We Are

Discover Penn State

Penn State is a top-ranked research university and Pennsylvania's sole land-grant institution, founded with a mission of high-quality teaching, expert research, and global service. Discover a community—more than 725,000 strong—driven to make a difference.

Top 55

World-class university (Center for World University Rankings, 2021)

18

Disciplines ranked in the top ten nationally for research expenditures, more than any other university.

Top 25

U.S. research university

Perspective: Leaders at Penn State

The first video in a series showcasing what motivates and shapes the perspectives and impact of Penn State's leaders, Clarence Lang, Susan Welch Dean of the College of the Liberal Arts and Professor of African American Studies, reflects on his love for film as an opportunity to develop empathy and compassion for others.

The following video shows archival photos of movie theaters, the subway rails in Chicago, and then transitions to photos of Clarence Lang when he was younger. The shot then transitions to Clarence, today, sitting in an empty theatre with the words "Perspective: Leaders at Penn State" appearing. Clarence walks around the empty theatre while old movies play on the screen. He stands near the stage looking at old move posters. Interspersed are scenes of Clarence seated and talking to the interviewer off-camera. The video closes with Clarence standing outside under the theater marquee, which has the words "Perspective: Leaders at Penn State" displayed.