Senator Wayne Langerholc, Jr. and Representative Michael Armanini have expressed their concerns over the proposed closure of seven Pennsylvania State University Commonwealth Campuses, including Penn State DuBois.
Langerholc stated, “I am deeply dismayed that all of the advocacy and education of the significant benefit of Penn State DuBois have fallen on deaf ears.” He emphasized the role that the institution has played in contributing to the local workforce and economy. Langerholc is committed to collaborating with his colleagues in identifying an entity that will support the rural area and strengthen the community despite this setback.
Armanini highlighted how crucial Penn State DuBois is to surrounding industries. “Our region surrounding Penn State DuBois is a hub of manufacturing businesses which include the PM, carbon, and graphite industries,” he said. Armanini noted that these closures not only affect students but also impact local jobs, businesses, and industry connections tied to research conducted at the campus.
Both officials are concerned about how these closures will disenfranchise young students by making education less accessible and more costly.
