July 21, 2021
We asked the presidents of the region’s colleges and universities to answer this question:
As we move closer to the end of the pandemic, what strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats have become more apparent to you for your institution than they were pre-pandemic?
Paul Hennigan, Point Park University
When faced with a challenge that seems insurmountable, there are two choices: give up or succeed.
Over the last year, I witnessed the Point Park University community respond with an unquenchable desire to take on every challenge the pandemic could throw our way. When faced with sometimes daily or even hourly changes to our day-to-day operations due to COVID, the creativity, resourcefulness and careful planning, as well as the thoughtful, heartfelt concern for the wellbeing of each other showed just what it is to be a part of Point Park. It was a privilege to witness the actions of the students, faculty and staff. While the challenges will continue, so do the opportunities for reinvention. Point Park, and all of higher education, faces a future beyond the pandemic where evolution will be critical for survival. As a new president prepares to take the helm at Point Park University, I am certain the challenges and opportunities ahead will be met with vision, creativity, compassion and an unquenchable desire to succeed.