Brown University

Stephen Hopkins, Brown University's first Chancellor, served as a Delegate to the Colonial Congress in 1754 and to the Continental Congress from 1774 to 1776. He signed the United States Declaration of Independence on behalf of Rhode Island.

In 1761, three residents of Newport, Rhode Island, including Ezra Stiles and William Ellery, Jr., drafted a petition to open a literary institution for instructing young gentlemen in various subjects.

In October 1762, the Philadelphia Association of Baptist Churches passed a resolution to establish a college in Rhode Island under the chief direction of the Baptists. This resolution laid the groundwork for the founding of Brown University.

James Manning arrived at Newport in July 1763 and was introduced to Ezra Stiles. Stiles agreed to write the charter for the college, marking a significant step in the establishment of what would become Brown University.

Ezra Stiles' first draft of the charter for Brown University was read to the General Assembly in August 1763, but it was rejected by Baptist members who were concerned about the representation of their denomination in the College Board of Fellows.

An amended charter securing the Baptists' control of both branches of the College's Corporation was passed by the House of Magistrates and the Upper House on March 2 and 3, 1764 in East Greenwich.

A revised charter for Brown University, written by Ezra Stiles and William Ellery, was adopted by the Rhode Island General Assembly on March 3, 1764, in East Greenwich. This charter outlined the governance structure and principles of the university.

In 1765, James Manning was sworn in as the first president of Rhode Island College, which later became Brown University.

In 1766, Rev. Morgan Edwards traveled to Europe and secured $4,300 in funding for Brown University from benefactors like Thomas Penn and Benjamin Franklin.

The first commencement of Brown University was held in Warren in September 1769.

On February 9, 1770, the design of University Hall, the first purpose-built edifice of Brown University, was finalized by a building committee.

Construction of University Hall, the first purpose-built edifice of Brown University, began on March 26, 1770.

The Pronouncing Society is mentioned in the diary of Solomon Drowne, a student at Brown University in 1771. This society was one of the earliest at Brown and focused on oration and debate.

The British customs schooner HMS Gaspee ran aground near Rhode Island College, leading to one of the earliest acts of resistance against British rule, marking a significant event in the lead-up to the American Revolution.

The Class of 1775 decided to cancel the public commencement ceremony due to the impact of the Battles of Lexington and Concord on the country.

During the American Revolutionary War, Brown's University Hall was used as barracks and hospital for French and other revolutionary troops led by General George Washington and the Comte de Rochambeau.

In 1786, the Rhode Island General Assembly unanimously elected College President James Manning to serve as its delegate in the 7th Congress of the Confederation. Manning played a role in proposing fundamental amendments to the Articles of Confederation.

The first university bell rang from inside the new College Edifice in 1788. Within just four years, it would be replaced by a larger bell of 'about 300 pounds,' hung inside the newly completed cupola.

George Washington visited Brown University in August of 1790 accompanied by George Clinton and Thomas Jefferson. The newly elected president's visit was significant for the university.

Jonathan Maxcy, a graduate of the Class of 1787, became the president of the College in 1792 following the passing of his mentor, James Manning. At the age of 24, he became the youngest person to hold this position.

The Philermenian Society, originally known as the Misokosmian Society, was established in 1794 at Brown University. It was one of the early literary societies at the university.

In 1796, Nicholas Brown, Jr. succeeded his uncle as treasurer of Brown University, playing a key role in its financial management.

The number of students at the College exceeded 100 in 1800, marking a significant growth in enrollment during the late 1700s. This milestone was recorded in the first printed Catalogue of the Officers and Students.

In 1804, College treasurer Nicholas Brown donated $5000 to Rhode Island College, establishing a fund for a Professorship of Oratory and Belles Letters. In recognition of this gift, the Corporation voted to rename the College as Brown University.

In response to the Federalist Philermenians, the Democratic-Republican United Brothers Society was created in 1806 at Brown University.

Asa Messer, a member of the Class of 1790, held various roles at the College before being appointed as the third president. He served as a tutor, librarian, and professor before assuming the position of president pro tempore and eventually becoming the president.

During the early 19th century, the College established its medical department, marking a significant development in the institution's academic offerings.

Brown's Alpert Medical School was established in 1811, making it the fourth oldest medical school in the Ivy League.

Samuel Gridley Howe, a notable alumni of Brown University in 1821, was a historian known for his work on the Greek Revolution.

