PennWest University has a new president... They hired Dr Jon Anderson for the position. The new role in leadership comes while enrollment is down 22% since the merger of California, Clarion and Edinboro universities.

With decades of experience in education, Dr. Jon Anderson is ready to tackle on his newest role as president of PennWest, by making it about more than just getting a degree.

"We have a clear message and that is; higher education is a way to transform perspectives, to build minds, to shape futures and prepare people for meaningful careers," Anderson said. "And to make meaningful contributions in the communities they serve."

During Anderson's time at Southern Utah University he saw student enrollment grow by nearly 3,000, he knows the importance of getting the numbers at PennWest back to the near 10,000 they merged at in 2021

"Come to PennWest, come have that transformational experience. Come get the preparation you need to make the difference you hope to," Anderson said. "And they (students) will leave here, better and better to transform the places they work and serve."

There are multiple demolition sites on Edinboro's campus right now, with the goal to enhance student experience.

"That will mean on occasion like you have seen on this campus, removing some old spaces," Anderson said. "It will also mean adding new spaces. But the question will always be; how can we deliver the ultimate student experience for every student that trusts us with their educational journey?"

Anderson wanted to make sure that everyone knows; "PennWest is here, it is here to stay. It is going to continue to get stronger, it is going to continue to get larger," he added. "The impact of PennWest will build on those three rich histories for decades to come.