Colorado College’s Bridge Scholars Program, which serves as a gateway into college life for first-generation students, was recognized as a “Model of Excellence” by University Business. The Models of Excellence program “honors colleges and universities that have implemented innovative, effective, and interdepartmental initiatives that are bolstering student success.”

University Business notes that continuous support for students helps maintain student success, and CC’s research-based approach to supporting students from underrepresented backgrounds definitely fits that model.

Emily Chan, associate dean of academic programs and strategic initiatives, cites 15 years of studies that illustrate the importance of integrating such students into the full college environment. The program “gives students a ‘running start’ on claiming and building their CC experience,” Chan says. Bridge Scholars arrive on campus two weeks prior to the fall semester of their first year and participate in a series of team-taught interdisciplinary courses. The Bridge Scholars Program helps support CC’s strategic plan, “Building on the Block.”