In February, Penn State University announced plans to close some of its 19 branch campuses due to declining enrollments, demographic shifts and financial pressures.

The university noted that its largest branch campuses — Abington, Altoona, Behrend, Berks, Brandywine, Harrisburg and Lehigh Valley — would remain open.

But the future of 12 others were in question.

Among them were campuses in Hazleton and Schuylkill Haven.

Soon after the announcement, state legislators asked the public whether they supported the closure of the local campuses.

Thousands answered, with 96% opposed to the closures.

In April, lawmakers, students, educators, employers and concerned citizens gathered at the Schuylkill campus to share their opposition to closing the facility. Approximately 625 full- and part-time students attend classes at that campus.

During the discussion, state Sen. David Argall said closing the campus would be a “catastrophe” for not only students, but for those who live in the region. The campus was also the only one that saw an increase in enrollment between 2020 and 2024.

A similar roundtable discussion was held at the Hazleton campus, where there are about 525 full- and part-time students, later that month.

In late May, Penn State announced that it would close seven campuses after the spring 2027 semester. Hazleton and Schuylkill Haven were spared, but campuses in DuBois, Fayette, Mont Alto, New Kensington, Shenango, Wilkes-Barre and York were not.

“Our objective is to redefine how we approach our land-grant mission, and our Commonwealth Campuses are integral to that vision,” said Penn State President Neeli Bendapudi. “This recommendation will allow our campuses to remain strong, competitive and responsive to the needs of students, employers and communities, even in times of great change in higher education, and in the face of demographic realities.”

Penn State also plans to keep open its Abington, Altoona, Beaver, Behrend, Berks, Brandywine, Great Valley, Greater Allegheny, Harrisburg, Lehigh Valley and Scranton campuses.

Since the official decision was made, meetings on the future of Penn State Hazleton and Schuylkill have been held.

During a legislative roundtable discussion on the future of the Hazleton campus, Sen. Lynda Schlegel Culver, R-27, said that the commonwealth campus is an important part of the community’s future.

“Our focus now is making sure the campus remains strong by preparing students for the workforce and meeting the needs of local employers,” Culver said. “With continued collaboration and support, we can help ensure this campus remains a place of opportunity for both students and the region it serves.”