UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Danica E. White, Penn State University Libraries' student engagement librarian in Library Learning Services, has been selected to participate in the American Library Association’s (ALA) 2022 class of Emerging Leaders.

The Emerging Leaders program enables newer library workers from across the United States to participate in problem-solving work groups, network with peers, gain an inside look into ALA structure, and have an opportunity to serve the profession in a leadership capacity early in their careers. 

“This is a highly competitive and prestigious program,” said Rebecca Waltz, interim associate dean for Learning and Undergraduate Services, Penn State University Libraries. “Danica's acceptance is an honor for her and for the University Libraries and puts Danica on the fast-track to ALA and professional leadership.”

White was one of 49 people chosen to participate in the 2022 class of Emerging Leaders, which kicked off in January during the ALA’s LibLearnX virtual event. Participants will continue in an online learning and networking environment for six months, culminating with a poster session where the Emerging Leaders will showcase the results of their project planning during the ALA 2022 Annual Conference in Washington, D.C., this June.

The Emerging Leader cohort consists of individuals from across the U.S. and Canada. The participants commit to taking part in all aspects of the program and may have an opportunity to serve on an ALA, division, chapter, roundtable, or affiliate committee or workgroup upon completion.

The complete list of the selected participants and sponsoring organizations, along with additional program details, can be found on the ALA's Emerging Leaders webpage.