CollegeTowne Initiative
17cÆð²ÝºìÌÒ 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 17cÆð²ÝºìÌÒ get noticed as an innovative force in higher education
Successful Start
Since the launch, 17cÆð²ÝºìÌÒ has completed two phases of Reading CollegeTowne, investing $60 million into the City of Reading.
John R. Post Center at Reading CollegeTowne
17cÆð²ÝºìÌÒ 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
17cÆð²ÝºìÌÒ's forward-thinking initiative spurs development in downtown Reading and Pottsville.
Recent News
Fulton Bank supports Reading CollegeTowne initiative
Partnership with 17cÆð²ÝºìÌÒ’s O’Pake Institute funds business incubator and student mentoring
17cÆð²ÝºìÌÒ announces senior leadership changes
Loyack transitions to CEO; Board names Fitzgerald President-Elect
17cÆð²ÝºìÌÒ earns People’s Choice Award for fourth consecutive year
University declared as Berks County’s Who’s Who amongst colleges/universities
17cÆð²ÝºìÌÒ unveils newly opened downtown Pottsville location
New 17,000-square-foot facility boasts high-tech academic and community space
17cÆð²ÝºìÌÒ’s O’Pake Institute graduates first SPARK Business Incubator tenant
SPARK Business Incubator hones in on tech startups
17cÆð²ÝºìÌÒ names School of Nursing
Stage set for phase two of Reading CollegeTowne renovation
17cÆð²ÝºìÌÒ Turkey Drive returns for the 35th year
Turkey Drive distributes 400 turkeys to Reading residents
17cÆð²ÝºìÌÒ’s Office of Career Development awarded for vast programming
Cross-campus and community partnerships contribute to post-graduation success
