Larry Thompson, President, Ringling College of Art and Design
Invest: sat down with Larry Thompson, president of Ringling College of Art and Design, to discuss its response to recent challenges, including the hurricane season, and its ongoing initiatives in art, design, and education.
How did Ringling College demonstrate resilience and adaptability during the recent hurricane season?
This hurricane season was particularly challenging, with three hurricanes hitting our area, each more powerful than the last. Thankfully, our extensive experience with hurricanes allowed us to prepare effectively. One aspect that stood out was the quick and responsible actions of our students. When we announced the campus closure due to the severe weather forecast, they evacuated promptly. In the past, some students opted to remain on campus during such events, but this time, everyone followed the emergency instructions and had their plans ready in advance.
The campus itself sustained some damage, including debris and downed trees, but it wasn’t severe enough to disrupt operations. Considering the eye of the hurricane passed directly over our campus, we were fortunate. I’m reminded of Hurricane Katrina, which struck when I first joined Ringling College. That disaster caused universities like Tulane to close for years due to the devastation, but thankfully, we didn’t experience anything of that scale.
Could you highlight some of the major accomplishments and milestones from the past year?
Ringling College continues to lead as the most technologically advanced art college in the world. From the very beginning, we’ve embraced emerging technology. In the 1990s, we pioneered the integration of computers into art education with our computer animation program, recognizing early that the computer would become the next paintbrush. This innovation set the tone for many of our achievements.
We were the first art school to launch a business program tailored to art and design and the first to incorporate virtual reality into the curriculum. These initiatives reflect our commitment to staying at the forefront of art and design education. Unlike many art colleges, we also emphasize student life. With most of our students living on campus, we offer extensive opportunities for engagement, fostering a vibrant and supportive community. Over the years, we’ve expanded our enrollment, introduced new majors, and solidified our reputation as a leader in creative education.
How will the school’s new academic facility enhance industry partnerships and create new opportunities for students?
Our new signature academic building will be a landmark addition to our campus. It will be situated at the prominent intersection of Martin Luther King and 41, a location we’ve reserved for a project of this significance. With our growing enrollment and expanding programs, the need for additional space has become pressing. This building will meet those needs while serving as a symbol of innovation and excellence.
The building will house several cutting-edge programs, including computer animation, game art, virtual reality, and entertainment design. The entertainment design program is particularly exciting because it extends beyond theme parks to include themed environments in restaurants, hotels, concerts, and more. By housing these dynamic programs in a state-of-the-art facility, the new building will not only enhance the learning environment for our students but also strengthen our connections with industry leaders, ensuring our graduates remain in high demand.
How is Ringling College addressing concerns about artificial intelligence in art and design?
Artificial intelligence is a transformative force, and we’ve been preparing for its impact for several years. I’ve often said that creativity will be the most valuable skill in a world increasingly shaped by AI. To address this, we launched the first AI-focused certificate program at an art school. Starting last fall, the program provides students with essential knowledge to navigate AI’s influence on their industries.
Employers are understandably concerned about the implications of AI, particularly on jobs in creative fields. By equipping our students with these forward-thinking skills, we’re ensuring they remain highly employable and at the forefront of their professions. This initiative reflects our commitment to not just adapt to technological changes but to lead in defining their role in art and design.
How do you view the state of higher education in Florida, particularly for art, design, and architecture?
The need for skilled artists and designers is growing, fueled by advancements in technology. Creative skills are highly adaptable and remain essential across many industries. However, higher education faces significant challenges. Demographic shifts, such as declining high school graduation rates, mean fewer college-bound students. Financial barriers also persist, with rising costs and limited aid making affordability a critical concern. Additionally, the rise of non-degree programs and global education options presents increased competition.
At Ringling, we are addressing these challenges by strengthening our industry partnerships, offering robust scholarships, and emphasizing the broad value of a college education. A degree isn’t just about career preparation — it’s about gaining a comprehensive understanding of the world and developing the ability to think critically and creatively. These qualities remain indispensable, regardless of the changes in the educational landscape.
What is your vision for Ringling College over the next two to three years?
Our vision is to become the preeminent art and design college globally. While we’ve made remarkable progress, there is still work to be done. When people think of art and design education, I want Ringling College to be the first name that comes to mind.
We are already building an international reputation, with students from over 60 countries making up 22% of our enrollment. Our goal is to continue innovating, growing, and strengthening our leadership in creative education. By doing so, we will solidify our place as a global leader and ensure that our students are equipped to shape the future of art and design.
