In 2017, Colorado College reaffirmed its commitment to expanding college access through its strategic plan, Building on the Block 2.0. From this commitment, the Stroud Scholars College Preparatory Program was created to help students from the Pikes Peak Region - especially those from historically underrepresented communities - prepare for and access college.
Vision
To lead liberal arts colleges in creating a more fair and inclusive path to higher education—where access, affordability, and success aren't limited by social inequality.
Mission
To partner with schools and communities in the Pikes Peak Region to create clear, supported pathways to Colorado College and beyond.
Our Approach
1) Reducing barriers to college admission through efforts like test-optional policies and the Colorado Pledge (financial aid for families).
2) Preparing students for success with academic enrichment, mentorship, and support for students and families.
Goals
For Colorado College's college access initiatives
For Youth
Foster and expand collegiate aspirations
Prepare youth to gain admittance to and thrive in college, with a particular emphasis on preparation for Colorado College and similar institutions, by providing access to educational and skill-building opportunities
Cultivate informed decision-making around the application process
Enhance social and cultural capital
For Families, Schools, and Community Organizations
Collaborate with college access professionals and organizations to more strategically connect resources in the region to community needs
Serve as a professional development resource to college access professionals by providing insight into the college admissions process
Build signature, deep partnerships with select schools and community-based organizations
Serve as a resource to families
For CC Students and Alumni
Develop CC students into leaders in educational equity; develop critical consciousness around the intersection of inequality and education
Cultivate skills of inclusion and engagement across lines of difference
Support the retention of diverse students at CC by providing opportunities for meaningful purpose, connection, and learning
Promote sense of belonging to and engaged citizenship in the Pikes Peak Region
Provide postgraduate pathways to launch careers in college access and the public good
For Colorado College
Cultivate an enriched learning environment by supporting the recruitment and retention of a diverse and inclusive student body at Colorado College
Increase collaboration and engagement with Colorado Springs and Pikes Peak Region, strengthening our commitment as an anchor institution in this community
Increase collaboration across CC departments and offices to strategically work toward college access goals
