New $145,000 Grant Fuels Summer Bridge Experience for 100 Students

Cheyney University is proud to announce that the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) has awarded the University a $145,000 SOAR Grant to launch a new Summer Bridge Program in July 2026. This investment reinforces Cheyney’s leadership in student access, academic readiness, and high-impact college preparation for emerging scholars.

Running July 5–11, 2026, the Cheyney University Summer Bridge Program will be led by Dr. Janelle L. West, Dean of the Honors Academy, and will welcome 100 rising high school seniors to campus for a weeklong, residential learning experience. The program is designed to strengthen academic skills, build a supportive community, and provide students with an early and transformative introduction to college life at the nation’s first Historically Black College and University (HBCU).

Participants will engage in curated academic sessions, mentoring, and experiential learning that highlight Cheyney University’s academic strengths, signature programs, and proud HBCU heritage.

A major highlight of the week is attending the HBCU Swingman Game on July 10, supported by the Philadelphia Phillies, which gives students a dynamic cultural and educational experience celebrating HBCU excellence on a national stage.

This grant reflects TMCF’s confidence in Cheyney University’s mission and momentum and expands the University’s capacity to support first-year students from the moment they begin their journey. Additional information regarding student participation, faculty engagement, and volunteer opportunities will be shared in the coming weeks.