Leader of Pa. state universities says consolidating schools sets the stage for ‘long-term viability’ Updated 1:23 PM; Today 12:30 PM The State System of Higher Education governing board will meet on Wednesday to consider whether to continue pursuing consolidating six of its universities into two institutions. File/Mark Pynes | mpynes@pennlive.com Facebook Share Two new reports issued Monday shed more light on the proposed consolidation of several of Pennsylvania’s state-owned universities. The documents available on the State System of Higher Education’s website detail the preliminary plans for creating two consolidated state universities from six universities. The system, which includes 14 universities, is considering the bold changes due to ongoing financial challenges.