The Sister Thea Bowman Black Catholic Education Foundation is now accepting applications for its college scholarship program that supports high school graduates pursuing an undergraduate degree in Catholic higher education.
Rooted in the life and legacy of Sister Thea Bowman, FSPA, a nationally recognized Catholic evangelist, educator, and advocate for social justice, the Foundation’s program is built on three pillars: academic scholarship, student success, and spiritual enrichment. Together, these pillars are designed to remove barriers to Catholic higher education. The Foundation also forms students academically, spiritually, and as leaders committed to service.
In addition to tuition assistance, scholars are provided with culturally competent mentorship all four years they are on scholarship and invited into opportunities for prayer, reflection, and faith-centered community building. This holistic approach supports students throughout their undergraduate journey, helping them grow in confidence, purpose, and commitment to the Church and the common good.
“Sister Thea Bowman believed deeply in the power of education to awaken hope and transform lives,” said Foundation Executive Director Joe Barker II. “This scholarship program is much more than financial aid. It forms young leaders grounded in faith, supported by mentorship, and prepared to serve the Church and society with excellence and integrity. Scholarship recipients are encouraged to discover who God is calling them to be. By building a program around the values Sister Thea Bowman lived and proclaimed, we are forming the next generation of leaders who are guided and inspired by their faith.”
Scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate academic promise, financial need, leadership potential, and a commitment to living out their faith. Applicants must be African American or Afro Latino and accepted to one of the Foundation’s accredited Catholic college or university partners, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. Applicants are expected to be active in school or community activities, demonstrate good character, and receive a strong recommendation from a high school faculty member or principal. Financial need is also a key consideration. The application deadline is March 31, 2026.
The Foundation’s Catholic partner institutions include Arrupe College of Loyola University Chicago, Assumption University, Boston College, College of the Holy Cross, DePaul University, Duquesne University, Loyola University, and Saint Vincent College.
Scholar selection is based on a holistic review of each applicant’s academic record, personal essay reflecting on the life and legacy of Sister Thea Bowman, demonstrated leadership and service, and financial need.
For eligibility requirements, application materials, and additional information, visit theabowmanfoundation.org.
About the Sister Thea Bowman Black Catholic Education Foundation
The Sister Thea Bowman Black Catholic Education Foundation advances access to Catholic higher education for African American students through a holistic model centered on scholarships, mentoring, and faith-centered formation. Inspired by Sister Thea Bowman’s enduring witness, the Foundation seeks to awaken hope, nurture leadership, and strengthen the Church and society through education.
