30 years in athletic administration bridging between athletic departments, internal and external key stakeholders while keeping the experience of the student athletes at the forefront.
In her roles as a Deputy Director of Athletics–Administration, Deputy Chief of Staff, Academic Services Director, and three-sport student-athlete Lynn believes in the value of sports at all levels 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, Lynn 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, positive changes were achieved.
Prior to her time at Penn State, Lynn served as the University of Minnesota 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. Lynn also drove solutions as the Deputy Chief of Staff, serving as a bridge between the President’s Office, athletics, 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.
Her 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. Lynn 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.
