Rose Cologne Volunteer Dinner
History of Rose Cologne and the Volunteer Dinner
Dr. Rose Cologne was known throughout Pennsylvania and beyond for her years of pioneering leadership in adult education and to alleviate problems of the poor. Dr. Cologne was known for her sense of humor and her love of all people regardless of the mistakes they may have made.
Dr. Cologne also served with international programs in Japan and Afghanistan. Rose, as she was affectionately known, was a faculty member at Penn State in the Sociology Department from 1941 until 1968. She was a founding member of Tri-County Habitat for Humanity, which continues to honor her contribution to the organization with an education scholarship for Habitat families. Additionally, Rose was instrumental in starting the Centre County Branch of the PA Prison Society and was a regular prison visitor for many years. The Centre County Medical Society honored Rose with the Benjamin Rush Award, for her outstanding contributions toward the promotion of public health and welfare in Centre County.
The Centre County Council of Human Services (CCCHS) believed that Rose should be recognized for her commitment and dedication to improving the lives of Centre County residents and human services. CCCHS held their first volunteer recognition dinner at the Penns Valley High School cafeteria in 1971 and honored Dr. Cologne. The volunteer dinner, which continues today, carries her name in special recognition of her many contributions to the human services, field, and the community.