Born in Johnstown in 1943, Ben Novak graduated from Penn State in 1965 after serving as student body president and as a brother at Tau Kappa Epsilon. After graduating from Georgetown University Law School in 1968, Novak served as a Captain in the U.S. Army Infantry in Vietnam, earning the Bronze Star. Returning in 1970, Novak established his own law firm in State College and Bellefonte and practiced law in Pennsylvania for more than three decades. A visionary and indefatigable force, he has been, variously: author of three books, a four-term Penn State trustee, founder of the Mount Nittany Conservancy; president of Lion's Paw Alumni Association; a Ph.D. recipient in philosophy, history, and political science; and adjunct professor and assistant dean of students. The Mount Nittany Conservancy's "Ben Novak Fellowship" provides Penn Staters and Nittany Valley residents an opportunity to encounter the Nittany Valley's legendary spirit through cultural and environmental experiences meant to enhance appreciation for our distinctive community and encourage friendships for the future.