Student Organizations

Student Organizations

The Department of Communication Arts and Sciences offers students many opportunities to enrich their academic experiences in and out of the classroom. These experiences broaden and deepen students’ expertise in communication, they help students stand out on the job market and among graduate school applicants, and they build memories that will last a lifetime.

CAS Club

The Communication Arts and Sciences Club (CAS Club) is devoted to helping all undergraduate students improve their communication skills, professional development, networking opportunities, and careers. We welcome all majors and anyone who is undecided.

For more information, contact Vanessa McLaughlin, Faculty adviser of CAS Club.

Lambda Pi Eta

Lambda Pi Eta (LPH) is the National Communication Association’s official honor society at four-year colleges and universities nationwide. The honor society recognizes outstanding student scholars in Communication with more than 500 active chapters in 47 states! For more information, contact Marcy Milhomme, Faculty adviser of Lambda Pi Eta.

LPH Eligibility

  1. Complete 60 semester credit-hours (90 quarter credit-hours)
  2. Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 for all courses taken
  3. Complete the equivalent of 12 semester credit-hours (18 quarter credit-hours) in communication studies
  4. Have a minimum GPA of 3.25 for all communication studies courses
  5. Currently be enrolled as a student in good standing, as determined by the institution’s policies
  6. Rank within the highest thirty-five percent of one’s class in general scholarship

If you are a CAS major with a 3.25 GPA, you are welcome to be part of Penn State’s Zeta Rho chapter and further distinguish yourself from your peers.

Penn State Speech and Debate Team

The Penn State Speech and Debate Team aims to provide a platform for structured, intelligent, and open debate in an environment where Penn State students can improve their skills as advocates and citizens. There are three ways to become involved: open practice, public debates, and tournament competition. These activities help students develop critical thinking and public speaking skills, contribute to public discussion over campus and national issues, and compete against other colleges and universities.

Practices are open to anyone who wishes to participate. They are every Tuesday and Thursday night at 6:00 pm in 1 and 2 Sparks.

Penn State Mock Trial Association

The Penn State Mock Trial Association is a competitive, student-run undergraduate organization designed to increase legal literacy and help members hone their presentation skills. The organization fields several teams that compete in American Mock Trial Organization tournaments across the country hosted by many prestigious colleges and universities. Our competitors represent almost every academic college, and all majors are encouraged to join the organization. It’s for everyone: actors, debaters, public speakers, law enthusiasts, chemists, you name it. If you’re interested in joining or learning more about the club, follow them on Facebook and Instagram or reach out with questions via email.