Megan L. Nagel, Ph.D.

Megan L. Nagel earned her doctorate in Polymer Chemistry from Penn State University in 2006. Since then, she has dedicated her career to advancing undergraduate education in chemistry, conducting pioneering research in chemical education and analysis, and engaging in outreach programs for aspiring scientists.

Nagel joined Penn State Greater Allegheny in 2010 as an assistant professor of chemistry, quickly establishing herself as a leading educator and researcher. In recognition of her teaching excellence, she received the George W. Atherton Award in 2016. She was promoted to associate professor in 2018, while continuing an active research agenda supported by a National Science Foundation grant focused on enhancing reasoning skills in chemistry and physics.

In 2020, Nagel was appointed associate chief academic officer, providing strategic support for tenure-track faculty, managing the advising office, and co-leading the Digital Fluency Project, which earned the Greater Allegheny campus designation as an Apple Distinguished School through 2025. She became interim chancellor and chief academic officer in 2022 and was formally appointed chancellor in 2024. In this role, she has prioritized career readiness and student success by launching campus initiatives that integrate career competencies into the curriculum, and by establishing a student success team to enhance belonging and academic progression.

A strong advocate for community engagement, Nagel has cultivated partnerships with corporations, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies to address local needs and strengthen economic development. She is currently collaborating with the city of McKeesport and regional partners on a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention grant to address chronic disease, food security, and healthcare access.

Today, as Regional Chancellor for Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus, Penn State Greater Allegheny, and Penn State New Kensington, Nagel continues to advance innovation, collaboration, and excellence, fulfilling Penn State’s land-grant mission and delivering world-class education in southwestern Pennsylvania.