CollegeTowne Initiative
Alvernia University launched the CollegeTowne initiative in Reading in late 2019. The concept featured three objectives:
• Changing how the university operates and grows
• Affecting the surrounding community and spurring economic development
• Helping Alvernia get noticed as an innovative force in higher education
Successful Start
Since the launch, Alvernia has completed two phases of Reading CollegeTowne, investing $60 million into the City of Reading.
John R. Post Center at Reading CollegeTowne
Alvernia purchased and renovated the John R. Post Center at Reading CollegeTowne, a 250,000-square-foot living and learning facility at 401 Penn Street.
Pottsville CollegeTowne
The university opened Pottsville CollegeTowne in downtown Pottsville in January 2023.
American House at Reading CollegeTowne
Phase III will include the renovation of the American House at Reading CollegeTowne, which will include a state-of-the-art community-based health center in partnership with Berks Community Health Center.
O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship
The university will also add additional business incubator space for the O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship and retail space.
Learn More
CollegeTowne initiative fuels regional expansion
Alvernia's forward-thinking initiative spurs development in downtown Reading and Pottsville.
Alvernia earns Carnegie Doctoral University designation
Carnegie Commission’s reclassification result of increase in professional graduate programs
Alvernia hosts largest-ever admissions event
Inaugural Packapalooza event draws over 325 prospective students
FirstEnergy Foundation Awards $250,000 Grant to Alvernia
Reading CollegeTowne brings student housing, classrooms and jobs to downtown
Alvernia earns People’s Choice Award
University tabbed as Berks County’s Who’s Who amongst colleges/universities
CollegeTowne begins in City of Pottsville
Alvernia set for $6 million renovation project in downtown facility at 500 Progress Ave.
Alvernia partners with GRCA on member-exclusive benefits
GRCA members receive 20% discount on graduate and accelerated bachelor programs
Pathway for expansion
Four-college model enhances student experience
Alvernia secures $3 million grant for Pottsville CollegeTowne
Pennsylvania Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grant funds Pottsville-based initiative
