In June of 1989, Sister Thea Bowman, FSPA addressed the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops with a passionate and heartfelt message. Among her points, was the need to ensure Catholic education was made available to all, not only to those whom had the economic means to take advantage of such a quality education. Her question then and still applies today, was what are we doing as a Catholic church to address that concern?
The Sister Thea Bowman Foundation began on October 19, 1989 in Burlington, Vermont at St. Michael’s College. Sister Thea Bowman, one of the founders was present, along with five Catholic university presidents and seven Catholic Bishops. For thirty-four years the Sister Thea Bowman Foundation has reached down the ladder with students and donors, and in prayer to pull up those young African Americans who have worked diligently to achieve attendance at one of our prestigious partner institutions, but have not the economic means to do so.
This year, we are raising funds for our general operating budget. With your support, the Foundation may continue to offer these young people an opportunity through the attainment of a baccalaureate degree to gain independence, employment, and success. Moreover, the Foundation may continue to offer every student a chance to participate in an enrichment program with African American Catholic scholars to read works of literature and theology that specifically pertain to them as African Americans, thereby affording them the opportunity to embrace a deep love of learning and an even greater desire for God.
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