Penn State has reached a remarkable moment of pride and potential. Its vast yet deeply connected community is powered by more than 800,000 alumni and supported by a thriving affiliate network of 275 groups and over 3,000 volunteer leaders who drive connection and engagement across the globe. This enduring legacy of loyalty and involvement fuels record-breaking philanthropy, wide-ranging programs, and a culture that celebrates both service and success.
Founded as Pennsylvania’s land-grant institution in 1863, Penn State has grown into one of the nation’s most comprehensive universities and one of the world’s most respected institutions. Ranked among the top 100 globally by leading university rankings, Penn State serves nearly 88,000 students from all 50 states and more than 150 countries through its commonwealth campus ecosystem and pioneering World Campus consistently recognized among the best online programs.
Under the leadership of President Neeli Bendapudi and newly appointed Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations Jay Davenport, the University continues to define excellence in higher education while advancing its land-grant mission of teaching, research, and public service.
Penn State has reached a remarkable moment of pride and potential. Its vast yet deeply connected community is powered by more than 800,000 alumni and supported by a thriving affiliate network of 275 groups and over 3,000 volunteer leaders who drive connection and engagement across the globe. This enduring legacy of loyalty and involvement fuels record-breaking philanthropy, wide-ranging programs, and a culture that celebrates both service and success.
Founded as Pennsylvania’s land-grant institution in 1863, Penn State has grown into one of the nation’s most comprehensive universities and one of the world’s most respected institutions. Ranked among the top 100 globally by leading university rankings, Penn State serves nearly 88,000 students from all 50 states and more than 150 countries through its commonwealth campus ecosystem and pioneering World Campus consistently recognized among the best online programs.
The Opportunity
Penn State seeks an experienced and inspiring leader to serve as Associate Vice President for Alumni Relations and Chief Executive Officer of the Penn State Alumni Association. This is a career-defining opportunity to lead the largest and most passionate alumni network in the world with more than 800,000 strong and to make a lasting impact on the University’s future.
Reporting to the Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations while partnering with the Alumni Association’s volunteer president, this role leads a team of more than 60 staff, stewards 172,000-plus members, and collaborates with 275 affiliate groups and more than 3,000 volunteer leaders. Together, they deliver compelling events, programs, and communications, including the award-winning Penn Stater magazine to deepen engagement, drive philanthropy, and shape the future of alumni relations at a world-class university.
The AVP/CEO serves as a prominent ambassador for Penn State, amplifying alumni affinity, guiding strategic engagement, and helping shape the future of an institution that continues to define excellence in higher education.
With the strong support of university leadership, a deeply invested volunteer base, and one of the most loyal alumni communities in the world, the AVP/CEO will lead at the highest level of alumni relations and define what it means to be part of the Penn State community now and well into the future. Penn State’s vibrant campus culture, bolstered by its nationally recognized academic programs and celebrated athletic traditions, helps drive deep alumni pride and lifelong connection offering a rich foundation for meaningful engagement.
This role requires exceptional leadership in managing a complex and geographically dispersed organization, significant experience in higher education institutions, and a platform to serve as a national, forward-thinking leader in association management.
