PENNSYLVANIA, USA — In an effort to battle rising costs and declining enrollment, Penn State University is consolidating some leadership positions at its Commonwealth Campuses.
Effective July 1, several campuses will become part of the regional leadership model, led by a single administration:
- In the northeast, Penn State Hazleton, Penn State Scranton, and Penn State Wilkes-Barre will be led by Chancellor Elizabeth Wright. Wilkes-Barre Chancellor Lynda Goldstein will remain in her position through the end of her contract in 2025 to work with Wright and the director of academic affairs at Scranton to facilitate the transition in this region.
- In the southeast, Penn State Brandywine, Penn State Mont Alto, and Penn State York will be led by Chancellor Marilyn Wells.
- In the west, Penn State Beaver and Penn State Shenango will be led by Chancellor Carey McDougall.
- In the southwest, Penn State Fayette, Penn State Greater Allegheny, and Penn State New Kensington will be led by Chancellor Megan Nagel. Penn State New Kensington Chancellor Kevin Snider will remain in his position through Dec. 31 to collaborate on the transition for the Digital Foundry at the New Kensington campus.
The Commonwealth Campuses are operating at a $49 million aggregate deficit, Penn State said.
The university also plans a one-time infusion of up to $20 million in additional funding.
Last month, the university offered buyouts to faculty and staff at Commonwealth Campus locations.
Other institutions in our area have been dealing with financial and enrollment issues.
Last month, Keystone College in Lackawanna and Wyoming Counties announced a strategic partnership to keep the college open after concerns over the school's future.
Last week, Clarks Summit University in Lackawanna County announced temporary furloughs for employees.
