UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Penn State Board of Trustees met Friday, hearing from President Eric Barron about the upcoming capital campaign and taking action on several items including a new doctoral program and building renovations.

Next capital campaign: President Eric Barron discussed his vision for the University’s upcoming capital campaign with the Board of Trustees, emphasizing the overarching importance of a campaign whose themes will advance the institution’s core strategic goals and strengths. 

Doctoral program in public health: The Penn State College of Medicine announced a new doctor of public health degree program, projected to begin fall 2016. The program, based on the model advocated by the Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health, is designed to develop leaders in public health who will create and implement solutions to public health problems.

Degree in law and health administration: Penn State announced a new joint degree program that will offer students the opportunity to pursue degrees in law and health administration, preparing them for compliance, legal, policy and regulatory careers in the health care field.

Library renovations at Penn State Hershey: Extensive renovations are planned for the George T. Harrell Health Sciences Library on the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center campus, with the intent of modernizing the 50-year-old library to better support the emerging needs of future and current health professionals and scientists.

Student center renovations at Penn State York: Trustees approved final plans and authorized a $13.5 million renovation and addition to the Joe and Rosie Ruhl Student Community Center at Penn State York. The Ruhl Center is the hub of student activities and athletic events on campus.

Endowment: Penn State's endowment and similar funds increased by a net $90.7 million in fiscal year 2015, and the total market value reached a record high of $2.38 billion as of June 30, 2015.