CENTER FOR ACCESS, SUCCESS AND ACHIEVEMENT
The Center for Access, Success and Achievement (CASA) aims to recruit, retain and graduate emergent scholars, first-generation and Pell-eligible students through holistic support in a global and academically enriched environment.
Our goal is to maintain successful retention by providing students with a sense of belonging in a nurturing environment, opportunities for self-realization and personal development, and holding them accountable for working to the best of their abilities.
WHAT WE OFFER
CASA assists the University in providing students with an inclusive educational experience founded on Augustinian Catholic principles. Through its multi-faceted programs, CASA helps create at Villanova an academically distinctive learning community where all members live empathically and lead effectively.
PROGRAMS
Offering resources to assist in the development of the whole student—mentally, physically, spiritually, emotionally, culturally and socially.
COLLEGE DAY VISITS
Opening doors of opportunity for high school students through college immersion initiatives.
WILDCAT CROSSING
Celebrating the academic achievements of students who embody diversity in all of its forms.
STUDENT SUPPORT
Various services and resources are offered to support the academic, professional and personal success of CASA students.
426
Students Served
(as of August 26, 2025)
3.37
GPA
(Fall 2024)
120
Merit Scholarship Students Served
Fall 2025
4
Fulbright Scholars
(2022-24)
CONNECT WITH CASA
CAMPUS VISITS
CASA's College Day is an opportunity for junior and senior high school students and high schools throughout the country to visit Villanova and get the college application wheels turning. High school students can complete and submit a GROUP application.
High school groups interested in a CASA College Day visit may email Rachel Epstein or call 610-519-4103.
The day would typically consist of:
- Student panel discussion
- Tour of the University
- Lunch in one of the University's main dining halls
- Classroom visits
- Financial Aid presentation
- Admission presentation
The College Day Program for high schools is coordinated by Rachel Epstein, Assistant Director of Retention in the Center for Access, Success and Achievement.
NOTE: In the event of a snow day/weather-related problem, College Day will be rescheduled.
If this ends up being the case, any group that has registered will be contacted 48 hours prior.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
CASA Life Coach
“For students of color from marginalized backgrounds, the thought of going to someone to get support or help may not be familiar to them. Having people who look like them or are part of an organization like CASA where they feel like they already have some connection might sometimes be an easier point of entry.”
Founder of St. Thomas of Villanova Scholars
“CASA is a home space for students who aren't sure where their place is at Villanova. For students who are underrepresented, there's sometimes self-doubt about whether they belong here. CASA does a really good job of making sure students know their value and what they contribute to the Villanova community.”
“Telling people that I needed assistance in college was tough because I was used to doing well in high school. CASA helped me build trust and self-confidence through a program where I met with other students, and we opened up about our struggles. It made me feel like I’m not the only one going through this and there’s power in knowing that.”
VIEW Alumna and Former Program Assistant
“Freshman year chemistry was the first time I ever failed. CASA helped me navigate that uncertainty and learn that it’s okay to rely on other people. Their support helped me on the path to succeed as a double major in Secondary Education and English and to find my calling as an inner-city teacher. CASA has profoundly shaped the person I am today.”
“In my freshman year, I received an email that I had been nominated for the director of Quizzo on the Campus Activities Team by my CASA adviser. Thanks to her silently behind the scenes pushing me in this direction and believing in my abilities, I am now teaching and leading other students as chair of Late-Night Programs.”
VIEW Training Counselor and Writing Tutor
“CASA helped me adjust to living on my own for the first time. CASA helped me manage my anxiety and depression, and cheered me on when I became the first person in my family to receive a college degree. Any student who walks through CASA’s doors will tell you the same thing: CASA is our home. I made family there.”
CONTACT US
Center for Access, Success and Achievement
Falvey Memorial Library, Suite 211
Phone: 610-519-4079
Email Us