UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — As the academic year pushes forward, some recognized student organizations will begin inviting various speakers to campus. Some of these speakers intentionally create controversy and may cause justifiable concern because of the rhetoric or misinformation they present.
Under the First Amendment, recognized student groups may select their own speakers as part of being a Penn State student organization — without the University’s endorsement or consent. Penn State is a public university, and as such, it is not only obligated to uphold the U.S. Constitution, specifically as it relates to free speech and free expression, but supports these guaranteed rights. It is because of this responsibility and commitment to the free exchange of ideas that public college campuses are a convenient and targeted place for those who wish to disrupt, espouse controversial views, and generally create anxiety and hurt within our communities.
For anyone impacted by these types of events and seeking support, Penn State offers the following resources that we hope our community will take advantage of:
FOR STUDENTS
- Student Care and Advocacy: 814-863-2020
- Counseling & Psychological Services: Counseling and mental health services available through CAPS, which can be reached at 814-863-0395 for University Park students, or at each Commonwealth Campus location.
- Community and Belonging Resources
- Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity: 814-863-1248
- International Student and Scholar Advising: 814-865-6348 (option 2); if an adviser is unavailable, please leave our name and telephone number and you will be called back.
- University Health Services (UHS): Student Health Center, University Park; Hours & Location; Phone: 814-863-0774; Email: uhs-info@psu.edu
- Health Services at Commonwealth Campuses
FOR ALL
- The Penn State Crisis Line (1-877-229-6400) and the Crisis Text Line (text “LIONS” to 741741) are open 24/7 to Penn Staters dealing with both crisis and non-crisis situations — including faculty, staff and students at all campuses who have a question about someone else. The licensed professionals with the Penn State Crisis Line can help evaluate each individual situation, offer guidance, and help connect callers with further resources if appropriate.
- Penn State Hotline (anonymous reporting): 800-560-1637
- Report Bias/Harassment
FOR EMPLOYEES
- Penn State’s Employee Assistance Program, a free, confidential employee and family resource to be used as the first line of defense for personal or work-related concerns for employees and their families.