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The University President Stepping Up to Shape Pennsylvania’s Higher Education Future

A New Voice in Policy and Advocacy

Christina Clark, the president of La Roche University in Pittsburgh, is taking on a more prominent role in guiding how private colleges across Pennsylvania support students and strengthen communities. Recently appointed to the board of an influential organization representing over 80 independent colleges in the state, Clark is poised to influence policies that make higher education more affordable, accessible, and impactful—not just in earning degrees, but in driving economic growth.

For Clark, this isn’t just about maintaining the status quo—it’s about showcasing the true value of Pennsylvania’s private colleges. These institutions educate more than half of all four-year students in the state and support nearly half of Pell Grant recipients, many of whom come from lower-income backgrounds. Together, these schools contribute nearly $30 billion annually to Pennsylvania’s economy, proving that they’re not just educational powerhouses but economic engines as well. And contrary to some misconceptions, they don’t compete with public universities—they complement and strengthen the entire higher education ecosystem.

A System Under Pressure

Yet the road ahead is far from smooth. Pennsylvania faces a demographic cliff: projections show the state will lose thousands of high school graduates over the next two decades, leaving colleges with fewer students. Add to that federal policy shifts—stricter loan rules for graduate students and the phasing out of a popular loan program—and the cost of college becomes even more daunting. Pennsylvania is already one of the most expensive states for higher education, and student debt continues to climb, putting the dream of a degree further out of reach for many.

But financial barriers aren’t the only challenge. Clark is deeply concerned about the declining college enrollment rates among young adults. Since 2012, more people have chosen to forgo higher education entirely, shrinking the pool of potential students. This isn’t just a crisis for colleges—it’s a workforce and economic issue, threatening the future stability of communities across the state. Clark is determined to find solutions that ensure education remains a viable path for everyone, regardless of background.

A Leader with a Unique Perspective

With a background in classical literature and decades in higher education, Clark brings a fresh, thoughtful approach to her new role. As one of the few lay presidents in La Roche’s history—having previously led another Catholic university in Scranton—she has spent her career navigating the complexities of higher education across different states. Her experience has given her a broad, adaptive perspective, one she’s now bringing to a much larger stage.

As she takes on this leadership position, Clark isn’t just focused on survival—she’s pushing for innovation, accessibility, and long-term resilience. For Pennsylvania’s private colleges, her influence could mark a turning point in how they serve students, bolster local economies, and secure a brighter future for higher education in the state.