OFFICIAL: Penn State Hires Tristin Iannone as Director of External Operations
Penn State University has officially announced the hiring of Tristin Iannone as its new Director of External Operations, marking a strategic move aimed at strengthening the university’s engagement, communications, and outreach initiatives within its athletics department.
Iannone brings a wealth of experience to the role, having held a variety of leadership positions across collegiate athletics. Most recently, she served as the Associate Director of Athletics at the University of Maryland, where she was instrumental in shaping external relations strategy, fan engagement, and community partnerships. Her background includes over a decade of experience in external affairs, public relations, and athletics marketing—making her an ideal fit for Penn State’s long-term vision.
“Tristin has a proven track record of building strong relationships and creating innovative strategies that elevate the profile of college athletic programs,” said Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics, Dr. Patrick Kraft. “Her ability to connect with stakeholders, from fans to corporate partners, and her deep understanding of the collegiate athletics landscape, make her the perfect choice to lead our external operations efforts.”
In her new role, Iannone will oversee a broad portfolio that includes marketing and promotions, media relations, community outreach, and strategic communications. She will be responsible for shaping the public image of Penn State Athletics and enhancing the department’s connection to both local communities and national audiences.
“I’m thrilled to be joining the Penn State family,” Iannone said in a statement. “This university has a rich tradition of excellence, both academically and athletically, and I look forward to building on that legacy by expanding our reach and creating meaningful experiences for fans, alumni, and student-athletes alike.”
A native of the Northeast, Iannone is known for her energetic leadership style and collaborative approach. She has also played key roles in major event planning, including NCAA championship hosting and large-scale donor and fan engagement events. Her hiring comes at a time when collegiate athletics is undergoing significant transformation, with increasing emphasis on brand visibility, digital engagement, and strategic partnerships.
Penn State’s decision to bring Iannone on board underscores the university’s commitment to staying at the forefront of these changes and ensuring its athletics programs continue to thrive in an evolving landscape.
Her tenure at Penn State will begin immediately, with her first public appearance expected at the university’s upcoming athletics town hall later this month.
