From the Dean

Greetings—

Over the past few months, graduate students and faculty members asked about how, if at all, recent changes in the federal government have impacted Penn State. While we may not have all the answers today, I want to assure you that Penn State, the Fox Graduate School, our graduate programs, and support units across the University are committed to your success.

Lately, I have been mulling over two words, leading through, which is one of my core leadership values. Often, this phrase refers to a leadership style focused on empowering everyone within an organization to do their best, rather than a top-down leadership approach. For me, this is not just a phrase—it is an active commitment, especially during periods of significant change. It means ensuring that our graduate students have the resources, support, and opportunities they need to thrive. It means working alongside faculty to strengthen our academic programs and research impact. It means listening, adapting, and finding solutions that position the Fox Graduate School, graduate students, and graduate programs for long-term success.

I encourage you to think about how you can also lead through in your own ways during these times of uncertainty. How can you be actively engaged in supporting the community broadly?

And always — I cannot stress this enough — take care of yourself. As the saying goes, you can’t do your best without being your best self. The people around you are your support, so lean on them. Please also take advantage of the many health and wellness resources available through the University.

Higher education is in a period of unprecedented change. Challenges such as shifting enrollment patterns, financial constraints, and evolving workforce demands require institutions to take extra steps to stay true to their educational missions. As vice provost for graduate education and dean, my focus remains steadfast: guiding the Fox Graduate School forward with resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to our students, faculty, staff, and the broader university community. With that in mind, I encourage you to contact me with any questions, so that we can answer them as soon as possible.

The road ahead may not be straight, but together, we will move forward with purpose, intentionality, and an unrelenting focus on graduate education’s essential role in shaping the future.

We Are!

Levon T. Esters
Vice Provost for Graduate Education and Dean of the J. Jeffrey and Ann Marie Fox Graduate School