Ronald A. Crutcher, president emeritus and a university professor at the University of Richmond, has received the American Association of Colleges and Universities President’s Award for Outstanding Contributions to Liberal Education.

The award recognizes individuals or organizations for dedicated service, sustained advocacy and leadership in higher education at the national or international level, according to the AAC&U. 

Crutcher received the honor last month during the opening plenary session of the 2026 AAC&U annual meeting. During a later session, Crutcher, an accomplished cellist, performed for conference attendees and was interviewed by AAC&U President Lynn Pasquerella on topics including mentorship, community and fostering dialogue across differences. 

In announcing the award, the AAC&U said, “His career reflects a commitment to accessible, equitable leadership and the transformative power of the arts in education.” 

“My liberal arts education and career have taught me that learning happens through both speaking up and actively listening,” Crutcher said. “This award affirms my belief that the ultimate goals of education are about fostering connection, fueling curiosity and engaging thoughtfully.” 

Crutcher served as president of the University of Richmond from 2015 to 2021 and remains on the faculty. He is also president emeritus of Wheaton College in Massachusetts and previously served as provost and executive vice president for academic affairs at Miami University of Ohio. 

His leadership roles include serving as a senior fellow at the Aspen Institute and as vice president of the Phi Beta Kappa Society. He also serves on the boards of the Richmond Symphony, the Richmond Forum, the Jepson Scholars Foundation, IES Abroad, Agnes Scott College, Smith College and Bard College Berlin. 

Crutcher is the author of “I Had No Idea You Were Black: Navigating Race on the Road to Leadership,” published in 2021, which examines race and leadership in higher education. He also has a collection of essays on inequity in education under review at the University of Virginia Press.