Rosanne Somerson

Rosanne Somerson is an accomplished academic and furniture designer with a career spanning several decades at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), where Rosanne has served in various leadership roles, including President Emerita and President, during which time Rosanne developed significant initiatives such as the Social Equity and Inclusion Action Plan and the strategic plan RISD 2020–2027. As Provost, Somerson led the academic mission of RISD and co-edited "The Art of Critical Making." A professor and founder of the Furniture Design department at RISD, Somerson has also maintained an active furniture-making practice through Rosanne Somerson Studio, with works included in prestigious collections. Additionally, Somerson has contributed as a speaker at various international conferences and serves as Senior Advisor Chairperson for Qatar Museums. Somerson holds a BFA in Industrial Design/Furniture Design from RISD and an honorary doctorate from Bryant University.