Introduction:
Crowley’s Ridge College, also known as CRC, is a private, Christian liberal arts college located in Paragould, Arkansas. It was founded in 1964 by the churches of Christ and has since become an important institution of higher learning in the region. CRC has a rich history and culture that has attracted students from all over the world. In this blog post, we will explore some fun facts about Crowley’s Ridge College that you may not have known before.
The founding of Crowley’s Ridge College
The founding of Crowley’s Ridge College is an interesting story that involves a lot of hard work and determination. In the 1950s, a group of local church leaders began discussing the need for a Christian college in Northeast Arkansas. They eventually formed the Northeast Arkansas Christian Education Corporation, which was responsible for raising funds and finding a location for the college. After several years of searching, they finally settled on a site near Paragould, Arkansas. The land was donated by a local businessman, and construction began in 1962. The first class of students was admitted in 1964, and the college has been growing and thriving ever since.
One of the unique features of Crowley’s Ridge College is that it was founded by the churches of Christ, but it is not affiliated with any particular denomination. This allows the college to maintain its Christian values while welcoming students from all faith backgrounds.
The campus
The Crowley’s Ridge College campus is located on a picturesque hill overlooking the town of Paragould. The campus covers 116 acres and includes several academic buildings, residence halls, and recreational facilities. One of the most striking features of the campus is the Main Building, which was completed in 1971. The building houses administrative offices, classrooms, and the college’s chapel, which can seat up to 700 people.
Another interesting feature of the campus is the Student Commons, which was completed in 2015. The building houses the campus bookstore, dining hall, and a student lounge area. The Student Commons is a popular gathering spot for students and is often used for events and activities.
Academics
Crowley’s Ridge College offers a wide range of academic programs, including majors in business, education, ministry, psychology, and more. The college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and has a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1.
One unique feature of the academic program at Crowley’s Ridge College is the Honors Program. The program is designed for high-achieving students who want to engage in advanced study and research. Honors students take a specialized curriculum that includes courses in philosophy, literature, and history, as well as a senior thesis project.
Athletics
Crowley’s Ridge College has a strong athletics program that includes several varsity sports teams. The college is a member of the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) and competes in the Midlands Collegiate Athletic Conference (MCAC).
One of the most successful sports programs at Crowley’s Ridge College is the men’s basketball team. The team has won several conference championships and has made multiple appearances in the NCCAA national tournament. The college also has successful women’s basketball, volleyball, and soccer teams.
Student life
Student life at Crowley’s Ridge College is vibrant and active. The college has a number of student organizations and clubs, including a student government association, a drama club, and a music club. The college also has several campus ministries that provide opportunities for students to engage in worship, service, and fellowship.
One of the most popular student traditions at Crowley’s Ridge College is the annual Spring Sing competition. The competition involves students performing musical numbers in a variety of styles, and the event draws large crowds from the campus and the surrounding community.
Community involvement
Crowley’s Ridge College is deeply rooted in its community and encourages its students to become involved in local service projects and organizations. The college has a strong partnership with the city of Paragould and regularly participates in community events and initiatives. Students have the opportunity to engage in service projects through campus ministries and clubs, as well as through partnerships with local churches and organizations.
Campus traditions
Campus traditions are an important part of life at Crowley’s Ridge College. One of the most beloved traditions is the annual Homecoming celebration, which includes a parade, a football game, and a variety of other events. The college also has a tradition of ringing the Main Building bell to signify the start of each academic year and the end of each semester. Additionally, the college hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including talent shows, movie nights, and game nights.
Campus safety
Crowley’s Ridge College places a high priority on campus safety and has implemented a number of measures to ensure the well-being of its students, faculty, and staff. The college has a full-time campus security team that patrols the campus and monitors security cameras. The college also has an emergency notification system that can quickly alert students and staff in the event of an emergency.
In addition to these measures, the college provides safety training to all students and staff, including active shooter training and self-defense classes. The college also has a strict policy on weapons and prohibits the possession of firearms on campus.
International students
Crowley’s Ridge College has a diverse student body that includes students from around the world. The college has a dedicated International Student Services office that provides support and assistance to international students. The office helps students with everything from visa applications to cultural adjustments and provides opportunities for international students to connect with each other and with the broader campus community.
Alumni network
The Crowley’s Ridge College alumni network is a strong and active community that spans the globe. The college maintains close ties with its alumni and provides a variety of resources and opportunities for alumni to stay connected with the college and with each other. Alumni can participate in events and activities, receive career assistance, and connect with current students through mentoring and other programs.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Crowley’s Ridge College is a vibrant and dynamic institution with a rich history and culture. From its founding by local church leaders to its current position as a leading liberal arts college, Crowley’s Ridge College has a lot to offer its students and the broader community. Whether you are interested in academics, athletics, or campus life, Crowley’s Ridge College has something for everyone. With its commitment to Christian values and its dedication to academic excellence, Crowley’s Ridge College is a great place to learn, grow, and succeed.
