Our History

What is now White-Williams Scholars was founded in 1800 as the Magdalen Society. Its mission of helping at-risk females persisted for over a century. After the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania became concerned with "the rehabilitation of delinquent girls," the Magdalen Society board voted in 1917 to adjust the mission "to provide direction and assistance to steer children away from trouble." The Society also adopted a new name: the White-Williams Foundation, after its first president, Episcopal Bishop William White, and a later president, Quaker merchant George Williams. (White-Williams Scholars is a private, independent 501(c)(3) organization and is not associated with any organization of a similar name.)

In 1917 White-Williams Scholars pioneered the concept of in-school counseling and hired the first counselors for public and parochial elementary and secondary schools. The organization initiated several other services—including vocational guidance and placement, nutritional instruction, and teacher training in social work—which were eventually absorbed by the schools. White-Williams Scholars' non-profit 501(c)(3) status was first established in 1949 and most recently renewed in 2002.

In 1994 we became known as White-Williams Scholars. Our current mission is to prepare academically high achieving Philadelphia public high school students of limited financial means with a foundation for success in college.

The organization served over 1,000 students last year. In addition to monthly stipends, students receive educational enrichment through our Back on Track program, and college preparation through our four-year intensive College Connection Program. To be eligible to receive stipends and other support, students must maintain all A's and B's in their classes. Stipends help our Scholars stay focused on their studies and resist over-employment with part-time jobs. Back on Track helps students remain at the top of their classes by providing individualized academic enrichment. This is achieved with the assistance of alumni, college students, and professionals who have expertise in specific subject areas. College Connection begins preparing students for college in the 9th grade through one-on-one college and career advising, early exposure to the college application and selection process, and residential college life.

• About White-Williams
• Mission and Organization Overview
• Our History
• Trustees and Staff
• White-Williams Murals