From Mentee to Advocate: How Noa Diggs Found Her Purpose in Student Support

Recent Penn State graduate Noa Diggs is turning the mentorship and support she received as a student into a career focused on helping others succeed. Through her internship with Penn State Outreach’s Extended Learning Partnerships, Diggs is gaining hands-on experience in program coordination while building the skills needed to support and advocate for future generations of students.

Taking Flight: Joe Whitehead’s Impact Through Conservation and Education

Joe Whitehead’s passion for birds began in childhood and has grown into a career dedicated to conservation, education, and mentorship. As manager of the Klingsberg Aviary at Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center, Joe helps visitors connect with wildlife while guiding students toward careers in the field. Learn how his work is inspiring curiosity, shaping future professionals, and strengthening the bond between people and the natural world.

From Summer Discovery to Commencement: Chiara Harris Reflects on Her Readiness Institute Journey

As a member of the inaugural Readiness Institute Summer Discovery cohort in 2021, Chiara Harris began her Penn State journey searching for purpose, connection, and opportunity during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. Four years later, she graduates from Penn State as a first-generation college student, former Junior Instructor, and student leader reflecting on the experiences, mentorship, and community that helped shape her path forward.

Reminisce and Reconnect at Shaver’s Creek’s 50th Anniversary Celebration

Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center is celebrating its storied past and bright future with a 50th Anniversary Celebration on May 23. The free, public event is an opportunity for the local and Penn State communities to reminisce, relive and reconnect to all things Shaver’s Creek as it celebrates 50 years of inspiring discovery.