Dr. John Mason, Jr,, the Chancellor of Penn State Harrisburg for the past year, spoke to Rotary this week and provided an overview of how PSH (he is a 1972 graduate) is doing, as well as higher education in general. (the short answer is great, but always confronting an increase in costs!) The local Penn State campus, located in our Club's domain of Middletown, is now the second largest satellite of what is referred to as One University, Geographically Dispersed! PSH has over 5,000 students, (15% from over 40 nations) and offers over 60 degrees, from undergraduate through the PhD. It is a dynamic place with lots of entrepreneurial activities, and highly talented students and faculty. Dr. Mason stressed the vision to become more involved in the local community through a range of activities.
In regard to community involvement, during the meeting, the Club had the opportunity to observe the close relationship it has with PSH as representatives from the campus Rotaract chapter were in attendance and presented a snapshot of what they do. After the meeting we discussed additional ways in which we can interact with that energetic organization. Dr. Mason is a former Rotarian from Auburn, so it was great to have him renew his appreciation for the many outreach activities of our Club!