By Blake Jackson
Senator Elder Vogel Jr. of Pennsylvania has received the 2025 Friend of Penn State Legislative Award from the Penn State Alumni Association. The honor, started in 2006, recognizes lawmakers who support the University’s mission and growth.
Vogel, representing the 47th District, including parts of Beaver, Butler, and Lawrence counties, has long supported agriculture, education, and rural health. He currently serves as majority chairman of the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee and vice chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, along with several other committee memberships.
His work aligns closely with Penn State’s mission as the state’s land-grant university. “Sen. Vogel's deep-rooted dedication to agriculture, exemplified by his leadership in the Pennsylvania Senate and his efforts to support Pennsylvania's farming community, is at the core of Penn State's mission as the state's sole land-grant university,” said Mike Stefan, Penn State vice president for Government and Community Relations. “We are greatly appreciative of his support for Penn State and commitment to advancing higher education in Pennsylvania.”
Vogel also played a key role in passing Act 59 of 2023, the Sexual Assault Emergency Services Act. This law requires the state to list hospitals offering sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE) services and supports grant programs to expand access.
In 2024, Vogel supported Act 42, a law that expands telemedicine services across Pennsylvania. This legislation ensures health insurance covers telehealth, improving care access in rural areas and earning backing from Penn State Health.
“As a former dairy farmer and agricultural industry leader, Sen. Vogel has a keen understanding of the challenges facing producers that can be solved only through scientific research and education,” said Troy Ott, dean of the Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences. “During his time in the Senate, he has been a tireless advocate for the roles that the College of Agricultural Sciences and Penn State Extension play in spurring innovation, translating research into practical applications, and educating the future leaders who will keep Pennsylvania’s food and fiber system economically and environmentally sustainable. His work in Harrisburg has been invaluable in raising awareness of and support for the college among his colleagues, helping us fulfill our land-grant mission on behalf of the commonwealth.”
The award, presented on June 3, highlights the valuable partnership between state lawmakers and Penn State. Vogel continues to be a driving force behind policies that benefit both the University and Pennsylvania communities.
Photo Credit: penn-state-college-of-ag-sciences
Categories: Pennsylvania, Business