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Big Changes And New Initiatives You’ll See By Fall 2016

After two semesters of amazing winstragic losses, and some crazy campaigns in between, the 2015-2016 school year is finally behind us. Now that finals week is coming to a close, it’s time to look towards the future. Here’s our comprehensive list of all the major changes and new initiatives that will be happen by fall 2016:

LionPATH Will Fully Replace eLion

Until now, students were forced to use both LionPATH and eLion for all of their enrollment and registration needs. Despite its dreadful unveiling, however, LionPATH will continue to take over for eLion throughout the fall semester. According to the Project LionPATH website, grades, transcripts, and advising will all be available on LionPATH in September, and eLion will be officially be phased out by December 2016.

Findlay Commons Will Open Some New Eateries

Even though we all had to say goodbye to The Big Onion this week, the class of 2020 can look forward to some delicious new surprises in Findlay Commons in the fall. While the buffets, Good2Go, and a new convenience store will still be under construction, Findlay will debut new seating areas, a new burger and omelet station, and an espresso bar. Upstairs eating will include international cuisine and new allergen- and gluten-free options. Looks like eating in East Halls won’t be so hellish anymore.

THON Will Limit Canning To Two Weekends…

Late last month, THON executive directors Katie Mailey and Austin Sommerer announced that canning will officially be phased out by 2019. The decision came after the car accident that took the life of Tally Sepot as she and several other students were returning from a canning trip, although the official statement failed to mention the effect of the tragedy at all. The two canning weekends for this fall are scheduled for the weekends of September 23-25 and October 28-30.

…But Car Rentals Will Be Available Through Transportation Services

Despite THON’s vague attempts to regulate safety among students, Penn State Transportation Services will launch a car rental system that will be available in the fall. Through carshare, rideshare, and “repairs, education, and bike share” programs, students will be able to rent cars and bikes for short-term use and link up with others looking to carpool. These initiatives are in line with Penn State’s sustainability goals defined in its five-year strategic plan.

Grate Chee Will Replace Diversions In The HUB

After a short two years in the HUB food court, Diversions will officially close and make way for a hopeful new favorite. Grate Chee, HUB Dining’s new grilled cheese and tomato soup concept, will replace Diversion’s gelato and desserts with ooey, gooey deliciousness. Although its menu has not yet been finalized, Grate Chee will feature daily special sandwiches, bread from the Penn State Bakery, and at least two variations on Tomato Soup.

West and North Dining Halls May Try To Go Trayless

Following a seemingly successful year in East Halls, the “trayless” dining initiative will likely expand to both West and North dining commons come fall. Although the decision isn’t final, the program is expected to do well in both commons, which are more equipped to accept dirty plates without a tray already.

The Fraser Centre Will Finally Open For Business

The long-awaited Fraser Centre will officially open this fall and will bring some major name brands with it. Target, H&M, and Federal Taphouse Bar will all find a home in the centre, along with a Hyatt Hotel and about 30 residential condos.

***

It’s time to go home and relax for the summer, but at least now you know what to expect when you return to Happy Valley this fall.

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About the Author

Gabriela Stevenson

Gabriela is a senior majoring in print and digital journalism and Onward State's former student life editor. She is from Norristown, PA, which she normally refers to as "30 minutes outside of Philadelphia" (she looked up the exact driving time). She enjoys really enjoys eating cereal at night, in case you were wondering. To contact Gabriela, e-mail her at [email protected], or follow her on Twitter @GabiStevenson if you want to feel young again.

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