Alvernia University has announced the conclusion of its Partners in Progress campaign that raised more than $82 million to support the university’s CollegeTowne vision, 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,” Dr. Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Alvernia president, said in the university’s announcement of the accomplishment. “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.”
When the campaign was launched in October 2023, the original goal of $45 million was aimed at developing the CollegeTowne initiative, but the campaign was broadened to include expanding access and opportunity for students, enhancing workforce development and increasing community impact, officials said. Raised to $70 million, the goal was again surpassed by October 2025.
“The campaign’s success represents more than exceeding a fundraising goal,” said Thomas C. Minick, chief advancement, government and athletics officer. “It represents the catalyst of downtown Reading’s transformation and, most importantly, the profound impact on our students’ experience.”
Officials said major investments included approximately $40 million in the John R. Post Center at Reading CollegeTowne, $12 million in the American House in Reading and $6 million in Pottsville CollegeTowne. The campaign also supported new and expanded academic programs, classrooms, laboratories and equipment.
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, officials said. The campaign also generated scholarship support, investments in athletics, and funding for academic and community-based programming.
Officials said nearly $2.5 million was raised to help launch the O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship, expanding the university’s work with businesses, startups and nonprofits while providing students with real-world learning opportunities.
Investing in the American House extended the university’s community-based model by creating spaces where students, nonprofit organizations and community partners can work together, they said.
Campaign investments strengthened connections between students and regional employers, enabling students to collaborate with businesses on projects throughout their academic careers and to build professional relationships before graduation, officials said.