Alex and Ani donates $1 million to RIC

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) – A booming local business gave a large donation to Rhode Island College’s new art center.

Alex and Ani, LLC has donated $1 million to the art center which is currently under construction. The college plans to name the new $17 million center Alex and Ani hall.

The college will be given $100,000 a year from the company over the next ten years.

Rhode Island College President Nancy Carriuolo stated, “Rhode Island College’s art program has long enjoyed a tradition of excellence,” she said. “That’s why it’s especially fitting that we have fostered and developed a relationship with Alex and Ani, a homegrown company that is deeply devoted to bolstering the economy, giving back to the community and promoting positive energy.”

The college is working on developing a world-class art and jewelry design program.

The new art facility is expected to increase enrollment numbers and draw in new students. The current art center has not been renovated since 1976.

The first phase of the renovation project is expected to be completed by January 2013, with the final phase to be finished by January 2014.