Penn State News: Stadium Renovation, Tuition Hike, Campus Closures, Arts Fest Highlights, and Big Ten Football Updates

Good morning, Penn State! Here's your latest campus news for Monday, July 21, 2025. Construction on Beaver Stadium's west side is progressing steadily. The $700 million renovation aims to enhance the fan experience and modernize facilities. Temporary seating will be in place to maintain full capacity for the upcoming football season. The project is on track for completion before the 2027 season. The Penn State Board of Trustees has approved a 2% tuition increase for in-state undergraduate students at University Park for the 2026-27 academic year. Additionally, the university has purchased the former Beta Theta Pi fraternity house, where student Tim Piazza tragically lost his life in 2017. Plans for the property's future use are under consideration. In response to declining enrollment and financial challenges, Penn State will close seven Commonwealth Campuses—DuBois, Fayette, Mont Alto, New Kensington, Shenango, Wilkes-Barre, and York—after the spring 2026-27 academic year. This decision affects over 500 employees and more than 3,100 students. The university plans to redirect resources to strengthen remaining campuses and expand online education options. The 2025 Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts took place from July 9 to July 13, featuring hundreds of independent vendors and performances throughout Downtown State College and the University Park campus. The festival continues to be a highlight of the summer, celebrating the vibrant arts community in our region. Head coach James Franklin, senior quarterback Drew Allar, redshirt senior offensive lineman Nick Dawkins, and redshirt senior safety Zakee Wheatley will represent Penn State at the 2025 Big Ten Football Media Days in Las Vegas on Wednesday, July 23. This event marks the official kickoff of the upcoming football season. That's all for today's update. Stay informed and engaged, Penn State!