The Franco Harris Pittsburgh Center at Penn State serves as Penn State’s hub for engagement in the Greater Pittsburgh region.
As part of Penn State Outreach, the Center connects industry, community, alumni, and government partners with the University’s students, faculty, research, and resources. We serve as a convener, connector, and catalyst, aligning Penn State’s strengths with Pittsburgh’s opportunities to co-create meaningful regional impact.
The Center is located in Pittsburgh’s historic Hill District at the LEED Platinum–certified Energy Innovation Center. It represents Penn State’s visible and active presence in one of the commonwealth’s most economically and demographically significant regions.
Named in honor of Franco Harris, whose legacy embodies excellence, service, and community leadership, the Center reflects Penn State’s commitment to uplifting communities while preparing students for success beyond the classroom.
We strive to always abide by the following Penn State values:
Integrity
We act with integrity and honesty in accordance with the highest academic, professional, and ethical standards.
Respect
We respect and honor the dignity of each person, embrace civil discourse, and foster a diverse and inclusive community.
Responsibility
We act responsibly, and we are accountable for our decisions, actions, and their consequences.
Discovery
We seek and create new knowledge and understanding, and foster creativity and innovation, for the benefit of our communities, society, and the environment.
Excellence
We strive for excellence in all our endeavors as individuals, an institution, and a leader in higher education.
Community
We work together for the betterment of our University, the communities we serve, and the world.
We are one of two community centers at Penn State and are a part of Penn State Outreach. Learn more about the other community center, Penn State Center Philadelphia.