At Shippensburg University, student success is at the heart of everything we do. Through a student-centered approach that combines academic excellence with hands-on learning, students develop into critical thinkers, problem-solvers, and leaders prepared for an ever-changing world. Opportunities such as the Minds@Work Student Research Conference, the Center for Land Use and Sustainability, the Kriner Hall Entrepreneurship Hub, the Brad E. Hollinger Stock Trading Room, the Fashion Archives and Museum of Shippensburg University, and the Grace B. Luhrs University Elementary School provide unique experiences that connect classroom learning to real-world application. Guided by dedicated faculty mentors and supported by strong alumni and industry connections, students gain the knowledge, skills, and networks needed for lifelong success.
Life at Ship extends far beyond the classroom, with more than 150 student organizations, leadership programs, intramural sports, and a vibrant esports community offering countless opportunities for personal growth, friendship, and engagement. Raider Pride is evident across campus, where students celebrate a tradition of excellence that includes more than 100 championships in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference and the accomplishments of the renowned Shippensburg University Marching Band. More than a university, Ship is a welcoming community that challenges, supports, and inspires students to achieve more than they ever imagined—and once you visit, you'll understand why so many people can picture themselves here.
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Governance
University Leadership
At Shippensburg University, the Executive Management Team (EMT) is the university's senior leadership group. Their primary role is to help set strategy, make major operational decisions, oversee university divisions, and advise the president on university policies and priorities.
Council of Trustees
Overall governance of the University lies in the hands of its Board of Trustees. The trustees select the president, oversee all faculty and senior administrative appointments, monitor the budget, supervise the endowment, and protect University property.
President's Cabinet
Shippensburg University uses a shared governance and organizational effectiveness model that engages students, faculty, and staff in identifying, implementing, and assessing university priorities. The President’s Cabinet advises the President and Executive Management Team, supports communication and collaboration, and helps develop and assess strategic goals and initiatives.
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 a new 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.
Initiatives
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 Entrepreneurship and Innovation, The Mr. and Mrs. Milton K. Morgan III Makerspace, and the Small Business and Development Center (SBDC).
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 our student scholars to participate in faculty-led research, scholarship, and 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 intiatives 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-baseed learning intiatives, and newly launched online programs, Ship is positioned support the workforce needs of Pennsylvania for generations to come.
Franklin Science Center Renovation
The Franklin Science Center renovation has entered phase 2 of the project with completion scheduled in 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.
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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