Penn State’s regional campuses in Northeastern Pennsylvania are on the verge of transformation under the leadership of Menah Pratt, a seasoned academic with a diverse background in education and leadership.
Recently appointed as the regional chancellor for Penn State’s Hazleton, Scranton, and Wilkes-Barre campuses, Pratt is committed to fostering growth and community engagement.
Pratt brings an impressive resume, including five advanced degrees, a background in professional tennis, and expertise as a classically trained pianist. Her recent role as vice president for strategic affairs at Virginia Tech further underscores her credentials.
“I moved here. I packed up all my boxes. I unpacked all my boxes, so I’m here to stay. I’m here to do the work,” Pratt said. “I’m committed to the region, and I’m committed to the mission of a land-grant university. I’m committed to actualizing the potential of the region.”
Community Engagement and Campus Growth
Pratt’s arrival at Penn State comes as the university plans to close its Wilkes-Barre campus, with efforts now focused on expanding the Hazleton and Scranton campuses. The decision follows the board of trustees’ previous considerations to close these campuses, prompting community involvement to keep them open.
During her first 50 days, Pratt has attended over 350 meetings, engaging with stakeholders who advocated to preserve the campuses. At a recent community breakfast held at the Hazleton campus, Joseph Clifford, chairman of the Penn State Hazleton advisory board, emphasized the community’s role, stating, “Were it not for the community, I’m going to tell you, I don’t think we’d be here.”
Vision for Leadership and Education
Pratt envisions the establishment of the Penn State Northeast Regional Leadership Academy, aimed at cultivating leaders who blend technological acumen with humanistic values. The academy will focus on STEAM education, offering tracks in business and healthcare, and engaging high school students, college students, and professionals.
“Higher education has always been a powerful partner in helping our communities adapt to the evolving challenges in society,” Pratt noted. “This moment requires developing leaders and learners at all levels who understand technology and AI and other complex intelligence systems.”
The academy’s initiatives may include pre-college summer programs and dual-enrollment courses for high school students, as well as adult leadership programs, fostering a regional “learning ecosystem” through collaboration with local campuses and the Penn State LaunchBox.
Adapting to Change
The closure of the Wilkes-Barre campus, scheduled for the spring of 2027, is a significant transition for the community. The Penn State Board of Trustees voted to sell the campus to a developer, with plans to expand a neighboring golf club and establish an event center.
Pratt, who has experienced similar transitions during her tenure at Virginia Tech, is prepared to guide the community through this change, drawing on her experience with the closure of programs she founded.
Her extensive background includes leadership roles at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and Vanderbilt University, along with a rich academic portfolio in sociology, law, and literary studies.
Building Connections
Pratt’s leadership journey involves frequent travels between the Scranton and Hazleton campuses, fostering connections and gaining insights into the region’s unique character. Her efforts include learning about local history and engaging with community leaders to enhance Penn State’s impact in the area.
Mary Malone, president of the Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce, expressed optimism, stating, “Menah was the perfect pick for our community. She has hit the ground running, has great ideas.”
Pratt’s initiatives aim to strengthen Penn State’s role in the local economy and community development, with the forthcoming Leadership Institute highlighting the potential for collaboration and innovation.
