Students and administrators from Community Academy of Philadelphia, the first charter school established in Philadelphia, visited Holy Family University to sign an agreement that offers Community Academy students the opportunity to take courses at Holy Family in a hybrid format with one day on Holy Family’s campus and one day at their school. 

On hand were Anthony Richichi, principal of Community Academy, Laura Cristella, director of Community Academy’s Student Assistance Program, and five Community Academy students who will be taking classes at Holy Family next year. 

“We are so pleased to begin this partnership with Community Academy of Philadelphia,” said Dr. Anne Prisco, president of Holy Family University.

“As Philadelphia’s first charter school, Community Academy has long been a trailblazer in creating a student-centered model of education. Their focus on educating the whole student means a seamless transition to Holy Family with our holistic approach to educating students not only for in-demand careers but also for life. We are thrilled to welcome these bright and motivated students to our programs beginning in Fall 2023.” 

“We are incredibly excited about our new partnership with Holy Family University,” said Dr. Richichi. “Dual enrollment has a powerful influence on a student’s future and post-secondary readiness. Holy Family has tailored the dual enrollment courses to meet the needs of our students and our school. Our students cannot wait to kick off their senior year by getting early college exposure and building their confidence all while they earn college credit. Holy Family is an excellent start!”

Coursework may include classes offered in Holy Family’s new academic programs in Applied Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Digital Marketing, and Esports & Gaming Administration and its expanded programs in the School of Nursing & Health Sciences and the School of Education. These courses will then be applied to collegiate academic programs, shortening students’ time to degree completion. 

As part of the partnership program, Community Academy students will be engaged with Holy Family faculty and current students to assist them in the transition to college life by fostering a college-going mindset for Community Academy students. 

The partnership also allows for a pathway for students of Community Academy to enroll at Holy Family to build upon the shared missions of the institutions to educate and develop the next generation of leaders in Philadelphia.

Learn more about the agreement at Holy Family University.

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