Is Penn State a Real University?: An Investigation of the University as a Living Ideal

by Ben Novak

Overview

On its surface, the question posed by this work -- "Is Penn State a Real University?" -- seems ridiculous. Yet its thoughtful exploration by Dr. Ben Novak, a four-term former Trustee, reveals that there is far more to the answer than one might first imagine. Nearly 25 years ago, State College Magazine published the essays that form the core of this book. Assembled for the first time and updated for contemporary readers, Dr. Novak's explication -- equal parts informational and inspirational � rings as true today as at the time of its original publication. "Is Penn State a Real University?" is an insightful meditation that presents a grounded, evergreen vision for students, alumni, townspeople, and professors everywhere.

Product Details

BN ID:	2940014253000
Publisher:	The Nittany Valley Society, Inc.
Publication date:	03/23/2012
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
File size:	2 MB

About the Author

Ben Novak, born in Johnstown, Pennsylvania on February 15, 1943, graduated from the Pennsylvania State University in 1965. As a student he served as president of the Undergraduate Student Government in his senior year and as a brother at Tau Kappa Epsilon.

In 1968 he graduated from Georgetown University Law School. From 1968 to 1970 he served as a Captain in the U.S. Army, Infantry, including a year in Viet Nam where he won the Bronze Star.

In 1968 Novak was admitted to the Bar of Pennsylvania. He practiced law in Pennsylvania for more than 30 years, with his own firm in State College and Bellefonte.

While living in Centre County for more than three decades, Novak was widely involved in the community. He was, at various times: founder of the Mount Nittany Conservancy; president of Lion�s Paw Alumni Association; a Ph.D recipient in philosophy, history, and political science from Penn State; and an adjunct professor and assistant dean of students at Penn State. From 1988 to 2000 Novak served on Penn State�s Board of Trustees.

In 2000 he retired, moving to Bratislava in Slovakia, his family�s ancestral home. In 2008 he returned to the United States to advise students at Penn State, and has earnestly sought a renewal in University life according to the vision of Evan Pugh and the Founders of Penn State for many years.