In 1822, Brown University constructed Hope College, its second building funded by Nicholas Brown Jr. The building was designed to complement University Hall.

The Franklin Society was officially acknowledged by the university president in 1824 at Brown University. It had notable honorary members like Thomas Jefferson, John Quincy Adams, and Henry Clay.

President Wayland suspended the medical program at Brown University in 1827 due to faculty refusal to reside on campus. The program was suspended with the possibility of reinstatement in the future.

The Brunonian was launched in the summer of 1829 as Brown's first student publication. It went through various transformations from a literary magazine to a chronicler of campus life and critique before ceasing publication in 1918.

Manning Hall was constructed in 1834 as part of Brown University's expansion. It was one of the buildings that formed the central campus layout.

Fraternities started to appear on American campuses in the 1830s, and Brown University was no different. Alpha Delta Phi established a chapter in 1836, paving the way for other fraternities like Delta Phi in 1838 and Psi Upsilon in 1840.

In 1838, Delta Phi established a chapter at Brown University, further expanding the fraternity culture on campus.

Rhode Island Hall was constructed in 1840, contributing to the expansion of Brown University's campus. It was part of the row formation that defined the central campus layout.

John Milton Thayer, a Brown University alumni from 1841, went on to become the Governor of Wyoming Territory and later served as the Governor of Nebraska. He played a significant role in the political landscape of the American West.

Founded in 1846, the John Carter Brown Library is known for its collection of primary historical sources related to the exploration and colonization of the Americas. It holds significant items such as the Bay Psalm Book and a Shakespeare First Folio.

In 1847, Brown University established its Engineering program, becoming the first in the Ivy League and the third civilian engineering program in the United States.

John Hay, a Brown University alumni from the class of 1852, served as the United States Secretary of State. He played a key role in shaping American foreign policy during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Augustus Bourn, a graduate of Brown University in 1855, became the Governor of Rhode Island. His tenure as governor had an impact on the state's governance and policies.

Richard Olney, a graduate of Brown University in 1856, held important positions in the U.S. government as both the Secretary of State and the Attorney General. He made significant contributions to American diplomacy and legal matters.

The first university rowing regatta involving Brown, Harvard, and Yale took place at Lake Quinsigamond in Massachusetts on July 26, 1859, laying the foundation for collegiate rowing competitions.

During the 1860s, Brown University reacted to the start of the Civil War, showcasing its involvement and response to the significant historical event.

In 1863, Brown University became Rhode Island's first land grant university by receiving 120,000 acres in Kansas under the Morrill Act. This marked a significant development in the university's history.

In the midst of the Civil War, Brown University celebrated its centennial, which was described as interesting and impressive by historian Walter Bronson. The event included a review of the University's history by President Sears.

Alexis Caswell, a former professor at Brown University, assumed the presidency at the age of 69. Although not known for innovation, Caswell was an effective leader.

George W. Milford and Inman E. Page were admitted as Brown University's first African-American students in the fall of 1873.

Charles Chapin completed his undergraduate studies at Brown University in 1876.

Ezekiel Gilman Robinson, a graduate of Brown University, became the seventh president. Known for his forceful leadership style, Robinson oversaw building restorations and new constructions.

Charles Evans Hughes, a notable Brown University alumni from the class of 1881, served as the Chief Justice of the United States and also held the position of U.S. Secretary of State. He had a profound impact on American law and foreign relations.

In 1887, Brown University became one of the early doctoral-granting U.S. institutions, adding masters and doctoral studies to its programs.

In 1888, Brown University awarded its first master's degrees, marking an important milestone in the university's academic offerings. This achievement reflected the institution's commitment to advanced education.

In 1889, Brown University granted its first doctorates, signifying a significant advancement in the university's academic programs. This marked a new era of research and scholarship at the institution.

In 1891, Brown University introduced the first women students to begin their studies, marking a significant step towards gender inclusivity in higher education.

Since its 1893 relocation to College Hill, Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) has bordered Brown University to its west. Brown and RISD students have been able to cross-register at the two institutions since 1900.

In 1897, Martha Tarbell became the first woman to earn a doctoral degree at Brown University. She received a Ph.D. in German studies for her dissertation on the history and criticism of the German ballad.

On January 19, 1898, Brown University participated in the first intercollegiate ice hockey game in America against Harvard, marking a significant moment in collegiate sports history.

Since 1900, Brown and Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) students have been able to cross-register at the two institutions, with Brown students permitted to take as many as four courses at RISD to count towards their Brown degree.

