At Shippensburg University, everyone is always seen as a whole person. We’re a student-centered university that takes a hands-on approach to supporting all members of the campus family.
We value our community feel. It’s evident from our small class sizes, the passion from our strong alumni network, the personalized attention our students receive and the positive impact we have in our town, state and region. Together, we are a close-knit group of lifelong learners.
Beyond the classroom, our students have plenty of access to faculty and staff, as well as unique opportunities and resources. Many of them are right here on campus such as the Center for Land Use and Sustainability, the Brad E. Hollinger Stock Trading Room, the Fashion Archives and Museum of Shippensburg University and the Grace B. Luhrs University Elementary School, the only public elementary lab school in the state. Given our location at the center of the East Coast's major metropolitan areas, our students also have plenty of opportunities to explore all the region has to offer.
University Mission
Shippensburg University's vision is to make our world better by inspiring and equipping students to make transformative contributions. Its mission is driven by purpose and truly collaborative engagement, our inclusive educational institution fosters belonging, honors proven practices, and celebrates achievements for the betterment of our communities.
University History
Shippensburg University celebrated its sesquicentennial in 2021, marking 150 years since the humble founding of the Cumberland Valley State Normal School. Across the diverse range of memories and milestones, tales of resiliency continue to be the wind that guides our Ship forward.
Office of the President
Charles E. Patterson, PhD
Information about the current Shippensburg University president, Shippensburg University Governance including leadership, major initiatives and investments, Presidential priorities, and the strategic planning process information can be found in the Office of the President section.
Administrative Offices and Departments
Shippensburg University's various offices and departments are always ready to provide assistance. Department contact information is linked below. Or browse our directory to find more specific contact information.
Accessibility Statement
Shippensburg University is committed to providing a website that is accessible to everyone. To further this commitment, we are using Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.2, Level AA, which provides standards for making web content more accessible for all visitors, including people with disabilities.
Sustainability
Shippensburg University is committed to making university life more sustainable. That’s why we have so many projects, practices, events and learning experiences aimed at achieving this goal.
Ship Votes
ShipVotes is a non-partisan coalition of students, faculty, staff, and administrators at Shippensburg University. We work to maximize electoral participation among Shippensburg University students, and more broadly to boost active democratic engagement through civic education.