Campus Life

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Penn State Military Appreciation Committee, Penn State Alumni Association, and the Downtown State College Improvement District are reminding the Penn State community that the application period for the 2026 military banner displays closes on Sept. 1.

This is the fifth year banners will be displayed in downtown State College during the month of November. Interested sponsors who wish to honor a veteran or active-duty service member in the community can purchase a downtown State College banner here.

The on-campus alumni military banner display began in 2025, specifically honoring Penn State alumni who have served or are currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.

Each on-campus military honor banner is dedicated to one Penn Stater, showcasing their name, graduation information, military service and a portrait in their military uniform. The banners will hang on the Penn State side of College Avenue, starting at North Burrowes Street and ending at Shortlidge Road. Penn State staff members will select where each banner is displayed along College Avenue.

Interested participants can nominate alumni service members online. Eligibility includes Penn State University Park and Penn State World Campus alumni who are veterans or actively serving in the active or reserve components of the U.S. Armed Forces. Review the nomination form for eligibility information.

Individuals and Penn State academic units can sponsor a Penn Stater on a banner by filling out the nomination form. Spots are limited and filled on a first-come, first-served basis. The deadline to order a banner is Sept. 1 or until all spots are filled. If Penn State is unable to accommodate a banner request for 2026, applicants can request to join a waiting list for 2027.

Sponsorships cost $400, which covers the production of the banner and the shipment to sponsors, as well as a donation to the Penn State Military Student Fund, which provides recognition and financial assistance for outstanding active-duty military service members, veterans and their dependents. All funds raised directly benefit military-connected students at all Penn State campuses, including World Campus.

Penn State has a longstanding and proud tradition of serving the men and women of our military through education benefits, resources, support and more.

Penn State students, faculty, staff and alumni with military connections can submit a profile of service for the opportunity to be featured on the University’s Military Appreciation website and other materials. Visit militaryappreciation.psu.edu to learn more.