Representatives from the state's 18 public universities met in Harrisburg yesterday to lobby for more money and to promote their schools as the "key to Pennsylvania's future."

The four presidents of the state-related universities and the chancellor of the state school system presented a united front to several legislators.

"We made a very strong stand of unity there, emphasizing the fact that we are working together," said University President Joab Thomas.

Legislators received a booklet titled "Public Universities: Key to Pennsylvania's Future" -- the same one distributed at a University Board of Trustees meeting last Friday. It details contributions of the 18 state-related and state-owned schools and makes the schools' case for the future, touching on everything from the alumni population to the amount of federal funds universities receive.

State Sen. James J. Rhoades, R-Schuylkill, hopes legislators heard the universities' message about how the schools serve the state.

"I think that message is appropriate," Rhoades said, adding that the meeting was timed well in light of budget hearings to be held next month.

The meeting helped remind legislators of the impact these universities can have in their counties, said state Rep. Ron Cowell, D-Allegheny.

"I think the representatives of the universities made a very good presentation and once again reminded legislators of the very significant role played by our public universities in providing post-secondary opportunities to Pennsylvania residents," Cowell said.

Thomas said the meeting acted as a forum where legislators could ask any questions and talk candidly.

"We had just a sort of informal off-the-record session," he said.

Although the universities are keeping their fingers crossed, the meeting does not necessarily guarantee more state funding.

"There's only so much money to go around," Rhoades said.

Budget hearings begin in February and last until mid-March. The state's appropriations, including Penn State's share, should be announced in July.