Alvernia University and Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania have announced a new partnership to expand educational opportunities for Girl Scouts across the region. The partnership includes up to $27,000 per year in merit scholarships for Girl Scouts in Eastern PA’s nine-county footprint, renewable for four years.
“Alvernia University is thrilled to partner with the Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania to empower young women and provide them with the resources to succeed in higher education,” said Alvernia University President Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. “This collaboration aligns perfectly with our mission to create transformative experiential-based educational opportunities for students who aspire to be community leaders.”
“This is a game-changer for Girl Scouts in our council, opening the door to a 4-year college education at one of our state’s most respected universities,” said Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania CEO Kim E. Fraites-Dow. “We know college is out of reach for many and we are grateful to President Fitzgerald for her visionary leadership and faith in our girls. Alvernia and Girl Scouts believe leadership is diverse, and that every girl deserves the opportunity to become the leader she wants to be, and the world needs her to be.”
Alvernia University will offer guaranteed admission and a four-year renewable merit scholarship to qualifying members of GSEP who meet specific academic criteria. This initiative includes a minimum $19,000 merit scholarship per year, with opportunities to earn up to $27,000 annually for students enrolling in Alvernia’s programs. Additionally, Girl Scouts residing in Berks County who have achieved the prestigious Girl Scout Gold Award will receive an extra $1,000 award annually, renewable for up to four years or five years for those in extended programs.
“We are committed to supporting the educational goals of Girl Scouts who have demonstrated leadership and dedication through their service to their communities,” said Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs Mary-Alice Ozechoski. “This partnership is a significant step in making higher education more accessible and rewarding for these outstanding young women.”
This partnership will take effect immediately, with the first scholarships available to Girl Scouts enrolling in the fall 2025 semester.
For more information about the partnership and scholarship opportunities, prospective students and their families are encouraged to visit Alvernia’s admissions website.