Penn State

Penn State president recovering from medical condition. Here’s what we know

Neeli Bendapudi speaks during a press conference after being named the next Penn State president on Thursday, Dec. 9, 2021.
Neeli Bendapudi speaks during a press conference after being named the next Penn State president on Thursday, Dec. 9, 2021. Centre Daily Times, file

Penn State’s president is recovering from acute pancreatitis, the university confirmed Wednesday.

Neeli Bendapudi received medical care in connection with acute pancreatitis, Penn State spokesperson Wyatt DuBois told the Centre Daily Times. He did not say when she received care or for how long.

“While she is recovering, her spirits are high and she is grateful for the support of the Penn State community,” he said.

The board of trustees meets Thursday and Friday, and DuBois said she is expected to participate in those meetings remotely.

This weekend is also spring commencement, which she won’t be able to participate in this year, although the president typically does not attend each ceremony as there are so many across the university system. Each ceremony has academic leaders, faculty, trustees and other guests, he said.

“While President Bendapudi unfortunately cannot attend ceremonies this year, as she must prioritize her recovery, senior academic leadership will preside over each ceremony, including the provost, senior vice president for research and senior vice provost for undergraduate education,” DuBois said.

This story may be updated as more information becomes available.

This story was originally published May 7, 2025 at 8:37 PM.

Halie Kines
Centre Daily Times
Halie Kines reports on Penn State and the State College borough for the Centre Daily Times. Support my work with a digital subscription
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