A Catalyst for Change

Bronx lobby
Maverick Magazine
Bronx lobby

The Catalyst Program Redefines the College Experience in the Bronx.

Catalyst ProgramMercy University has launched a revolutionary initiative meant to jump-start students’ college careers by breaking down the barriers that far too often derail their educational journeys. The Catalyst Program, offered exclusively at Mercy’s Bronx Campus, provides students with a comprehensive support system that allows them to focus purely on their studies. 

“At Mercy, our goal is not only to make higher education attainable, but also to provide students the resources and support they need to position them to succeed,” said Anne Gilligan, assistant vice president of admissions and recruitment at Mercy University. “The Catalyst Program offers aspiring college students the opportunity to attend the beautiful Bronx Campus and have access to all the robust support services and opportunities Mercy has to offer.” 

Catalyst Program studentsCatalyst Program participants, or Catalysts, benefit from an array of support services, including financial aid, on-campus meals, laptops with hotspots, mentoring and assistance both inside and outside the classroom. They can choose from three academic pathways: Business, Education and Social Work. These areas of study were curated specifically to address employment demands in and around the Bronx, preparing them for success after they graduate. 

From the moment they set foot on campus, Catalysts are enveloped in a fully supportive environment. They receive 360-degree support from faculty and staff, including a dedicated faculty advisor and a PACT personal mentor to help them get the most out of their Mercy experience. They attend class with other Catalysts in a formal learning community and benefit from a career-focused curriculum with job placement support. Catalysts will have the opportunity to earn certifications, internships and an associate degree along the way to a bachelor’s degree in their chosen field. They will also get the preparation they need to attend graduate school.

Catalyst Program studentsTo eliminate financial barriers, Catalysts receive special grants to meet their full financial need, up to full-time tuition. Additionally, they receive a transportation grant to help cover commuting costs and have a free lunch on days they are on campus. 

The Bronx Campus offers state-of-the-art facilities to maximize opportunities for learning, student-centered spaces and a landscaped courtyard that provides a serene setting for study and reflection in an otherwise bustling New York City borough. 

Learn more about the program here.

Read the Full Magazine