Campus Spotlight: Ryan Abramson, director of Strategic Communications

CENTER VALLEY, Pa. — When Ryan Abramson joined Penn State Lehigh Valley as director of strategic communications in August, he brought with him more than two decades of experience in marketing, public relations, writing and institutional storytelling. Today, Abramson plays a central role in shaping how the campus highlights its academic strengths, student successes and community impact across the Lehigh Valley, Bucks County and the broader Penn State ecosystem.

In his role, Abramson oversees communication strategy for the campus, working with students, faculty, staff and community partners to share stories that reflect both the local and global reach of a Penn State education.

“Ryan has brought tremendous energy, professionalism and a deep commitment to authentic storytelling,” said Tina Q. Richardson, chancellor of Penn State Lehigh Valley. “His work ensures that our community understands the innovation, talent and opportunity that define Penn State Lehigh Valley.”

A career built around authentic communication

Abramson’s career has centered on helping organizations communicate with clarity, purpose and impact. Before joining Penn State, he spent more than 25 years in communications leadership, strategic marketing, branding and public engagement. His work spans education, healthcare, nonprofit organizations, community development and digital media — serving local communities such as Bucks County, Philadelphia and Montgomery County, as well as institutions across the United States.

His areas of expertise include content strategy, writing, SEO, social media, public speaking and data-informed communication models. Over the years, he has mentored professionals, coached leaders, advised professional athletes and helped institutions build stronger connections with the communities they serve.

“Authenticity is at the heart of meaningful communication,” Abramson said. “The most powerful stories come from real people, real experiences and a shared sense of purpose.”

Elevating Penn State Lehigh Valley’s campus voice

Since joining the campus, Abramson has expanded Penn State Lehigh Valley’s storytelling presence across digital platforms, University news channels and community media outlets. He collaborates closely with faculty, staff and students to produce stories highlighting academic excellence, undergraduate research, community partnerships, campus events, internships and career-readiness initiatives.

“Ryan has brought a renewed focus on our strategic storytelling,” said Mary Kate Maguire, the campus’ communications specialist. “He has been key in authoring campus news, supporting short- and long-form video, and elevating our keyword research and SEO.”

His writing has appeared throughout Penn State News, covering topics ranging from faculty scholarship to global entrepreneurship, student achievement, gallery exhibitions and campus workshops.

“Penn State Lehigh Valley is a place where students discover their strengths, build confidence and prepare for meaningful careers,” Abramson said. “I’m honored to help share those stories.”

Connecting Bucks County, Philadelphia and the Lehigh Valley

A lifelong Bucks County resident, Abramson said his Pennsylvania roots shape his approach to communication and community engagement. Penn State Lehigh Valley serves students from Bucks, Lehigh, Northampton and surrounding counties — including many first-generation students, students working full-time jobs and students caring for family members.

“Pennsylvania is filled with stories of resilience, innovation and community,” Abramson said. “Penn State is part of that story. Penn State leads this story. Our students are writing the next chapter of that story. Every day is a reminder of the power of the Penn State mission.”

Looking ahead

Abramson will continue leading strategic communications at Penn State Lehigh Valley while expanding multimedia storytelling, strengthening regional relationships and supporting new University initiatives and its land-grant mission. His work will help further the campus’ goal to provide access, opportunity and a world-class education.

“The future of marketing and communications is directly aligned with Provost Fotis Sotiropoulos’ focus on AI (artificial intelligence) literacy,” Abramson said. “Every message should be mission-aligned, data-driven and audience-targeted to efficiently leverage time and resources.”

Penn State Lehigh Valley’s ongoing impact

Located in a region of growing economic opportunity, a rising population and strong K–12 partnerships, Penn State Lehigh Valley is positioned to prepare the next generation of leaders. With 12 degree programs that can be completed entirely on campus, Penn State Lehigh Valley graduates will be the future engineers, IT professionals, healthcare workers, project managers and career-ready professionals who power the community for generations to come.

“This is a remarkable campus,” Abramson concluded. “It is exciting to be part of such a special place.”