Four presidents of Rochester Institute of Technology gather on April 10 to reflect on the university’s remarkable transformation over the years

Rochester, New York – A rare gathering of leadership past and present will take place on April 10 as four presidents of Rochester Institute of Technology come together to reflect on the university’s evolution and the decisions that helped shape its modern identity.

The event, titled “Presidential Perspectives on RIT’s Transformation: A conversation with four RIT presidents,” will begin at 11 a.m. and feature a discussion between current President Bill Sanders and three of his predecessors: Albert Simone, who led the institution from 1992 to 2007; Bill Destler, president from 2007 to 2017; and David Munson, who served from 2017 to 2025.

The conversation arrives at a symbolic moment for the university. It coincides with the opening of the new RIT Performing Arts Center, a facility intended to expand artistic expression on campus and strengthen the connection between technology, creativity, and performance.

For decades, leadership at RIT has played a defining role in the institution’s direction. From strengthening research initiatives to improving the student experience and building stronger connections between technology, the arts, and design, successive presidents have left distinct marks on the university’s development. Their combined perspectives promise a unique look at how RIT reached its current position and where it may head next.

Organizers say the discussion will give these leaders an opportunity to reflect on their visions for the university during their respective tenures. It will also offer insight into the decisions, challenges, and ambitions that guided the institution through periods of growth and transformation.

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The conversation will follow a question-and-answer format moderated by veteran broadcaster Don Alhart. Alhart has previously led similar presidential discussions at RIT dating back to 1992, helping guide conversations that highlighted the leadership of past university presidents such as Mark Ellingson, Paul Miller, and Richard Rose.

The event will be hosted by Susan Holliday, who will serve as emcee.

Members of the RIT community will have several ways to participate. The discussion will be open to attendees in person at the new Performing Arts Center, while a livestream will allow others to follow along remotely. American Sign Language interpretation will also be provided to ensure accessibility.

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Beyond revisiting the past, the discussion is expected to focus on what lies ahead for the university. With decades of combined leadership experience represented on the stage, the conversation will likely explore how higher education continues to evolve—and where RIT hopes to stand among leading universities in the years to come.

University officials say those seeking additional details about the event can contact the institution’s University Advancement office.