On its surface, the question posed by this work-"Is Penn State a Real University?"-seems ridiculous. Yet its thoughtful exploration by Dr. Ben Novak, a four-term former Trustee, reveals that there is far more to the answer than one might first imagine. Nearly 25 years ago, State College Magazine published the essays that form the core of this book. Assembled for the first time and updated for contemporary readers, Dr. Novak's explication-equal parts informational and inspirational-rings as true today as at the time of its original publication. "Is Penn State a Real University?" is an insightful meditation that presents a grounded, evergreen vision for students, alumni, townspeople, and professors everywhere.