MEDIA, Pa. – Jessie Whiteman joined Penn State Brandywine as a human resources consultant in October. Coming from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Whiteman said she is looking forward to building relationships with the campus community.
Whiteman started her college career at Penn State Brandywine and then transitioned to University Park to complete her bachelor’s degree in labor and industrial relations. Upon graduating from college, she had various roles in human resources and retail management until 2023, when she decided to go to Penn State Great Valley to earn her MBA. She then worked for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as an employee relations analyst for two years.
Now finding herself back at Brandywine, Whiteman said she chose to join the campus because Penn State played a large role in her life, and she really liked the culture that the University had to offer.
“Penn State has always been a part of my life. I received both of my degrees from Penn State, and I started here at Brandywine for my bachelor’s degree. Some of my best friends are the people I went to college with, and my husband is also a Penn Stater, so it’s always been woven into my life,” she said.
“When I went to Great Valley for my MBA, I worked as a part-time student employee on their diversity action council, so I was able to get a glimpse of the work culture. I immediately loved the culture there and knew I wanted to work at a Penn State campus, so when the opportunity for this role came up, it seemed like the right time to apply.”
In terms of her goals, Whiteman said she wants to learn more about her role and establish strong relationships with the Brandywine community.
“I want to be relied on as a trusted partner in human resources,” she said.
Outside of work, Whiteman enjoys spending time with her family and friends, reading, being outdoors and hiking. She has also volunteered at numerous animal shelters in the area and fosters animals.