UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State's Nittany Chapter of the National Residence Hall Honorary (NRHH) has been named the 2026 NACURH NRHH Building Block Chapter of the Year by the National Association of College and University Residence Halls (NACURH), recognizing the chapter's exceptional growth, leadership and impact throughout the academic year.
Selected from more than 200 NRHH chapters across North America, Penn State was honored for its commitment to student leadership, service and recognition within the University's residential communities.
During the 2025-26 academic year, NRHH members led initiatives that strengthened connections across campus while recognizing the contributions of students, faculty and staff. In partnership with 13 campus and community organizations, the chapter co-hosted the Centennial Bash, the largest student-led Residence Life event in Penn State history. The celebration welcomed more than 650 attendees in honor of the 100th anniversaries of Irvin, Jordan and Watts residence halls.
The chapter also experienced significant membership growth, welcoming 49 new members through fall and spring induction ceremonies. Combined with returning members, NRHH maintained an active membership of more than 75 students and staff, reflecting the organization's continued momentum and commitment to recognizing student leaders who have made outstanding contributions to the residential experience.
Recognition remained central to the chapter's mission through the "Of the Month" (OTM) program, which celebrates individuals and programs that positively impact campus communities. Throughout the year, NRHH members submitted hundreds of nominations, resulting in 99 Penn State award recipients, 28 regional honorees and nine national award winners through NACURH. The chapter set new organizational records for both nominations submitted and awards received.
Service initiatives also played a central role throughout the year. NRHH partnered with all five residential areas to organize a school supply drive benefiting the Bellefonte Area School District and recognized Housing and Food Services technology staff with winter appreciation gifts in recognition of their continued support of students and campus operations.
Penn State students also expanded the chapter's impact beyond University Park. Ten student leaders represented the University at the NACURH Annual Conference, held May 21-24 at Texas A&M University, where they participated in leadership development, presented educational sessions and collaborated with student leaders from colleges and universities across North America. Several Penn State students also served on regional and national NACURH committees throughout the year.
"Receiving this award is a reflection of the passion and dedication our members bring to serving and recognizing others every day," said Lindsay Mann, incumbent president of Penn State NRHH. "This recognition celebrates not just our chapter, but the countless students, staff and campus partners who helped create meaningful experiences throughout the year. We are proud to represent Penn State on the national stage and excited to continue building a community of leadership, service and recognition.”
The Building Block Chapter of the Year award recognizes a year of meaningful service, student leadership and community impact. As the organization looks ahead, Penn State NRHH remains committed to creating opportunities that strengthen the residential experience while recognizing the people and programs that help students succeed.
The National Residence Hall Honorary is the premier leadership-based honorary for residential students, recognizing the top 1% of student leaders who have demonstrated outstanding service and leadership within their campus communities. Penn State's Nittany Chapter promotes leadership, service and recognition while supporting initiatives that enhance the residential experience for students across the University.