The Penn State Thespians is a student-run theatrical organization that operates at the Pennsylvania State University. The main goal of the organization is "to present theatrical entertainment and to provide the students of the Pennsylvania State University with educational experience in all phases of dramatic production; and in doing, hereby enhance the cultural diversity of its members and the University."The Penn State Thespians is the oldest continuously running student run organization on campus. The first Thespians meeting was called to order on October 22, 1897 by our founders, Dr. Fred Lewis Pattee (author of Penn State s Alma Mater ) and Dr. Leete. Dr. Pattee was the head of the Department of English, and Dr. Leete was a professor of Mathematics. Neither had roots in theater, yet they came together to form Thespians.