Penn State's Office of the Vice Provost for Academic Affairs has named 14 faculty members as distinguished professors. Among them are SSRI Associate Director Joshua Smyth and SSRI co-fund and professor of psychology Jenae Neiderhiser.
The title of distinguished professor recognizes the academic contributions of current, full-time faculty members who hold the rank of professor. Distinguished professors are acknowledged leaders in their fields of research or creative activity; demonstrate significant leadership in raising the University's standards in teaching, research or creative activity and service; and exhibit excellent teaching skills.