UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State Homecoming has selected Brian Patchcoski, assistant vice president for diversity, equity and inclusion for Penn State Student Affairs, as the 2021 Honorary Grand Marshal.
The Honorary Grand Marshal is someone who has gone above and beyond in positively contributing to the local community, making notable achievements in their field of study and career path, while representing the values that Penn State Homecoming emulates.
The announcement was made on Sept. 24 in a video posted to the Penn State Homecoming website.
Homecoming Week is scheduled for Oct. 17-23, culminating with the Homecoming parade on Friday, Oct. 22, and the Homecoming football game against Illinois on Saturday, Oct. 23.
Patchcoski was named the assistant vice president for diversity, equity and inclusion for Penn State Student Affairs on Jan. 18. Previously, he served as the director for the Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity in Student Affairs.
Patchcoski said he believes this year’s Homecoming theme of "Together State Prevails" is something that won’t be limited to just this year.
“We have come a long way, and there is still so much work to be done,” said Patchcoski. “It’s together, where we will prevail. It’s creating a sense of belonging, community and support that I know our Penn State community lives."
Patchcoski oversees the following Student Affairs offices:
- Adult Learner Programs and Services
- Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity
- Center for Spiritual and Ethical Development
- Gender Equity Center
- Paul Robeson Cultural Center
Patchcoski earned his master’s degree in higher education from Penn State and his bachelor’s degree in counseling and human services from the University of Scranton. He lives in State College with his husband Greg, their twins Declyn and Keegyn, and their two dogs.
The Executive Committee for Homecoming continues to monitor state and local guidelines for COVID-19 and is dedicated to hosting the best possible Homecoming experience while ensuring the safety of the Penn State community.