Watch CBS News

Cheyney University Alumni Call On Tom Wolf For Support

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Dozens of Cheyney University alumni rallied Tuesday outside of the Governor Tom Wolf's Philadelphia office Tuesday. The cash-strapped institution could lose its accreditation and supporters are hoping he'll step in.

READ: Cheyney University Alumni Discuss Options To Save School

"We're here to ring the alarm-- the house is on fire," said Attorney Michael Coard co-founder of Heeding Cheyney's Call.

The institution is currently mired in debt and the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education or PASSHE- formed a task force to come up with a plan to save it.

"They're talking about cutting Cheyney's program, selling Cheyney's land, demolishing building- how the hell do you make things better by doing that," Coard said.

So alumni want Governor Tom Wolf, who's been a supporter to step in. City, state and federal lawmakers all say they'll work to support the effort.

ALSO READ: Ex-Offenders Get Second Chance Through Grocery Store Partnership

Congressman Dwight Evans said, "It's important that Cheyney stay viable."

A spokesman for Governor Wolf says he is working closely with PASSHE to create a path forward for Cheyney. The school's accreditation report is due September 1.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.