SSHE is working on what it is able to change

The editorial “System Redesign: The State Universities Need More Than Funding” (Oct. 21) correctly points out the need for change within Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education. However, it incorrectly asserts that the system is reluctant to embrace such change.

In fact, we seek significant change as codified through a resolution last week adopting three priorities for achievement: 1) ensuring student success; 2) leveraging university strengths; and 3) transforming the leadership and governance structure. For each of these, we will measure progress toward outcomes.

Already, our universities are student-success centered, and our goal will be that every student graduates in a timely manner with a “plan.” Our 14 universitieshave unique strengths that — through greater collaboration — can provide a value proposition for the commonwealth well into the future. And we are implementing best practices to move the board from compliance to strategy and empower our leaders to strengthen the universitiesand the system.

The board cannot change its own composition and structure. The board is established in statute, and to change it would require legislative action. However, we are identifying potential changes that would treat our system less like a state agency and more like the higher education entity it is.

Evenas we explore these longterm options, we are immediately pressing forward on the things under our control. Over the coming weeks and months, we will take action to advance each of our three priorities as we seek to optimally serve our studentsand the commonwealth. CYNTHIA D. SHAPIRA Chair, Board of Governors

State System of Higher Education

Harrisburg