The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, or UNESCO, has established a UNESCO Chair in Rural Community, Leadership and Youth Development in Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences. Co-hosted by the college's Center for Economic and Community Development and its Office of International Programs, the chair will be held by Mark Brennan, associate professor of rural community and leadership development.

According to Penn State President Rodney Erickson, the opportunity to establish a UNESCO chair is a rare and prestigious honor. "We are gratified that UNESCO recognizes Penn State's expertise and track record in affecting positive change for people in rural communities and developing countries around the world," he said. "This chair will enable Penn State to foster leadership training and youth development in regions where it's most critically needed."

Erickson noted that only 18 UNESCO Chairs are located in the United States, with just four housed at land-grant institutions. None exist in colleges of agriculture or in the Big Ten, and only four worldwide are related to youth issues.