Roger Williams University is closely connected to Roger Williams (17th-century leader) who was committed to freedom of conscience, and social justice and founded Rhode Island's first community based on these tenets. Roger Williams' philosophy and what is known as his "lively experiment", have fostered the development of open and vibrant societies. His focus on intellectual exchange and critical thinking is the foundation oftheir pursuit of excellence in education and community service. This legacy is what inspirestheir core purpose.