The State System of Higher Education yesterday approved an $8 million line of credit to keep the doors open at Cheney University, and announced the formation of a task force that will help the school balance its budget and “live within its means.”
The decision by the Board of Governors was unanimously approved. It requires a “new institutional model” for Cheyney, guided by recommendations from the task force, which will be made up of students, faculty, staff, alumni, community leaders and elected officials.
In a news release, spokesman Kenn Marshall says the task force will begin its work as the State System itself undertakes a broader strategic review to ensure every university is operationally and financially sound.
Cheyney’s enrollment has shrunk to only 746 students, less than half the number students it had six years ago. The school’s infrastructure is crumbling, with a number of buildings having been closed due to their poor conditions. With mounting debt and little hope of new revenues, the school may still be targeted for closure or merger with West Chester, which is just six miles away and has surpassed IUP as the largest State System school.
