Jan. 15, 2025

Contact Brian Weber at 608-796-3012 or bjweber@viterbo.edu

VITERBO UNIVERSITY PARTNERS WITH SISTER THEA BOWMAN BLACK COLLEGE EDUCATION FOUNDATION TO SUPPORT STUDENTS THROUGH SCHOLARSHIPS

LA CROSSE, Wis. – Viterbo University is partnering with the Sister Thea Bowman Black Catholic Education Foundation to provide $5,000 scholarships per year for new African American and Afro-Latino students. This new agreement reflects the shared commitment of both organizations to increase access to Catholic higher education.

Under the terms of the initiative, Viterbo University will welcome up to eight Sister Thea Bowman Scholars annually, with scholarships renewable for up to four years. The foundation will provide a $5,000 scholarship to students who meet their criteria, with Viterbo matching the funds in other aid. Scholarship recipients will benefit from Viterbo’s academic programs and supportive campus environment, as well as mentoring and resources provided through the Sister Thea Bowman Foundation. The foundation and the university will jointly work to ensure that students have access to the financial aid, socio-emotional support, and guidance needed to excel in their educational journey.

“This partnership aligns with Viterbo University’s Franciscan values and dedication to creating opportunities for all students,” said Viterbo President Rick Trietley. “We are honored to collaborate with the Sister Thea Bowman Foundation to expand access to education for underserved communities. Together, we can empower these talented young scholars to achieve their educational goals and transform their communities, continuing Sister Thea Bowman’s vision of education as a pathway to empowerment and service.”

Based in Pittsburgh, The Sister Thea Bowman Foundation was established to honor the legacy of the late Thea Bowman, a member of the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, and a trailblazing educator and advocate for justice. The foundation provides financial, academic, and emotional support to underserved African American students, ensuring their access to Catholic colleges and universities nationwide. To date, the foundation has graduated more than 250 students, with an impressive retention rate of 98%.

Sister Thea Bowman was a 1965 graduate of Viterbo who also taught at the university. She was also a lifelong advocate for racial justice, equality, and education who gained national prominence following her time at Viterbo. This collaboration continues her inspiring mission by opening doors to Catholic education for students from under-resourced communities.

For more information about Viterbo University and the scholarship program, visit https://www.viterbo.edu/affordable. For more information about the Sister Thea Bowman Black Catholic Education Foundation, visit https://theabowmanfoundation.org/scholarship/.

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