Several state-owned universities plan for in-person activities in the fall

"We are optimistic that we can offer more in-person classes and a campus experience that allows us to work, live and learn together.”

• Julia Agos/WITF
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  Julia Agos was a reporter and the host of All Things Considered for WITF.

(Harrisburg) – At least six state-owned universities are moving to return to pre-pandemic instruction for the fall semester.

Of the 14 schools in the of Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, Clarion, California, Edinboro, West Chester, East Stroudsburg and Kutztown are slated to bring back more in-person learning and activities.

Kutztown Vice President of University Relations Matt Santos says administrators will continue to watch levels of community spread and access to vaccines, as the start of the academic year approaches in August.

“The recent lifting of some of the restrictions by the governor, along with some of the downward (infection) trends and the vaccine give us hope we can have much more of a traditional experience for our students in the fall,” Santos said.

Kutztown, which is in Berks County, is strongly encouraging students and staff to get vaccinated before they return to campus for the fall semester.

PSSHE school leaders say they will continue to follow public health guidance on what measures to keep in place – like masking and testing.

Clarion University President Dr. Dale-Elizabeth Pehrsson said she is proud of the community’s diligence with mitigation measures and creativity with online learning.

“Our students and colleagues have been exemplary in their attention to safety protocols, and our students have shown determination to push forward toward their degrees,” she said in a statement. “Fall 2021 will be a time of renewed energy and excitement on campus.”

After several outbreaks on PSSHE campuses last the fall, California University of Pennsylvania is calling the start of the spring semester a success. Interim President Robert Thorn said they will adjust their plans if conditions of the pandemic change.

“Because our spring semester has gotten off to a strong start, we are optimistic that we can offer more in-person classes and a campus experience that allows us to work, live and learn together,” Thorn said.

The schools hope to offer more extensive face-to-face classes, a full season of athletics and in person extracurriculars like clubs and academic teams.

“The prospects really look bright at this point. I think we are starting to see the point when things can really turn the corner. I think we are all hopeful, not just in higher education, but in all fields,” Santos said.