Speeches

Penn State Berks 50th Anniversary Celebration

Welcome. This is a momentous celebration.

In 1958, NASA was formed and Pioneer I was launched into space, a gallon of gas was just 24 cents, and Elvis excited the nation by gyrating on the Ed Sullivan Show. At Penn State, in-state tuition was about $220, and campus fashions were turning heads --because women were finally allowed to wear Bermuda shorts, as well as jeans and similar casual clothing to off-campus activities and sporting events.

Fifty years later, student fashions are still turning heads and our nation continues to advance in science, technology, education, and the arts and humanities -- much as result of the research and teaching that is happening on the campuses of Penn State.

Since its founding, Penn State Berks has served the people of this region with excellence in education, research, and community outreach programs. Tucked into the beautiful landscape of Berks County, the campus combines the idyllic atmosphere of a small college with the powerful resources available through a major research university.

Campus life at Penn State Berks is rich, and the satisfaction rate among the students is “off the charts”. This campus is an energetic hub of intellectual exchange, diversity, creative endeavors, and Nittany Lion spirit. And academically, Penn State Berks is a powerhouse.

To cite just a few examples…

Penn State Berks is involved in biodiesel fuel research, which has the potential to create a promising new industry for Pennsylvania. The Penn State Berks faculty includes top notch researchers in fields such as astrophysics, biology, engineering, and communications. The campus also nurtures a vibrant arts community that brings together students, faculty, staff, and local residents for performances, art openings, and readings.

Part of the success of Penn State Berks is a result of the strong ties with the businesses, industry and community agencies in Berks County. The campus exemplifies our mission of engagement, and it has improved the education of our students, advanced the research of our faculty, and furthered the economic development of this region.

            As you have all experienced firsthand, Penn State Berks is a campus unlike any other and that uniqueness is evident in every aspect of university life--especially its leadership. It is remarkable that during the past 50 years, Penn State Berks has had just three CEOs…all of whom are with us today for this wonderful celebration.

In fifty years, Penn State Berks has helped grow the economy of this region, and it has expanded Penn State’s vision of what it means to be a student-centered university. Thank you Dr. Speece, Dr. Gaige and Dr. Perkins for your roles in making Penn State a special place to live and learn about life on campus and beyond.

            And again, congratulations to all the students, faculty and staff at Penn State Berks!