A College Education: The Great Equalizer for Low- and Middle-Income Students

 

At Commonwealth University, we are proud to serve more than 11,000 undergraduate and graduate students at our campuses in Bloomsburg, Lock Haven, Mansfield, and Clearfield. Our entire CU family works tirelessly to ensure we are providing a world-class education that remains one of the most affordable in Pennsylvania. And for our students from low- and middle-income families, a college education can serve as a powerful equalizer—something to which I can personally attest as a first-generation college student whose life was transformed by access to a college education.

• Access to Better Jobs: College degrees often open doors to higher-paying jobs and careers that might otherwise be inaccessible. For many, obtaining a degree is a significant step up the economic ladder, providing access to professional networks and opportunities that were previously out of reach.
• Acquiring Skills and Knowledge: Higher education equips students with specialized skills and knowledge that are highly valued in the job market. This preparation helps level the playing field so low- and middle-income students can compete with peers from more affluent backgrounds.
• Increased Earning Potential: Education facilitates social mobility by allowing students to improve their economic status and achieve a higher standard of living. A degree often acts as a key credential that helps break the cycle of poverty and provides a pathway to employment and financial stability.
• Expanded Access: Many colleges and universities offer scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs specifically designed to support low- and middle-income students. These financial supports can significantly reduce the burden of tuition and related costs, making higher education more accessible.
• New Points of View: A college education exposes students to diverse perspectives and experiences, fostering a broader understanding of the world. For low- and middle-income students, this exposure can provide valuable insights and skills that enhance their personal and professional growth and perspectives.
• Unparalleled Support: Many institutions offer support services like academic advising, tutoring, and career counseling. These resources can help students navigate their college experience and successfully complete their degrees, which might otherwise be a barrier.
• Powerful Networks: College alumni networks open doors and provide valuable connections and resources that might not be available to those without a degree. These networks often play a crucial role in job placement and career advancement.

Our continued efforts at Commonwealth University to make a college education more accessible and affordable are among our highest priorities. In the past two years, more than a third of the students enrolled at CU are eligible to receive federal PELL grants while nearly a quarter are eligible for state PHEAA grants to help pay for their education. We remain steadfast in our commitment to helping our students maximize all available benefits to ensure affordability is not an obstacle preventing students from enrolling – and thriving –  at CU. 

Celebrating Our CU Graduates

 

As I reflect on this month’s graduation ceremonies for our students graduating from Commonwealth University, I am filled with pride and gratitude. My colleagues and I joined with the friends, families and supporters of our graduates to celebrate their academic accomplishments, dedication, and persistence. We are immensely proud! 

I am pleased to share a few of the thoughts and well-wishes that I had the honor of sharing with our graduates on commencement day.

The Journey

Each student’s journey is unique to them. But all share the commonality of reaching this milestone together as the class of 2024. This pivotal moment is only possible because of your hard work, grit, and perseverance. Without the support of loved ones and mentors today would not be possible. Cherish the friendships you forged and relish in the moment. Take time to reflect, celebrate, and be proud of what you have accomplished. Along the way, each of the experiences you’ve faced on your journey has shaped you into the person you are today – ready to step into the world with confidence and purpose.

Embrace the Future

As you embark on the next chapter of your life, know that the world is full of opportunities waiting for you to seize. Whether you’re continuing your education, starting a new job, or taking some time to find your path, embrace each moment with an open mind and a courageous heart.

Remember, it’s okay to feel a mix of excitement and uncertainty. Change can be daunting, but it’s also the doorway to growth, adventures, and mountains to climb. Trust in your abilities and the knowledge you’ve gained. You've proven that you can rise to the occasion and overcome any obstacle.

Always stay curious, build connections, embrace failure, and stay True to Yourself.

