The Board of Governors of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education selected Jeffery L. Osgood, Jr., Ph.D., to serve as president of Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania. The appointment takes effect April 17, 2026.
Osgood has served as interim president since Aug. 1, 2025.
“As interim president, Dr. Osgood has already shown the right balance of collaboration, passion and leadership to guide Commonwealth University into the future,” said Cynthia Shapira, chair of the PASSHE Board of Governors. “Jeff has demonstrated a remarkable ability to bring people together, listen to their ideas and develop strategies that foster a strong academic program and a healthy campus community. We are proud to appoint him as the university’s next president.”
Prior to his appointment as interim president, Osgood served as executive vice president and provost at West Chester University, providing academic and operational leadership at PASSHE’s largest university. He also chaired the university’s Curriculum and Academic Policies Council for three years, served as a faculty associate to the provost and vice president for academic affairs for two years, and taught in the Doctor of Public Administration program. Additionally, he served a term as vice president of the West Chester University chapter of the Association of Pennsylvania College and University Faculty.
“I am honored to be officially selected as president of Commonwealth University,” said Osgood. “When I joined this community in August, I expected to serve for one year during an important moment in the university’s journey. What I found was a community defined by resilience, heart, and an unwavering commitment to students. I have been inspired by the intelligence, talent, and determination of our students, the dedication of our faculty and staff, and the loyalty of our alumni. Just as meaningful has been the warm embrace and pride shown by the communities of Bloomsburg, Lock Haven, and Mansfield, each of which understands the vital role this University plays in the future of its region. It became clear very quickly that this was a place where I wanted to help shape what comes next. Together, grounded in trust, respect, and a shared sense of purpose, I know we can build a stronger and more vibrant future for Commonwealth University.”
The author of numerous journal articles and two books, Osgood earlier worked at Western Kentucky University’s Center for Local Governments. His early work at Commonwealth University has focused on improving morale, defining a path for the university’s financial sustainability, and enhancing student opportunities including bringing back Winter Commencement at all campuses and increasing in-person learning options across CU.
“Dr. Osgood is passionate about ensuring students have access to a high-quality education and about partnering with students, faculty and staff to create a vibrant campus where everyone can thrive,” said Chancellor Christopher Fiorentino. “I look forward to continuing to work with him as the university’s permanent president.”
