Clarion University–Venango Campus is developing an Honors Program that will be available to qualified students beginning in fall 2007. The new Honors Program will provide an opportunity for students to broaden their conventional college experience and curriculum through special classes and out-of-classroom activities designed to stimulate intellectual interest, social interaction, and creativity. Students will earn an Honors Certificate upon completion of the two-year program.

            “The Honors Program is a logical next step in the development of the Venango Campus,” said Dr. Christopher M. Reber, executive dean. “The significant growth of the campus in recent years, in enrollment and academic programs as well as through the introduction of student apartment housing, has attracted a growing population of students whose abilities and interests warrant enhanced academic programming and out-of-class activities.”                                                                                                                    

                Dr. David Lott, Assistant Professor of Biology, will direct the program. A Venango Campus Honors Steering Committee will offer ongoing leadership and support of the program. Committee members include, in addition to Dr. Lott, Dr. Ellen Foster, Dr. Patricia Kolencik, Dr. Joan Huber, Professors Frank Shepard, Beth Jackson, and Shari Wynkoop, and Venango Campus director of student affairs Emily Aubele. The University Honors Council, headed by Dr. Hallie Savage, will also lead and participate in the program’s development.

            “I have been very impressed with the students at the Venango Campus,” said Dr. Lott, “and I’m happy to be a part of this new program that will provide a wonderful opportunity for high-achieving students to broaden their horizons.”

            University honors programs offer thought-provoking workshops, lectures, and field trips that complement what students are learning through the regular curriculum. Students work closely with faculty in a participatory learning environment.

            The Honors Program at the Venango Campus is available to students pursuing associate degrees or beginning any of Clarion University’s four-year degrees. Students who participate successfully in the Venango Campus Honors Program will also have the opportunity to continue honors programming on the Clarion campus in the last two years of their undergraduate work. A number of merit-based scholarships are available to students at the Venango Campus, and optional Honors housing will be available in the new student apartment complex that is adjacent to the campus.

            Prospective students who are interested in learning more about the Venango Campus Honors Program may contact Dr. Lott at 676-6591, extension 1219, or the Venango Campus Admissions Office at 676-6591, extension 1211.

            Clarion University-Venango Campus, located in Oil City, PA, is the oldest regional campus in Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education.   The campus provides high-quality educational programs and personalized services to help students succeed.  Students can begin any of Clarion University’s 90+ bachelor’s degrees at the Venango Campus, earn an associate degree, a bachelor’s or master’s degree in select areas, obtain a one-year certificate or participate in a variety of professional development and personal enrichment courses.  The campus is home to Clarion University’s School of Nursing and Allied Health and its Department of Applied Technology.  Clarion University-Venango Campus is committed to serving the needs of the community.