In this photo from Labor Day 2020, Senator Nikil Saval stands with faculty of the University of the Arts when they first announced their unionization drive.
Philadelphia, PA − Saturday, June 1, 2024 — Today State Senator Nikil Saval (D–Philadelphia) issued the following statement in response to the sudden announcement of the closure of Philadelphia’s renowned University of the Arts:
“The closure of the University of the Arts is devastating for the students, the staff, and all of Philadelphia. This is a heartbreaking loss under any circumstances, but especially for our city, which prides itself on our world-class arts community.
“The people who make up the University of the Arts are my constituents. I’ve rallied with the workers as they fought for and won their union for the first time in the institution’s 150-year history. I’ve celebrated the talent and vision of the students and teachers. And I’ve made sure that our Commonwealth invested resources into training and supporting the next generation of artists.
“The university administration’s disregard is shocking and unacceptable; the students and workers deserve concrete plans and support as they prepare to navigate this difficult time. I’m committed to doing everything in my power to ensure that all those impacted by UArts’s sudden closure receive the resources and advocacy they deserve.”