Congratulations to our 2024 Commonwealth University Graduates

 

The Time is Now: Reflections on Black History Month

 “The time is always right to do what is right.”—Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

As we near the end of Black History Month, I find myself reflecting on the words of several champions of equality. Dr. King was a pioneer of the civil rights movement and a proponent of kindness, empathy, and social justice.  He believed these qualities when pursued together would make our world a more openhearted, fair, and equitable place for all people to pursue their dreams. That was, after all, Dr. King’s central message—that all people should have the right to dream and the freedom to work toward the fulfillment of such dreams.

I am so proud of the efforts of so many passionate Commonwealth University colleagues who embody Dr. King’s message and are continually doing what is right for our students and our community. Over the past month, close to two dozen Black History Month events have taken place across all CU locations. From “Lunch and Learn” events to movie nights, day trips, and speakers, our students have had the opportunity to engage in a wide-ranging offering of events designed to expand their knowledge, understanding, and appreciation for Black History.

The 2024 Sankofa Conference, hosted by the Bloomsburg Multicultural Center, saw students from all CU locations come together to learn more about the rich cultural heritage of people of African descent. Sankofa has long provided a forum for unity and understanding among students. It is heartening to see students from diverse backgrounds come together with a genuine desire to improve their own understanding and thereby begin to foster change in their own lives and communities.

Students from across CU's locations came together for the 2024 Sankofa Conference 

Sankofa is a tremendous example of what is possible when we strive to live by Dr. King’s principles—to endeavor to do what is right and to bring people along on that journey with us. I want to thank our CU students, staff, and faculty for their heartfelt efforts in celebration and recognition of Black History Month. I truly believe that the work we are doing together is making an impact, both in our campus communities and the communities they call home.

Maya Angelou said, “We may encounter defeats, but we must not be defeated.” Progress does not mean perfection and though there may be times when it feels like every step we take forward leads to two steps back, I encourage you to remember the words of Ms. Angelou. When you encounter defeats or experience hardships, when the world is less than kind and injustice seems to prevail, take heart in knowing that you are surrounded by people who care about you and share your values. Take heart in the words and lessons of leaders like Dr. King who kept pushing forward no matter what. And he did so with the support of good, and kind, and caring people who saw the world the same way he did—for all its beauty, possibility and flaws.

As Black History Month comes to an end, my hope is that you will take its lessons and inspiration with you and work to make positive changes through your words and actions. It is truly amazing what can be accomplished when we all make small steps together in the same direction.

Bashar W. Hanna, President 

Students First: CU Launches Strategic Plan

Earlier this month, Commonwealth University’s Council of Trustees formally approved and endorsed the university’s first-ever strategic plan.

The life of a university is marked by many notable milestones. As Commonwealth University continues to grow and evolve, the launch of our first strategic plan is an important accomplishment. I am proud beyond measure of the talented team members who have devoted their time, energy, and talent to the strategic planning process over the past year. Their collaborative efforts have brought forward a long-range plan that is notable for its focus and commitment to putting students first.

Each of the plan’s four strategic priorities is built around the principle that students are at the heart of our mission, goals, and purpose. Not only does the plan lay out measurements of success through well-defined metrics, but each of the plan’s strategic priorities is buoyed by three core commitments that will guide and inform our work well into the future.  

Strategic Plan Priorities ·         Student Success ·         Academic Excellence and Innovation ·         University Success ·         Welcoming and Inclusive Community

Strategic Plan Core Commitments ·         Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging ·         Strategic Communications ·         Thriving Students, Faculty, and Staff

The four priority areas speak to our areas of greatest urgency and significance, starting with student success. As we implement the strategic plan, we will offer inclusive support to meet the needs of all students as we champion initiatives designed to provide meaningful opportunities for career readiness, grow our exemplary and holistic student support services, offer support to graduates as they launch their careers, and embed financial literacy into the learning process. 

The Academic Excellence and Innovation priority focuses on incorporating high-impact practices, accelerated programs, and innovative credentialing opportunities into the educational offerings, as well as investments in both employee professional development and student-faculty engagement to foster innovation and the development of scholarly and creative works that make an impact far beyond the campus community. 

