13 furloughed from PennWest

Thirteen union employees at Pennsylvania Western University’s California and Clarion campuses were furloughed last week, a university spokeswoman confirmed.

“Thirteen AFSCME employees were furloughed,” said Wendy Mackall, a spokeswoman for PennWest. “PennWest is proud to support 1,571 employees across our campuses and to serve as a significant economic driver for the communities that we serve.

“Our operations continue to prioritize instructional quality, advising, and student services, providing a consistent, high-quality experience across all campuses.”

A spokesman for the American Federation of State County and Municipal Employees didn’t return a request for comment Tuesday.

Mackall offered no additional information on the 13 employees that were let go.

PennWest, which is made up of campuses in California, Clarion and Edinboro, last month cited financial and enrollment pressures when it notified AFSCME Council 13 that it intended to furlough employees.

In an October statement, the union said PennWest told them it was moving forward with furloughs because of a projected budget deficit, increased personnel costs and lower student enrollment.

Total enrollment at PennWest this fall was 10,548, down 2.64% from last year.

The union represents more than 2,500 maintenance, clerical and administrative workers across the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, including 270 employees at PennWest’s California and Clarion campuses.

The union had previously argued against the proposed furloughs, believing it would only make enrollment woes worse.

PennWest said previously the furloughs were necessary and would contribute to the long-term sustainability of the university.