The Van Wickle Gates were dedicated on June 18, 1901. They consist of a pair of center gates and smaller gates on each side, with specific opening traditions for different occasions throughout the academic year.

In 1902, Rhode Island School of Design entered into a cooperative arrangement with Brown University, allowing Brown students to take three courses at RISD.

In 1904, the John Carter Brown Library was founded on the private collection of John Carter Brown, son of Nicholas Brown, Jr. It became an independently funded research library on Brown's campus.

In 1907, Sayles Gymnasium, now known as Smith-Buonanno Hall, was dedicated for the use of female students at Brown University, offering various facilities like a track, a bowling alley, and a resting room.

The John Hay Library, opened in 1910, is the second oldest library on Brown's campus. It houses various archives, rare books, and special collections, including the Anne S. K. Brown Military Collection and the papers of H. P. Lovecraft.

In the Fall of 1915, Brown University had a total of 1,053 students enrolled, marking the first time the enrollment passed the 1,000 mark. Among these students, 246 were women and 807 were men.

In 1916, Brown's departments of electrical, mechanical, and civil engineering were merged into a single Division of Engineering, marking a significant organizational change within the engineering program.

The Brown Jug, Brown University's first humor magazine, was published from 1920 until 1933. Editor S. J. Perelman, Class of 1925, later became a renowned humorist.

Pembroke College's student newspaper, initially known as The Record, was published from 1922 to 1970. The name was changed to include 'Pembroke' in 1931 after the Women's College's name change.

Irving Harris, Class of 1928, organized what would later become the Brown Band in 1924. This marked the formal organization of the band at Brown University.

In the Fall of 1925, Brown University reached a milestone by surpassing 2,000 students for the first time, with 604 women and 1,465 men.

In 1928, the Women’s College at Brown University was officially renamed Pembroke College, a name derived from its main building, Pembroke Hall.

Josiah S. Carberry, the fictional Professor of Psychoceramics at Brown University, was 'born' on a University Hall billboard in 1929. He is a notable figure in Brown's traditions and is associated with various aspects of campus life.

Thomas Watson Jr., a Brown University alumni from 1937, held the positions of chairman and CEO at IBM. He played a key role in the company's growth and technological advancements.

During World War II, Brown University played a significant role by re-initiating training programs for Army and Navy men on campus and providing educated personnel for the war efforts.

After World War II, veterans flooded America's universities under the G.I. Bill. Brown University established the Veterans Extension Division, admitting 486 out of 1400 applicants.

Spring Weekend is an annual spring music festival for students at Brown University, established in 1950. The festival has featured a variety of historical and contemporary performers, making it a significant cultural event on campus.

After Rudolf F. Haffenreffer II's death in 1954, his family donated his museum and 500-acre estate to Brown University. The museum was inspired by American Indian artifacts found on his Bristol property.

On May 13, 1955, an anonymous gift of $101.01 was received by the University from Professor Carberry to establish the Josiah S. Carberry Fund in memory of his 'future late wife.' This fund is augmented by donations on every Friday the 13th.

The study of Computer Science began at Brown University in 1956 as part of the Applied Mathematics division. An IBM card-programmed calculator (CPC) was installed the same year, capable of processing 150 punch cards a minute.

In January 1958, Brown University added an IBM 650, which was the only one of its type between Hartford and Boston.

Ted Turner, an alumni of Brown University from 1960, founded the Cable News Network (CNN). The network revolutionized the news media industry with its 24-hour news coverage.

John Sculley, a Brown University alumni from 1961, served as the CEO of Apple Inc. He played a role in the company's marketing and product strategies during his tenure.

Richard Holbrooke, a notable Brown University alumni from 1962, had a distinguished career as a diplomat. He was involved in various diplomatic efforts and negotiations on behalf of the United States.

In 1963, Brown University started a six-year program leading to a Master of Medical Science degree, marking a significant development in medical education at the university after a gap of 136 years since its previous attempt in the 1820s.

In 1964, both Bob Dylan and The Coasters performed at Brown University during Spring Weekend.

Brown University hosted performances by Ella Fitzgerald and The Shirelles in 1965 as part of Spring Weekend.

In 1966, the first Group Independent Study Project (GISP) at Brown University was formed, inspired by student-initiated experimental schools, seeking to put students at the center of their education.

Janet Yellen, a notable Brown University alumni from 1967, held key positions such as the Chair of the Federal Reserve and the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury. She played a crucial role in economic policy-making.

