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Penn State University reached a significant milestone on Saturday (August 15) by awarding its one-millionth degree during summer commencement ceremonies at its University Park campus. Founded in 1855 as the Farmers' High School of Pennsylvania, the university awarded its first bachelor degrees to 11 graduates in 1861. This achievement marks Penn State as the first university in Pennsylvania and only the third in the United States to reach this milestone, joining the University of Michigan and Indiana University.
Governor Josh Shapiro issued a statewide proclamation to recognize Penn State's contributions to the Commonwealth, highlighting the university's role in providing accessible, world-class education. The proclamation was presented alongside congratulatory messages from State College Mayor Ezra Nanes and the Centre County Commissioners. Governor Shapiro's citation praised the university's commitment to preparing students for the workforce and economy of Pennsylvania.
Penn State expected to award approximately 2,700 diplomas during the weekend ceremonies, pushing the university past the one-million-degree mark. The university has over 800,000 living alumni worldwide and offers more than 275 majors and 11,000 course offerings. Joe Huxta, president of the Penn State Alumni Association’s Lehigh Valley Chapter, expressed excitement over the milestone, noting the university's significant expansion since his graduation in 1971.
Penn State President Neeli Bendapudi stated in a press release that the milestone honors the legacy of past graduates and underscores the university's ongoing commitment to education and empowerment. The university plans to celebrate this achievement with additional events throughout the fall, including a commemorative ice cream flavor from the Berkey Creamery and a fundraising campaign titled "1 Million Gifts" to support future students.
For more information, visit the full proclamation from Governor Shapiro and the Penn State announcement.