Alvernia University celebrates more than $82 million raised through historic Partners in Progress campaign
Landmark campaign brings Alvernia’s CollegeTowne vision to life
Alvernia University is celebrating the successful conclusion of its historic Partners in Progress campaign, which raised more than $82 million to bring the university’s CollegeTowne vision to life, transform the student experience, and expand access to higher education.
“Partners in Progress is a remarkable testament to the belief our community places in Alvernia, our students, and the power of our Franciscan mission,” said Alvernia University President Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. “Raising more than $82 million—far surpassing our original $45 million goal—is an extraordinary achievement. It reflects what can happen when alumni, donors, business leaders, government officials, and community partners come together around a shared vision and believe deeply in what is possible.
“Together, our community did more than support a campaign. They helped transform an ambitious vision for CollegeTowne into a vibrant reality, strengthened Alvernia’s capacity to serve our students and our region, and expanded our vision for what a Catholic university can contribute to the economic, educational, and human flourishing of its community. This is a moment to celebrate and a powerful foundation for all that comes next.”
Originally launched with a $45 million goal largely focused on developing the CollegeTowne initiative, Partners in Progress expanded to include goals that reflect broader access and opportunity for students, enhanced workforce development, and deeper community impact. Raised to $70 million, the goal was again surpassed by October of 2025.
"The campaign’s success represents more than exceeding a fundraising goal,” said Chief Advancement, Government and Athletics Officer Thomas C. Minick ‘98, MBA ‘10. “It represents the catalyst of downtown Reading’s transformation and, most importantly, the profound impact on our students’ experience.”
Partners in Progress Impact
CollegeTowne and academic transformation: Partners in Progress provided the investment needed to bring the CollegeTowne vision to life, changing where and how Alvernia educates students while creating new opportunities for experiential learning and community partnerships. Major investments included approximately $40 million in the John R. Post Center at Reading CollegeTowne, $6 million in Pottsville CollegeTowne, and $12 million in the American House. Campaign funding also supported new and expanded academic programs, classrooms, laboratories, and equipment.
Access and opportunity for students: Nearly $3 million was raised for Alvernia’s Hope Fund, which provides direct assistance to students facing financial barriers, including scholarship support, emergency aid, books, and other unexpected expenses that could affect their ability to continue their education. Partners in Progress also generated scholarship support, investments in athletics, and funding for academic and community-based programming.
Community and economic impact: Nearly $2.5 million was raised to help launch the O'Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship, expanding Alvernia's work with businesses, startups, and nonprofits while providing students with real-world learning opportunities. Investments such as the American House further extend Alvernia's community-based model by creating spaces where students, nonprofit organizations, and community partners can work together.
Workforce development and business partnerships: Campaign investments strengthened connections between Alvernia students and regional employers, enabling students to collaborate with businesses on projects throughout their academic careers and to build professional relationships before graduation. Those partnerships help develop local talent for in-demand careers and create pathways for graduates to remain, work, and contribute in Reading, Berks County, and Schuylkill County.