Six universities in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education that officials intend to combine by fall 2022 would retain their names and identities after the move, according to the latest version of the proposal, although they'd be accredited as two distinct entities. PASSHE officials are also seeking to keep athletics programs functioning at the six universities, pending NCAA approval, as a way to further preserve their brands. The system has endured major enrollment losses in the last decade or so, and the health crisis has only aggravated its financial predicament.
