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.
Alvernia unveils newly opened downtown Pottsville location
New 17,000-square-foot facility boasts high-tech academic and community space
Alvernia’s O’Pake Institute graduates first SPARK Business Incubator tenant
SPARK Business Incubator hones in on tech startups
Alvernia names School of Nursing
Stage set for phase two of Reading CollegeTowne renovation
Alvernia Turkey Drive returns for the 35th year
Turkey Drive distributes 400 turkeys to Reading residents
Alvernia’s Office of Career Development awarded for vast programming
Cross-campus and community partnerships contribute to post-graduation success
Alvernia enters dual admissions transfer agreement with LCCC
University announces plans for expansion in Pittston Market
Alvernia and RACC expand dual admission transfer agreement
Partnership includes pathways for traditional and accelerated adult bachelor programs
Berks County provides $1 million in ARPA funds for Alvernia nursing program expansion
Healthcare Simulation Center and expanded programming part of second phase of Reading CollegeTowne
