01/10/2026
As our community begins to heal from an act of unimaginable and senseless violence on Brown’s campus, alumni in this region are offering a small, welcoming gathering for students who are away from campus during winter break, processing, and navigating this moment. The intention is simple: to be together, to be in community, and to offer Brunonian care in a gentle, human way.
These are not alumni convenings and are not intended for general alumni attendance. The focus is to center on students and their needs in this moment. However, knowing there are students and parents/family of current students in our alumni community, we wanted to be sure to make our local community aware of these gatherings.
Date: Sunday, 1/11/26
Time: 11:00am
City/Town: East Greenwich, RI
Host Name: Rebecca Bliss ‘92
Notes: At the host’s home in East Greenwich
Date: Sunday, 1/18/26
Time: 12:00 noon
City/Town: Westport Point, MA
Host Name: Matt Paknis ‘84
Notes: We will meet at the host’s home and then proceed on a walk near the shore.
All current Brown students can attend simply by RSVP’ing to VPalumni@brown.edu.
These are informal, student-centered spaces. There is no agenda, no program, and no expectation to share or participate in any particular way. Students are welcome to come as they are, to talk or to not, and simply to be in the presence of others who care.
Students are welcome to attend on their own or with a family member or friend, whatever feels most supportive. Travel support is available from the Brown Alumni Association where cost, distance or accessibility makes participation more difficult.
Alumni-centered opportunities to gather and connect with one another are being thoughtfully considered for the future. For now, this gathering is about holding space for students and ensuring they feel supported by the wider Brown community.
Students can email VPalumni@brown.edu to indicate their interest or with any questions.
Brown Club of RI
