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Reports of dropping enrollments and financial struggles foretold Mansfield University's possible closure, but promises that the doors will remain open and support from a local legislator put renewed hope in the university's future.
"Mansfield is certainly an important part of our community and an institution that we want to see thrive for generations to come," said state Sen. Joe Scarnati, R-Brockway. "Providing quality educational opportunities within our region continues to be a top priority of mine."
Scarnati has thrown his support behind the university, and says he has been assured that closures of the universities will not take place at this time.
Fran Hendricks, Mansfield University president, commended Scarnati's efforts and expects the university to remain in the region for many years in the future.
"I salute the senator's efforts in helping us prepare Mansfield University for its next 160 years of making a difference in the lives of our students, their families and our great state," Hendricks said.
According to Scarnati, the Senate recently passed a resolution that requires the State System of Higher Education to conducting a study into universities across the state and determine why enrollment is declining.
Further legislation requires a study by the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to assess the future and sustainability of the 14 state-owned universities across the state.
The studies will help the Legislature determine, "from an unbiased perspective, why enrollment at certain universities is declining, what the urgent needs are and how we best move forward to ensure the students of Pennsylvania can receive a quality and affordable degree," Scarnati said.