Misericordia University Announces Planned Partnership with HGC Development LLC for Future Operations at Penn State Wilkes-Barre

Misericordia University Announces Planned Partnership with HGC Development LLC for Future Operations at Penn State Wilkes-Barre

Editor's note: The Penn State Board of Trustees voted to approve the transaction described below at its meeting on Friday, Sept. 18.

DALLAS, PA — Misericordia University (MU) today welcomed the recommendation of the Finance and Investment Committee of the Penn State University (PSU) Board of Trustees to sell the Penn State Wilkes-Barre campus to HGC Development LLC, effective June 30, 2027. 

The recommendation of the PSU Finance and Investment Committee advances plans for a partnership between HGC and Misericordia that could expand learning opportunities, strengthen regional workforce development efforts, and ensure the continued use of the campus for the benefit of Northeastern Pennsylvania.  

The sale of the PSU Wilkes-Barre campus remains contingent upon full approval by the Penn State Board of Trustees at their September 18, 2026 meeting.  

Under the framework currently being explored between HGC and Misericordia, Misericordia University would lease all of the academic space on the campus (slightly less than 50 percent of the campus’ total square footage) to support a range of possible educational initiatives, including academic programming, graduate and post-baccalaureate studies, workforce-development activities, and expanded experiential learning opportunities. No timeline for new programming has been announced, but MU academic programing is not expected at the PSU Wilkes-Barre site until 2028.  

"This opportunity reflects the kind of innovative partnership that can benefit students, employers, communities, and the regional economy," said Misericordia President Daniel J. Myers, Ph.D. "We believe the continued educational use of this campus represents a positive outcome for Northeastern Pennsylvania and aligns closely with Misericordia University's mission and strategic priorities."  

University officials emphasized that discussions regarding final agreements, implementation plans, and specific academic uses remain ongoing. Myers says, “Our focus for that site is to identify stand-alone programs that would prosper at that location. Any future activity there would complement and strengthen operations on our main campus and be designed around convenience and opportunity for students, faculty, and staff.” 

Misericordia University recently welcomed the largest entering undergraduate class in its history and continues to explore opportunities that support future growth while maintaining its commitment to academic excellence and student success.  

When finalized, the partnership would help ensure that the Penn State Wilkes-Barre campus remains a vibrant educational resource serving students, employers, and the broader community for years to come in a manner consistent with its previous use.  

HGC Development LLC is a newly formed entity supported by area business leaders Jeff Metz, John D. McCarthy, and Doug Barbacci. HGC’s plans for the site are also still being developed but could include many opportunities for community programming, fitness and performance training, and providing hospitality and event management.  

“We see this as an opportunity to preserve something important to Northeastern Pennsylvania and maintain the current nature of the property while offering new opportunities for an exciting future, says Angelo C. Terrana, attorney and spokesperson for HGC. 

Founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1924, Misericordia University is the oldest four-year institution of higher education in Luzerne County. Located in Dallas, Pennsylvania, the institution enrolls approximately 2,240 students combined at the undergraduate and graduate levels in full and part-time formats. Degrees are offered in three colleges, the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business, and the College of Health Sciences and Education. The institution’s new Center for Workforce Development and Talent Solutions offers custom training for companies and organizations as well as short-term skill building credentials for individuals. 

Media Contact: James Roberts, Vice President of Marketing & Communications and Chief of Staff, Misericordia University. Office: 570-674-6758 Cell: 570-760-774 jroberts@misericordia.edu