Frank Guadagnino, associate general counsel at Penn State, will be the university’s new vice president for administration, effective July 1.

He will succeed Tom Poole, who as part of his phased retirement will assist in the transition for post described as “president’s chief of staff.” Poole announced in Marchthat he would begin his retirement after 11 years in the role and decades at Penn State.

Guadagnino will continue to provide legal advice as associate general counsel in addition to his duties as vice president.

“Frank is a trusted and respected adviser to many at the University, and he possesses a deep understanding of the institution and its priorities,” Penn State President Eric Barron said in a release. “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.”

Serving as a senior advisor to Barron and liaison with members of the Board of Trustees, Guadagnino will oversee administration of the offices of the president and the board while assisting in the development and administration of policies and programs. 

The vice president for administration typically serves as secretary of the Board of Trustees, a position that requires election but is never contested. Guadagnino will be placed on the slate of officers to be elected in July.

Guadagnino came to Penn State’s Office of General Counsel in 2014 after more than 30 years with Reed Smith LLP in Pittsburgh, where his practice focused on general corporate matters and transactions. He holds a bachelor of science degree in marketing from Penn State and a juris doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law.

“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,” 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.”