Charles E. Patterson, PhD
18th President of Shippensburg University
Welcome to Shippensburg University.
Serving as President of Shippensburg University is both a privilege and a responsibility I value deeply. What I appreciate most about Ship is the commitment to our university community. Our faculty and staff care deeply about our students; our students bring energy and purpose to our campus; and our alumni and partners continue to strengthen the University in meaningful ways.
My focus as President is straightforward: to help ensure Shippensburg remains a strong, student-centered university prepared for the future. That means advancing academic quality, supporting student success, managing our resources responsibly, investing in our people and facilities, building stronger partnerships, and creating new opportunities for innovation and growth.
I believe strongly in the value of public higher education and in Shippensburg’s role in serving our students, our region, and the Commonwealth. Our best work is accomplished when we remain focused on our mission, willing to adapt, and confident about what this University can become. I invite you to learn more about our priorities, our leadership, and the work underway across Ship.
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Major Initiatives and Investments
Kriner Hall Renovation
Shippensburg University was awarded a $700,000 grant from US Housing and Urban Development in support of a renovation project to transform Kriner Hall into an entrepreneurial and innovation hub. The grant was awarded with the support of Congressman John Joyce, MD. The former dining hall is set to become the new home of the already established Charles H. Diller Jr. Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership and Innovation, The Mr. and Mrs. Milton K. Morgan III Makerspace, and the Small Business Development Center (SBDC).
Franklin Science Center Renovation
The Franklin Science Center renovation has entered phase 2 of the project with completion scheduled for the summer of 2027. Built in 1970, the building serves as home to the Biology, Chemistry, and Psychology Departments. Once completed, this building will continue to prepare students entering a variety of in-demand scientific fields. With access to modern classrooms, meeting spaces, state-of-the-art equipment, and more, Ship students will stand out in the workforce because of the hands-on experiences this facility will provide.
Presidential Priorities
Research and Creative Works
Engagement in research and creative activities is a crucial and transformative part of the higher education experience. Shippensburg University has a rich history of providing meaningful opportunities for student scholars to participate in faculty-led research, scholarship, creative projects, and to showcase their work across many academic disciplines. As a former undergraduate biochemistry researcher, I can personally attest to the lasting value of opportunities like Minds@Work and other Ship initiatives in preparing students for advanced study and refining their ability to communicate and defend their research and scholarship.
Expanding Our Impact
As the region we serve grows and changes, we must grow and change with it. This means offering flexible and online learning modalities, credit and non-credit professional development pathways, and customized educational options for employers to advance their workforce. Through the Office of Workforce Development, work-based learning initiatives, and newly launched online programs, Ship is positioned to support the workforce needs of Pennsylvania for generations to come.
Strategic Planning Process
Designed to foster student success, Shippensburg University’s Strategic Plan 2021-2024 remains in place as the guiding document until the implementation of a new plan. The university is currently working toward the implementation of the 2026-2031 Strategic Plan and we look forward to sharing this important next chapter for Shippensburg University soon.
Its fundamental tenets, discerned by a collaborative process that involved stakeholders across the entire campus community and beyond, will be embodied in next steps that include learning sessions, facilitated workshops, and external socialization to catalyze engagement during this implementation phase.
Governance
University Leadership
Shippensburg University's executive leaders work collaboratively with the President to advance the University's mission, strategic priorities, and commitment to student success. Each leader provides executive oversight for a defined area of University operations while contributing to institution-wide planning, decision-making, and stewardship.
Council of Trustees
As a member of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education, Shippensburg University’s Council of Trustees provides local oversight and guidance, advises on the appointment and evaluation of the president, reviews and approves budget recommendations and academic programs, provides input on institutional facilities and property, and serves as an important link between the University and the communities it serves.
President's Cabinet
The President's Cabinet is a broad-based advisory body that supports communication, consultation, and coordination on matters of university-wide importance. Chaired by the President, Cabinet brings together executive leaders, academic leaders, key administrators, representatives of shared governance and employee groups, and student leaders. Cabinet provides a forum to share information, consider institutional priorities, identify issues that cross organizational areas, and strengthen coordination across the University. Its work complements the University's established governance structures and the executive responsibilities of the President and Executive Management Team.
President's Leadership Academy
The President’s Leadership Academy (PLA) is dedicated to fostering, promoting and supporting leadership and professional development among Shippensburg University’s faculty and staff. Through PLA, participants will enhance their capacity to strengthen the university’s identity, culture, and long-term success. It provides continuous executive-level professional development opportunities, empowering faculty and staff to implement innovative strategies that align with and advance Shippensburg University’s mission and vision.
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