Admissions
November 20, 2025
Simplified application process? Check. Guaranteed scholarships? Check. Direct admission to one of the top private universities in the Western U.S.? Check mate.
This fall, University of Portland’s game-changing Moreau Pathway Program is building bridges, nationwide, between college-bound high school seniors and Oregon’s only Catholic University.
On November 14, University President Robert D. Kelly visited Spokane to sign a Moreau Pathway agreement with Gonzaga Preparatory School—the 25th Catholic high school to join UP’s direct admission and access program for eligible students.
“With a strong reputation for academic excellence, Gonzaga Prep is a valuable addition to our growing list of Moreau Pathway high schools,” said Dr. Kelly. “We can’t wait to welcome many stellar Gonzaga Prep students to The Bluff, and we are thrilled to build on the tremendous momentum of this innovative program.”
Launched in 2024, the first-of-its-kind Moreau Pathway Program guarantees UP enrollment for high school seniors who meet specific criteria. In addition to direct admission and scholarships, Moreau Pathway students receive direct entry into their chosen academic field, early consideration for the UP honors program, and early selection of campus housing.
“This collaboration aligns with Gonzaga Prep’s commitment to providing our students with clear pathways to meaningful higher education opportunities and leadership development,” said Gonzaga Prep President Michael Dougherty. “We believe this initiative will expand options for our students, enhance our shared Catholic values of faith, service, and academic excellence, and propel the next generation of alumni toward lives of purpose and impact.”
Vice President for Enrollment Management Mai Nhia Xiong-Chan says high school seniors who applied via the pathway program last year were twice as likely to enroll at the University than the general pool of applicants. Xiong-Chan credits Moreau Pathway for a seven percent uptick in first-year UP students who identify as Catholic in the fall of 2025.
“When combined with faith and formation, a UP education produces citizens of the world who empower compassionate change through their actions and vocations,” Xiong-Chan said. “At its core, the Moreau Pathway Program is a commitment to building a clear and meaningful path for students from Catholic high schools to continue their learning and growth in the Catholic intellectual tradition.”
Moreau Pathway’s 25 high schools represent eight states—Oregon, Washington, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Indiana, Illinois, and Louisiana. St. Mary’s Academy in Portland has been a program partner for more than a year.
“Students and families continue to benefit immensely from the opportunities Moreau Pathway provides, like the simplified application process, access to guaranteed scholarships and priority consideration for the honors program,” said Karlen Suga, St. Mary’s director of college counseling. “It has eased their stress during such a critical time in their lives, and for that, we are incredibly grateful.”
University of Portland
5000 N. Willamette Blvd.,
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503.943.8000
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