Bank of America Awards $1M Career Pathways Grant

Bank of America pledged its largest contribution to student success in Southern Connecticut this summer. 

The bank awarded Fairfield University a $1 million grant to support the school’s Fairfield Bellarmine program. 

The new program offers two-year associate’s degrees to students from the greater Bridgeport region of the state to support their road to a bachelor’s degree or pathway to enter the workforce. 

“As lead philanthropic corporate partner, we are continuing our decades-long partnership with Fairfield University to help Fairfield Bellarmine and its students address barriers to employment through career training and workforce pathways,” Bank of America Southern Connecticut president Bill Tommins said. 

“Cross-sector partnerships are critical to building a thriving community, and we look forward to seeing the impact that Fairfield Bellarmine will make here in Southern Connecticut’s workforce and economy.” 

Fairfield University completed renovations on the Fairfield Bellarmine campus on Boston Avenue in Bridgeport in the last few weeks. 

Decades-Long Partnership 

The Fairfield Bellarmine inaugural class is made up of 100 students. 

Ahead of the academic year, students enrolled in the program attended a month-long summer course in history and the arts. 

Bank of America and Fairfield University have worked as partners for more than six decades. 

More than 300 members of the university community are employed by Bank of America or one of its subsidiaries.

“Cross-sector partnerships are critical to building a thriving community.” 

Bank of America’s Bill Tommins

As part of the grant, Bank of America will offer career exploration events to students. 

Those interested in pursuing careers in the financial sector will also have access to mentorship and paid employment opportunities. 

“Over the years, our university programming—from guest speaker series, to career advancement, and engaging community events—has been greatly enhanced by the generosity and support of Bank of America,” said Fairfield University president Dr. Mark Nemec. 

“Building on the momentum of our longstanding partnership, we will continue to work together with optimism and hope to positively impact our shared community through education and workforce development.”