Our Mission: Developing Scholars of Purpose and Impact

The Cheyney University Honors Academy is a purpose-built pathway for high-achieving students who seek to be challenged academically, professionally, and personally. Grounded in Cheyney University’s historic mission and values, the Honors Academy cultivates scholars who excel academically, lead with purpose, and serve with integrity.

Guided by the pillars of Scholarship, Leadership, and Service, Honors Scholars engage in rigorous, interdisciplinary academic work that strengthens critical and creative thinking, sharpens communication and research skills, and connects theory to real-world impact. These academic experiences are intentionally paired with required community service, reinforcing civic responsibility, ethical leadership, and meaningful engagement beyond the classroom. Students are held to a standard worthy of the nation’s first HBCU, and they rise to it.

The Honors Academy provides the structure, high expectations, and comprehensive support needed for students to thrive. Honors Scholars receive full funding for tuition, housing, meals, and fees, along with access to faculty mentorship, priority registration, and enriched academic experiences. Scholars also receive priority access to the prestigious Bond-Hill Graduate Scholarship, which offers tuition-free graduate study at Temple University, the University of Pittsburgh, and The Pennsylvania State University.

While admission to the Honors Academy is selective, the Academy serves as a catalyst for academic excellence across the University. Honors courses, programs, and signature events are intentionally accessible to the broader Cheyney community, fostering aspiration, collaboration, and a shared culture of achievement. In doing so, the Honors Academy elevates the intellectual life of the University and reflects Cheyney’s highest standards of excellence, leadership, and service.

Why Honors? What the Honors Academy Offers:

High-Impact Experiences

• Study abroad & service-learning opportunities
• National conferences, competitions & funded travel
• Priority access to internships, research & fellowships
• Honors leadership roles (Mr. & Miss Honors)

Graduate & Career Preparation

• Bond-Hill Graduate Scholarship (full tuition)
• Graduate & professional school preparation (LSAT/GRE support, mock interviews, personal statements)
• Alumni & professional networking opportunities

Recognition & Distinction

• Honors Academy Graduate distinction on transcript
• Commencement recognition & Honors swag
• Structured on-time graduation support