The title of Distinguished Professor represents one of the highest honors that Penn State can bestow on a member of its faculty. This designation recognizes exceptional achievement across research or creative work, teaching, and service to the University or broader society. Faculty selected for this honor have demonstrated international leadership in their fields and have made lasting contributions to the academic mission of Penn State.

Distinguished Professorships are awarded to current, full-time tenure-line faculty at the rank of Professor. Candidates must not already hold an endowed or named professorship. Appointments are made for a renewable five-year term, and the title may be retained upon retirement as part of a faculty member’s emeritus status.

To ensure broad representation, each college is limited to naming no more than 10% of its standing faculty to the title at any given time. Nominations originate within colleges and require supporting documentation, including letters of endorsement from colleagues and the department head. Final selections are approved by the President of the University.

For complete details about eligibility, nomination procedures, and college-level guidelines, please refer to University Policy AC10 and the official Distinguished Professors page maintained by the Office of Faculty Affairs.