Penn State, a state-related commonwealth university, will not be directly affected by the possible strike by professors at Pennsylvania's 14 state-owned universities, said university spokesman Bill Mahon.
"There wouldn't be impact on Penn State, whether the strike lasts a half day or full month," he said. "They have different goals and missions, and ultimately provide a different education."
The State System of Higher Education (SSHE) and Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties (APSCUF) have been negotiating contracts since the old ones expired June 30 -- and fears of a strike are growing.
Professors at the state-owned universities, such as Kutztown University, Shippensburg University, Lock Haven University and Bloomsburg University, would like increased salaries and benefits, but have not succeeded in negotiations yet.
"This is a multifaceted issue," Kevin Kodish, APSCUF spokesman, said. He explained concerns about the growing use of temporary faculty members, increasing class sizes, and taking away pay increments for junior faculty.
Although university officials have said the strike will not affect Penn State, Carol Colbeck, associate professor of education and director of the Center for the Study of Higher Education at Penn State, said local administrators are watching.
"The slice of the budget is shrinking for education, so although Penn State collaborates with schools of the SSHE, we are competing for more money," she said. "Applications will only be affected if a prolonged strike occurs."
Kodish agreed that increases in applications and transfer requests to other universities are likely. He said some faculty members might even look into switching to other universities.
"This would be a first," he said. "It's a very trying situation for everyone. We are hoping for a settlement. Over 104,000 students and 5,500 faculty members would be impacted."
No SSHE officials were available for comment, but its Web site said, "every university has a contingency plan in the event of a strike. The goal of every contingency plan is to keep our campuses open, ensure students are safe, and keep students on schedule toward the completion of their degrees."
According to its Web site, "the State System is prepared to pursue all legal avenues available to us in order to protect the safety and interests of our students and employees."
Devan Hoover, a freshman at Shippensburg University, said she is not worried about a strike, although she feels it is a strong possibility.
"They've told us that we should report to class even if the strike occurs," she said.
Philip Barnes (junior-labor and industrial relations) said the professors have a valid reason, but shouldn't strike during the semester.
"Healthcare costs are very high and everyone must look out for the interests of their family, but professors shouldn't potentially harm students," he said.
