Committee Advances Plan to Rename Chemistry Building as 'Benkovic Building'

The Penn State Board of Trustees approved a plan to rename the Chemistry Building at the University Park campus in honor of the careerlong scholarly impact of Stephen Benkovic, Atherton Professor of Chemistry. 

“Stephen Benkovic is a world leader in chemical biology, whose work defined the field and our understanding of biological principles,” said Tracy Langkilde, Verne M. Willaman Dean of the Eberly College of Science. “His meteoric rise through the ranks at Penn State is unparalleled, and he continues to bring prestige to our institution. A decorated researcher, entrepreneur and educator, he embodies the University’s mission of creating new knowledge and fostering innovation for the benefit of society and serves as a role model to many across the globe." Read more.

Science Alumnus to Receive Alumni Achievement Award

Jemar Bather is one of 11 alumni to receive the 2024 Alumni Achievement Award. The Alumni Achievement Award recognizes alumni 35 years of age and younger for their extraordinary professional accomplishments. These alumni demonstrate to students that Penn State alumni can succeed in exceptional fashion at an early age. Read more about Jemar.

THON 2024 Raises Record-Breaking $16.9 Million

The 2024 Penn State IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon (THON) has raised a record $16,955,683.63 for Four Diamonds at Penn State Children's Hospital. This surpasses THON 2023's record-breaking total of $15,006,132.46 by nearly $2 million.

More than 700 students danced and stood without sleep for 46 hours—from 6:00 p.m. February 16 through 4:00 p.m. February 18—at the Bryce Jordan Center. Read more.

Plan to Renovate Osmond Laboratory Advances

The Penn State Board of Trustees Committee on Finance, Business and Capital Planning approved a proposal to renovate a portion of Osmond Laboratory at the University Park campus, constructing a 48,000-square-foot addition in support of the physics department.

This project, referred to as the “Physics and Osmond Renovation Project,” will feature new, cutting-edge research lab spaces and a high-bay research facility; a space to facilitate collaborations; updated outdoor spaces, including a courtyard outside of the lecture halls; and lecture hall renovations. Read more.

Nicole Lazar Named Statistics Department Head

Nicole Lazar has been named the new head of the Penn State Department of Statistics, effective July 1, 2024. Lazar succeeds Murali Haran, who has served as head of the department since 2018. Read more.

Penn State Names 13 New Distinguished Professors for 2024

Penn State's Office of the Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs has named 13 distinguished professors for 2024, of which three are professors in the Eberly College of Science.

Read more about Penn State biochemist Carsten Krebs, 
molecular biologist Joseph Reese, and physicist
Zoltan Fodor.

The distinguished professor title recognizes outstanding academic contribution to the University. This special academic title is bestowed upon a limited number of professors who are leaders in their fields of research or creative activity and who have demonstrated significant leadership with respect to teaching, research or creative activity, and service.  Read more about all of the new distinguished professors for 2024.

Okafor Receives 2024 Cottrell Scholar Award

Denise Okafor, assistant professor of biochemistry and molecular biology and of chemistry, is among 19 early career scholars in chemistry, physics, and astronomy who have been named by Research Corporation for Science Advancement as recipients of its 2024 Cottrell Scholar Awards. Read more.

Penn State Global announces 2023-24 award recipients for global engagement

Eberly's Joel Waters selected for Unsung Hero Staff Award

Penn State Global has announced the 2023–24 recipients of its annual awards that recognize the outstanding contributions of individuals and academic programs at Penn State who have helped to advance the University’s global engagement goals. Read more.

Mark Your Calendars for We Are Weekend

We Are Weekend is scheduled for June 21–22, 2024. We hope you can return to University Park for the Alumni Association’s premier summer event, and create memories that’ll last a lifetime. We Are Weekend is a great opportunity to unite with fellow Penn Staters through the events, activities, and groups that mean the most to you. Read more.

Penn State Alumni Association 2024 Membership Madness

The Penn State Alumni Association is kicking off its 2024 Membership Madness sale, and you don’t want to miss these great membership offers!  

Join or renew your annual membership to the Alumni Association for 50 percent off the regular price between now and April 8. Those who join or renew during this campaign are also eligible for discounts at the Berkey Creamery, plus one sweet grand prize.  

Read more about Membership Madness.