Penn State Lehigh Valley connects with community at IronPigs Little League Night

CENTER VALLEY, Pa. — Penn State Lehigh Valley joined the Lehigh Valley IronPigs to celebrate Little League Night at Coca-Cola Park in Allentown on June 20. The IronPigs are the Triple-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies and have become one of the most successful franchises in Minor League Baseball, drawing families and fans from throughout the Lehigh Valley and eastern Pennsylvania.

As part of the sponsorship, Penn State Lehigh Valley campus staff greeted fans as they entered the ballpark. The Nittany Lion was on hand throughout the evening, posing for hundreds of photos and interacting with fans during the opening innings of the game.

"We are excited to demonstrate our ongoing commitment to our local community," said Chancellor Tina Richardson. "The excitement for Penn State in the Lehigh Valley is contagious. Hundreds of people were lining up to take photos with the Nittany Lion, and it was wonderful to connect with so many families throughout the evening."

Richardson was highlighted throughout the night, including throwing out the ceremonial first pitch and participating in both the radio and television broadcasts.

"Penn State Lehigh Valley is proud to be part of the fabric of this region," Richardson said. "Events like Little League Night bring together families, students, educators and community members in a way that reflects the values we share — opportunity, teamwork and community pride."

The night also was about connecting with future students and families.

"So many people visited our table to ask how they could learn more about applying to Penn State," said admissions counselor Tina Luey. "It was exciting to meet families who are already thinking about college and to share the opportunities available throughout the University.”

The IronPigs have led all of Minor League Baseball in attendance since 2023, averaging more than 8,000 fans per game and regularly selling out Coca-Cola Park. The team's popularity has made the ballpark one of the Lehigh Valley's premier destinations for family entertainment and community events.

"One of the things that makes Penn State Lehigh Valley special is our strong connection to the communities we serve," Richardson said. "Whether we're educating future leaders, partnering with local organizations or supporting events like this, we are committed to making a positive impact throughout the region."

The partnership provided Penn State Lehigh Valley with an opportunity to engage directly with thousands of local residents, including prospective students, current students, alumni and Penn State supporters from throughout the region.

"It is important for people to see that Penn State's impact extends across the commonwealth through our campuses and partnerships," Richardson said. "Here in the Lehigh Valley, students can experience the opportunities of a globally recognized university while remaining connected to the community they call home."