In a video series titled “Perspective: Leaders at Penn State,” Tracy Langkilde, Verne M. Willaman Dean of the Eberly College of Science, reflects on her love for trail running as an opportunity to pursue a passion and reach new heights with others.  

The series gives us a glimpse of the personal pursuits that have driven our leaders and have shaped their perspectives and impact at Penn State and beyond.

Watch and learn how Langkilde emphasizes the value of having a community of researchers to tackle big questions, encouraging students to engage in team-based research and experience the excitement of forging new ground together.

Readers also can watch the other videos in the series featuring:

• Clarence Lang, the Susan Welch Dean of the College of the Liberal Arts, on film and empathy.
• Marie Hardin, dean of the Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications, on running and growth.
• Lee Kump, John Leone Dean in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences, on diving and discovery.
• Laurie A. Badzek, dean of the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing, on connections and impact.
• Danielle M. Conway, dean and Donald J. Farage Professor of Law at Penn State Dickinson Law, on art and conflict resolution.
• Kimberly A. Lawless, dean of Penn State’s College of Education, on remaking furniture and supporting individual talents.
• Richard Roush, dean of Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences, on fishing and curiosity.
• Justin Schwartz, executive vice president and provost at Penn State and former Harold and Inge Marcus Dean in the College of Engineering, on baseball and teamwork.
• Charles Whiteman, John and Karen Arnold Dean of the Penn State Smeal College of Business, on word puzzles and problem-solving.
• B Stephen Carpenter II, Michael J. and Aimee Rusinko Kakos Dean in the College of Arts and Architecture, on ceramics and imagination.
• Andrew Sears, dean of the College of Information Sciences and Technology, on reflecting and realizing opportunity.
• Craig J. Newschaffer, Raymond E. and Erin Stuart Schultz Dean of the College of Health and Human Development, on playing music and being a force multiplier.

The entire series can be found on Penn State News or on Penn State’s YouTube channel where new videos will continue to be shared.