W.R. Crigler Program & Summer Experience
The W.R. Crigler Program for Student Success
The W.R. Crigler Program for Student Success, named for Ursinus’ first African American graduate in 1956, offers a four credit course during the summer and a practicum during the school year for first-year students. In addition to the coursework, students are exposed to inclusive leadership principles, participate in intercultural field trips, are matched with a peer mentor, and connect with Ursinus alumni and service opportunities.
The program begins with a three-week on campus experience beginning July 28 - August 16 and continues through the Fall and Spring semesters. During the summer experience, students participate in workshops and are enrolled in a four-credit course taught by Ursinus Faculty. In the Fall and Spring semesters Crigler students participate in weekly study hall sessions, monthly seminars and mentoring with peers and staff.
The mission of Ursinus College is “to enable students to become independent, responsible and thoughtful individuals through a program of liberal education. That education prepares them to live creatively and usefully and to provide leadership in their society in an interdependent world.” Through these same ideals, the Crigler Institute’s goal is to facilitate a seamless transition into college life for students who are members of historically underrepresented groups.
Goals of W.R. Crigler Program for Student Success
- Enhance participants’ exposure to intellectual discourse
- Provide a framework that supports meaningful friendships and active participation in campus life
- Expose participants to a variety of the Institute for Inclusion and Equity’s campus partners who are invaluable to student persistence and success
About W.R. Crigler
“Bob” Crigler graduated in 1956. He was a psychology major and a student athlete at Ursinus. Much of his career was spent as the executive director of the Chaparral Treatment Center in Colton, Calif., a multi-disciplinary residential care therapy and education center for severely emotionally disturbed children.
Related Information: The Passing of W. Robert Crigler ’56
Questions?
Contact: Institute for Inclusion and Equity