With over 30 years of experience in athletic administration, Lynn Holleran has led as a Deputy Director of Athletics–Administration, Deputy Chief of Staff, Academic Services Director, and three-sport student-athlete. Holleran believes in the value of sports and its role in the educational mission and academic experience, and she strives to make a difference for organizations, teams, and student-athletes to drive effective solutions.

As the Deputy Director of Athletics–Administration at Penn State University, Holleran implemented efficiencies and processes for the betterment of the university and its students. She was the liaison for several departments, including ethics and compliance, internal audit, and student affairs, just to name a few, and ensured healthy, conducive cultures. Through her intentional strategies and relationship-building, Holleran accomplished positive change.

Prior to her time at Penn State, Holleran was a proud University of Minnesota change agent. She served as the Director of the McNamara Academic Center, overseeing the center and 750 student-athletes. During her tenure, the University recorded the highest overall cumulative GPAs for teams and the highest graduation rates in its history. Holleran also drove solutions as the Deputy Chief of Staff, serving as a bridge between the athletic department, internal and external key stakeholders, and the University at large while keeping the experience of the students and student-athletes at the forefront. Consequently, she impacted large-scale projects like orchestrating the development of a new campus stadium.

Holleran’s illustrious career began at Northwestern University and Boston College as the Assistant Director of Academic Services and Senior Associate Athletic Director/SWA, respectively. She ensured student-athletes could achieve positive experiences through diverse resources, academic excellence, and supportive relationships.

Ultimately, this higher education strategist thrives when facing challenges. Naturally, Holleran takes organizations and situations and makes them better–shifting outcomes from good to great. And it is through her transparency, integrity, and belief that people can accomplish hard yet necessary things to drive progress that allows her to enhance the value of others and their organizations.

Furthermore, Holleran’s national connections and leadership in sports administration are evidenced by her service on numerous Conference and NCAA committees. These roles have allowed her to contribute to shaping policies that affect college athletics nationwide. Holleran’s educational background, which includes an MBA from Northwestern University and a BA from Beloit College, adds to her credibility as she continues to advance the industry through female representation at its highest level.

Currently living with her wife, Pam, and three dogs, Holleran promotes progress for educational experiences for all students through athletics.