Brown University Launches 'Brown Loves Providence' Initiative

Campus community shows gratitude to local businesses and residents for support after December tragedy

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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In the aftermath of a tragic shooting on Brown University's campus in December, the campus community has launched the 'Brown Loves Providence' initiative to express gratitude to the local businesses, first responders, and residents of Providence who rallied around the university with support, comfort, and generosity. Through coordinated giving, local spending, and volunteer efforts, Brown students, faculty, and staff are thanking the Providence community for standing by them in their time of need.

Why it matters

The 'Brown Loves Providence' initiative is a meaningful way for the Brown community to reciprocate the care and compassion shown to the university by local residents, businesses, and first responders following the December tragedy. By directing their time and resources toward supporting Providence merchants and organizations, Brown affiliates are strengthening the bond between the university and the city that has become a second home for many students.

The details

As part of the 'Brown Loves Providence' effort, groups of Brown students, faculty, and staff have been visiting local businesses across the city, delivering bags filled with Brown-branded items and handwritten notes of appreciation. The initiative has mobilized hundreds of participants who have also penned personal thank-you notes, displayed 'Brown Loves Providence' posters, and directed their purchasing power toward city merchants and nonprofits. In the aftermath of the December shooting, Providence residents, businesses, and first responders rallied around Brown, offering hot meals, shelter, and transportation to students, as well as messages of solidarity on social media and in storefronts.

  • The 'Brown Loves Providence' initiative was launched on Valentine's Day 2026.
  • The initiative will continue through mid-March 2026.

The players

Brown University

A private Ivy League research university located in Providence, Rhode Island.

Anisha Baktha

A third-year medical student at Brown University who is participating in the 'Brown Loves Providence' initiative.

Waleed Ghazi

The owner of Brown Bee Coffee, a local business in Providence that received a visit and gift from Brown students as part of the initiative.

Matthew Guterl

Brown University's vice president for diversity and inclusion, who spoke about the outpouring of support the university received from the Providence community.

Judy Kimberly and Susan Ely

Brown University employees who are distributing cards and gifts to local businesses in downtown Providence as part of the 'Brown Loves Providence' initiative.

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What they’re saying

“We're Brown students, and we just wanted to say thank you.”

— Anisha Baktha, Third-year medical student

“That's very kind - you didn't have to do that. I appreciate you stopping in - and for being a part of our community.”

— Waleed Ghazi, Owner, Brown Bee Coffee

“After Dec. 13, the generosity of local businesses brought us comfort and closeness when we needed it most. Brown Loves Providence is our way of saying thank you to those business owners and workers - and of honoring the togetherness that carries us through difficult times. Delivering these bags has been a powerful reminder that we're not alone as we continue to heal and move forward.”

— Anisha Baktha, Third-year medical student

“The city, including elected officials, first responders, local business owners and neighbors, really stood up for us. Providence wrapped its arms around the University that night and held us tight in the weeks that followed. They helped to get us through to the other side of this terrible shooting. For this, we owe them our heartfelt thanks.”

— Matthew Guterl, Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion, Brown University

What’s next

The 'Brown Loves Providence' initiative will continue through mid-March 2026, with more coordinated giving, local spending, and volunteer efforts planned to show the university's gratitude to the Providence community.

The takeaway

The 'Brown Loves Providence' initiative demonstrates the power of community support and togetherness in the face of tragedy. By reciprocating the care and compassion shown to Brown University by the people of Providence, the campus community is strengthening the bond between the university and the city that has become a second home for many students.