President calls on Penn Staters to contact legislators in light of budget delay

Eric J. Barron, president of Penn State

Eric J. Barron, president of Penn State.

Credit: Michelle Bixby

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State President Eric Barron is asking the University community to write to their legislators in light of the extended state budget stalemate in Harrisburg. To get involved, visit http://www.cqrcengage.com/psu/SpeakUp.

One of the hallmarks of Penn State’s partnership with the Commonwealth has been an annual appropriation, which directly benefits thousands of Pennsylvania families by keeping tuition rates lower for Pennsylvania students. However, as state leaders continue to negotiate a revenue package to fund the Commonwealth’s operations, the state’s ability to fund Penn State and its fellow public institutions of higher education has come into question.

Absent a state appropriation, Barron indicated that the in-state tuition rate would be in jeopardy, and the University’s ability to conduct vital research and provide extension education and health services for the Commonwealth’s citizens would be compromised.

President Barron is encouraging Penn State community members to speak up for Penn State funding. To read his full message, click here.