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Glenville State College is having problems with the rumor mill, according to President Dr. Thomas Powell. Since legislation
has moved forward to close at least two state colleges, Glenville State has been one of those on the forefront. The legislation
named no specific colleges and left the decision up to the Higher Education Policy Commission.
Dr. Powell says Glenville, now celebrating its 131st year, serves a unique niche in central West Virginia. He says they are
less worried about being closed than about the impact the rumors surrounding the bill are having.
Other sources feel sure Glenville State is on the fast-track for closure.
Powell disagrees with House Education Chairman Jerry Mezzatesta who claims colleges haven't dealt with budget cuts the
way other state agencies have been asked to curtail expenses. Powell says in recent years all West Virginia college
presidents have been aggressive in trimming costs and curtailing expenses. He says they will undoubtedly do it again this year
with layoffs and more trimming, but believes after those are finished the institution will be stronger.
GSC has satellite campuses in Summersville and Weston. Powell says those are areas that have seen great growth for the
college in recent years and cannot be part of the budget cutting process because of the services they are offering to residents
of the region.
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