The Roosevelt Connection
The Roosevelt Connection
Why University College Roosevelt?
Why University College Roosevelt?
Our name is a tribute to one of the most inspiring families in modern history; a name that stands for courage, vision, and global responsibility.
UCR proudly carries the Roosevelt name in honor of four remarkable figures:
- Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President of the United States, known for his leadership, environmental conservation, and progressive reform.
- Franklin D. Roosevelt, 32nd President, who guided the world through crisis with the New Deal and leadership during WWII.
- Eleanor Roosevelt, diplomat, reformer, and human rights champion — a voice of compassion, equity, and global justice.
- Anne Roosevelt, former chair of the Roosevelt Institute for American Studies and a powerful advocate for education, civic engagement, and the enduring relevance of the Roosevelt legacy.
These names are not just symbolic, they are woven into our identity. At the entrance to UCR, on Helm Square, busts of Franklin, Theodore, and Eleanor Roosevelt mark the site of our beloved outdoor classroom. They serve as a daily reminder of the ideals we strive to uphold.
Though American by citizenship, the Roosevelt family has deep ancestral ties to Zeeland. Their name represents a bridge between local roots and global values – much like UCR itself.
A Name That Reflects Our Values
A Name That Reflects Our Values
The Roosevelt name lives on not just in history books, but in the values we live by every day at UCR. Each of our core values finds strong echoes in the lives and legacies of the Roosevelt family:
- Curiosity
The Roosevelts were fearless questioners — from Eleanor’s pursuit of justice to Theodore’s explorations of nature and policy. At UCR, we share that drive to ask bold questions and engage deeply with the world’s complexity. - Responsibility
Franklin D. Roosevelt’s leadership through global crisis and Eleanor’s advocacy for human rights remind us that leadership begins with care — for others, for our communities, and for the planet. We act with integrity and purpose. - Community
The Roosevelt family believed in public service and civic life. At UCR, we carry this forward through a strong sense of belonging and our commitment to learning not just for ourselves, but with and for the world around us. - Inclusivity
Eleanor Roosevelt championed dignity, equality, and inclusion — values that continue to guide how we build and support our diverse community. We create space for every voice and see differences as a strength. - Innovation
The Roosevelts challenged the status quo and led through change. That same spirit drives us to rethink education — connecting disciplines, breaking boundaries, and preparing students to shape the future.
Honoring the Legacy
Honoring the Legacy
We are proud to collaborate with the Roosevelt Institute for American Studies (RIAS), based just around the corner in Middelburg, and to take part in events such as the Four Freedoms Awards, which celebrate global leadership in the spirit of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt’s vision.