In a groundbreaking collaboration that promises to revolutionize educational opportunities for students and families, Friends School of Baltimore and Goucher College have joined forces. This partnership, which aims to alleviate the financial burden of rising postsecondary tuition costs, offers Friends School students generous merit-based scholarships while also providing Goucher College with a diverse pool of talented and well-rounded students.
At the helm of this transformative partnership is Josh Carlin, the 12th Grade Dean at Friends School, who brings over two decades of experience in fostering relationships with various higher education institutions. Through the University Partnership Program (UPP) at Friends, Carlin has facilitated connections with renowned universities and research institutions, enabling students to engage in college research experiences on a national scale. Previous collaborations have included innovative projects with Duke University’s Haiti Lab and the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, offering students valuable real-world learning opportunities.
Guaranteed Admission and Scholarships
One of the pivotal aspects of this partnership is the Guaranteed Admission Program, which ensures that Friends School students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher will be admitted to Goucher College. In addition, these students will receive a substantial $32,000 annual merit scholarship, with further financial aid options available. This initiative not only recognizes the academic excellence and character development nurtured at Friends School but also prepares students to thrive in Goucher’s challenging academic environment. The program has already been rolled out for the Class of 2025, providing a promising start to this transformative collaboration.
Continued Collaboration and Future Prospects
Beyond the guaranteed admission program, the partnership entails ongoing engagement between Friends School students and Goucher College faculty. Plans are in place to increase the frequency of these interactions, enriching the learning experiences for students across both campuses. Furthermore, faculty and staff at Friends School will benefit from a 20% discount on Goucher College graduate tuition, in addition to the existing 75% graduate tuition assistance provided by Friends School. This demonstrates a commitment to supporting the professional development and expertise of the school’s faculty and staff, ultimately contributing to student success. These benefits are expected to come into effect in the Fall of 2025, marking a significant milestone in the collaboration between the two institutions.
Looking ahead, there are exciting prospects for dual enrollment opportunities that would allow Friends School students to earn college credit by enrolling in Goucher courses. Building on a long history of collaboration, this initiative reflects the commitment of both institutions to providing enriching educational experiences for students. Over the years, the partnership has facilitated unique opportunities, such as Friends students participating in Goucher faculty-led classes and engaging in the renowned Russian Olympiada.
“We are delighted to strengthen our partnership with Goucher College, a kindred institution that shares our values of nurturing curiosity, creativity, and intellectual growth,” expressed Josh Carlin, the 12th Grade Dean at Friends School of Baltimore. “This collaboration underscores our mutual belief in the significance of educational accessibility and preparing students for success in college and beyond.”
Dr. Michael Marshall, Vice President for Enrollment & Student Success at Goucher College, echoed this sentiment, stating, “This innovative partnership underscores our unwavering commitment to expanding educational opportunities for the Friends School community. By making high-quality education more accessible to talented individuals in our local area, we are fostering a vibrant academic environment that empowers students to reach their full potential.”
Founded in 1784 as Baltimore’s inaugural school, Friends School boasts a rich legacy of providing innovative and values-driven education. Grounded in Quaker principles, the school fosters a learning environment that emphasizes critical thinking, communication, and leadership. Students are encouraged to explore a diverse range of interests in academics, athletics, and the arts, cultivating a lifelong love for learning that extends beyond graduation. Guided by the principles of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, and stewardship, Friends School nurtures an inclusive community where every voice is valued and heard.
On the other hand, Goucher College, recognized as one of the best national liberal arts colleges and most innovative colleges by U.S. News & World Report, is dedicated to inspiring global changemakers. Located in Baltimore, Maryland, Goucher places a strong emphasis on global education, enabling all students to study abroad as part of their undergraduate experience. With a diverse array of programs and small class sizes, the college equips students to collaboratively address complex challenges, navigate the global economy, and tackle pressing global issues that impact humanity.
As this partnership between Friends School of Baltimore and Goucher College continues to evolve, it represents a beacon of hope for students seeking transformative educational experiences. By fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accessibility, these institutions are paving the way for a brighter future filled with boundless opportunities for learning and growth.
