What happens when a group of extraordinary women assemble and decide to launch a feminist cultural center? You get a nonprofit with thoughtful programming, inspiring exhibits, and safe spaces to gather. In mid-January, a ribbon cutting celebrated the opening of THE ALCOVE on Providence’s West End. It followed the beautification of a concrete block masonry building, which now includes a second story, rooftop terrace, and an asphalt parking lot replaced by a patio and gardens to be completed this spring. The entire endeavor is powered by local women, from the design architect to the interior designer, and of course, the accomplished eight: a uniquely Rhode Island who’s who of decorated leaders. Individuals, some with loose ties, but most of whom were strangers to each other, who joined forces to build an organization.
The founding board, each accomplished in their own right, form a powerful collective that includes Marisa Albanese, Executive Director, Ocean State Charities Trust; Marcela Betancur, Executive Director, Latino Policy Institute; Dana Borrelli-Murray, CEO, Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England; Touba Ghadessi, Provost, RISD; Sara Gilkenson, Diversity Director, Supreme Court of Rhode Island; Anne Hills Holland, Director, 189 Development; and Felicia Salinas-Moniz, Board Secretary. The group is joined by Amanda E. Strauss, Executive Director of The Alcove, former Director of Brown University’s John Hay Library; the first woman in the role, where she left a permanent legacy, transforming collections and physical spaces during her five-year tenure.
“The vision for The Alcove arose from research, community conversations, and an enduring commitment to the idea that we all have a cohort, we are not alone,” begins Amanda. “The Alcove is built on a simple premise – women and gender expansive people thrive in community. When we are attentive to the collective and purposeful in our engagement, we build momentum, uplift each other and unleash creativity and innovation.”
The Alcove is also home to one of the world’s only permanent Portrait Gallery dedicated to showcasing the lives and histories of women and gender expansive people and a companion Biographical Library, one of only a handful of private lending libraries in the region.
“I am so proud to be involved in this project and grateful to be within a community of leaders who wove our strengths together to create this,” says Anne Holland, a serial founder and integral part of many initiatives, including LitArts RI. “It’s been a ton of work, we fundraised for and managed a multi-million dollar building project, we bought more than 2,000 books for a biographical library, we commissioned dozens of portrait paintings for our gallery, and we filled it with beautiful plants, art and furnishings.” Smiling, she adds, “For you!”
Programming planned throughout 2026 ranges from a speaker series and book club to peer circles focused on leadership and career development. “We are focused on creating new ways for women and gender expansive people to meet each other, learn from each other, and create deeper partnerships and connections so that we can build a stronger Rhode Island,” says Amanda. “We’re just getting started and welcome you to become part of our organization. There are many entry points, from becoming a member to attending a free public program. All are welcome.”
189 Broadway, Providence,
401-443-3347, AlcoveRI.org
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