History

Shortly after Dr. David Black's arrival as president of Eastern University, the Rev. Luis Cortés approached him about the possibility of a partnership between Esperanza, Inc. and Eastern University. Eastern University is a comprehensive institution of higher education, affiliated with the American Baptist Churches in the U.S.A. Esperanza, Inc., is the largest Hispanic faith-based community development corporation in the U.S.

Nationally, Latino students have a high dropout rate from the educational system at all levels, and many have English language skills that preclude successful participation in typical college and university programs. Dr. Black and the Rev. Cortés agreed that an innovative, quality-rich college program that meets the Latino students' needs was necessary.

In May 2002, the Pennsylvania Department of Education gave approval for Eastern University to award the Associate of Arts Degree in Liberal Studies.

On July 1, 2002, Dr. Sara Miles became the Founding Dean of Esperanza College; formerly known as NECHE. Dr Miles expanded opportunities for Esperanza graduates through transition agreements with Eastern University baccalaureate programs. As a result Esperanza College students can continue their coursework towards a four year degree. As of May 2007 a total of 101 students have graduated Esperanza College.

Today, Dr. Jack Weaver is the full-time Dean and continues to lead the staff, administration, and faculty in academic planning. These plans include ways to offer additional concentrations, identify funds for developing a library and draw on resources (federal, state and private grants) that target programs to improve Latino education, and strategic goals for increasing the size of the student body and staff.

As of the Spring of 2005, we met the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) requirements for full accreditation by the State and the Middle States Commission requirements for achieving Branch Campus status of Eastern University.