CUTV News Radio Spotlights Peter Lewis Kranz

Edinburg, TX - Dr. Peter Kranz is an extraordinary psychologist and Professor in the Counseling Department at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley in Edinburg, Texas.

“I have worked in a numerous places from mental health clinics colleges and universities,” says Peter. “But one of my most highly regarded and instrumental contributions has been my dedicated work in the race relations.”

Peter obtained his Bachelor’s degree from Grinnell College in 1963 and his PhD in 1969 from Utah State University. From 1972 to 1977 when he taught in the University of North Florida he created an extremely unique course called Human Conflict: Black and White that received national media attention. What made the course even more essential was that it occurred during a frenzied time when Jacksonville, Florida was deep in the throes of integration and upheaval. The class was composed of African American and Caucasian students who spent seven days living in each other’s homes learning about one another’s lifestyle. After experiencing the life of another student they became more tolerant of each other’s differences creating acceptance and a kindred connection.

Forty six years later the class held an emotional reunion also attended by Terence Clark who wrote a book about the course titled Arena of Truth.

“The course I created would be so relevant and extremely effective if it were taught today,” says Peter.

“When cultures connect in a very positive way so we can positively impact generations,” says Peter.  “Helping to make the world a better place for others is unconditionally one of the most significant gifts human being can contribute.”