Penn Forward is a University-wide initiative to shape Penn’s future.
For nearly three centuries, Penn has adapted to the world’s changing needs—innovating in education, research, and service. Now, higher education faces new challenges and opportunities: shifting funding, rapid advances in virtual learning and artificial intelligence, new research tools, rising skepticism, and opportunities to reach learners worldwide.
Six working groups (see below) of faculty, staff, students, and post-doctoral scholars will challenge legacy assumptions; propose bold, implementable strategies; and remain grounded in Penn’s values. Success means clear, executable initiatives to match our moment’s significance. Our institution will act wisely, move with purpose, and stay true to our mission.
Visit Penn Forward
A strategic framework for the University
In Benjamin Franklin’s words, “draw down the lightning” was a call to pursue the power of knowledge for the benefit of humanity. In 2025, Penn energized activity around its highest aspirations and pressing initiatives through a series of Draw Down the Lightning grants.
Meet the 2025 Inaugural Grantees
The University of Pennsylvania has undertaken extensive efforts to implement actions in response to the recommendations of the University Task Force on Antisemitism and the Presidential Commission on Countering Hate and Building Community.
This critical work is ongoing and evolving.
Intended to strengthen Penn's commitment to innovation, the President’s Innovation Prize(link is external) will provide a graduating Penn senior, or team of graduating seniors, $100,000 (plus a $50,000 living stipend per team member) to envision and implement an innovative, commercial venture that makes a positive difference in the world.
Intended to strengthen Penn's commitment to impactful global, national, and local student engagement, the President’s Engagement Prizes(link is external) will provide recipients with up to $150,000 ($50,000 for living expenses for each student recipient, plus up to $100,000 for project implementation expenses) to develop and implement a promising local, national, or global engagement project during the year after graduation.