ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the theme of human development as a focal point for the contributions of land-grant universities to society. It considers some of the ways The Pennsylvania State University promotes human development, with a special focus on programs and activities that support the development of families and youth and integrate the teaching, research, and service missions. The chapter identifies issues that influence the land-grant university's ability to address the human problems and needs of the people they serve. The contribution of America's land-grant universities to economic development is widely recognized as one of the great success stories of higher education. The establishment of the Cooperative Extension Service by the federal Smith-Lever legislation in 1914 formalized the public-service mission of the land-grant universities and created a model for university/community collaboration that remains in place today. There are many more programs and activities throughout the University that improve the quality of life for individuals, families, and communities.
