Dear Commonwealth Campus Community,
Over the past several months, we have asked a great deal of our Commonwealth Campus students, faculty, and staff – especially those at the 12 campuses being considered for closure. The uncertainty that has accompanied this process has not been easy, and I remain deeply grateful for the resilience, grace, and dedication you’ve shown during this time.
From the beginning, we’ve approached this work with urgency and care. As I shared in February, our goal was to reach final decisions before spring commencement, but I also recognized that we would adjust the timeline if needed.
Today, I want to let you know that we are making such an adjustment.
Final exams and commencement are rapidly approaching – activities of great significance for our entire community. My team has consulted with students, faculty, and staff on the timing of any announcements, and I agree with their broad recommendation to hold until after these milestone events. As a result, I have decided to delay the announcement of campus decisions until mid-May.
Further, the Board of Trustees plans to convene in mid-May to consider my Commonwealth Campus recommendations. Until action is taken by the board, no decisions are final. We will share advance notice of the board’s public meeting date once scheduled, and how to observe the proceedings.
Following the board meeting, you can expect immediate communication from me and other leaders. We also know that some of you may be away from campus at that time, so we are preparing both in-person and virtual opportunities for students, faculty, and staff to come together, ask questions, and support one another.
I know this delay may bring mixed emotions – relief for some, renewed frustration for others. Please know that this decision reflects our belief that you deserve both clarity and compassion. Thank you for your continued patience and commitment to Penn State and to each other. We are navigating this moment together – and we will move forward together as well.
Sincerely,
Neeli Bendapudi