The University Success priority focuses on student enrollment, retention, and graduation rates, as well as employee recruitment and onboarding. It includes the launch of strengthened marketing efforts and fundraising campaigns to support our plan’s progress. 

The Welcoming and Inclusive Community priority seeks to build a culture that embraces change, improves communication across the complex organization, supports the affinity groups that foster a sense of belonging through student organizations, athletics, and other co-curricular programs, and enhances the university’s mutually beneficial relationships with its surrounding communities. 

As we begin the important work of bringing our strategic plan to life, I want to thank our entire strategic planning committee, especially our core team members who have worked tirelessly to lead this process with a robust and bright vision for the future of Commonwealth University and its students. Cori Myers, John Bodenman, and Amy Osborne are to be commended for the yeoman’s work they have done in shepherding the strategic plan from concept to completion.

Dr. Cori Myers, Associate Vice President for Institutional Effectiveness, notes that, “CU engaged in a consultative, data-informed process that identified priorities essential to delivering transformative educational experiences that will be life-changing for our students. The plan emphasizes having a culture that embraces change and an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity of thought and intellectual inquisitiveness.  Work to operationalize the plan currently ensues as all divisions and units have defined actions that will mark definitive progress toward the achievement of key measures of success and excellence.”

“Now that we have a dynamic plan, the most important part lies ahead of us to bring our institutional priorities to life,” shares Assistant Provost Amy Osborne. She says, “The plan is bold and simple, which will allow us to execute with focus and speed.  There is so much we are already doing, but the plan intentionally embraces innovation from the experts across all levels of our new institution.  It will be exciting to see everyone emerge and engage.” 

Dr. John Bodenman, Professor of Environmental, Geographical and Geological Sciences, acknowledges the challenges Commonwealth University has faced in its early stages, but also recognizes the significant achievement in launching our first strategic plan. He says,  “For many of us, aspects of integration have certainly been challenging and difficult, but most surprising to me was how well the students, faculty, staff, coaches, administration, and alumni representatives from each of our four campuses--serving alongside our partners at Blue Beyond—were able to come together as a Committee and create a strategic plan for Commonwealth University that reflects input from our many stakeholder groups--a truly unique experience, and a pleasant surprise indeed!”

Witnessing our university community work through the process of developing a strategic plan and now beginning to bring it to life through dynamic and impactful initiatives has affirmed my belief in the strength and heart of our Commonwealth University family. I look forward to continuing this important journey together in service to our students as we work to ensure a promising future for them.

If you want to learn more about the strategic plan, visit www.commonwealthu.edu/strategic-planning 

Bashar W. Hanna, President 

Celebrating Our 2023 Graduates

 

Earlier this month, I had the privilege of presiding over Commonwealth University’s commencement ceremonies. Over two days, three campuses, and four ceremonies 1,775 graduates walked across the stage to receive their diplomas and begin the next stage of their lives. I am so incredibly proud of the commitment, perseverance, and heart they have shown in earning their degrees. During my remarks to the class of 2023, I shared a favorite quote by Nelson Mandela. He said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to the change the world.”

Our Commonwealth University graduates have the power to do just that. They are a class of world changers and difference makers, willing to work hard, sacrifice, and give back to others. They have overcome much in their journey to a degree. The pandemic marked their academic experience and tested their resolve and resilience. But they did not give up. Surrounded by a caring community of friends, family, professors, and staff, they found the strength to keep going and achieve more than they may have thought possible.

In his address to the Lock Haven graduates, 2023 graduate and student trustee Justin White shared, “Here we are, ready to take on the world, to pursue our dreams, and to make a difference. We may have different paths ahead of us, but we share one thing in common: the determination to succeed.” Justin’s sentiments captured the spirit of this year’s class of Huskies, Mounties, and Bald Eagles; they are a group of ambitious and determined, strong and selfless, caring and creative individuals who are poised to make a difference in everything they do.

