LMU & Archdiocese of Los Angeles Launch First-of-Its-Kind Partnership to Empower Local High School Students
Loyola Marymount University (LMU) and the Department of Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles (ADLA) today announced a pioneering academic partnership, rooted in shared commitment to Catholic education. Designed to expand college access and success for high-potential students, the initiative creates a seamless pathway from Catholic high schools to LMU’s undergraduate programs.
The newly launched LMU Catholic High School Promise Program guarantees admission annually to up to three qualified senior students from each of six participating high schools: Bishop Conaty–Our Lady of Loretto High School, Bishop Mora Salesian, Cantwell–Sacred Heart of Mary College Prep, Junípero Serra High School, St. Bernard College Prep, and St. Pius X– St. Matthias Academy. Extending far past admission, the program includes intentional support and enrichment–such as mentoring, career preparation, and research experiences–to equip students for success from their first day on campus through graduation.
“This initiative exemplifies an impactful collaboration between Catholic institutions, opening doors for promising students across Los Angeles,” said LMU President Thomas Poon, Ph.D. “Together with the Archdiocese, we are uplifting families and advancing LMU’s ongoing commitment to community engagement and mission-driven higher education.”
Through the partnership, eligible students will receive:
- Guaranteed fall admission to LMU (for up to three students per school) who meet academic and experiential criteria; Selection as Rains Undergraduate Research Fellows, allowing students to develop research experiences and collaborations with LMU faculty;
- Support via the ADLA Scholar Mentorship Program through LMU Career and Professional Development;
- Eligibility for both merit- and need-based aid, consistent with LMU’s existing financial aid policies;
- Waived application fees and tailored pre-admission advising. In addition, LMU will collaborate with the six high schools to support students engaged in early
college coursework, while continuing to strengthen mission-aligned learning experiences, counselor collaboration, and community engagement through campus programming.
“We are proud to deepen our collaboration with LMU to create meaningful academic pathways for our students rooted in Catholic values, rigorous preparation, and leadership development,” said Paul M. Escala, Senior Director and Superintendent of Schools for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. “This partnership brings renewed investment and opportunity to the heart of our schools and communities who will benefit most immediately.”
Admissions decisions will be communicated by mid-December each year, with full financial aid packages released by early February.
“This partnership is an example of Catholic and academic institutions partnering to bring opportunities to Los Angeles’ young leaders and directly uplift communities,” said Casey Yeazel, President of St. Bernard College Preparatory High School. “For our students, it affirms their hard work, faith, and dedication to their communities are not only seen, but open doors for a brighter future.”
While the pioneering cohort will initially launch with six high schools, the program is intentionally designed as a scalable model, with the potential to expand to additional Archdiocesan high schools over time and amplifying their already strong relationships with LMU. LMU enrolls numerous ADLA high school graduates each year and looks to grow that strong foundation through this partnership. By combining academic support, mentorship, and mission-driven collaboration, the program will enrich LMU’s campus community and reflect the shared commitment of LMU and ADLA to developing the next generation of leaders.
About Loyola Marymount University
Loyola Marymount University is one of the nation’s top-ranked Catholic universities, recognized by U.S. News & World Report among the top 50 private and top five Jesuit institutions in the country, and among California’s top six private schools. Founded in 1911 and rooted in the Catholic, Jesuit, and Marymount traditions, LMU enrolls 7,100 undergraduates and 3,000 graduate and law students across seven colleges and schools. The university offers 56 undergraduate majors, 57 minors, 43 master’s degree programs, three doctorate programs, and 12 credential/authorization programs. With top-ranked programs in law, film and television, entrepreneurship, business, and the arts, LMU is embedded in the creative, cultural, and economic life of Los Angeles. The university generates $1.4 billion in annual economic impact. A proud member of the West Coast Conference, LMU fields 14 NCAA Division I teams and competes with purpose, pride, and integrity. LMU news and events are found at: www.lmu.edu/news.
About the Department of Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles
Since 1851, Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles have been committed to educating, inspiring, and supporting students within a vibrant, Christ-centered community. With 250 schools in three counties – Los Angeles, Ventura and Santa Barbara – the Department of Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles is the largest Catholic school system in the United States serving over 65,500 students PK-12. Students learn passionately, serve faithfully, and grow toward their highest potential. To learn more about the Department of Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, please visit https://lacatholicschools.org.
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