CollegeTowne Initiative
17³Ô¹ÏÍø launched the CollegeTowne initiative in Reading in late 2019. The concept featured three objectives:
• Changing how the university operates and grows
• Affecting the surrounding community and spurring economic development
• Helping 17³Ô¹ÏÍø get noticed as an innovative force in higher education
Successful Start
More than five years on, 17³Ô¹ÏÍø has completed two phases of Reading CollegeTowne, investing $43 million into the City of Reading.
John R. Post Center at Reading CollegeTowne
17³Ô¹ÏÍø purchased and renovated the John R. Post Center at Reading CollegeTowne, a 250,000-square-foot living and learning facility at 401 Penn Street.
Pottsville CollegeTowne
The university opened Pottsville CollegeTowne in downtown Pottsville in January 2023.
American House at Reading CollegeTowne
Phase III will include the renovation of the American House at Reading CollegeTowne, which will include a state-of-the-art community-based health center in partnership with Berks Community Health Center.
O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship
The university will also add additional business incubator space for the O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship and retail space.
Learn More
CollegeTowne initiative fuels regional expansion
17³Ô¹ÏÍø's forward-thinking initiative spurs development in downtown Reading and Pottsville.
17³Ô¹ÏÍø earns People’s Choice Award for fourth consecutive year
University declared as Berks County’s Who’s Who amongst colleges/universities
17³Ô¹ÏÍø unveils newly opened downtown Pottsville location
New 17,000-square-foot facility boasts high-tech academic and community space
17³Ô¹ÏÍø’s O’Pake Institute graduates first SPARK Business Incubator tenant
SPARK Business Incubator hones in on tech startups
17³Ô¹ÏÍø names School of Nursing
Stage set for phase two of Reading CollegeTowne renovation
17³Ô¹ÏÍø Turkey Drive returns for the 35th year
Turkey Drive distributes 400 turkeys to Reading residents
17³Ô¹ÏÍø’s Office of Career Development awarded for vast programming
Cross-campus and community partnerships contribute to post-graduation success
17³Ô¹ÏÍø enters dual admissions transfer agreement with LCCC
University announces plans for expansion in Pittston Market
17³Ô¹ÏÍø and RACC expand dual admission transfer agreement
Partnership includes pathways for traditional and accelerated adult bachelor programs
