LOS ANGELES — 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.
