Collaboration Recognition Program
CRP builds—and rewards—teamworks and communication skills

Lasell’s Collaboration Recognition Program (CRP) was founded in 2021 by Lasell Village resident Parker Small and now-Professor Emeritus Stephen Fischer. In its first semester, the program’s framework was piloted in five courses; as of this spring, more than 60 had it incorporated into their curricula.

“Lasell’s CRP promotes, evaluates, and rewards collaboration—building essential skills while providing something no other institution offers: formal recognition of a student’s collaborative strengths,” says Small, who conceptualized the CRP framework while a professor at the University of Florida College of Medicine.

In today’s iteration at Lasell, students in CRP-aligned classes explore nine keys to collaboration (including kindness, active listening, truth, negotiation, and integrity) and then nominate peers to receive a formal Collaboration Recognition Award.

“Winning the award means that a student is seen as someone who helps others learn and grow,” says faculty CRP co-coordinator Deborah Baldizar, associate professor of art. “By naming and intentionally practicing these skills, I have seen classes come together in supportive and encouraging ways.”

Employers find this accolade to be a valuable assessment of a graduate’s ability to build strong relationships and achieve team goals in the workplace.

“Students become more effective in their careers, but also in their interactions with others after they leave Lasell,” says Amy Maynard, program co-coordinator and professor of education.