CONTACT: Shikha Bhatnagar, Vice President, External Relations, Matriculate, sbhatnagar@matriculate.org, 646-408-3561;
Kevin Mondragon, Associate Director of Admissions, American University, mondrago@american.edu, 202-885-6084
Washington, DC (June 5, 2025) — American University’s Office of Undergraduate Admissions and Matriculate, a national nonprofit that connects high-achieving high school students from limited-income backgrounds with college advisors, are proud to announce a new partnership to help students navigate the admissions process
As the organization’s newest Pathways Partner, American University joins a select group of higher education institutions, such as the University of Denver and Bucknell University, that are collaborating with Matriculate to increase access for high school students from low-income and underserved communities. Through this partnership, AU will meet the full financial need for at least two Matriculate High School Fellows, provide outreach and education to eligible high school students, and expand efforts to recruit virtual college Advising Fellows on campus.
The partnership goes into effect with the Class of 2026 high school graduates. Application fees will also be waived for all Matriculate High School Fellows who apply.
“American University is deeply committed to creating pathways to higher education for talented students of all backgrounds,” said Jeremy Lowe, Assistant Vice Provost for Undergraduate Admissions. “By working with Matriculate, we’re equipping our students to directly support future leaders, students who have the drive and ability to thrive at institutions like AU but who may lack the resources to navigate the college admissions process on their own.”
“We’re thrilled to partner with American University to support talented, hardworking students from across the country in unlocking the transformative potential of higher education. AU’s strong commitment to preparing future leaders in public service—both nationally and globally—is a tradition that Matriculate is honored to join. Together, we’ll expand access and opportunity for lifelong success and impact for students of all backgrounds,” said Bryden Sweeney-Taylor, Matriculate’s co-founder and interim CEO.
Sade Goodridge, American University ’27 and Matriculate High School Fellow ’23, shared, “This is incredible news, especially at a time when college can feel increasingly out of reach for many students. American University’s commitment to meeting full financial need for Matriculate Fellows is both encouraging and impactful. It not only demonstrates the university’s dedication to supporting students from all financial backgrounds but also reinforces its reputation as an institution that invests in student success. By removing financial barriers, AU is giving more students a real opportunity to thrive.”
Matriculate has helped over 20,000 high school students nationwide and trained more than 4,700 college students to serve as advisors. The organization focuses on removing barriers to access and ensuring that more students are able to attend institutions where they can reach their full potential.
This new collaboration supports AU’s broader mission of supporting access to education and public service, reinforcing its role as a leader in championing opportunity, and impact both in the greater Washington, DC area and around the world.
For more information about American University’s work with college access organizations or how to get involved, visit www.american.edu/admissions. For more information about Matriculate, visit www.matriculate.org.