Cheyney University, located in the bucolic hills of rural Pennsylvania, decided to do a bit of introspection. In May 2017, the university released a report that included detailed recommendations for how the 180-year-old institution could improve its financial issues and graduation rates and commit to permanent leadership.
PASSHE presented its findings and recommendations at a public meeting held in May. The task force report noted that sustainability at Cheyney can begin with the development of an “operational model.” The model placed emphasis on how administrators could improve student success rates, increase student enrollment, revise academic programs, better monitor finances, and ensure longevity in top leadership posts.
“To ensure a strong future, Cheyney is developing a focused mission that will enable it to meet the needs of students today and tomorrow, while ensuring financial and operational sustainability,” the report stated.
In an effort to reverse the school’s current financial standing and enrollment rates, the task force report suggested removing programs such as sports and focusing solely on academics.
Others have said that Cheyney should consider merging with another state-affiliated institution such as West Chester University.
Dr. Marybeth Gasman, director of the Penn Center for Minority Serving Institutions and a member of Paul Quinn College’s Board of Trustees, says that it’s important for Cheyney — which was once known for its robust teacher education program — to focus on signature academic programs and other strengths at a time such as this.
