Sen. Baker, Rep. Pugh respond to uncertainty surrounding Penn State-WB, others
May 13—WILKES-BARRE — Sen. Lisa Baker and Rep. Brenda Pugh on Tuesday said they are calling for transparency, accountability and a commitment to the communities the Commonwealth Campuses serve.
In light of reports that Penn State University is considering the closure of several of its campuses, including Penn State Wilkes-Barre, Sen. Baker, R-Lehman Township, and Rep. Pugh, R-Dallas Township, are continuing to monitor the situation.
"This is an unfortunate juncture for our communities and for the future of higher education in the region," said Sen. Baker and Rep. Pugh. "Penn State has disserved us by using a process that was secretive, arbitrary, and lacking in analysis of community viewpoints and needs."
While Penn State has said no final decision has been made, the two legislators said the Pennsylvania Department of Education has confirmed that the university has not formally initiated the required process to close any campus.
The legislators said under state law, such a closure must be submitted for review and approved by the Secretary of Education following detailed evaluation. That process has not yet begun.
In the meantime, the legislators said they are introducing a bill requiring public hearings prior to shuttering any state-related universities.
They are also exploring the creation of a special initiative — like the State Facility Closure Transition Program — to ensure adequate community support in directly impacted and contiguous areas.
"Our Commonwealth Campuses play an essential role in expanding educational opportunity in rural and under-served areas," said Rep. Pugh and Sen. Baker. "The Wilkes-Barre campus is a cornerstone for our region — economically, academically and civically. Before any decision is made, there must be a full, transparent process, guided not only by regulations but by a genuine commitment to the students and communities who depend on these campuses."
Both Sen. Baker and Rep. Pugh emphasized that they would continue to monitor the situation closely and press for meaningful dialogue and public input as developments unfold.
Reach Bill O'Boyle at 570-991-6118 or on Twitter @TLBillOBoyle.
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