Rutgers–Camden Chancellor visits CSUCL, LEAP Academy September 29, 2009

Dr. Wendell Pritchett, the Chancellor for Rutgers University–Camden, was the special guest of the Rutgers Center for Strategic Urban Community Leadership (CSUCL) on September 28th, when Dr. Gloria Bonilla-Santiago introduced him to the children, staff, and parents of LEAP Academy University Charter School in Camden. 

Dr. Pritchett, who began his work as Rutgers–Camden Chancellor in July, received a tour of both LEAP Academy school buildings on Cooper Street and had the opportunity to meet and talk with dozens of LEAP students from grades K-12.  While at LEAP, Dr. Pritchett was also introduced to Rutgers students and staff working in the CSUCL’s Centers of Excellence. 

Beginning at the Elementary school, the Chancellor visited the Rutgers/LEAP Health Center and the preschool classrooms of the Rutgers Early Childhood Initiative, where several Rutgers student interns and Jumpstart corps members work with children to build their literacy skills.  The Chancellor also took time to read a story to over 30 first graders at LEAP before walking to LEAP High School. 

At the high school, Dr. Pritchett met with LEAP seniors in the Rutgers/LEAP Pre College Office, many of whom are taking college classes at Rutgers–Camden this semester thanks to a special partnership with the university.  After an assembly with LEAP upperclassmen, the Chancellor had lunch with Rutgers students and staff in the high school library, where he answered questions and pledged to continue working to create opportunities with LEAP and the CSUCL. 

“Chancellor Pritchett’s vision for the city and the university is critical to our work at the Center,” said CSUCL Director, Dr. Santiago.  “We welcome Dr. Pritchett’s energy and vision for the Rutgers–Camden campus as we strategically partner with LEAP Academy to continue our ‘zero-to-16’ education model and increase opportunities for students in Camden.” 

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