CollegeTowne Initiative
Â鶹ÊÓƵ launched the CollegeTowne initiative in Reading in late 2019. The concept featured three objectives:
• Changing how the university operates and grows
• Affecting the surrounding community and spurring economic development
• Helping Alvernia get noticed as an innovative force in higher education
Successful Start
More than five years on, Alvernia has completed two phases of Reading CollegeTowne, investing $43 million into the City of Reading.
John R. Post Center at Reading CollegeTowne
Alvernia purchased and renovated the John R. Post Center at Reading CollegeTowne, a 250,000-square-foot living and learning facility at 401 Penn Street.
Pottsville CollegeTowne
The university opened Pottsville CollegeTowne in downtown Pottsville in January 2023.
American House at Reading CollegeTowne
Phase III will include the renovation of the American House at Reading CollegeTowne, which will include a state-of-the-art community-based health center in partnership with Berks Community Health Center.
O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship
The university will also add additional business incubator space for the O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship and retail space.
Learn More
CollegeTowne initiative fuels regional expansion
Alvernia's forward-thinking initiative spurs development in downtown Reading and Pottsville.
Â鶹ÊÓƵ earns Blackbaud Impact Award for collaboration and innovation
Recognition highlights Alvernia’s transformation of data-driven advancement through RENXT and cross-campus partnerships
Albright and Alvernia create over 2,400 jobs for greater Reading region
Study reveals over $300 million in annual economic impact by Reading’s independent nonprofit institutions
Alvernia is Berks and Schuylkill Counties' choice for higher education
University awarded People's and Readers' Choice Awards for commitment to regional excellence
Alvernia receives $450K grant Through PAsmart
Funds will support innovative projects to expand access to Computer Science & STEM Education experiences for both students and adults.
Breidegam Family Foundation supports American House project
Funding advances healthcare access and workforce development in downtown Reading
Fund offers glimmers of Hope to students
The Hope Fund has supported those in need at Alvernia since the COVID pandemic.
Alvernia announces Community News Lab
University partners with regional media outlets to enhance student learning and support local journalism
Â鶹ÊÓƵ Partners with Berks Coalition to End Homelessness to Improve Youth Housing Stability
Efforts include shaping policies and programs, data collection and community engagement
