CHESTER, Pa. (February 14, 2023) – Philadelphia Union today announced a new, multi-year partnership agreement with Widener University, making them the Official University of the Philadelphia Union, Subaru Park, and WSFS Bank Sportsplex. Over the past 200 years, Widener has built a reputation for putting students on the inside track to successful careers and futures.
"At the Union, community is at the core of what we stand for, and partnering with Widener University allows us to open doors to educational opportunities with students in our own backyard,” said Chief Revenue Officer of the Philadelphia Union, Charlie Slonaker. “With a shared commitment to the community, as well as the enrichment and education of students, we look forward to the opportunities this partnership will bring.”
“Widener is so excited to be entering this partnership,” said President Stacey Robertson. “This will create incredible opportunities for our university community to get up-close exposure to the inner workings of a top-flight professional sports organization. From academic and career-related student programming to the chance to attend games and represent Widener at Subaru Park, this agreement signifies our relentless and universal commitment to student success. At Widener, we pride ourselves on our culture of belonging, and this partnership demonstrates to our students, alumni, and employees that they are part of the vibrant community outside our campus, too. As partners in the city of Chester, Widener and the Union will work together to make a positive impact.”
This partnership will provide educational opportunities for Widener students, including internships and job shadowing with the Union, as well as community outreach initiatives led by the Union and Widener. Additionally, Widener will be the presenting partner of three outdoor turf fields at the WSFS Bank Sportsplex, as well as a Work-in-Sports Camp, a half-day camp on the Union campus for high school students who will learn about working in sports, shadow Union staff, participate in teamwork activities, and learn about the stadium.
Under the partnership, Widener University will have the ability to host activations on the Subaru Park Plaza during six regular-season home matches and will be the presenting partner of the match on October 4th against Atlanta United FC at Subaru Park.
