History of Penn State University Park in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 21, 2025

Penn State University Park, the main campus of Pennsylvania State University, is located in State College and College Township, Centre County, Pennsylvania. Designated "University Park, Pennsylvania" by Penn State president Milton Eisenhower in 1953 after the institution achieved university status, it serves as the primary hub for academic and research activities within the Penn State system.

1953: University Park Postal Address Resolution

In 1953, after the name change referendum for the town of State College failed, the university established a new postal address named "University Park" to reflect its university status.

1953: University Park Post Office Designation

In 1953, the campus post office was officially designated as "University Park, Pennsylvania" by Penn State president Milton Eisenhower, following the upgrade of the school to university status.