RESOURCES FOR STUDENTS OF COLOR

Cristo Rey is a network of Catholic high schools that "delivers a powerful and innovative approach to inner-city education that equips students from families of limited economic means with the knowledge, character, and skills to transform their lives." Cristo Rey incorporates a rigorous college preparatory curriculum and a four-year corporate work-study program for all students. Additionally, we attend their annual national conference each year and the Senior Associate Director for Underrepresented Students serves on the College Advisory Board for Cristo Rey Philadelphia.

Heights Philadelphia (formerly Philadelphia Futures and Steppingstone Scholars) is a highly selective nonprofit that supports low-income, first-generation college students with the tools, resources, and opportunities necessary for admission to and success in college. While Villanova has supported these organizations for years, we entered into a formal partnership in 2018. Through this partnership, their scholars receive full-need scholarships and on-campus support through graduation. 

OUA also connects with and supports other initiatives whose mission is to provide college access to minoritized communities. 

OUA has partnered with Initial View, an international online platform for interview services. In the Fall of 2020, Initial View launched The Elevator Pitch Incoming Class (EPIC). EPIC offers college admission partners a unique window into the lives of prospective students from community based organizations and underrepresented backgrounds through personalized, 90-second “elevator pitches.” These video-based exchanges between admission counselors and students encourages meaningful engagement across multiple channels throughout the application season.

New Jersey SEEDS (Scholars, Educators, Excellence, Dedication, Success) is a nationally-recognized "nonprofit organization founded in 1992 that prepares motivated, high-achieving, low-income students for admission to private schools and colleges across the country." Our staff regularly attends their events, provides workshops, and communicates regularly with their staff regarding their applicants to Villanova.

Noble Network of Charter Schools, a nonprofit organization that operates 17 charter public high schools in Chicago, has nurtured a strong relationship with Villanova for more than 10 years. The Noble Network predominately serve students of color. On campus, these students have the added benefit of the Nova Noble Network that provides support and advising to Villanova students who enroll from these high schools. 

Noche Universiteria is an event that brings together local colleges and universities to provide admissions  and financial assistance information in Spanish for prospective students and families. Our Spanish-speaking staff members assist with publicizing and represent Villanova University at this event. 

PACAC Camp College is a residential summer program for first-generation, low-income, underrepresented students who are interested in attending college after they graduate from high school. Our admissions staff has served on the planning committee for Camp College and OUA staff regularly participates in the event by facilitating workshops and attending their annual college fair.