My message for the graduating class of 2023, whether you are graduating from high school, college, or have earned an advanced degree is to focus first on the strength of your character and success will follow. As I shared with our Commonwealth U graduates, character is something that you develop over time. Character is built through your experiences, your relationships, and your choices. As you go through life, make choices that will strengthen your character. Choose to be honest, even when it is hard. Choose to be kind, even when it is not reciprocated. Choose to be responsible, even when it is inconvenient. Make choices and stand up for what you believe in, even in the face of adversity. Your unique character is what will guide you through life’s journey. It will set you apart and make you successful in all aspects of your lives. Embrace the choices you make today, for they shape the person you become tomorrow.

Class of 2023, the world needs you and your potential to be extraordinary. I am proud of you. I believe in you. I can’t wait to see all the good you will do for the world. Congratulations!

Mansfield Graduation 

Lock Haven Graduation 

  

   Bloomsburg Graduation 

Bashar W. Hanna, President 

Growing and Giving Back

 

“Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.” These words from Helen Keller epitomize the events taking place across our campuses as we launch into the spring season and the final weeks of the semester.

Spring is a time for growth, and it’s been in full bloom these last few weeks as we’ve all enjoyed the warmth and sunshine the season has brought. Earlier this month, students at Bloomsburg and Lock Haven participated in The Big Event—a campus-wide day of service focused on sending student volunteers out into the community to complete service projects. I’m incredibly proud of the selflessness exhibited by our students and their willingness to give back to the communities our campuses call home. Over 1,000 students took part in The Big Event, making a big impact on the towns of Bloomsburg and Lock Haven. At Mansfield, students rallied together through the annual Paddy Murphy fundraiser to raise $10,000 for a local teacher battling cancer. The campus also hosted Relay for Life this month.

Bloomsburg students at the start of the Big Event 

Lock Haven students filled Jared Boxes during the Big Event 

Mansfield students gather during Paddy Murphy Week

Volunteerism centers around selflessness, and at this busy time of the semester when many priorities compete for our students’ time and attention, it’s inspiring to witness them take a step back to give back. I’m always incredibly proud of our students and their dedication to excelling academically. Our campuses are filled with future leaders who will go on to achieve great things and contribute to their communities in meaningful ways. I have always believed that effective leadership is rooted in servant leadership, which is why it’s so heartening to see our students embracing these principles. Winston Churchill said, “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” Our students are living this truth by doing work that matters, both in and out of the classroom.

We know that our students carry these values with them long after their days on campus. The generosity of our alumni prove it year after year. April has been a month of giving for our proud alumni and supporters as well. They are supporting our students in big ways through the All In Days of Giving, which took place earlier this month and raised over $375,000. These gifts make a tremendous difference in the lives of our students and support valuable initiatives that lead directly to enhanced learning experiences and outcomes for our students.

Growth. Giving Back. In so many ways, this is what the college experience is all about. I often speak about our number one priority at Commonwealth University—student success. As president, it’s incredibly rewarding to see our students grow as individuals in their four years here. It’s even more rewarding to know that the students who came before them are instilling the value of giving back—demonstrating the truest measure of success.

Thank you, sincerely, to every student and supporter for the generosity of spirit and selflessness you have demonstrated this month. Your actions have made a difference in the lives of others!

    Bashar W. Hanna, President

Human Together--Celebrating Black History Month

Nobel Peace Prize winner Desmond Tutu said, “My humanity is bound up in yours, for we can only be human together.” As we embark on Black History Month, let us find opportunities to recognize our shared humanity—our histories, personal stories, and struggles. The more we learn about one another, the more we uncover about ourselves.   

 Each of our Commonwealth University locations will host a number of Black History Month events. I encourage everyone in our community to attend and engage in these events on your campus—they serve as meaningful avenues to engage, learn, and grow. Thank you to the students, faculty, and staff who have made these opportunities possible.

