Penn State Behrend - School of Humanities and Social Sciences

08/27/2026

Exceptional educators create learning environments where students feel supported, engaged, and empowered to succeed.

Dr. Mel Hardy-Skeberdis recently received a note of appreciation from a student who shared:

"I want to thank you for the way you made the class engaging and accessible to everyone. Your clear explanations and thoughtfully crafted assignments and lectures really helped me understand the material. I also appreciate how encouraging and approachable you were, which made me feel confident participating and learning."

We're proud to celebrate faculty like Dr. Hardy-Skeberdis who make a lasting difference through their dedication to student success. Thank you for creating an inclusive and inspiring classroom experience!

08/25/2026

🎷 Join us as we kick off the 2026–27 season of Music at Noon: The Logan Series with an unforgettable performance by Miguel Zenón, Grammy Award-winning saxophonist, composer, and one of the most innovative voices in contemporary jazz.

Known for blending jazz traditions with the rich musical heritage of his native Puerto Rico, Zenón is a MacArthur Fellow, Guggenheim Fellow, Doris Duke Artist, and Grammy winner whose work has earned international acclaim.

📅 Wednesday, September 2, 2026
⏰ 12:00–1:00 p.m.
📍 McGarvey Commons, Reed Union Building, Penn State Behrend

This concert is free and open to the public. Join us as we launch another season of exceptional live music at Behrend.

08/21/2026

Some educators do more than teach. They inspire, mentor, and create opportunities that change lives.

Dr. Christopher Shelton recently received a heartfelt note from a student reflecting on the impact of his leadership and mentorship through the VAR Lab:

"You are a 1 in a 1,000,000 leader."

The student shared gratitude for the experiences, skills, friendships, publications, projects, and industry opportunities gained through the lab, noting that Dr. Shelton's support helped transform their future and build confidence in their potential.

Stories like this remind us that the influence of a dedicated educator extends far beyond the classroom. Thank you, Dr. Shelton, for investing in students, believing in their potential, and helping them achieve more than they ever thought possible.

08/19/2026

ALL MAJORS ARE WELCOME!!!

Join the School of Humanities and Social Science and the HSS Student Advisory Club for our 5th Annual Kochel Karnival on August 26 from 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. in McGarvey Commons!

Learn more about the different majors, minors, certificates, and clubs/organizations housed under our school. Talk with students and faculty, eat carnival-themed food, pick up some special Kochel Karnival swag, play carnival games, and have a chance to win prizes!

The first 300 students will get a Free Nittany Lion Head decoration! Each table will have a hat to collect for your Nittany Lion; be sure to visit them all!

We can't wait to see you there!

08/13/2026

Great educators leave a lasting impact, and Dr. Lauren Liebe is no exception.

Recently, a student shared this heartfelt note of appreciation:

"Thank you for your dedication to your students! You are one of the most compassionate people I have ever met. You have high standards, but instead of being daunting, learning with you is fun, engaging, and beneficial. Keep doing what you are doing because it's working!"

We're proud to celebrate faculty who inspire, challenge, and support students every day. Thank you, Dr. Liebe, for making a difference in the lives of your students!

08/11/2026

The encouragement of a dedicated professor can make all the difference in a student's educational journey.

Dr. Frederica Marty recently received heartfelt notes of appreciation from students who shared how her patience, support, and passion for teaching helped them succeed.

"There were moments when I wanted to give up and quit. But Dr. Marty never wavered in her confidence that I could do this. And I have!"

Another student shared:

"She's a very kind professor and a great language teacher. I was very nervous about taking French when I first arrived at Behrend, but it's since become my favorite subject!"

We are proud to recognize Dr. Marty for creating a welcoming and supportive learning environment where students of all backgrounds can thrive. Thank you for the lasting impact you make every day!

08/06/2026

The impact of a great educator extends far beyond the classroom.

Dr. Glenn Kumhera recently received heartfelt notes of appreciation from students who praised his patience, mentorship, and commitment to student success.

"Thank you for always being patient, listening and giving advice during office hours, and for all the sacrifices you make for students."

"He is an awesome instructor, his classes are engaging, he's very knowledgeable on the subjects he teaches... Thank you Dr. Kumhera, I always enjoy taking your classes!"

We're proud to celebrate faculty like Dr. Kumhera who make a meaningful difference in the academic journey of their students. Thank you for all you do!

08/04/2026

Recent alumnus Jack Mong is featured in the Journal of Erie Studies with his article, “Participation by Design: What Voter Turnout Can (and Can’t) Tell Us About Election Reform.” Drawing on data from all 50 states, Jack explores how policies such as same-day voter registration, automatic voter registration, and mail voting influence democratic participation. His research highlights why voter turnout, while important, may not be the only measure of a reform’s success.

Read the article:

Political Science Research

07/17/2026

🎉 Congratulations to alumnus Carlos Mora on being recognized as one of the Erie Reader's 40 Under 40 honorees!

Now in its 14th year, Erie Reader's 40 Under 40 celebrates young leaders who are making Erie a stronger, healthier, more vibrant, and more equitable community. Chosen from hundreds of nominations, these individuals have invested their talents, energy, and passion into shaping the future of our region.

We are proud to see Carlos recognized among this outstanding group of changemakers who have chosen Erie and are actively working to make it an even better place to live, work, and thrive.

Congratulations, Carlos! 👏💙

Read more about Carlos and this well-deserved recognition: https://www.eriereader.com/article/eries-40-under-40-class-of-2026/carlos-mora

06/23/2026

Congratulations to Graduate Student Amanda Welsbacher on being selected as the recipient of the J. Jeffrey and Ann Marie Fox Graduate School Fox Degree Completion Award for the 2025–26 academic year!

This prestigious honor recognizes graduate students who exemplify exceptional academic achievement, scholarly excellence, leadership, and meaningful progress toward completing their degree. Amanda’s accomplishments reflect a strong commitment to advancing scholarship, research, and the broader mission of graduate education.