Alvernia University defines the community. It is a vibrant intellectual environment in which students learn, discover, give and grow as leaders with moral courage.


Guided by Franciscan values and the ideal of “knowledge joined with love,” and rooted in the Catholic and liberal arts traditions, Alvernia is a rigorous, caring, and inclusive learning community committed to academic excellence and to being and fostering:

  • Broadly educated, life-long learners
  • Reflective professionals and engaged citizens
  • Ethical leaders with moral courage
In This Section

About

Statue by the Grotto
A Franciscan Tradition
Alvernia fosters the missionary spirit of the Bernardine Sisters, valuing diversity of thought, faiths, and cultures, where creativity is celebrated and service is paramount.
Our Heritage
Francis Hall aerial view
Core Values
The Alvernia community embraces service, humility, peacemaking, contemplation and collegiality.
Learn More
Alvernia College Francis Hall historic archive
History
It began in 1926 when the Bernardine Sisters established an orphanage in Francis Hall.
History and Timeline
Alvernia banners on lightpoles
Strong Reputation
Alvernia consistently ranks among U.S. News and World Report’s top regional universities in the North.
More Rankings
Chloe Gletow volunteering at Millmont Elementary
Real World Learning
Defining the Alvernia experience, experiential and service learning empowers students to apply knowledge through hands-on practice, building a solid foundation for real-world success.
Learn More

Recent News

Godspell dress rehearsal

Alvernia Community Musical: 'Godspell' Opening Night

Husband-and-wife Broadway veterans Timothy Shew and Jane Brockman – “Wicked,” “Les Misérables,” “Guys and Dolls,” “The Music Man” – direct Alvernia University students, employees and community members in "Godspell," a musical written by Steven Schwartz that reimagines parables in a fresh and unforgettable way. Performances will be in Alvernia’s Francis Hall Theatre. Doors open 30 minutes before start time. Seating arrangements are first come, first served.
Students

Accepted Student Day 2026

This event will include information and sessions for students and families to understand the transition from high school to college.
Godspell dress rehearsal

Alvernia Community Musical: 'Godspell'

Husband-and-wife Broadway veterans Timothy Shew and Jane Brockman – “Wicked,” “Les Misérables,” “Guys and Dolls,” “The Music Man” – direct Alvernia University students, employees and community members in "Godspell," a musical written by Steven Schwartz that reimagines parables in a fresh and unforgettable way. Performances will be in Alvernia’s Francis Hall Theatre. Doors open 30 minutes before start time. Seating arrangements are first come, first served.
Godspell dress rehearsal

Alvernia Community Musical: 'Godspell'

Husband-and-wife Broadway veterans Timothy Shew and Jane Brockman – “Wicked,” “Les Misérables,” “Guys and Dolls,” “The Music Man” – direct Alvernia University students, employees and community members in "Godspell," a musical written by Steven Schwartz that reimagines parables in a fresh and unforgettable way. Performances will be in Alvernia’s Francis Hall Theatre. Doors open 30 minutes before start time. Seating arrangements are first come, first served.