Lars Onsager, a Nobel Laureate alumni of Brown University in 1968, was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry.

In 1969, Brown University adopted the 'New Curriculum' which revolutionized the undergraduate experience and continues to shape the academic approach at the university.

In 1970, the Brown Curriculum was introduced, which was a significant change in undergraduate education at Brown University. The new curriculum eliminated core requirements and emphasized departmental concentration requirements, allowing students to design their own courses of study.

In 1971, Brown University's undergraduate school, 'The College,' merged with Pembroke College, becoming coeducational. This merger marked a pivotal moment in the university's history.

In 1972, Brown University re-established its medical school, which had been inactive since 1827. The contemporary program awarded its first degrees in 1975.

In 1973, African American upperclass students at Brown University established the Minority Peer Counseling (MPC) Program. This initiative aimed to provide academic support and foster a sense of community among black first-year students.

W. Stuart Symington, a Brown University alumni from 1974, had a successful career as a United States diplomat. He represented the country in various international matters and diplomatic relations.

On June 2, 1975, Brown University awarded Doctor of Medicine degrees to 58 students, marking the first medical class since the 1820s to complete academic medical studies and clinical training within Rhode Island.

Since 1976, the Early Identification Program (EIP) at Brown's medical school has encouraged Rhode Island residents to pursue medical careers.

Charles Mingus graced the stage at Brown University in 1977, showcasing his musical talent to the audience.

John S. Chen, a graduate of Brown University in 1978, became the CEO of Blackberry Ltd. He led the company through a period of transition and technological advancements.

In 1979, Brown University officially recognized computer sciences as a full Department within the university.

Maggie Hassan, a graduate of Brown University in 1980, became a U.S. Senator representing New Hampshire. She played a role in shaping national legislation and policies.

Brian Moynihan, a graduate of Brown University in 1981, became the CEO of Bank of America. He played a significant role in the bank's operations and strategies.

Jim Yong Kim, a Brown University alumni from the class of 1982, was appointed as the President of the World Bank. He led the institution in addressing global development challenges.

Tom Perez, a Brown University alumni from the class of 1983, was appointed as the Chair of the Democratic National Committee. He played a key role in shaping the party's strategies and direction.

In 1984, Brown University initiated the Program in Liberal Medical Education (PLME), an innovative eight-year medical program aimed at nurturing future medical professionals.

On March 13, 1985, over 300 students gathered on the Green at Brown University to protest against institutional racism. The protest was part of a series of demonstrations led by the Third World Coalition, lasting for five weeks.

The Center for Public Service at Brown University was established in 1986 to promote the integration of public service into the educational experience, pioneering a model that connected students with community partners.

In July 1988, Brown University founded the Center for the Study of Race and Ethnicity, one of the earliest academic centers in the nation dedicated to research and academic exchanges on issues of race and ethnicity.

General Rush Hawkins's collection of over 450 incunabula was relocated to the John Hay Library in 1990.

On October 3, 1991, Professor Carberry was awarded an Ig Noble Prize at the First Annual Ig Noble Prize Ceremony for his pioneering work in the field of psychoceramics. This event was sponsored by M.I.T. and the Journal of Irreproducible Results.

In April 1992, Gymnastics co-captain Amy Cohen and twelve other female student-athletes from Brown University filed a lawsuit against the university for violating the 1972 Title IX legislation, which prohibits gender-based discrimination in educational programs and activities.

In the Fall of 1994, the number of female students attending Brown University surpassed the number of male students for the first time, marking a shift in gender demographics at the institution.

Andrew Yang, a graduate of Brown University in 1996, ran as a candidate for the 2020 Presidential election. He brought attention to issues such as universal basic income and automation's impact on the workforce.

Jerry White, a Nobel Laureate alumni of Brown University in 1987, received the Nobel Peace Prize for his humanitarian work.

President Gordon Gee resigns from Brown University after only two years.

In October 2000, Brown's medical school was renamed once more to Brown Medical School.

In 2001, Ruth J. Simmons made history by becoming the first female president of Brown University and the second female president of an Ivy League institution. Her appointment was a significant step towards gender equality in higher education leadership.

In 2002, Brown University launched The Plan for Academic Enrichment to enhance research, education, and service, setting new standards of excellence. The plan aimed to attract diverse faculty and students, capitalize on strengths, and promote rigorous inquiry.

