Today, Santander US announced a multi-year partnership with Villanova University Athletics naming Santander the Official Retail Bank Partner of Villanova Athletics and awarding a $1 million grant to Villanova University to provide scholarships for 50 student-athletes.
This grant is part of the company’s recently announced $13 million in funding to more than 30 colleges and universities across the U.S. for 2025 and 2026. This relationship was developed in collaboration with Playfly Sports, the sports industry’s leading revenue maximization company and exclusive multi-media rights partner of Villanova Athletics.
“Our partnership with Villanova University and its athletics program is a testament to our commitment to expanding access to the education, resources, and career-building expertise that empowers the next generation to navigate today’s evolving workplace with confidence and achieve long-term success,” said Christiana Riley, President and CEO of Santander US.
This investment is part of Santander’s broader $25 million commitment to education, employability, and entrepreneurship, which supports programs designed to expand access to higher education and create pathways to opportunity. Santander’s expansive commitment to education also includes Open Academy, a non-profit initiative that offers all individuals free training in the skills most in demand by the labor market.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Santander to diversify and deepen opportunities for student-athletes both in and out of the classroom,” said Villanova Vice President and Director of Athletics Eric Roedl. “This partnership provides resources student-athletes need to pursue their athletic and academic goals, providing a platform to help them reach their full potential.”
