Crossey of Plainsboro travels to DC to discuss the merits of integrated learning at Widener University

2016 Feb 8

Nicole Crossey, a Widener University senior, recently traveled to our nation's capital to take part in a student panel presented by The New American Colleges and Universities, of which Widener is a member. The event aimed to showcase NAC&U member institutions' approach to teaching and learning, which is the integration of liberal education, professional studies and civic engagement to prepare students for careers and lives as contributing, global citizens. Crossey spoke before an audience of elected officials, members of the press and faculty and staff from other universities and colleges.

Crossey, a political science, international relations and history major from Plainsboro, New Jersey, was asked to share why she values college learning and how it connects to engagement beyond campus.

"I talked about my work this semester in a one-credit course taught by Dr. Wes Leckrone in which we are creating educational materials to teach middle school children about the presidential election," Crossey said. "Leaders create other leaders in my mind, so my hope is that these middle schoolers teach their younger siblings, which will eventually lead to more active and informed citizens overall."

Crossey also shared her experience creating the Super PAC "College Students Concerned by College Costs" as a freshman in Leckrone's Introductory to American Government honors course. This led to her participation in the past three Student Lobby Days organized by the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Pennsylvania.

"I was asked if there was an educational moment when my liberal arts education connected with professional studies, and I referenced my first Lobby Day experience," Crossey said. "I originally thought politics was intimidating, but when I met some of the elected officials and realized how open they are to hearing from citizens and are willing to compromise to best serve their constituents, my opinion of politics changed. Now I could see myself working someday as a lobbyist after law school."

Widener strives to inspire its students to be citizens of character who demonstrate professional and civic leadership. The university provides a wide variety of opportunities for students to develop leadership skills in the classroom, around campus and in in their communities. The Oskin Leadership Institute at Widener offers signature programs to inspire our students to be strategic leaders and responsible citizens who possess the character, courage and competencies to affect positive change throughout the world.

Widener University is a private, metropolitan university that connects curricula to social issues through civic engagement. Dynamic teaching, active scholarship, personal attention, leadership development and experiential learning are key components of the Widener experience. A comprehensive doctorate-granting university, Widener is comprised of eight schools and colleges that offer liberal arts and sciences, professional and pre-professional curricula leading to associate's, baccalaureate, master's and doctoral degrees. The university's campuses in Chester, Exton, and Harrisburg, Pa., and Wilmington, Del. are proud to be a tobacco-free. Visit the university website, www.widener.edu.