A special message from PTC to the College Community in response to local media reporting
(OAKDALE, Pa., January 8, 2024) – After gaining access to a standard, internal audit, several Pittsburgh-based media outlets have published sensational, negative reports.
First and foremost, Pittsburgh Technical College remains fully accredited and has no plans to close.
Every year, after the fiscal year ends on June 30, PTC’s independent auditor does a full and detailed review of our College. It is also standard operating practice to regularly evaluate all potential operating/financial models that would allow us to strengthen our mission and educational services, ultimately for the continued success of current and future students.
Nearly every college and university across the U.S. is currently dealing with stagnant enrollment that began prior to the global pandemic, then slowed as a result of the global pandemic, as well as increasing costs. At PTC, we are no exception. We inherited $50 million in debt from the previous administration, while we have reduced our debt by $10 million since 2019, we still have more work to do. We are actively focused on developing and implementing strategies to improve both enrollment and retention of students. Such strategies include expanding outreach to high schools and CTCs, creating additional dual credit pathways, and developing a strategic enrollment management plan to guide improvements.
We do not take for granted that we are educating the next generation of workers in Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas. We are excited for the New Year and all that it will bring to this amazing institution and its students. Pittsburgh Technical College has a comprehensive strategy in place and must remain focused, not become distracted, target enrollment increases as our primary goal, remove any barriers to this outcome, and simultaneously continue to identify additional resources. Now and forever, our focus remains our current and future students.
We are open for business. We are not closing our doors. Let’s show the world what the #PTCmagic is all about.
Media Contact
Suzanne Basista
suzanne@kirkpat.com