke tenderly of the guiding principle her "Grandma R" always imparted: “Whatever you do in life, give it one hundred and ten percent.”

"Grandma R, you’re showing all of us -- not just your family, but every young person -- that with hard work, kindness, and determination, we can reach our dreams and make a difference," Aislinn said. "I know CCRI is in the best hands."

The ceremony also featured a moving performance of "Stand By Me" by the CCRI Chorus and Chamber Singers, with lyrics echoing the themes of loyalty and unwavering support that defined the day.

As Costigan's family gathered around her, the inauguration became a powerful visual testament that her ascent to the presidency is the ultimate expression of CCRI's enduring promise: that for every student, where you start is only the beginning of where you can lead.

President Costigan's inauguration can be viewed in its entirety in the video below.