About
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Fischer Program

Fischer Program

The Fischer Program is a new Loyola Blakefield initiative that provides an ideal opportunity for highly motivated middle school-age students of color from Baltimore City and County to engage in a three-year program to develop the strong study skills and focused approach to learning that will prepare them for Loyola Blakefield's challenging Upper School college preparatory curriculum. The program includes a stepping stone introduction to more challenging levels of course studies and a variety of co-curricular activities in a relaxed atmosphere, under the guidance of expert teachers, tutors, coaches, and mentors. This is a tuition-free program.

List of 1 members.

  • Photo of Bernard Bowers

    Bernie Bowers 

    Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
    (410) 823-0601 Ext 294
    Class of 1978

History

In the 1960s & '70s, then-Jesuit Frank Fischer took bold steps toward recruiting and preparing African-American students to attend Loyola. He was also instrumental in matching funding opportunities to ensure that those who might not otherwise have access to a Loyola education were fully supported. Mr. Fischer was the first person to facilitate the meaningful racial integration of Loyola Blakefield, and we honor his proud legacy through the Fischer Program and the Frank P. Fischer Diversity Scholarship Fund, which provides financial support to African-American students whose families possess a demonstrated financial need and who meet Loyola’s academic standards for admission.

Selection Process

A committee consisting of Loyola Blakefield's President, Upper School Principal, Director of Admissions, and Director of Diversity & Inclusion works with elementary/middle school principals in Baltimore City and County to indentify fifth graders who show the academic poise and promise to thrive in the Fischer Program. Potential scholars are identified during their fifth grade year and encouraged to apply for the program. Selected students enter the program during the summer prior to their sixth grade year and engage in a five-week, full-day tutoring, mentoring, and summer camp experience that includes enriched academics, athletics, and other co-curricular activities. Transportation to and from Loyola's campus is also provided for each student.

Curriculum

During the five-week summer program, enrolled students participate in academic sessions in the morning, which include English and mathematics, as well as hands-on science experiments. Following lunch in the dining hall, students choose from a variety of summer camp activities for the afternoon. The program includes a dedicated English and mathematics teacher per class year, as well as support from other educational specialists. During the school year, students are visited at their school by these teachers, and when applicable, will return to the Blakefield campus, to continue their academic and co-curricular activities. Students continue to work with the same teachers, tutors, and mentors who guided them in the summer to ensure that the important relationship between student and mentor is sustained.
500 Chestnut Ave. Towson, MD 21204
Ph: 410-823-0601