The President of Pennsylvania, Neeli Bendapudi, addressed the community regarding the challenges facing the Commonwealth Campus ecosystem, including declining registrations, demographic shifts, and financial pressures. Acknowledging these issues, the President emphasized that maintaining the current model is unsustainable.
Over nearly three years, the administration has collaborated with various stakeholders to explore strategies to stabilize the ecosystem, including improving registration management and advocating for equitable state funding. However, ongoing declines in registrations at many campuses and expected population decreases in several counties have necessitated difficult decisions, including potential campus closures.
The plan involves retaining the seven largest campuses, which account for around 75% of total registrations, while conducting a thorough review of the remaining campuses to determine which should remain open. Campuses selected for closure will not be shuttered until after the 2026-27 academic year, allowing current students time to graduate and transition. Future students will also be assured completion of their degrees in Pennsylvania.
The President noted that demographic challenges and a lack of significant funding increases have made it impossible to sustain all campuses. The administration is committed to making informed, long-term decisions that prioritize student success and community needs.
Moving forward, recommendations regarding campus closures will be issued by a leadership team led by Margo Delical Pini, Tracy Langkilde, and Michael Wade Smith. Their findings are anticipated by the end of the semester, with a decision expected before spring. Throughout this process, the administration aims to provide support for faculty, staff, and students impacted by the closures.
Bendapudi reaffirmed the university’s commitment to adapting and evolving to ensure its future success and maintain its mission of education, research, and community service in Pennsylvania.
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