Marian University has been awarded a $500,000 grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. to support its Pathways Program, an initiative designed to increase college-going and graduation rates across Indiana through dynamic K–12 engagement, including summer camps, campus visits, career exploration, and experiential learning opportunities.
Since its launch in 2022 with funding from Lilly Endowment through its Indiana Youth Programs on Campus (IYPC) initiative, the Pathways Program has reached more than 4,000 students. The program fosters a sense of belonging on a college campus by connecting K–12 students and community-based youth organizations with enriching, hands-on academic experiences.
“Improving college access and success for all Hoosiers, especially those facing barriers to higher education, is a strategic priority of Marian University’s mission,” said Marian University President Daniel J. Elsener. “We are grateful to Lilly Endowment for its continued investment in our mission and focused efforts to inspire and empower Indiana’s youth.”
While Indiana’s college-going rate has held steady at 53 percent in recent years, enrollment has declined since the COVID-19 pandemic. Marian University is addressing this challenge by expanding access to higher education, awarding nearly $46 million in scholarships annually, with 99% of first-year students receiving financial aid and merit-based scholarships.
The new grant from Lilly Endowment will enable Marian University to:
- • Increase summer camp participation by 117% by 2027
- • Grow on-campus visit attendance to 1,800 students by 2026—a 157% increase
- • Enhance faculty training in K–12 pedagogy
- • Expand outreach to underserved communities
- • Develop sustainable program models to ensure long-term impact
Marian University remains committed to fostering academic excellence and upward social mobility through mission-driven educational programs for students of all economic backgrounds.
Registration for 2025 summer camps is now open. For more information, visit:
https://www.marian.edu/conferences-and-events/camps-and-conferences/