HARRISBURG, PA — The Harrisburg University of Science and Technology (HU) Board of Trustees today announced the selection of Christopher M. Reber, Ph.D., as its next president. Dr. Reber will lead the University into its next chapter with a focus on sustained stability, strategic growth, and long-term impact.
Dr. Reber, a York, PA, native with more than four decades of experience in higher education, will bring to Harrisburg University a distinguished record of institutional transformation, student-centered leadership, and partnership-driven growth.
“Getting to know Chris over the past few weeks has been a pleasure,” said Michael Fiaschetti, Chair of HU’s Board of Trustees. “The experience he brings to the table, and his undeniable energy and enthusiasm leave no doubt in my mind that HU’s future is in capable hands. I couldn’t be more confident in what comes next for this institution.”
Dr. Reber previously served as president of Hudson County Community College (HCCC) in Jersey City, New Jersey, where he has led the institution to national prominence since 2018. Under his leadership, HCCC earned the 2024 Bellwether Legacy Award for its nationally recognized Hudson Scholars student success model, and Dr. Reber himself was named Community College CEO of the Year by the American Association of Community Colleges in 2024 and Executive of the Year by the New Jersey Business & Industry Association in 2025.
Born and raised in York, Pennsylvania, Dr. Reber has deep roots in the Commonwealth’s academic landscape, having served in leadership roles at Penn State Erie, Clarion University of Pennsylvania, and Community College of Beaver County. His return to Pennsylvania marks a homecoming as much as an appointment.
“It is a tremendous honor to be entrusted with the leadership of Harrisburg University,” said Dr. Reber. “HU has built something remarkable in the heart of Pennsylvania: a university defined by its distinctive mission, its inspirational students, and its deep connections to the employers and communities of Central Pennsylvania. I am equally grateful for the privilege of having served Hudson County Community College, and I leave with great pride in what this community has built together. I look forward to bringing that same spirit of collaboration and commitment to Harrisburg University and working alongside this talented community to chart an exciting path forward.”
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Reber to the Harrisburg University community,” said Tim Weston, HU trustee and co-chair of the Search Committee. “The process leading to his selection involved input from all parts of the HU community: faculty, students, staff, and the Board. All of us were impressed by Dr. Reber’s breadth of experience, his obvious passion for student success, his record of building partnerships with business and employers, and his commitment to our mission – qualities that make him the leader HU needs at this pivotal time.”
Dolly Lalvani, HU trustee and co-chair of the Search Committee, added: “Dr. Reber is exceptionally well suited to lead Harrisburg University at this pivotal moment. He combines a proven ability to strengthen institutions with a clear commitment to student success and the strategic leadership needed to help position HU for long-term sustainability and growth. I am proud to welcome Dr. Reber to the HU community and confident in the future ahead.”
Dr. Reber holds a bachelor’s degree from Dickinson College, a master’s degree from Bowling Green State University, and a Ph.D. from the University of Pittsburgh. He also holds a postgraduate certificate from Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education.
Dr. Reber will begin his tenure as Harrisburg University’s fourth president on June 30, 2026, following a period of meaningful financial and operational progress under Interim President David A. Schankweiler. Schankweiler, a founding figure in HU’s history, has led the university since November 2024.
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ABOUT HARRISBURG UNIVERSITY
Harrisburg University of Science and Technology (HU) is an independent, nonprofit university offering degrees in advanced manufacturing, engineering, robotics, nursing, cybersecurity, and other critical fields. Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, HU serves a diverse student body through bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs that link learning and research with practical applications. For information about HU’s affordable STEM degrees and professional development programs, call 717.901.5146 or email Connect@HarrisburgU.edu. Stay in the know by following Harrisburg University on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
MEDIA CONTACT
Do you have questions about this story? Interested in lining up an interview? Please contact Dan Wilhelm, Communications Manager for Harrisburg University, at DWilhelm@HarrisburgU.edu or 717.901.5100×1724.
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