As part of the University’s commitment to combatting bias and intolerance, Penn State is launching a pilot program for a new University-wide diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB) education initiative for all Penn State employees. The new program “BUILD @ Penn State” is a direct result of Penn State President Eric J. Barron’s message to the University community in June 2020, in which he outlined the creation of a new University-wide DEIB education program for employees as one of several key items for creating a more inclusive and welcoming University
In Penn State's Presidential Leadership Academy (PLA), students foster critical thinking and leadership skills while learning directly from the University president an experience that students and alumni say reflects Penn State President Eric J. Barron's passion for empowering students and his commitment to leadership through service. "I had some amazing professors during my time at Penn State, and I absolutely count Dr. Barron as one of the best," said one PLA alumna.