Cheyney University of Pennsylvania

Step into history at Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, the nation's first institution of higher learning for African Americans. Founded in 1837 as the African Institute by Quaker philanthropist Richard Humphreys, Cheyney was conceived to educate people of African descent and prepare them as teachers, offering vital skills in mechanics, trades, and agriculture. This commitment to educational access in a discriminatory society laid the groundwork for a rich tradition of opportunity, particularly for students from Philadelphia's inner-city schools.

Over the decades, Cheyney University has evolved while staying true to its founding mission. Relocated to the historic Cheyney family farm in 1902 and officially becoming Cheyney University of Pennsylvania in 1983 as part of the State System of Higher Education, the institution has played a pivotal role in civil rights. It was central to a landmark 1980 civil rights lawsuit addressing underfunding, which resulted in a significant $35 million settlement for campus development and academic growth, underscoring its historical importance and ongoing value.

Today, Cheyney continues to be a vibrant hub for learning, with a strong emphasis on community and deep ties within Philadelphia and the state. Despite facing and overcoming accreditation challenges, demonstrating resilience and commitment to institutional improvement, the university is dedicated to providing an engaging and supportive environment. Prospective students and their families will find a campus rich with history, a commitment to academic excellence, and a supportive network of alumni ready to welcome them into a proud legacy.