University Park, PA – Pennsylvania State University has recently achieved several notable honors, underscoring its commitment to excellence in education, research, and leadership.
Senator Paul Simon Award for Campus Internationalization
In February 2025, Penn State received the esteemed Senator Paul Simon Award for Campus Internationalization from NAFSA: Association of International Educators. This award acknowledges U.S. colleges and universities making significant strides in integrating global perspectives into their campuses. Penn State was one of only five institutions nationwide to be honored with this comprehensive award.
Steve Bisbee Award Inaugural Recipient
The Smeal College of Business introduced the Steve Bisbee Award to honor outstanding contributions to real estate education. Luke Wagner, a senior finance major from Sparks Glencoe, Maryland, became the first recipient of this award. Wagner’s dedication to real estate analysis and development exemplifies the award’s intent to recognize excellence in the field.
Pat Kraft Nominated for Athletic Director of the Year
Penn State’s Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics, Pat Kraft, has been nominated for the Sports Business Journal’s Athletic Director of the Year award. In his third year with the Nittany Lions, Kraft has overseen significant athletic achievements, including a top-three national ranking in the Learfield Directors’ Cup and a national title in women’s volleyball. His leadership continues to elevate Penn State’s athletic programs.
Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers
Professor Lauren Zarzar, from Penn State’s Department of Chemistry and Materials Science and Engineering, was honored with the 2025 Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE). This prestigious award is the highest U.S. government honor for early-career scientists and engineers, recognizing exceptional promise for leadership in science and technology.
Top Producer of Fulbright U.S. Scholars and Students
In February 2025, Penn State was ranked among the top producers of Fulbright U.S. Scholars and Students for the 2024-25 academic year. The university tied for second nationally among doctoral institutions, with 12 faculty and 10 students receiving Fulbright awards. This recognition highlights Penn State’s dedication to fostering global engagement and academic excellence.
Eight Alumni Honored with Alumni Achievement Award
The Penn State Alumni Association announced that eight distinguished alumni will receive the Alumni Achievement Award, one of the university’s highest honors. The awardees are recognized for their outstanding professional accomplishments and contributions to society. The ceremony is scheduled for March 28, 2025, and will be livestreamed for broader accessibility.
These accolades reflect Penn State’s unwavering commitment to excellence across various domains, reinforcing its status as a leading institution in higher education.
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