The W.R. Crigler Program for Student Success, named for Ursinus' first African American graduate in 1956, offers one core-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.
About The W.R. Crigler Program for Student Success
The W.R Crigler Student Success Program, named for the first African American graduate of Ursinus College, provides students with a unique opportunity for continued academic excellence, leadership, and social consciousness development.
The program begins with a three-week on-campus summer experience, July 25-August 15, offering students an invaluable opportunity to ease their college life transition. During the summer experience, students participate in workshops and are enrolled in two two-credit courses 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.
By immersing themselves in academic, social, and personal development activities, students build foundational skills, develop meaningful connections with peers, mentors, faculty, and staff, and gain confidence in navigating their new environment. This early engagement fosters a sense of belonging and prepares them to meet the challenges of their first year with greater resilience and readiness. More than just preparing them for their first year, the Crigler Program sets students up for continued success throughout their college journey, ensuring they are well-equipped to thrive academically and socially.
All deposited students are invited to apply by June 18.
Enhance participants’ exposure to intellectual discourse and inclusive leadership skills
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
There is no additional cost to the student.
Students receive housing and a meal plan during the summer session, and participate in a core-credit class that counts toward graduation.
The W.R. Crigler Program for Student Success is a program for admitted students who will attend Ursinus in the Fall.
All students who apply will be required to participate in an interview as a part of the selection process.
The program begins Sunday, July 25, through Friday, August 15, 2026, and continues through the Fall and Spring semesters. All accepted students must be available for the entirety of the program.
If you are an athlete, please check with your coach to see if your schedule allows participation.
We thank you in advance for supporting our requirements and for partnering with us as we help you transition to Ursinus College successfully.
Students in the Crigler Program participate with the intention of increasing their academic ability and gaining new insights into yourself and others, while enjoying an experience that will help them develop and grow as an individual. This program is an academic program and as such, we want to expend as much time and energy as possible with those students who share these goals. Students who may display counter-productive behavior will be asked to leave the program. It is our sincere aim that each student responds in a mature and responsible manner to the increased independence of living in a college residence hall.
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.
