Open Letter to the Cheyney University Community

Dear Cheyney University Community,  

As you know, just days before Thanksgiving, the Middle States Commission on Higher Education placed Cheyney University of Pennsylvania on probation with respect to its accreditation, claiming Cheyney was out of compliance with a number of the Commission’s standards. Not only was the action unexpected, it is deeply troubling to the System and especially to the Cheyney University community because — under President Walton’s leadership — Cheyney has made so much progress addressing challenges that nearly brought this proud and vital institution to its knees only a few years ago.  

Cheyney University is engaged in one of the most remarkable turnarounds in U.S. higher education today. The university’s progress is readily apparent in data on student enrollments and progression, and on its financial condition, all of which have improved over the past few years. It is also apparent in recent reviews conducted by two of Middle States’ own visiting teams, — both of which reported that Cheyney University appears to be in compliance with Middle States standards. 

While decisions taken by the Commission are necessarily made in private, when they overturn recommendations made by the Commission’s own visiting teams — without explanation — they raise concerns and questions that we trust Middle State will address as it considers President Walton’s request for reconsideration. Specifically, we echo the letter’s request that the Commission consider alternative responses before probationary status. We wonder why the Commission did not chose other tools in its toolbox. For example, it could have asked for more information, or issued a report requiring Cheyney to improve performance in selected areas, or issued a “warning” requiring Cheyney’s attention to specific issues.

Now, more than ever, we need to lock arms with, invest in, grow, and evolve our historically black colleges and universities ensuring that they survive and thrive into the 21st century. We have traveled together on this journey and admire the grit, the passion, and the determination you have embodied in pursuit of the mission. You are re-invigorating Cheyney University and succeeding in doing so against the stiffest odds. 

We feel privileged to be your partners and are tremendously proud of what you have accomplished, not simply in these recent and most trying years, but since the university’s founding in 1837. Please know that we are with you one hundred percent on this journey, standing shoulder to shoulder as — together  — we build an even brighter future for Cheyney and for our nation.  

Through all of this, we hope you will consider two things: first, take advantage of the forthcoming holidays to rest and restore. The work we are engaged in for Cheyney is hard, and it is demanding intellectually, emotionally, and even physically. We admire how you approach it with purpose, determination, and even with joy, but the strain is real. This is a marathon, not a sprint. So please look after yourselves.  

Second, please find a moment to reflect on and take pride in your accomplishments.  

Thank you for everything you do for Cheyney University and its students. Your work is as essential as it is impactful for our System, our commonwealth, and our country.

With admiration,

Cindy Shapira, Board of Governors Chair

Dan Greenstein, Chancellor