De Pere, Wis. — St. Norbert College announced today the launch of the Pennings Promise Plan, a new initiative designed to make a St. Norbert education more accessible for students graduating from Green Bay diocesan area Catholic high schools. Under the Pennings Promise Plan, students who attend these high schools and are eligible for the full Pell Grant and Wisconsin Grant will not be responsible for the remaining dollar amount on their tuition bill after federal, state, and any outside financial awards are applied.

In addition to the Pennings Promise Plan, St. Norbert College is tripling its annual Catholic High School Scholarship for Green Bay diocesan area graduating seniors from $2,000 to $6,000 ($24,000 total value over four years), further strengthening the College’s investment in Catholic education across the region.

“Rooted in our vision of creating an accessible and affordable educational experience, the Pennings Promise Plan reflects St. Norbert College’s dedication to walking alongside students and families,” said Dr. Laurie Joyner, President of St. Norbert College. “We want students from our area Catholic high schools to know that an SNC education is within reach. By removing financial barriers and strengthening our partnerships with area Catholic high schools, we are opening doors for talented students to pursue a nationally recognized, transformative St. Norbert College education close to home.”

The news comes at a time when dioceses across the country are noticing a shift among 18–24-year-olds who are increasingly turning toward the Catholic faith and Christianity in their search for meaning in a rapidly changing world. St. Norbert College is helping ensure students can pursue learning in an environment that values the intersection of faith and reason.

“We are deeply grateful to St. Norbert College for this extraordinary commitment to students and to the future of Catholic education in our region,” said Amy Ott, President of Notre Dame Academy. “The Pennings Promise Plan, along with the expansion of the Catholic High School Scholarship, reflects a powerful investment in making a Catholic college experience more accessible for families, and in forming young people who will lead lives of faith, service, and purpose. At Notre Dame Academy, we are truly excited for our students and thankful for our continued partnership as we work together to form faith-filled leaders for our Church and our world.”

Diocesan and Catholic school leaders see the Pennings Promise Plan and scholarship increase as meaningful investments in students and families across the region, creating new opportunities for students to remain connected to Catholic education through college.

“This initiative reflects our shared commitment with St. Norbert College to form young people in faith, wisdom, and service,” said Kimberly Desotell, President of GRACE Catholic Schools. “The Pennings Promise Plan creates a clear pathway for our graduates to continue their Catholic education and prepare for lives of purpose and leadership. We are grateful for this partnership and its impact on our students and families.”

Those interested in learning more about the Pennings Promise Plan, eligibility requirements, or the application process are encouraged to connect directly with St. Norbert College’s Office of Admission.

About St. Norbert College
St. Norbert College, located in De Pere, Wis., is the only Norbertine college in the world and a private Catholic liberal arts institution known for its personalized attention and commitment to educating the whole person. SNC is ranked by Niche as a top five college in Wisconsin for best campus, Catholic colleges, liberal arts colleges, student life and best food. Part of the greater Green Bay community, the campus fosters intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth. For more information, visit snc.edu.