Sovereign Bank, a part of Banco Santander, will provide academic scholarships for Boston University’s School of Public Health and establish a new undergraduate Spanish language and cultural community program.

"We are proud to announce our first partnership with Boston University in support of student scholarships that will further advance higher education and international collaboration," said Banco Santander Chairman Emilio Botín. "This innovative agreement also establishes a new undergraduate program that connects students with the Greater Boston community by strengthening Spanish and cultural ties."

The Spanish language and cultural program, named "The Hispanic Voices Program," will include a community service course that enables students to introduce Spanish-language theater into Boston-area high schools, according to a statement. The program will also include the renovation of Casa Hispanica, a center that will provide a place for students to interact with the Greater Boston community.

Sovereign Bank will also provide scholarships for students enrolled at the Boston University School of Public Health for overseas study via the school’s Center for Global Health and Development.