UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State will officially launch its newly redesigned Military Appreciation website on March 23, offering an updated, more accessible digital hub to recognize and support the University’s military-connected community.
The relaunch coincides with National Medal of Honor Day on March 25, underscoring Penn State’s continued commitment to honoring the service and sacrifice of veterans, active-duty service members and their families.
The new website reflects the University’s updated branding and accessibility standards, ensuring a more inclusive and user-friendly experience for all visitors. The refreshed platform centralizes information about Military Appreciation initiatives, events, resources and campus partnerships, making it easier for students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members to engage with programs that recognize military service.
Jessica Carlson, a Penn State IT marketing and communications specialist and active member of the Military Appreciation community, led this effort. Carlson’s involvement and dedication carry deep personal meaning.
“As a gold star family member and spouse of a Marine Corps veteran, I felt called to get involved with Penn State’s Military Appreciation efforts because of my brother, Cpl. Christopher Singer, who was killed in action in January 2012. Every day, I am inspired by his sacrifice and will never take for granted the dedication, persistence, and valor of our nation’s military service members.”
The project was a collaborative effort among campus partners, including Phillip Ealy, assistant research faculty at the Clearinghouse for Military Family Readiness; Dave Gailey, full-stack web developer with Penn State’s Web & Digital Strategy Group in Strategic Communications; and Ronald Rossman, systems administrator, whose contributions helped ensure the site meets both technical and functional needs.
“I’m grateful to be affiliated with a University that takes pride in its military-connected community and creates ample recognition opportunities for veterans and military families. This new website couldn’t have been successful without the passion and proactive collaboration of my Military Appreciation Committee peers,” said Carlson.
In addition to highlighting signature events such as Military Appreciation Week each year, the new website introduces expanded content about the University-wide Military Appreciation Committee and provides clearer pathways for individuals interested in participating, volunteering or learning more.
The redesigned site reflects Penn State’s ongoing dedication to being a military-friendly institution and strengthening a culture of respect and recognition across all campuses.