TV

VILLANOVA UNIVERSITY PARTNERS WITH THE HOWLEY FOUNDATION TO ESTABLISH THE HOWLEY COLLEGE SCHOLARS PROGRAM

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TV has announced a new partnership with The Howley Foundation to launch the Howley College Scholars Program, an initiative that will expand access to higher education for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

This program advances both Villanova’s and The Howley Foundation’s commitment to fostering access to education, empowering future leaders and creating pathways to successful careers. The Foundation’s contribution, expected to total up to $6 million, will provide “gap funding” to eliminate financial barriers and help talented students achieve their dreams of attending Villanova.

The Howley College Scholars Program will award 10 scholarships annually over five years, beginning with the Class of 2029. Students must be Pell Grant-eligible with significant financial need, graduates of one of 10 partner high schools in the Philadelphia area and pursuing a major in Business, Computer Science, Economics, Education, Engineering, Mathematics, Nursing or Physics. Beyond financial aid, the program is designed to offer a robust support system that helps scholars navigate college life and build meaningful connections. In addition to support from The Howley Foundation, Villanova will cover any remaining tuition, room and board costs for up to four years, ensuring a fully funded education.

Aligned with a key pillar of Espiritus Nova: The Campaign for TV, this generous gift from The Howley Foundation brings Villanova closer to its goal of raising $300 million to close the financial need gap for undergraduate students. The University remains dedicated to ensuring that all deserving students who feel called to this community, regardless of socioeconomic status, have the opportunity to be part of it.

Scholars will receive ongoing guidance from their high schools starting before they become Villanova students, with advisors assisting in course selection as well as work-study and internship opportunities. They will also be provided with support from Villanova’s Center for Access, Success and Achievement (CASA). CASA provides tailored advising, professional development and academic support to Pell Grant-eligible and first-generation students, fostering a transformative educational experience rooted in the University’s Augustinian Catholic values.

With its multifaceted programs, CASA helps students navigate academic and personal challenges, ensuring they stay on track to earn their degrees and are set up for long-term success. Participants in the Howley College Scholars Program will benefit from CASA’s experienced retention and life coaches, peer mentors and summer bridge programs designed to ease the transition to college. Additionally, scholars will live on campus for at least their first two years, fostering a strong support network with their fellow classmates.

Founded by Nick and Lorie Howley in 2003, The Howley Foundation strives to create social and economic mobility through education. Rooted in the belief that education is a powerful catalyst for individual and societal change, the Foundation has grown from supporting a single high school student to providing tuition assistance for more than 1,400 scholars in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Cleveland, Ohio. By investing in students from elementary school through college, The Howley Foundation helps ensure that talented young people—regardless of financial means—can access life-changing educational opportunities.

Through this partnership, Villanova and The Howley Foundation are not only removing financial barriers but also equipping students with the resources and support they need to succeed. The Howley College Scholars Program will empower dozens of students to achieve their full potential—at Villanova and beyond.