The Summer Enrichment Program (SEP), initially started in 1977 by Robert E. Horne, MS, LHD (Hon.) ‘21, former dean of Student Affairs, and ran continuously for 39 years before going on hiatus. It made a return in 2021, one year later than originally planned due to the pandemic, thanks to a sponsorship from National Vision, Inc.
The original intent of SEP was to introduce underrepresented prospective students to the Pennsylvania College of Optometry’s (PCO) curriculum through a multi-week residential program. The revived program maintains the same goals as established by dean Horne — improving the matriculation, attrition and graduation rates of underrepresented minority (URM) applicants while fostering a safety net of support and mentorship.