Bryant University

Known as Bryant College until 2004, this private higher education institution is located in Smithfield, Rhode Island and has produced more than 40,000 graduates since it was established in 1863.

Named after its founders, brothers John Collins Bryant and Henry Beadman Bryant, Bryant College primarily taught bookkeeping during its first years and gradually expanded to teach different disciplines. Master’s degrees were not offered until 1969, more than a century since it was originally founded.

In 1971 the University relocated to its current campus in Smithfield after Bryant alumus Earl Tupper donated 428 of land. Today this campus houses numerous university buildings as well as several accommodation developments. The university has recently invested $250 million in campus enhancements and students can now enjoy more than 250,000 square feet of new facilities.

There are two main colleges – the College of Business, and the College of Arts and Sciences – and each offers a range of bachelor’s and master’s degree courses, although a significant proportion of Bryant University students are enrolled in business courses.

Bryant University is a member of the Northeast Conference and its teams, known as the Bryant Bulldogs, compete in 22 sports, 11 for men and 11 for women. The athletics team has been very successful in recent years, winning the Northeast-10 Conference President’s Cup three times between 2004 and 2007.

Among Bryant University’s notable alumni are actor Nicholas Colasanto and Zack Greer, a Canadian international lacrosse player. However, perhaps the most famous former student is Earl Tupper, the inventor of Tupperware.