CLARION, Pa. (EYT) — The possibility of retrenchment at Clarion University is on the table after Clarion APSCUF (Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties) formally received a retrenchment letter from Clarion administration March 31.

A similar letter was also received at some other universities in the State System of Higher Education during recent weeks.

“The letter means that there is the possibility of retrenchment,” replied Clarion APSCUF President Ray Feroz to members in an email. “This does not mean that faculty will be retrenched, but that it could happen. Be assured that your faculty union will work tirelessly to ensure that such faculty retrenchment does not happen to any of our colleagues.”

In an official statement Monday morning, Clarion University emphasized that the letter was a required step as part of the union collective bargaining agreement, and no decisions have been made.

“There have been no decisions made; there are no programs or number of positions which are under consideration,” according to the statement.  “This letter is an agreed-upon step in the faculty union collective bargaining agreement which requires system universities to provide what amounts to at least a full academic year’s notice if there is the possibility that a position is being considered for elimination. This letter doesn’t mean any positions will be retrenched, but the universities are obligated by the contract to give notice if the possibility exists and engage the faculty union in exploring alternatives to retrenching faculty.”

The official statement went on to state, “Clarion University continually reviews programs to ensure that academic credentials are aligned with the interests of our students and the employer needs of the region and commonwealth.   With nearly 80 percent of our students choosing Clarion University for our academic offerings in professional preparation programs in business, education, health sciences, and the arts and sciences, our credentials continue to evolve to meet those needs working within our resources.” 

“While this process allows us to make necessary institutional changes in a thoughtful, deliberate way, these changes can also affect people, and any decisions which may impact academic programs and our employees will not be taken lightly.”