Mission of The Crossroads Program

About the Program

The Gustavus education aims for the highest levels of academic achievement, challenging students to think critically and ask searching questions, find a passion for life long learning, explore their beliefs, deepen their understanding of the local and global communities, value diverse perspectives, promote justice, and work for peace.

As a College, Gustavus understands that a critical step in changing the world is understanding and experiencing it. Our students need to see the world, and the world needs to come to campus. As Gustavus graduates will lead a world of seemingly unlimited possibility, we commit to approach our work from a global perspective.

The Crossroads Program was created in 1996 to embody the international focus within the Gustavus Adolphus College mission. Crossroads aspires to be a community of persons from diverse backgrounds who respect and affirm the dignity of all people. It brings together a population of international students; domestic students who have or will live or studied abroad; and students interested in language, culture and the study of the world.

  • Students invest in understanding themselves and the world
  • Collaborate on programs to educate the entire College
  • Connect to others around cultures, languages and world issues

Program Mission

The Crossroads Program seeks to develop and promote international and intercultural understanding in the Gustavus community. Program events and interactions develop an appreciation of ethnic, religious, and cultural differences and foster dialogue about how these differences shape individuals and communities.

Program Goals

  • To create a community of learners and educators committed to connecting to each other and campus community around the topic of international cultures, traditions, languages, and events in order to promote a broader global perspective;
  • To assist and challenge members of the Crossroads Program to understand their own level and stage of development as it relates to cultural difference, and grow as cultural persons;
  • As a program, provide educational opportunities and experiences for all members the College community through planning and implementing programs within Carlson International Center, in other residence halls, and in other campus facilities.