The decision by the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) to keep Cheyney University open is a welcomed one. Since 1837, Cheyney has played a critical role in the lives of countless individuals who would not have otherwise pursued higher education. Keeping Cheyney open allows these opportunities to endure.
At the same time, Cheyney University does face an ongoing, urgent threat of closure. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education has given the school until September to make its case for continued operation.
As a result, Cheyney University requires deeper support from PASSHE. The solution is two-fold. A long history of systemic underfunding has contributed to nearly $30 million in debt. Cheyney should be relieved of this financial burden. Additionally, PASSHE should approve the creation of courses that will attract students of the 21st century to be truly competitive. These two actions alone will go further in safeguarding Cheyney’s viability than many others.
I look forward to the next steps in Cheyney’s path and am confident progress can be made.