Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education Interim Chancellor Fiorentino sent a message this evening to employees in the State System regarding President Trump’s executive order signed today seeking to eventually close the U.S. Department of Education.
In his message (below), Interim Chancellor Fiorentino talks about the process and notes that primary functions of the Department, including financial aid, would remain within the U.S. Department of Education.
We have no information to indicate that there would be any disruption to ongoing university processes and business, including your financial aid, as result of this executive order.
If you have questions and concerns, please work through the appropriate IUP office, or talk with your Navigator to help you to find the information and resources that you need.
Thomas Segar
Vice President for Student Affairs
Dear PASSHE Colleagues:
Today, President Trump issued an executive order seeking to eventually close the U.S. Department of Education — a lengthy process that requires the consent of Congress. The administration indicates that primary functions (including financial aid) would remain within the department, but other functions could be moved to other agencies or discontinued.
As stated in my message last month, our first step is to gather the facts. Executive orders such as this do not have the force of law; rather, they guide federal agency operations within the limits of established laws.
There is no action required of us at this time; we remain focused on serving our students and our communities.
Sincerely,
Chris Fiorentino
Interim Chancellor