In 2003, then-Brown University President Ruth Simmons appointed the 'Steering Committee on Slavery and Justice' to investigate the university's historical relationship to slavery and the transatlantic slave trade. The committee conducted research, organized public programs, and released a final report in 2006 detailing Brown University's connections to slavery and abolitionism.

In March 2004, Brown University inaugurated the LGBTQ Resource Center at Faunce House, providing a space for students to engage with topics concerning sexuality and gender diversity.

In June 2005, the deans of Brown University and Dartmouth Medical School announced the termination of the Brown-Dartmouth Medical Program, with the final class to be accepted in the fall of 2006, due to the institutions' desire to pursue separate directions.

In September 2005, Sidney Frank made a donation of $5 million to aid Brown University in providing free tuition for New Orleans students whose colleges had been rendered unusable by Hurricane Katrina just weeks earlier.

In late May of 2006, it was announced that the funds donated by Sidney Frank for the construction of Sidney Frank Hall would be repurposed for in progress projects, and the almost completed Life Sciences Building would be renamed in honor of Sidney Frank.

In October 2006, the Steering Committee on Slavery and Justice at Brown University released a final report detailing the university's connection to both the slave trade and abolitionism. The report provided factual information and critical perspectives on the historical, legal, political, and moral dimensions of the controversy over slavery.

Spring Weekend is an annual event at Brown University.

Information about the admission process at Brown University.

In 2009, Brown University collaborated with IBM to establish a state-of-the-art supercomputer at the Center for Computation and Visualization, capable of performing 14 trillion calculations per second, marking a significant advancement in computational capabilities.

In 2010, Brown's Division of Engineering was elevated to a School of Engineering, signifying a higher level of recognition and status for the engineering discipline within the university.

In March 2011, Brown University published an official update on the progress of the eleven steps proposed in the 2007 response to the Slavery and Justice Report. The university noted that progress was underway and that assistance had been provided to historically black colleges and universities affected by Hurricane Katrina.

In August 2011, Brown's Alpert Medical School inaugurated a new campus in Providence's Jewelry District, enhancing its facilities and resources for medical education and research.

Christina H. Paxson assumed office as the nineteenth President of Brown University in 2012, leading the institution through a period of growth and development.

In July 2013, the new Brown School of Public Health was officially opened, marking a significant transformation from the Public Health Program to become Brown's third professional school.

A 15-month celebration began on March 7, 2014, with an open house, fireworks, and a massive birthday cake to commemorate Brown University's 250th anniversary. The event attracted visitors from all over the world.

A 15-month celebration began with a two-day open house, fireworks, and a 600-pound birthday cake on March 8, 2014. Thousands of people from various parts of the world participated in the festivities over 444 days.

On February 1, 2016, President Paxson shared the Action Plan after engaging in campus-wide discussions and input. The plan highlights Brown's dedication to diversity and includes specific actions to promote inclusivity.

In May 2017, more than 700 alumnae returned for a two-day celebration at Brown University, commemorating 125 years of women's presence at the institution. Attendees included graduates from the 1950s to the Class of 2016, showcasing the diverse history of women at Brown.

In October 2017, the Engineering Research Center was inaugurated, featuring 20 lab modules to facilitate collaborative research, a 4,000-square-foot clean room for nanotechnology studies, and a separate clean room for bioengineering research at Brown University.

In January 2018, Brown University published its first 'game-ified' course called Fantastic Places, Unhuman Humans, offering an immersive learning experience.

At the start of the 2018-19 academic year, Brown University introduced 'The Brown Promise', a program that replaced loans with scholarships in financial aid packages for undergraduate students. This initiative aimed to alleviate financial burdens and enhance accessibility to education at Brown.

In 2019, Brown women's sailing team added to their success by winning a national championship, further solidifying their position in collegiate sailing.

In 2020, Brown and RISD announced the joint Master of Arts in Design Engineering program, aiming to combine RISD's industrial design with Brown's engineering programs. The program is administered through Brown's School of Engineering and RISD's Architecture and Design Division.

Guido Imbens, a Nobel Laureate alumni of Brown University, received the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 2021.

Douglas Diamond, a Nobel Laureate alumni of Brown University, was awarded the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 2022.

In early December 2023, forty-one students at Brown University held a sit-in to protest the Israel-Hamas war and called for a ceasefire. They also demanded the university to divest from companies allegedly supporting the Israeli military occupation in Gaza.

Brown University, a prestigious Ivy League school in Providence, Rhode Island, has decided to reintroduce standardized tests as part of its admission process.