By Nicarlyle Hanchard / The Jambar
With several other state universities closing satellite campuses, Youngstown State University is looking to open its own.
Since 2024, YSU officials have expressed interest in establishing a satellite campus at the former home of Eastern Gateway Community College in Steubenville.
In a statement, YSU President Bill Johnson said though the process has been complicated, notable progress has been made.
“YSU continues to work closely with the Ohio Department of Higher Education and Jefferson County officials to develop a viable and sustainable pathway to bring high-quality higher education to the former EGCC campus in Steubenville,” Johnson stated.
Johnson said operational funding for the campus remains a pertinent and unresolved issue. Though hopeful, he said YSU will not be going into debt to foot operational costs.
In an interview with The Herald Star, Jefferson County commissioners expressed excitement about YSU’s interest in operating in the building.
Toni Morelli, Jefferson County commissioner, told the media publication if it were approved, the agreement with YSU would positively impact the county.
“What we have is a tentative agreement, subject to the approval of the three boards,” Morelli stated to the reporter. “If this goes all the way through, as I personally hope it does, it’s a great thing for Jefferson County.”
According to The Herald Star, the commissioners said the building will be used for educational purposes only. Per a reverter clause in the land’s ownership, if the land of the former EGCC building were no longer used for educational purposes, ownership would revert to the county.
The publication also reported that the Jefferson County commissioners intend to repurpose a portion of the land for other economic developments.
The Jambar contacted the commissioners’ office and at the time of print, they were unavailable for further comment.
Johnson remains hopeful that courses would be offered at the new campus as early as spring 2026.
