A roundtable meeting was held in Hazleton to address concerns over the possible closure of Penn State Hazleton and its potential impact on the local community and economy. Key figures in attendance included Sen. Dave Argall (R-29), Sen. Lynda Schlegel Culver (R-27), Rep. Dane Watro (R-116), and Rep. Jamie Walsh (R-117). The discussion highlighted the region’s economic growth and the university’s significant role in this development.
Rep. Watro emphasized the campus’s integral part in the community and the necessity of keeping it open, saying, “All who testified today are united in our support of Penn State Hazleton and the need to keep it open. This campus is a cornerstone of the community and helps to sustain the economic growth our region has enjoyed in recent years.”
Sen. Culver pointed out that Penn State Hazleton has a diverse student body, with enrolment from 20 states and 10 countries. Rep. Walsh underscored the broader implications of the campus closure, stating, “The potential closure of Penn State Hazleton represents more than just a loss of an educational institution. It also threatens the future of our region.”
Dr. Elizabeth Wright shared that nearly half of the students are first-generation college attendees, and the campus has seen an increase in enrolment compared to the previous year. Joe Clifford highlighted the need for skilled employees in the area, with 40 million square feet of industrial space under consideration.
Hazleton Mayor Jeff Cusat and Mary Malone, president of the Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the campus’s economic contributions. Dr. Brian Uplinger noted the rapid growth of the local school district, while alumnus Brian MacAuley discussed the campus’s affordability and impact on his education.
Sen. Argall closed by expressing strong support for the campus’s continuation, stating, “Our local economic growth is the best in the state, and Penn State Hazleton is a key piece of our economic future.” He encouraged citizens to voice their opinions through his legislative survey, which has overwhelmingly favored keeping the campus open.
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The full discussion is available via Sen. Argall’s website.
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