On Oct. 18, 2018, Kristie Pappal, class of 2000, delivered the School of Labor and Employment Relation’s (LER) Annual Outstanding Alumni Lecture. Pappal is vice president of human resources for the NFL's 2018 Super Bowl Champion Philadelphia Eagles and a 2000 graduate of Penn State's LER program. She has been with the Eagles since 2007 and has more than 17 years of combined HR experience.
In her talk, Pappal gained the students’ attention by first showing them the Super Bowl ring she received in 2018 for her “behind the scenes” work with the organization. She went on to urge students to get involved in activities outside the classroom.
“Being involved creates value. It builds strong relationships and naturally creates opportunities," she said. "Volunteer for leadership roles on boards or professional interest groups. Be genuine and authentic in your words and actions; people observe and take notice.”
In her current role, Pappal provides comprehensive human resources leadership. She is responsible for ensuring a positive and productive work environment for all employees, providing strategic direction, and overseeing performance management, talent acquisition, employee relations, benefits, compensation and organizational development.
Her previous experience includes serving as director of human resources at Town Sports International (TWI) — the parent company of New York, Philadelphia, Boston and Washington Sports Clubs — and as the human resources representative at Iron Mountain Records Management.
Pappal earned a bachelor of science in labor and industrial relations, with a minor in psychology and a certificate in human resources, from Penn State. While a student, she immersed herself in many activities, including cross country and track and field and served as an officer for the Labor Studies Club.
Following her own advice, Pappal remains an active member of the Penn State community. She is a College of the Liberal Arts alumni mentor and participated in the college’s annual "Penn State Women: Leaders of Today and Tomorrow" event in 2016. In 2015, the college awarded her the Outstanding Young Alumni Award. She also serves as a board member and co-chair of the Labor and Employment Relations Alumni Program Group.