Penn State University has announced plans to close several of its Commonwealth Campuses in response to declining enrollments, demographic shifts, and financial pressures.
President Neeli Bendapudi emphasized that while these challenges are not unique to Penn State, they necessitate difficult decisions to ensure the institution’s sustainability.
Campuses Remaining Open
The university has identified its seven largest Commonwealth Campuses, which will continue operations due to their stable or growing enrollments and favorable demographic projections:
- Abington
- Altoona
- Behrend
- Berks
- Brandywine
- Harrisburg
- Lehigh Valley
Additionally, specialized campuses such as Penn State Dickinson Law, the College of Medicine, and the Pennsylvania College of Technology will remain operational.
Campuses Under Evaluation for Closure
Twelve campuses are currently under review for potential closure:
- Beaver
- DuBois
- Fayette
- Greater Allegheny
- Hazleton
- Mont Alto
- New Kensington
- Schuylkill
- Scranton
- Shenango
- Wilkes-Barre
- York
An internal team, led by Executive Chancellor Margo DelliCarpini, Interim Executive Vice President and Provost Tracy Langkilde, and Senior Vice President and Chief of Staff Michael Wade Smith, is assessing these campuses.
They will provide recommendations by the end of the semester, with final decisions expected before spring commencement.
Closure Timeline and Student Impact
No campus closures will occur before the end of the 2026-27 academic year.
This timeline ensures that associate degree students enrolling in fall 2025 can complete their programs, and students in the 2+2 bachelor’s degree pathway can transition seamlessly to other Penn State campuses.
The university has committed to allowing every student who begins a Penn State degree the opportunity to complete it within the institution.
Rationale Behind the Decision
Several factors have contributed to this course of action:
- Demographic Challenges: Many counties hosting Commonwealth Campuses are experiencing population declines projected to continue for the next 30 years, limiting local student enrollment.
- Enrollment Trends: Despite efforts to boost numbers, aggregate enrollment at these campuses continues to decrease, affecting financial viability.
- State Funding: Advocacy for increased state funding has not yielded significant results, necessitating structural adjustments to maintain the university’s financial health.
President Bendapudi acknowledged that while the decision is difficult, it is essential for the long-term strength and sustainability of Penn State.
Reactions and Concerns
The announcement has elicited varied reactions:
- Trustees’ Response: Some trustees expressed surprise, noting they were informed of the closure plans just hours before the public announcement. Discussions are ongoing regarding the Board of Trustees’ role in approving the final plan.
- Faculty Concerns: Faculty members have voiced apprehension about the lack of shared governance in the decision-making process. A motion for a no-confidence vote in President Bendapudi’s leadership was introduced but subsequently tabled during a recent Faculty Senate meeting.
- Legislative Opposition: State legislators, particularly those representing districts with campuses under threat of closure, have condemned the plan. They emphasize the vital role these campuses play in providing accessible education and contributing to local economies.
As Penn State navigates these challenges, the administration aims to balance fiscal responsibility with its commitment to accessible, high-quality education across Pennsylvania.
