Penn Manor High School juniors and seniors have had the opportunity to jump-start their college and career journeys through a partnership launched in 2023 with Millersville University that provides tuition-free, college-level business courses. The program has proven successful and will likely expand to other high schools in the region.

The partnership encourages students to enroll in college by offering a commitment-free experience that could reduce tuition costs for those planning to major in business. Students who successfully complete the program, which includes four business-related courses, are automatically accepted to Millersville University.

From the first cohort of 21 students in fall 2023, 19 have enrolled in college, with three attending Millersville University. These results exceed the typical percentage of Penn Manor graduates who enroll in college, which is 69%, according to Marc Tomljanovich, dean of Millersville's Lombardo College of Business.

"Having the courses taught here at Millersville also allows students to interact with our amazing faculty and experience the college environment before graduating," said Tomljanovich. "This program reduces the stress and uncertainty many students face in their first semester away from home."

"It's so clear that the students found this program valuable," continued Tomljanovich. "It's imperative that Millersville University and the Lombardo College of Business build and cultivate these talent pipelines that allow more high school students in the Lancaster area greater career opportunities. The Penn Manor program aligns perfectly with our mission, and we're excited to continue to work with the high schools and students in our community."