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. 

A Message to Commonwealth University Students

 

As the end of August nears, Commonwealth University is off and running in its second academic year. Last week we were thrilled to welcome our students to campus and witness the successful start of classes.  As President, I am eager to see the achievements our students will realize this year under the mentorship and guidance of our dedicated faculty and staff.

To our students—whether you are beginning your first year of college or are returning to campus—I ask you to pursue your dreams with all your energy. The beginning of a new school year is full of promise and possibility. The university holds the promise of exceptional academic experiences and the possibilities offered by extracurricular activities designed to position you for success. It’s up to you to turn possibilities into opportunities.

I have no doubt that every Commonwealth U student has the potential to graduate and go on to make a real difference in the world, no matter what degree you choose to pursue. That is why we want your time as Huskies, Bald Eagles, and Mounties to be rich with learning and growth. I encourage you to fill your time at Commonwealth U with new experiences. Don’t be afraid to push past your comfort zone, reach for unexpected goals, and boldly imagine your path for the future. The world needs your talent, your perspective, and your unique gifts.

Students walk to class at CU-Lock Haven

As educators, your faculty and staff are here to do all we can to support, encourage, and challenge you on the path to success. We always encourage students to reach out for help when you need it. It’s true that we do all we can to support you. But let me also urge you to seek out ways to get involved. Ask your professors how you can enhance your academic experience through research, field experiences, or internships.

CU-Mansfield ushered in the start of the semester with a Convocation Ceremony 

Your college years can change and shape your life. They will provide you with new perspectives, expand your horizons, and help you envision how your unique talents can change the world. I hope you will make good on the Commonwealth U promise by developing a lifelong love for learning and a passion for excellence in all that you do. Get involved on campus through our many clubs and organizations. Try something new. Join your campus student government association. Attend an athletic event and cheer on your fellow students. Get to know the local community your campus calls home. Explore the experiences for networking and personal growth available through Professional U.

Students pause for a photo during the first day of classes at CU-Bloomsburg 

Your college years are what you make them—so make the most of them!

Our campuses are filled with future leaders and changemakers who will go on to make an impact in their communities by using the lessons they learned, the skills they gained, the connections they made, and the opportunities they seized as Commonwealth U students.

I believe in you. And I wish you a wonderful year ahead.

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

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Our Campuses Rally Support

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month.  Worldwide during the month of October, people show their support and raise awareness for individuals affected by Breast Cancer.

This year, the National Breast Cancer Foundation embraces the theme RISE, or Rally in Screening Everyone to encourage and ensure that every individual has access to life saving screenings and support. Currently, breast cancer represents 15% of all new cancer cases in the US. Due to early detection, breast cancer fatality rates have decreased by 40% since 1986, which is why it’s so important to continue to raise awareness for screening and early detection.

Across our campuses, our students and campus communities demonstrate their support for Breast Cancer Awareness through a number of events and fundraising opportunities. Athletic teams across the campuses held Pink Out events to support the cause, giving attendees opportunities to donate, don pink ribbons, and receive information about Breast Cancer awareness month.

Zeta Tau Alpha at Lock Haven organized a Pink Week filled with activities aimed at raising awareness and support for those affected by Breast Cancer. The group took their advocacy to the local community with a Spike Out Breast Cancer Volleyball game at nearby Central Mountain High School to pass out pink ribbons and collect donations.

At Bloomsburg, over 300 students participated in the 20^th annual Breast Cancer Walk on Sunday, October 9. So far, students have collected over $3,000 to benefit Breast Cancer awareness, and will be continuing to accept donations until the end of the month. 

This month, Mansfield Football and Field Hockey teams held Pink-Out games, and Women’s Soccer hosted a tripleheader Pink Out. The events rallied support for an important cause.

Thank you to our students and campus community for their support and advocacy during Breast Cancer Awareness month. One of the things I’m most proud of is the way our university community rallies together to care for one another. By raising awareness for issues that affect us all, we can help to ensure the health and vitality of our university family.

    Bashar W. Hanna, President

A Historic Time for Public Higher Education

 

As we near the end of August and the summer begins to slip away, those of us in higher education see this time of year as a new beginning. Our students have returned to campus, and the air has filled with equal parts excitement and anticipation.

For our new students, this is the beginning of a life-changing journey. No other transition in life is as transformative as the start of a collegiate career. Remarkable opportunities await and I urge our students to make the most of them. For our returning students, arriving back on campus should feel like a homecoming. They are being reunited with friends, professors, and valued staff members as they move ever closer to their goal of graduating.

That goal of graduation rests at the heart of our mission as educators. I’m encouraged to witness the trajectory we’re taking in Pennsylvania in support of our students and their future success. This is a historic time for public higher education in Pennsylvania. The past few months have seen both a first-of-its-kind integration of public institutions and record investment by the legislature in our state-owned universities. The unprecedented 16% increase in the State System’s appropriation signifies the state’s support of the power and promise of public higher education in Pennsylvania.

We at Commonwealth University are paving the way for bold ideas and collaborations as we embark on a new path that unites three historic institutions—Bloomsburg, Lock Haven, and Mansfield. Individually, these schools carry storied legacies of educating students, serving their communities, and preparing tomorrow’s leaders. Together, as Commonwealth University, we will offer students increased access to a broader range of academic programs, opportunities for experiential learning and research, keeping an eye to affordability, while promising a high-quality education powered by high-impact practices. Students graduating from Commonwealth University, many of whom stay and work in the region, will be prepared to enter the workforce and make an immediate impact in their careers and communities.

This season of new beginnings is brimming with possibility and promise, and I hope that, like me, you’re eager to join the journey.

Bashar W. Hanna, President 

Student Athletes move in at Lock Haven

Bloomsburg students are all smiles walking across campus 

Move in day at Mansfield 

    Bashar W. Hanna, President

Welcome to the Class of 2023!

Nothing excites those of us in higher education more than the arrival of first-year students to campus during the summer months. For four days in June and another three in July, Bloomsburg University’s Class of 2023 spent time on campus for our summer orientation sessions.

These sessions provided our students a critical opportunity to take those first steps from their high school days to their college years. Our colleagues in student affairs work hard throughout the year to prepare for these sessions and ensure that they are both informative and fun — a big thank you to our staff members and all student volunteers for their efforts on behalf of the incoming class.

To the Class of 2023, welcome to BU! We look forward to great things from you, and I know you are ready for the challenges and opportunities ahead. With grit and determination, you will show those who may have doubted you in the past to watch what you can accomplish at BU.

You’re ready to thrive and excel, and inspire those who follow in your path. I also encourage you to get involved with the many clubs and activities at BU. We offer countless opportunities for you to explore and develop as a person in and out of the classroom. Don’t sit back and be a follower — be a Husky and lead the pack!

To parents and guardians of the BU Class of 2023, you have done your part to prepare your child for the next four years. You have instilled in them the character and confidence to meet all challenges head-on. Watch what they can unleash in the years ahead.

Again, welcome to the Class of 2023 and Go Huskies!

Bashar W. Hanna
President