Welcome to the Pennsylvania State System
of Higher Education

The Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE), with 14 universities and nearly 117,000 students, is the largest higher education provider in Pennsylvania. PASSHE’s mission is to increase the intellectual wealth of the Commonwealth, to prepare students at all levels for personal and professional success in their lives, and to contribute to the economic, social, and cultural development of Pennsylvania’s communities, the Commonwealth, and the nation.

PASSHE is led by a 20-member Board of Governors that sets broad policy and direction for the System and the universities. PASSHE’s Executive Offices provide advice and support to the Board of Governors, and leadership to our universities as we work to harness the power of public higher education for the benefit and prosperity of all in the Commonwealth.

What's Happening at PASSHE

PASSHE chancellor named vice chair of national panel

Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) Chancellor Dr. John C. Cavanaugh has been selected to serve as vice chair of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities’ Committee on Policies and Purposes. The committee serves as AASCU’s “think tank” to help the organization remain on the cutting edge of issues in higher education and society at large that will have an impact on member campuses. AASCU comprises 430 public colleges and universities in the United States, and in Guam, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

Millersville University student named to PASSHE Board of Governors

The president of Millersville University of Pennsylvania’s Student Senate has been named to the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education’s Board of Governors. Mackenzie Marie Wrobel of Bloomsburg will join student leaders from Edinboro and Slippery Rock universities of Pennsylvania on the 20-member board, which has overall responsibility for planning and coordinating the development and operation of PASSHE.

Senate confirms Jonathan B. Mack to PASSHE’s Board of Governors

The state Senate has confirmed the appointment of Jonathan B. Mack of Indiana to the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education’s Board of Governors. Mack is an attorney and partner in the firm of Marcus & Mack, P.C., of Indiana. He also is a member of Indiana University of Pennsylvania’s Council of Trustees.

The Washington Center names PASSHE ‘University System of the Year’

The Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars has named the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education its “University System of the Year,” citing the “extraordinary partnership” between The Center and the Commonwealth, which has resulted in hundreds of PASSHE students landing prestigious internships in and around the nation’s capital.

PASSHE universities set eighth straight enrollment record

The Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) experienced the largest total enrollment increase in its more than 26-year history this fall, with nearly 117,000 students taking classes at the 14 universities. The 4,338-student increase over last fall's total marks the 13th consecutive year of higher enrollment and the eighth year in a row of record enrollment for PASSHE. A total of 116,935 full- and part-time students are enrolled in classes this semester. Nearly 90 percent are Pennsylvania residents.

Edinboro, Slippery Rock student leaders named to PASSHE Board of Governors

Student leaders from Edinboro and Slippery Rock universities of Pennsylvania have joined the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education’s Board of Governors. The new student Board members are Jamie Lutz, president of Edinboro University’s Student Government Association, and Nick Barcio, president of Slippery Rock University’s Student Government Association. Both were confirmed by the state Senate after being nominated to serve on the Board by Gov. Edward G. Rendell.

Statewide coalition seeks federal funds to develop broadband network

A broad coalition of colleges and universities, healthcare organizations and economic development entities across Pennsylvania is seeking nearly $100 million in federal funding to build and maintain a broadband network that would greatly expand educational opportunities and healthcare services to millions of residents and thousands of businesses throughout the Commonwealth.

PASSHE universities head into new year bigger and better

Bigger AND better. Those two words sum up the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) as its 14 member universities prepare for the opening of the fall semester Monday. PASSHE universities are expecting an eighth consecutive year of record enrollment, with significant increases in both the number of incoming freshmen and transfer students. At least 10 of the universities—perhaps more—likely will break their own all-time enrollment records.

More "What's Happening "

Higher Education in the News

Once again, East Stroudsburg University sets record for enrollment

East Stroudsburg University has enrolled a record number of students this fall, with 7,576 students attending classes. "The sidewalks are crowded," Robert Dillman, ESU's president, said at a meeting of the Council of Trustees on Thursday.

Couple donates Steinway to Mansfield University

Because she has always loved music, Mansfield alumnus Marcella Hyde-Smith and her husband, Al Smith, donated a new Steinway piano worth $45,000 to the Mansfield University Music Department, in memory of her late first husband, John Hyde.

Higher education still not as costly as not getting one (11/5/09)

The Issue: Increasing expense of getting a higher education makes some people question its value. Our Opinion: An educated work force benefits the degree holders and the area, so start saving early.

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