URI's Role in Cultural Engagement Subtitle: Examining Attitudes and Relationships in Rhode Island

Title: URI's Role in Cultural Engagement

In the heart of Rhode Island, a state steeped in history and culture, the University of Rhode Island's Textiles, Fashion Merchandising, and Design department (TMD) stands as a beacon for those passionate about historic textiles and costume. This book delves into the intricate tapestry of the Rhode Island cultural landscape, where numerous historical societies, small museums, and historic houses treasure textile collections.

Rhode Island is a treasure trove of cultural institutions, and the density of those with textile or costume collections offers a unique opportunity. The URI TMD Department positions itself as a focal point for engagement, education, and research within Rhode Island and beyond. Drawing on the rich history of university-community collaboration, this book explores the evolving definition of community service and the transformative impact the TMD department can have.

Within university contexts, the promotion and tenure systems shape engagement, aligning with major granting agencies' support for collaboration between universities and cultural institutions. "URI's Role in Cultural Engagement" examines a transformative project aimed at identifying potential linkages between the University of Rhode Island and Rhode Island Cultural Institutions (RICI).

The book scrutinizes changes in academic attitudes and philanthropic organizations, particularly in the realms of outreach and engagement. It uses the relationships between RICIs and TMD as a contextual backdrop to explore evolving notions of community involvement.

While participants expressed interest in strengthening ties with TMD at URI, the narrative reveals an intriguing "academic as expert" model. Participant anxiety surfaces around aspects such as accessions, storage, and exhibition practices. Through semi-structured interviews and site visits, the book uncovers the organic development of inter-institutional partnerships without predetermined "outreach" activities.

Leveraging data from interviews, site visits, and supporting literature on community engagement, "URI's Role in Cultural Engagement" proposes a model for institutionalizing and sustaining community engagement. This model is not only a testament to the unique Rhode Island landscape but also a guide for universities and cultural institutions seeking meaningful collaborations.

"URI's Role in Cultural Engagement" is not just a book; it's a journey through the evolving landscape of university-community collaboration. It invites readers to explore the past, present, and future of cultural engagement, providing insights and inspiration for academics, cultural institutions, and anyone passionate about preserving and sharing our rich cultural tapestry.

URI TMD;Cultural Engagement;Rhode Island;Textile Collections;Costume Preservation;University-Community Collaboration;Historic Textiles;Inter-Institutional Partnerships;Academic as Expert Model;Community Engagement Model;Rhode Island Cultural Institutions;Outreach and Engagement;University Impact;Philanthropy in Academia;Rhode Island History;Small Museums;Preservation Practices;Academic Attitudes;Transformative Projects;Community-University Relations