Lincoln University, Pa. – Nov. 14, 2025 – Lincoln University partners with Alvernia University to expand graduate education and experiential learning pathways through Alvernia’s O’Pake Institute for Economic Development & Entrepreneurship (O’Pake) and College of Health Sciences.
The collaboration deepens Alvernia’s CollegeTowne initiative by creating opportunities for applied learning, research and entrepreneurship through O’Pake’s unique student-powered, client-service model. Staff and student teams will support ventures through Lincoln’s Lincubator, an innovation center and business development hub, while sharing methods and training that strengthen both institutions.
“This agreement, and the articulation pathways it outlines, make clear what higher education must do more of: open doors, not build walls,” said Alvernia University President Glynis A. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. “Our collaboration stands as an example of what is possible when public and private institutions act not as competitors, but as co-investors in the common good. We are not just educating students—we are preparing the next generation of healers, innovators, and leaders who will uplift the communities we serve.”
Chester County Economic Development Council has funded the placement of one qualified Lincoln University graduate annually into a fully funded Graduate Assistantship at O’Pake. The partnership is designed to replicate O’Pake’s unique student-powered model, the Fellows Program, where high-achieving undergraduate and graduate students work hands-on with entrepreneurs, small businesses, regional partners, and faculty.
Qualified Graduate Assistants (GAs) will be trained to work on business planning, financial services, technology transfer and creative services projects. In addition, the GA will supervise O’Pake Fellows and interns and provide mentorship and training to undergraduate students working in the Lincubator.
“Today’s signing marks the beginning of a strategic and forward-thinking partnership between Lincoln University and Alvernia University. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to student success, innovation, and regional economic development. It is rooted in mutual respect, shared leadership, and a belief in the transformative power of education.”
In addition to collaboration with O’Pake and the Lincubator, the select graduate Admissions Agreement between Alvernia and Lincoln reserves College of Health Sciences graduate program seats for eligible Lincoln graduates who meet stated timelines and academic criteria with up to 2 seats in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program, up to 3 in the Master of Science in Athletic Training program, up to 5 in the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy, and up to 2 in the Master of Medical Science in Physician Associate Studies program.
In the future, Alvernia and Lincoln plan to expand the partnership to create mapped undergraduate pathways into bachelor’s degrees in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and industrial engineering technology and management.
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About Alvernia University
Founded in 1958, Alvernia University is a Catholic comprehensive university known for its mission-driven, community-engaged education that prepares students for high-impact, high-earning careers. Its SOLAR culture of care supports student success across eastern Pennsylvania through flexible program offerings, including an online presence, and strong partnerships. More than 18,000 Alvernia alumni create a network of ethical leaders and engaged citizens. For more information, visit www.alvernia.edu.
About Lincoln University
Lincoln University, the nation's first degree-granting Historically Black College and University (HBCU), educates and empowers students to lead their communities and change the world. Lincoln offers a rigorous liberal arts education to a diverse student body of approximately 1,525 men and women in more than 34 undergraduate and graduate programs. For more information, visit www.lincoln.edu
