With a deep sense of gratitude, Waldron Mercy Academy is delighted to announce a monumental grant valued at $5.2 million from The Howley Foundation, which is the largest grant in the school’s 100-year history.
The impact of this grant will be transformational for the Waldron Mercy community, as the grant focuses on enhancing programs and learning spaces for students of all ages; providing financial aid in the form of scholarships; and investing in building enhancements and upgrades that will contribute to a more productive learning environment.
The Howley Foundation, established by Nick and Lorie Howley over 20 years ago, provides educational opportunities for students at the elementary, high school, and postsecondary levels. Particularly, The Howley Foundation is interested in programs that prepare students through academic excellence, nurture personal growth, and emphasize character education.
“We at The Howley Foundation believe that the best way to create social and economic mobility and improve lives is to provide good education opportunities,” shared Meg Howley, Executive Director and daughter of Nick and Lorie. “We believe a quality education combines both strong academic programs and a component of character formation. Having a family history with Waldron Mercy, we know that they deliver in both of these areas. I am glad that we are able to help make a Waldron Mercy education possible for more students and contribute to necessary updates to the facility.”
The Howley Foundation has committed $2.4 million to transform both Waldron Mercy’s third floor, all-ages Design & Innovation Lab and its Garden Level Early Childhood Education learning space which houses Preschool, PreKindergarten, Kindergarten, and Montessori classes. This funding is a vital step in Waldron Mercy’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality educational experiences for our students, beginning in the earliest years.
“A nurturing and stimulating atmosphere is essential for students of all ages, and thanks to the generosity of The Howley Foundation we can create vibrant spaces that inspire educational growth, creativity, and exploration,” said Dr. Jacqueline Coccia, Head of School. “As we envision renovations that integrate innovative technologies with an environment that fosters collaboration, we are incredibly grateful for this extraordinary commitment.”
Additionally, the total takes into account $1.8 million of anticipated scholarships over the next ten years. The Howley Scholars Program has and will continue to provide access to a Waldron Mercy education for students who otherwise may not have been able to attend.
The Howley Foundation has also pledged an additional $1 million challenge grant towards the completion of HVAC work on all floors of the school, ensuring upgraded air quality, physical comfort, and a more productive learning environment for students, faculty, staff and guests.
“This generous commitment will be instrumental in sustaining our Mercy mission and core values which have united our community for 100 years,” said Joan Barone, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “It will ensure that we continue to provide an environment that nurtures innovation and growth, and we are truly grateful to The Howley Foundation for their role in the bright future of Waldron Mercy Academy.”
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