The CollegeTowne initiative is a strategy and model for championing economic redevelopment in the communities Alvernia serves through its community-based campuses. Through partnerships and collaborations with the city officials, local businesses, nonprofits organizations, Alvernia serves as a strategic enabler for strengthening the local economy in Reading, Philadelphia and Pottsville.
How is CollegeTowne part of Alvernia’s Franciscan mission?
As a Franciscan institution, Alvernia’s mission compels it to be a source of transformation for students and the communities it serves, as St. Francis of Assisi was during his day. Just as St. Francis played a critical role in rebuilding the Church, Alvernia, collaborating with other partners, will play a key role in the revitalization of the communities it serves in Reading, Pottsville and Philadelphia.
How is the O'Pake Institute connected to CollegeTowne?
The newly re-engineered O’Pake Institute will serve as a catalyst for educational and business expansion, including the student-centered business incubator, in the communities it serves.
A business incubator provides training and support to help develop new and startup companies. As a space for student-centered ideas and exploring program opportunities for strategic growth, it serves as a catalyst for local or regional economic development. To support its academic programs, Alvernia is partnering with local economic growth organizations Greater to establish student-centered business incubators in the communities it serves.
