UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Frank T. Guadagnino, associate general counsel at Penn State, has been named the University’s new vice president for administration, effective July 1.
Guadagnino succeeds Tom Poole, who will be assisting with the transition as part of his phased retirement from the University on June 30. In addition to his duties as vice president, Guadagnino will retain his title as associate general counsel.
“Frank is a trusted and respected adviser to many at the University, and he possesses a deep understanding of the institution and its priorities,” said Penn State President Eric J. Barron. “In particular, Frank brings considerable expertise in the area of University governance to his new role, as he is already integrated into both the Board of Trustees and President’s Council. Frank is well regarded for his keen insights, sound judgment, detailed problem-solving abilities and strong organizational skills, all of which will benefit Penn State immensely in the years ahead.”
As vice president, Guadagnino will report directly to Barron and will be responsible for the administration of the Office of the President and the Office of the Board of Trustees. Guadagnino will serve as a senior adviser to the president and assist in the development and administration of policies and programs, while also serving as the principal senior liaison with members of the Board of Trustees, and as the secretary of the board. The role of secretary of the Board of Trustees is an elected position, and Guadagnino will be placed on the slate of officers to be elected at the board’s July meeting.
“This is an exciting opportunity for me,” Guadagnino said. “The experience I’ve gained in my current role will enable me to have a near seamless transition into this new position, and immediately provide support to President Barron and the Board of Trustees in their efforts to carry out the University’s land-grant mission. In addition to taking on these new responsibilities, I am pleased that President Barron and [Vice President and General Counsel] Steve Dunham have agreed that I will maintain a role within the Office of General Counsel in order to continue providing legal advice.”
Guadagnino came to Penn State as associate general counsel in 2014 after a more than 30-year career at Reed Smith LLP in Pittsburgh. While in private practice Guadagnino concentrated on corporate transactions, including mergers and acquisitions, financing transactions and general corporate matters.
“I am grateful to President Barron for this opportunity to continue to serve the University in this senior leadership position,” said Guadagnino. “I also would like to thank Tom Poole for his mentorship and guidance during my time at Penn State, and for his dedicated service to the University. His are big shoes to fill.”
Guadagnino received his bachelor of science degree in marketing from Penn State and his juris doctor degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law, where he was a symposium editor of the University of Pittsburgh Law Review.