Penn State News: Fall Semester Updates, No. 2 Football Ranking, Stadium Renovations, Campus Closures & Sports Highlights

The Penn State University-Main Campus Podcast

Good afternoon, Penn State! It's Monday, August 18, 2025, and here's what's happening around campus. First up, the fall semester is just around the corner. Classes begin on Monday, August 25. If you're planning to graduate this semester, don't forget to activate your intent to graduate between today, August 18, and September 16. Also, the deadline to register for classes is Sunday, August 24. For more details, check the academic calendar on the university registrar's website. In sports news, the preseason AP Top 25 college football poll has been released, and Penn State is ranked No. 2, just behind Texas. This marks our highest preseason ranking since 1997. The Nittany Lions are gearing up for an exciting season, and fans are eagerly anticipating the opening game. Speaking of Beaver Stadium, significant renovations are underway. The Penn State Board of Trustees approved a $700 million project aimed at enhancing the fan experience and expanding the stadium's use for year-round events. The project is expected to be completed before the 2027 college football season. On the volleyball front, the Penn State Nittany Lions women's team is preparing for the upcoming season. Their first match is scheduled for August 23 against Creighton at the Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln, Nebraska. Fans can look forward to an exciting season ahead. In other news, the university has announced the closure of seven Commonwealth campuses, including DuBois, Fayette, Mont Alto, New Kensington, Shenango, Wilkes-Barre, and York. These campuses are set to close at the end of the 2026-2027 school year due to declining enrollments and financial challenges. That's all for today's update. Stay tuned for more news and events happening around Penn State.