UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State’s Adult Learner Programs and Services, a unit within Student Affairs, recognized Bryce Martin and Irvin Moore as recipients of the 2026 Outstanding Adult Student Award.
The award highlights the contributions of adult learners and recognizes the impact they have within the University community, honoring exceptional students at University Park who have overcome challenges while pursuing their education. Recipients demonstrate academic achievement, balance multiple responsibilities and serve as role models for other students.
Bryce Martin
Martin, a sophomore majoring in history in the College of the Liberal Arts, is a veteran of the United States Air Force.
“To me, this award represents the hard work I’ve done since arriving at Penn State,” Martin said. “It is a manifestation of lots of early morning, inconvenient drives to campus and sleepy writing sessions. It helps to validate the hard work that, as a sophomore, usually doesn’t result in catharsis, but rather keeps one looking to graduation. It serves as a benchmark for my own involvement, assuring me that I am doing the best I can with the situation I am in.
“Hopefully, future winners also feel a sense of satisfaction not in winning the award, but in knowing their contributions to themselves and their community are valuable,” Martin added.
Martin said returning to college for a third time has been a challenge, requiring him to balance ROTC commitments, involvement in Omega Delta Sigma, a veterans fraternity, and academic responsibilities. He has earned dean’s list honors and ranks in the top third of his ROTC class. His schedule includes early morning drills while also working as a guided study group leader supporting students in Math 22.
Irvin Moore
Moore, an undergraduate student in the College of Education majoring in rehabilitation and human services, maintains a 3.78 grade-point average and will turn 80 years old in August 2026.
“This award means so much to me, my family, friends and loved ones who have supported and lifted me up throughout this journey, many who have been consistent voices echoing the importance of education and life-long learning.” Moore said.
“I will hold this award and my subsequent bachelor of science degree in rehabilitation and human services high among the milestone of my life,” he added. “What it means is inexpressible, but I hope to show what that means by my work and contributions to my community and to all of those many others here at Penn State who embraced and helped me arrive at this moment.”
Each recipient will receive a $1,000 grant and a Penn State diploma case. Funding for the awards is provided through the Adult Learner Opportunity Fund, which supports adult and veteran students.
Penn State Student Affairs supports holistic student success through advocacy, education, engagement and care. With more than 30 programs and units, Student Affairs helps students thrive in and out of the classroom, discover community and belonging, build leadership skills, and create lasting memories. All programs and events are open to all students, regardless of sex, gender, sexual orientation, race or other protected class. Student Affairs is committed to building a community of belonging for all. Learn more about Student Affairs programs at studentaffairs.psu.edu.