February 2026 – Locally and nationally, communities are navigating difficult times. The termination of our federal grant last April demanded a great deal of our staff and board. It also strained organizations that had grants canceled and lost access to humanities funding. Our core goals have been to sustain our operations, to continue catalyzing humanities in our state, and to plan for greater strength and resilience into the future. Thanks to national and local support, we have persisted.

The 2025 Annual Report highlights:

• A record-breaking fundraising effort in the face of federal funding cuts.
• Our commitment to investing in local public humanities through grants, initiatives, and collaborations.
• The power of local solidarity as communities navigate change and seek sustainability.

This report is a “thank you” to each individual, organization, and partner who has supported our work. It is also an invitation to continue to give as you are able. Your financial support directly contributes to our stability in these uncertain times. Throughout 2026, we will continue to support cultural organizations, civic health initiatives, RI250 commemorations, and more humanities programs across the state.

With gratitude,

Elizabeth Francis, PhD
Executive Director

To download a PDF of the 2025 Annual Report, click here.