Penn State Executive and Leadership Team

Michele Spangler, the Chief Operating Officer at Penn State, manages the daily operational infrastructure required to sustain a premier public research university. The Chief Operating Officer executes strategies that streamline internal processes, ensuring that campus facilities and administrative services support the institution's extensive academic mission. By integrating technology into operational systems, Spangler enhances the efficiency of service delivery for students and faculty alike. This role involves close coordination with university leadership to align physical and digital resources with the broader goals of the institution. Michele Spangler drives initiatives that improve the functionality of research laboratories and classroom environments, directly impacting the quality of education provided. Spangler also monitors the scalability of administrative support systems to accommodate the university's international presence, ensuring that operational standards remain consistent across all global locations while fostering an environment conducive to academic and professional growth.

Bennett Ulmer, the Business Analyst & President, Office of at Penn State, evaluates institutional data to drive strategic decision-making within the Office of the President. The Business Analyst & President, Office of interprets complex metrics to assess the effectiveness of university programs and operational initiatives. By providing data-driven insights, Ulmer assists leadership in optimizing resource allocation and improving institutional performance across the multi-campus network. This role involves conducting thorough analyses of academic and administrative processes to identify opportunities for growth and efficiency. Bennett Ulmer also prepares reports and presentations that inform the university's long-term planning and policy development. Through rigorous evaluation and strategic support, Ulmer ensures that the Office of the President remains well-informed and capable of addressing the evolving needs of the university's global community, ultimately strengthening the institution's commitment to excellence in research, teaching, and service.

Sharon Miller, the President at Penn State, leads the university's comprehensive mission of education, research, and public service. The President sets the strategic vision for the institution, guiding its development as a premier land-grant university with a significant global footprint. By overseeing the university's academic and administrative leadership, Miller ensures that all programs align with the goal of providing high-quality instruction and fostering innovation in fields such as medical sciences, engineering, and technology. This leadership role involves engaging with stakeholders across North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia to expand the university's international presence and impact. Sharon Miller also champions initiatives that enhance student success and support the university's research facilities. Through visionary leadership and a commitment to academic excellence, Miller drives the institution forward, maintaining its status as a top 200 university worldwide and ensuring its continued relevance in a rapidly changing global landscape.

Eric Dove, the Chief of Staff & Director, Operations For Penn State Men's & Women's Swimming & Diving at Penn State, manages the logistical and administrative requirements for the university's aquatic programs. The Chief of Staff & Director, Operations For Penn State Men's & Women's Swimming & Diving coordinates team travel, facility scheduling, and budget management to ensure athletes receive optimal support. By aligning athletic operations with the university's broader commitment to excellence, Dove fosters an environment where student-athletes thrive in both competitive and academic settings. This leadership role involves managing complex schedules and resource distribution to maintain high performance standards. Eric Dove also facilitates communication between the coaching staff and university administration, ensuring that all operational needs are met efficiently. Through meticulous planning and execution, Dove supports the success of the swimming and diving programs, contributing to the overall reputation of the university's athletic department and its dedication to comprehensive student development.

Kelsey Knight, the Chief of Staff To the Vice President of Development and Alumni Relations at Penn State, coordinates strategic outreach and fundraising initiatives to support the university's long-term growth. The Chief of Staff To the Vice President of Development and Alumni Relations manages the flow of information and priorities between the development office and university leadership. By fostering strong connections with alumni and donors, Knight ensures that the institution secures the necessary resources to advance research and academic programs. This role involves analyzing donor engagement data to refine outreach strategies and maximize the impact of philanthropic efforts. Kelsey Knight also oversees the administrative functions of the development department, ensuring that all activities align with the university's mission of service and education. Through effective communication and project management, Knight strengthens the relationship between the university and its global community, ultimately supporting the expansion of academic facilities and student scholarship opportunities.

Pamela Brown, the Chief of Staff WBB at Penn State, directs the administrative and operational functions for the women's basketball program. The Chief of Staff WBB manages team logistics, including travel arrangements, scheduling, and internal communications, to ensure the coaching staff remains focused on player development and competitive success. By streamlining these essential processes, Brown enhances the overall efficiency of the program's daily operations. This leadership role involves coordinating with various university departments to ensure compliance with institutional policies and athletic regulations. Pamela Brown also facilitates interactions between the basketball program and external stakeholders, including alumni and media, to promote the team's visibility. Through proactive management and attention to detail, Brown supports the program's goal of achieving excellence on the court while maintaining the high academic standards expected of all student-athletes within the university's diverse and competitive athletic landscape.

Tiana Myers, the Chief of Staff - MBB at Penn State, oversees the operational and administrative framework for the men's basketball program. The Chief of Staff - MBB manages complex scheduling, team logistics, and internal project coordination to ensure the program functions at a high level. By aligning the team's daily activities with the university's broader athletic and academic objectives, Myers creates a structured environment for student-athletes and staff. This role involves managing relationships with internal departments to secure necessary resources and support for the basketball program. Tiana Myers also monitors operational budgets and compliance requirements, ensuring that all activities adhere to university standards. Through strategic planning and efficient execution, Myers supports the coaching staff in achieving competitive goals while fostering a culture of excellence and accountability, contributing significantly to the success and reputation of the university's athletic programs on a national scale.

Tiana Rich, the Chief of Staff - MBB at Penn State, manages the internal operations and strategic planning for the men's basketball program. The Chief of Staff - MBB coordinates with the coaching staff to implement efficient workflows for team management, including travel logistics and facility utilization. By focusing on the operational needs of the program, Rich ensures that the team maintains a competitive edge while upholding the university's commitment to academic and athletic integrity. This leadership role involves managing communication channels and project timelines to keep the program aligned with institutional goals. Tiana Rich also assists in the development of long-term strategies to enhance the program's visibility and resource base. Through diligent oversight and effective problem-solving, Rich supports the overall success of the basketball team, ensuring that all administrative and operational aspects are handled with precision to facilitate peak performance for both staff and student-athletes.

Daniel Murphy, the Senior Director, Administration & Chief of Staff at Penn State, directs the administrative operations and strategic planning for key university departments. The Senior Director, Administration & Chief of Staff manages the integration of administrative policies to ensure consistency and efficiency across the institution's diverse research and educational units. By overseeing the implementation of organizational goals, Murphy facilitates collaboration between senior leadership and departmental teams. This role involves analyzing operational performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and resource optimization. Daniel Murphy also coordinates high-level projects that support the university's mission of providing comprehensive education and research. Through effective leadership and administrative oversight, Murphy ensures that the university's infrastructure remains robust and capable of supporting its global academic presence, ultimately contributing to the institution's continued success as a top-tier research university and its ability to serve students effectively.

Daniel Heckman, the Managing Director at Penn State, directs high-level institutional initiatives to ensure alignment with the university's land-grant mission. Overseeing complex administrative frameworks, the Managing Director facilitates cross-departmental collaboration to support research and educational goals. This leadership role involves optimizing resource allocation across the multi-campus network to maintain the institution's status as a top 200 global university. By refining operational workflows, Daniel Heckman strengthens the university's capacity to deliver high-quality instruction in medical sciences, engineering, and technology. Heckman also coordinates with academic leadership to expand the reach of distance learning platforms, ensuring that educational programs remain accessible to students across North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. Through rigorous oversight of institutional performance, the Managing Director secures the long-term sustainability of the university's diverse academic offerings and research facilities.