Administration

Chapkovich creates annual student award

An alumna who has had abundant personal interaction with students in Penn State's College of Communications and believes in their commitment and talent has created an annual award to recognize them for their academic excellence.

Jeanne Chapkovich, who earned her Penn State degree journalism in 1973, committed to annual gifts of $1,000 a year over five years to support the award.

“When you meet our students, talk to them and get a sense of their passion, it’s hard not to want to support what they do however you can,” said Chapkovich, the retired director of customer service for Rodale Inc. “It’s a great feeling to be able to support them in some way, because every little bit helps.”

All undergraduate communications students who have achieved academic excellence are eligible for the the Jeanne Chapkovich Communications Award -- with a first preference for those who have transferred from the Mont Alto campus.

Chapkovich serves on the College of Communications Alumni Society Board. She said her interactions with students, administrators and faculty in the College helped influence her decision to create the award.

“Would I love to be able to give millions of dollars? Sure, but that’s not possible,” she said. “Still, I’ve learned that all those little $100 gifts do add up, and that our students do need extra support. Our College does a lot to be proud about and if I can help in a little way that’s great.”

Last Updated August 9, 2010

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