The Franco Harris Pittsburgh Center at Penn State has never been defined by a single program or initiative.
From its earliest days, the Center was created to ensure that Penn State’s land-grant mission was visible and active in Western Pennsylvania, embedded in community partnerships, student experiences, and regional innovation.
Over time, the Center has evolved in response to Pittsburgh’s changing needs, emerging industries, and University priorities. What has remained constant is a commitment to service, collaboration, and meaningful regional engagement.
A Foundation of Engagement
The Center’s early work focused on place-based engagement, connecting students and faculty directly with Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods, sustainability leaders, nonprofit organizations, and civic institutions.
These initiatives established the Center as:
- a trusted connector between Penn State and the region
- a facilitator of engaged scholarship and experiential learning
- a convener for cross-sector dialogue
- a bridge between academic expertise and community priorities
Through these efforts, Penn State deepened its presence in Pittsburgh while providing students with immersive, real-world learning opportunities.
Over the years, the Center has:
- connected students to immersive, place-based learning experiences
- supported community-driven research initiatives
- delivered workforce training and professional certification programs
- hosted forums, screenings, exhibits, and public conversations advancing regional dialogue
Together, these efforts reinforced Penn State’s role as an active and trusted partner in the region.
As the Center evolves, it remains grounded in the values Franco Harris embodied: service, excellence, integrity, and community leadership, while adapting to meet the future needs of Pittsburgh and Penn State alike.