Enrichment Outside of the Classroom Distinguished Honors Faculty Program (DHFP)

An important part of the Schreyer Scholar experience is getting to know faculty who model the deep engagement with important questions that we expect Scholars to take with them regardless of their careers. The Distinguished Honors Faculty Program (DHFP) aims to widen the circle of Scholars' engagement with faculty.

What is the Distinguished Honors Faculty Program (DHFP)?

At Penn State we have outstanding faculty engaged in groundbreaking research and creative activity. In Schreyer, we aim to bring together those faculty and Schreyer Scholars for rich intellectual discussions. The DHFP provides a distinctive environment to do this.

Through DHFP events faculty get to share their research passions with Scholars. As the program is designed to attract Scholars from all majors, faculty can preview what a Scholar might learn if they seek out classes in the discipline. Scholars might find a new area of interest or a passion for research. If you have ever thought about working with Schreyer Scholars or have ideas about how to engage them, this program is for you.

Our Scholars are naturally curious and crave deep exploration. In addition, the informal atmosphere—no grading, just fun conversation and good food—generally results in a fulfilling engagement for the Scholars and the faculty member.

What is the Format for a DHFP Event?

The DHFP is made up of 8 to 10 faculty from a variety of disciplines, who commit to offering one event per semester for Schreyer Scholars. The role of a DHFP faculty member is to engage a broad spectrum of Scholars in an out-of-classroom discussion around an important topic.

Individual programs are 90 minutes or less and typically held on weekday evenings. Successful programs typically take place over dinner at a downtown restaurant or include a visit to on-campus or nearby locations, such as a research lab, art gallery, or concert. Other formats are possible, and we can work with you to design a program that will appeal to Scholars. While some pre-work is fine, it should be limited.

The Schreyer Honors College academic office handles all logistics, promotion, and registration for these programs. Each faculty member is allocated funds to support their vision.

How Does a Faculty Member Participate in DHFP?

Faculty recruitment for DHFP happens in the spring. Faculty serve a two-year term starting in the fall. Vacancies may be filled at any time on a rolling basis. Generally, recruitment is announced via the Faculty Digest produced by the office of the Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs. Faculty can reach out anytime to SHCAcademics@psu.edu to express interest or for more information.

Program Funding

The Distinguished Honors Faculty Program is funded through a generous gift from Art and Betty Glenn. Art and Betty Glenn are loyal Penn State alumni. Art graduated with a bachelor of science degree in mechanical engineering in 1956, and Betty graduated with bachelor of science degree in home economics in 1957. Art is a devoted volunteer and supporter of Penn State and the Schreyer Honors College. He served for many years on the External Advisory Board for the Honors College.