PHILADELPHIA–(BUSINESS WIRE)–#HolyFamily—Holy Family University has been awarded a highly-competitive Title III Strengthening Institutions Grant from the U.S. Department of Education, it was announced today by University President, Sister Maureen McGarrity, CSFN. The grant, awarded every two years, is the only one given to a Philadelphia-based institution this year, and it will fund the creation of a new Center for Teaching and Learning.
“This is a game-changer for the University,” said McGarrity. “We qualified to apply for it because of the number of Pell grant recipients we have here, and it’s heartwarming to be able to say that we’ll use those funds to create a center which will not only add to overall academic life on campus, but focus specifically on those most at risk in terms of academic performance.”
Under the umbrella of Academic Affairs, the Center for Teaching and Learning will support the improvement of faculty development and student support with the goal of increasing student retention and success.
“The center will provide faculty development for both full-time and part-time faculty under the direction of a Director to be named,” said Dr. Rochelle Robbins, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “The Director will be responsible for providing training to faculty and for oversight of the Center for Teaching and Learning and the grant will provide funding for additional tutors in the Center for Academic Enhancement as well as graduate assistants in the Careers Center.
“What we’re most excited about is that we’ll be adding Success Counselors for outreach to students who are at risk for poor academic performance.”
Grant funds will also support consultation from the Gardiner Institute for the improvement of delivery of gateway courses and course delivery overall.
“As Holy Family continues to strengthen its academic offerings, this grant will allow us to broaden our reach in so many ways,” said McGarrity. “We’ve expanded our reach to the Lehigh Valley and beyond, and with these additions to our already strong academic support resources, we know Holy Family presents a very valuable proposition to potential students.”
Holy Family University received a Title III grant in 2010, which supported the formation of the Office of Institutional Research.
Holy Family University is a premier Catholic university offering nearly 40 undergraduate, graduate, and Rapid Degree programs. The University’s main campus is in Northeast Philadelphia, with an additional location in Newtown, PA. Founded in 1954 by the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth as a private, not-for-profit, faith-inspired community, Holy Family University propels graduates to purpose-driven, values-centered lives through outstanding academic programs, flexible delivery options, manifold experiential learning opportunities, supportive career development and deep personal connections. Visit www.holyfamily.edu for more information.
Contacts
Debbie Albert
215-283-6006
[email protected]
