Dedication of Eastman Kodak Quad at RIT Commemorates Long-standing Partnership

Kodak CEO Dan Carp pays tribute to RIT’s “international reputation for excellence”

The latest campus improvement project at Rochester Institute of Technology is now a permanent tribute to the university’s enduring relationship with Eastman Kodak Co.

Daniel Carp, Kodak chairman and CEO and RIT alumnus (MBA ‘73), today joined RIT President Albert Simone in dedicating the Eastman Kodak Quad. The event culminated with the unveiling of the quad’s newly constructed grand staircase and commemorative archway. It will serve as a lasting reminder of the partnership that continues between the two institutions.

“I think George Eastman would be especially gratified by the international reputation for excellence that RIT has earned and of Kodak’s companion role in nurturing generations of young minds,” stated Carp. “And that’s what makes this new space so perfect.”

The bond between Kodak and RIT dates back more than a century when the university began offering photographic education. That relationship has blossomed over the years and now includes groundbreaking research opportunities in areas such as imaging science and information technology. Nearly 3,900 RIT alumni are employed by the company—making Kodak the largest employer of RIT graduates.

“The quad captures the bond between RIT and Kodak,” expressed Simone. “From now on, as people move across this technology-focused campus, they’ll have the opportunity to spend some time on a plot of land that has been transformed from ‘a way to get from here to there,’ to a beautiful, tranquil and creative experience.”

The Eastman Kodak Quad is a park-like area that was redesigned and newly landscaped over the summer. It has already become a popular retreat for RIT students, faculty and staff.

The dedication ceremony followed “A Shared Commitment to Excellence,” a daylong series of activities held at RIT last month and sponsored by Kodak.