“For so many of us, being Black and Catholic means having come to the Church because education opened the door to evangelization.” Sister Thea Bowman speaking to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops in 1990.
The Sister Thea Bowman Black Catholic Education Foundation empowers students facing challenges to pursue and earn a college degree. The Foundation was named in honor of Sr. Thea, who was a transformative educator and advocate for social justice. The purpose of the Foundation is to provide opportunities for African American students to experience life-changing experiences at Catholic colleges and universities across the country, thanks to many generous individuals and organizations that support the Foundation.
So Much More than a College Scholarship
The Foundation provides scholarships up to $10,000, renewable each year depending on available funding. But the impact goes far beyond financial aid. Under the leadership of Executive Director Joseph Barker, II, the Foundation provides mentorship and holistic support through each student’s academic journey. Joe travels throughout the country to personally meet with each of the Scholars, encouraging spiritual and civic enrichment and community service. This network of support complements what Scholars learn in the classroom and helps them thrive.
Support from Catholic College Partners
Through partnerships with Catholic colleges and universities such as Catholic University of America, Boston College, College of the Holy Cross, Duquesne University, and more that often match Foundation scholarships. These partnerships provide additional financial support and play a crucial role in making college affordable and attainable for our Scholars. The amount varies by institution, but each partnership helps a Scholar pursue and achieve a college degree.
Organizations Committed to Social Change – Sr. Thea Bowman Scholars
In addition to the colleges and universities, there are several organizations that generously support the Foundation. For example, each year the Pittsburgh Steelers, generously host the Foundation’s annual dinner at the stadium. The Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, Rita McGinley Foundation, Goldman Sachs, the Diocese of Pittsburgh, and many others also financially support our Scholars. Through their support, the Foundation transforms the lives of our scholars.
Who Can Apply?
The Foundation invites high school seniors who plan to enroll full-time at a Catholic college or university to apply for a scholarship in January of their senior year. Applicants are notified of their status by May 1. To be considered, students must meet all eligibility criteria. Applicants need not be graduating at the top of their class to be considered for a scholarship. The Foundation learns about the full person – learning about their passions and challenges they may have encountered.
The Foundation believes in the potential of every student it serves. Through this scholarship, it empowers scholars to not only pursue a degree—but to lead, serve, and grow in faith.