Lehigh Valley

Penn State Lehigh Valley employee retires after 19 years

Diane McAloon served in continuing education and alumni relations

Diane McAloon, director of alumni relations at Penn State Lehigh Valley, retired on June 30, after 19 years of service to the campus.

Diane McAloon retired from Penn State Lehigh Valley on June 30, 2020. Credit: Diane McAloon / Penn StateCreative Commons

McAloon, of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, began working at Penn State in 2001 as an area representative in charge of putting together technology programs and selling them to local business. Shortly thereafter, she transitioned out of this position, and started covering both Lehigh Valley and Berks campuses for degree programs for adult learners and professional development programs. One of McAloon’s greatest professional achievements was she helped launch the Practical Nursing Program at Penn State Lehigh Valley in 2005.

While working full time, McAloon earned her master of education in adult education from Penn State World Campus in 2007. She then was promoted to assistant director of continuing education at Penn State Lehigh Valley where she oversaw Senior Adults Gaining Enrichment (SAGE) and other professional development programs.

In 2016, McAloon re-established the campus alumni office and served as alumni relations director until June 30, 2020. She also served as interim director of continuing education for about year while juggling her alumni relations role.

“For 19 years, Diane has brought community members and alumni to campus and fostered a deep sense of engagement from these important groups. We are thankful to her for her many years of dedicated service and we are delighted that she agreed to continue to volunteer 10 hours a week to keep the alumni groups connected and moving forward,” said Tina Q. Richardson, chancellor, Penn State Lehigh Valley.

In reflecting on her favorite part of working at Penn State, McAloon reminisced about the ample possibilities both her positions and workplace gave her.

“I enjoyed the endless opportunities to learn, to develop outreach programs and to enrich the lives of others by bringing them back to Penn State or to campus for their first time, whether they be alumni or community members,” McAloon said.

Looking toward the future, McAloon said she plans to nurture her creative side and continue being a lifetime learner. She also looks forward to spending time with her husband, Tom, their kids and grandkids.

A socially distanced in-person retirement celebration in honor of McAloon will be planned for August.

Last Updated July 7, 2020

Contact