Under Gutmann, Penn increases involvement in Philadelphia schools

When Amy Gutmann became president of Penn in 2004 , she ushered in a new era of local engagement with the Penn Compact.

“We cherish our relationships with our neighbors, relationships that have strengthened Penn academically while increasing the vitality of West Philadelphia,” Gutmann said in her inaugural address. “We will build on the success of the Penn Alexander School to strengthen public education in our neighborhoods.”

Since the Penn Compact, the University has not duplicated the school’s relationship with Penn Alexander. Penn not only helped found the school, but also provided curriculum advice and guidance and continues to give about $700,000 to the school annually. But throughout the 10 years of Gutmann’s presidency and the many tumultuous changes in the School District of Philadelphia, the partnerships between Penn and schools in West Philadelphia have grown substantially.

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