SOAR Campaign Provides Infusion of Financial Aid and Scholarships for Saint Joseph’s Students

As Saint Joseph’s University enters the third year of its historic $300 million SOAR campaign, progress can be seen across its now three locations, and within its impressive and growing student body. With over $190 million raised to date, there are some obvious signs of donors’ impact through their support of the campaign. It’s impossible to miss the cranes, fences and construction crews across Hawk Hill. Post Crossing (the pedestrian underpass) and the Maguire Athletic Center renovation are just two campaign infrastructure projects that are being supported by funds raised through the SOAR campaign and are nearing completion.

But beyond the massive infrastructure projects, and just as integral to a strong foundation for Saint Joseph’s, is the ability to offer competitive financial aid and scholarship packages to prospective students. It is such a critical initiative that $125 million of the $300 million goal — over 40% of the total — is dedicated to raising funds for financial aid.

During the life of the SOAR campaign, the number of endowed scholarships that provide permanent funds for financial aid has grown by 25%, bringing the total number of endowed scholarships to more than 300. Overall giving in support of financial aid is also up 51% since the inception of the campaign. In the last two fiscal years, $8.1 million and $9 million were raised for this critical area, respectively.

“Receiving a scholarship has been incredibly important to me and my family,” says Tam Nguyen, ‘25. “As a student striving to pursue higher education, the financial burden can often feel overwhelming. My scholarship has relieved some of that burden, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on financial stress. My experience at Saint Joseph's University has been nothing short of transformative.”

All told, over $65 million has been raised toward the SOAR campaign priority of affirming Saint Joseph’s commitment to financial aid. These dollars not only unlock opportunities for deserving students to attain a high-quality SJU education, but they also enrich the University community by expanding the diversity of its student body.

“It all has to do with giving back,” says Peter Kowey, BS ’71, MD, a scholarship donor and former Board of Trustees member. “Both my parents and St. Joe's inspired me to work hard and to achieve, but personal success is not enough if you don't give back.”

Kowey went on to say that a high quality education should be available to all. “My wife and I are eager and grateful to provide opportunities for young students to succeed.”

Joseph Kender, senior vice president for university relations, can attest that gifts like Kowey’s are already having an impact on current students.

“I know I speak for our students, faculty and staff in expressing my gratitude to our donors,” says Kender. “By supporting financial aid, donors to the SOAR campaign are changing lives. There is no better gift to make than that of a Saint Joseph’s education.”