From the Conservancy
Profound gratitude.
That sums up this month’s message from the Mount Nittany Conservancy (and from me personally) as Summer finally makes its way to us here in Happy Valley. Every morning, I wake up grateful to love where I live — for those of us fortunate enough to help care for Mount Nittany, there is perhaps no higher service to our home than stewarding its oldest and most sacred landmark. As the Conservancy celebrates 45 years in that noble pursuit, I’m reflecting on everything for which I can be thankful…
- Completion of the Mount Nittany Conservancy’s first land acquisition since its founding, adding more than 100 acres of permanently conserved Mountain land.
- The unbelievable generosity of our supporters who helped the Conservancy to raise a record-shattering $34,000 during Centre Gives!
- A year of working with Fletcher Port, our 2025-26 Novak Fellow, an enthusiastic Friend of the Mountain destined to help swell the fame of Old State as an alumnus.
- Meeting the conscientious and creative people of this region at public info sessions about the future of Rockview (next up: this Sunday afternoon at Pine Grove Hall!).
- The vibrancy of Downtown State College, exemplified by East End Social on Hiester Street – only 100 years in the making (see this month’s archival piece below).
- All those who share our passion for preserving Mount Nittany – as a landmark to be appreciated, a place to be experienced, and a symbol to be revered.
I’m never one to rush the seasons (though I’m excited as can be for the Matt Campbell era to commence this Fall), but when we do reach the end of November, my list of Thanksgiving Day blessings will be extra long. If you’re reading this, you’ll be on it.
For The Mountain,
Chris Buchignani, Vice President
Reflections of a Novak Fellow: Fletcher Port ’26
The Mount Nittany Conservancy’s Novak Fellowship provides opportunities to encounter the Nittany Valley’s legendary spirit through cultural and environmental experiences. Our outgoing 2025-26 Novak Fellow Fletcher Port ’26 offers parting thoughts on what the experience meant to his senior year at Penn State.
Working with the Mount Nittany Conservancy was one of the most meaningful opportunities I had in my four years at Penn State to become involved with the surrounding community. While I joined and became involved in many clubs and organizations, the focus was often centered on students and the University itself. Rarely did I find opportunities where the true emphasis was on investing back into the surrounding community and the municipalities that give so much to us. Doing work that supports students is incredibly important, and its impact can often be measured. But doing work that supports State College and the broader community feels different. Its impact is immeasurable.
One of the most important things we can have in this world is a sense of community: one where everyone has a seat at the table, and where everyone has a space to belong. That is what Downtown State College is so widely recognized for. It is part of why State College was recently named the best college town. The effort, care, and pride of local residents help create an environment that makes Penn State feel like home. It is not just the University that people come back to; it is the place.
For that reason, working with the community, bringing people together, and helping continue to develop a true sense of place was one of the most rewarding parts of my Mount Nittany Conservancy Novak Fellowship. This role was one of the most humbling and privileged positions I have been fortunate enough to hold. I am incredibly grateful to Chris Buchignani and the Mount Nittany Conservancy for welcoming me in, supporting me, and allowing me to be part of such meaningful work.
From the Archives
Over the years, the Conservancy has accumulated a wonderful collection of original writing and archived photos and documents from the rich past of Penn State and State College. Each month, we will highlight one of these recovered gems.
This month’s piece puts into perspective the long (and fruitless) generational quest for an Allen Street pedestrian mall, a well-timed reflection as we begin the Summer of East End Social on Hiester Street!
A Century-Long Vision for an Allen Street Pedestrian Mall and Other Stories
It is perhaps unavoidable for a college town, a place that turns over nearly a quarter of its population annually, to forget much of its past. Even here, in a place where we claim to honor, even venerate, tradition, the mists of time quickly obscure, and sometimes totally consume, the dreams, triumphs, and failures of our predecessors. We should seek to continuously unearth this information and refresh it for modern sensibilities, driven by a sense of service and affection for the place. In doing so, we can equip ourselves with the tools to better understand and navigate our present.
In 2013, CBICC staff members found the group’s archives boxed up in storage. The collection is fascinating. Simply what they chose to document—the birth of Arts Fest, the construction of Welch Pool, the planning of I-99—speaks to the aspirations of the community. Highlights include the century-long vision of an Allen Street Pedestrian Mall: The concept actually reached a pretty serious planning stage in 1965 (models were built), and had been discussed as early as the mid-20s. Even 50 years ago, local writers covering the story joked about long-running efforts to repurpose the 100 block of Allen.
Own a Piece of Mount Nittany
Every square inch counts when it comes to conserving Mount Nittany, and you can help us do just that by making a gift to the Mount Nittany Conservancy! In recognition of your gift you will receive a Mount Nittany Square Inch Marker, a beautiful proclamation of your role in Mount Nittany’s conservation. Every dollar goes directly to supporting our mission to protect and preserve the Mountain for all to enjoy.
Looking to surprise the Penn Stater or outdoor enthusiast in your life? Mount Nittany Square Inch markers are an unforgettable gift for birthdays, holidays, and graduations.
Reminiscences of Dr. F.J. Pond
by Dr. Francis J. Pond
In our featured book for this month, ‘Reminiscences of Dr. F.J. Pond,’ an Atherton-era professor recalls a transformational time at Penn State, providing first-hand accounts of the decades that shaped the modern University. Available in print and digital.
Dr. Francis Pond recalls the lively era of growth and change at The Pennsylvania State College spear-headed by President George W. Atherton, sharing memories of life on campus and covering topics like the establishment of fraternities, clubs, and literary societies, selection of the school colors, student pranks, compulsory chapel and military drills, and the college football scandals of the day. He paints a vivid picture of a place both foreign and familiar. Dr. Pond speaks to us across time through this short, but riveting, account of Penn State in its formative years.
Hike Mount Nittany
From day trippers to weekend warriors to those appreciating the blessings just beyond their backdoors, hiking Mount Nittany offers a chance to connect with a sacred space. On our Hike Mount Nittany page, you’ll find all the maps, tips, and guidelines you will need to make your trip a safe and memorable one!
Care for Mount Nittany
Mount Nittany’s trail network is maintained entirely by volunteers. During the year, many people give of their time and energy to maintain Mount Nittany and help conserve the Mountain in its natural state. Visit our Volunteer page for more information.
If your group is interested in volunteering, please email volunteer@nittany.org with the details of your group (age range, number, skill level, past participation, etc.) and we will coordinate with you.
