Leaders from Notre Dame High School, Lawrenceville, and Georgian Court University, Lakewood, jointly illustrated their commitment to Catholic education as they signed a new guaranteed admissions agreement aimed to make it easier for students to enroll in and afford college.

“Partnering with Georgian Court University enables Notre Dame High School to meet the needs of the diverse 21st-century learner,” said NDHS principal Mary Liz Ivins. “We are grateful for this opportunity to open the doors of Georgian Court for our students.”

The partnership with GCU is one of five in the Diocese of Trenton which enable students to access scholarships, earn college credits and enrich their academic portfolio before high school graduation. Notre Dame High School joins St. John Vianney High School, Holmdel; Holy Cross Academy, Delran; Donovan Catholic, Toms River, and Trenton Catholic Academy, Hamilton, as members of the Lakewood Catholic university’s “Catholic Schools Initiative” program.

Through participation in this program, students are eligible for guaranteed early admission and merit-based scholarships that are renewable for four years, provided that the student remains full-time and maintains satisfactory academic progress. In addition, students who meet the prescribed criteria will have a guaranteed, reserved place in the bachelor’s degree and master’s degree programs in Georgian Court University.

“This is a great opportunity for both our institutions,” said GCU president Dr. Joseph R. Marbach. “These agreements are consistent with our commitment to Catholic education. At the same time, partnering with Notre Dame and similar institutions is consistent with GCU’s mission and the university’s commitment to its Mercy core values.”

 The new agreement signed by Dr. Marbach and Notre Dame President Barry Breen reflects their shared commitment to providing options for those pursuing higher education.

 “We want to provide students with a great Catholic education that both maximizes their investment and their time,” explained Justin G. Roy, GCU Dean of Admissions. 

“The commitment to our students matched with the seamless transition from high school to higher education will hopefully encourage students to dream high and to expand their possibilities with us,” added Dr. Marbach.