Commonwealth University Black History Month Events 

Bloomsburg   

February 6^th—30^th Annual Martin Luther King Jr Commemorative Celebration
6:00pm, Carver Hall

February 9^th –The AME church and Local Black History
4:30pm, Multicultural Center, Room 230, Kehr Union Building

February 15^th—Black History Resources: Why they Matter
3:00pm, Multicultural Center, Room 230, Kehr Union Building
The workshop will Describe how State Historic Preservation Offices treat Black Heritage Resource and Explore differences between states and regions in how these resources are treated.  Recommend how to improve the management of Black cultural resources and consultation. Discuss together how to engage Black stakeholders better across the United States and its territories in the management of their Heritage Resources.

Saturday February 18—28^th Annual Sankofa Conference: "The Multipliers: A Trauma-informed approach to leadership," 
11:00am, Kehr Union Ballroom
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Nathaniel Woods Jr. special assistant to the President for Inclusion Transformation at Pennsylvania College of Technology
Registration is required. Please use link to register: https://www.bloomu.edu/sankofa-conference

Thursday February 23— 2023 Black Wall Street
6:00pm, Kehr Union Building Multi A
Come and support black business during Black wall street as black businesses showcase their products or services. 

Lock Haven

Feb. 7^th – Black History Gallery Opening in the RDLMC 

The saying goes, "a picture is worth a thousand words." In this context, the Black History Gallery has PLENTY to say.  The gallery will be a testament to the contributions of African Americans on a national and local level.

Feb. 8th – Black History Month Celebration
6:30pm,  PUB MPR 
Join the Black Student Union and the Robert and Dolores Lynch Multicultural Center as they celebrate the achievements of African Americans and recognize significant events that impacted US history.  All are welcome, dinner will be provided!

Feb. 15th – “LHU Black History Panel - Focus on the 1970s”
7:00pm, Price Auditorium
The panel is a phenomenal opportunity for members of the Lock Haven University (LHU) community to learn more about LHU history from the perspective of African American graduates. Panelists will share prospective and insights from their time at LHU. 

Feb. 23rd – Hip Hop and R&B Playlist Bingo
7:00 pm, PUB MPR 
Hip Hop and R&B Playlist Bingo is a high-energy take on classic bingo.  It draws from participants’ knowledge of hits from musical artists like Alicia Keys, Usher, TLC, Ludacris and more. Just try not to dance along! Participants are ready to play with just their phone and a tablet or laptop. Customized Hip Hop R&B Playlist Bingo card are provided.  Players will sing along to their favorite songs while they mark off the artist on their Hip Hop R&B Playlist Bingo card. The first person to line up five in a row wins!  All are welcome!  Cash prizes will be awarded! 

Feb. 28th -“Why DEI Is Not Enough: Using the Inclusive Excellence Framework to Create and Sustain a Culture of Belonging”
6:30pm, PUB MPR 
Presented by Dr. Shavonne Shorter Associate Provost for Equity and Inclusion, Chief Diversity Officer, and Associate Professor in the Department of Communication and Digital Studies – During this presentation, Dr. Shorter will examine the importance of an Inclusive Excellence Framework in growing and sustaining a diverse and inclusive learning, living, and working environment that has belonging at its core.

Mansfield

Feb. 9^th I Have a Dream: Vision Board Night
5:00pm, Alumni 307
Pizza and supplies provided.

Feb. 16^th—Epic Rap Battles of History
7:00pm, The Hut

Feb. 21^st—Black History Trivia
7:00pm, The Hut

Feb 22^nd—Mysteries, Murder, and Your Mom Podcast presents the MLK Assassination
4:30pm, Alumni 307

Feb. 23^rd—Lunch and Learn: The Underground Railroad in Tioga County
11:30am, Alumni 317
Now leaving for Lawrenceville, The Underground Railroad in Tioga County: What we can learn from Harriet Tubman. Presented by Phillip Hesser, Ph.D. Light refreshments provided. 

 

 

    Bashar W. Hanna, President