The Director of Health Promotion and Wellness provides strategic and operational leadership for university-wide health promotion, prevention, and intervention efforts, including substance awareness and education. Through a collaborative, transparent, and people-centered leadership approach, the Director fosters a culture of trust, staff wellbeing, accountability, and continuous improvement within the unit. The ideal candidate brings demonstrated experience leading organizational change, strengthening team culture, and advancing evidence-informed health initiatives in complex environments. This position will collaborate with colleagues in Student Affairs and across the University.
Key Responsibilities
The Director will:
- Lead, advance, and integrate comprehensive health promotion services and programs in support of Penn State's student success and wellbeing priorities
- Serve as a subject-matter expert and strategic advisor to University leadership on health promotion, prevention, and public health initiatives
- Provide strategic oversight for Health Promotion and Wellness (HPW) and the Collegiate Recovery Community (CRC) at University Park
- Oversee multiple budgets, including HPW, BASICS/CASECS, Community for Substance Abuse Prevention (university-wide), The Partnership - United Against Dangerous Drinking, and the Collegiate Recovery Community
- Provide University-wide oversight and coordination of Penn State Safe & Aware
- Lead compliance efforts related to the U.S. Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act, including the biennial review process and development of required drug and alcohol content for the University's Annual Security Report
- Represent Health Promotion and Wellness on University leadership committees, task forces, and cross-functional initiatives, contributing to institutional strategy and collaboration
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Master's Degree
10+ years of relevant experience, includes 3+ years of supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Required Certifications:
None
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $76,700.00 - $115,100.00.
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our
Benefits Page.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS:
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review
here.
