By Barbara I. Dewey

Colleagues, please see the message below from Provost Nick Jones about some very good news for Penn State.

“I am excited and honored to join Penn State as Executive Vice President and Provost, and I am learning more every day about this remarkable institution and its mission, legacy and global impact.

As many of you know, the U.S. News & World Report “2014 Best Colleges Rankings” were released Tuesday morning (Sept. 10). While many of us view rankings with some degree of skepticism, the fact remains that Penn State fared extraordinarily well, moving to No. 8 from No. 13 nationally among public universities, and to No. 37 from No. 46 nationally among both public and private institutions. Regardless of our views on rankings and ranking methodology, an acknowledgment of the strong national reputation that our great institution enjoys is a reflection of the accomplishments and commitment of our faculty, staff and students.

I am very proud—and we all should be proud—that Penn State has been recognized in this way. I would like to express my appreciation to Rod Erickson for his leadership and to each of you for your dedication to excellence, and your hard work on behalf of your students, colleagues and the larger community. We have been through a difficult time, but the academic vigor and reputation of Penn State are clearly intact, which bodes well for our future. Thank you for all you do for Penn State.”   — Provost Nick Jones

We are now no. 8 in public institutions and, according to ARL statistics, no. 8 of ALL research libraries. Provost Jones took time out of his busy schedule to stop in the Open House last week. He was excited! President Erickson also walked through during the very successful event.

Save the date – October 2, 2013, 2-3 p.m. for the Dean’s Forum (on MediaSite too)