PSU alumni group ranks as largest

What many visitors to the University have long suspected is now confirmed -- the alumni association ranks as the largest in the country and maybe the world.

"Our alumni are everywhere," said University President Joab Thomas after Penn State's supremacy was revealed at the University Board of Trustees meeting Friday. "These alumni are uncommonly loyal to Penn State."

During the last five years, the total assets of the association have escalated from $7.4 million to $15.8 million, said David Gearhart, senior vice president for development and University relations.

The alumni have made possible events such as the first African-American Alumni Conference, Parents Day and the installing of "Historic Penn State" markers across campus.

Gearhart also announced that the number of private donations has increased during the last year as the cost to raise money decreased.

Most trustees officers re-elected

Six of the seven current University Board of Trustees officers were re-elected Friday.

William A. Schreyer was unanimously re-elected to be president of the board for a second year, and H. Jesse Arnelle was unanimously re-elected to a second year as vice president.

University President Joab Thomas automatically resumed his position as secretary of the board. No election was necessary.

Other board officers inanimously elected were Gary C. Schultz, treasurer; incumbent Raymond D. Nargi, associate treasurer; incumbent David E. Branigan, assistant treasurer: incumbent Paula R. Ammerman associate secretary; and incumbents Carolyn A. Dolbin and Joan L. Coble, assistant secretaries. All of the officers elected will serve a one-year term.

Following the elections, Schreyer gave an acceptance speech and made remarks praising the University.