Salve Regina receives $5 million to build new student center pavilion

Salve Regina continues to break ground – literally and figuratively – in its efforts to deliver a transformative educational experience for each student. A $5 million gift will help the University continue this momentum, funding the creation of a new garden pavilion on campus that will be a flexible space for student/faculty programming and events.

The gift, from Salve Regina trustee Barbara A. Papitto, will cover the entire cost of the facility, estimated to be $5 million. The University anticipates starting construction this summer and opening the new pavilion at the start of the fall 2026 semester.

The 5,400-square-foot wooden structure will be built between Gerety Hall and McKillop Library on Ochre Point Avenue. The facility will accommodate nearly 300 seated in lecture style and include a catering kitchen.

Designed by DBVW Architects of Providence, the pavilion will be a garden structure, preserving and complementing the Barbara Mallardi Rose Garden in which it will sit, and the adjacent buildings. The design features a hipped metal roof that references historic greenhouses and multiple doors with arched glass on three sides that create a garden folly appearance. The design has been reviewed and approved by the Newport Historic District Commission.

“Barbara Papitto is recognized across our state for her incredible generosity and devotion to reducing barriers for people through education,” said President Kelli J. Armstrong. “As we continue to extend our Salve Compass program, the pavilion will be a place for the kinds of retreats and career-connected speakers and programs that empower our students to chart their educational journey with purpose. It will also give our student organizations a dedicated and beautiful space to hold their events and build community. We are eternally grateful to Barbara and all she does for our University.”

“Salve has built innovative programs that bring rigorous academics together with a focus on purpose and service,” Papitto said. “I’m continually impressed by their students’ accomplishments and the depth of their commitment to the mercy mission. Knowing that our gift will play a part in continuing Salve’s work guiding young people to lead purposeful and meaningful lives and careers is a wonderful legacy.”