Megan L. Nagel, Ph.D.

Dr. Megan L. Nagel earned her doctorate in Polymer Chemistry from Penn State University in 2006. Since then, she has devoted herself to advancing undergraduate education in chemistry, conducting pioneering research in chemical education and analysis, and participating in outreach programs for aspiring scientists. Dr. Nagel joined Penn State Greater Allegheny in 2010 as an assistant professor of chemistry, where she quickly established herself as a leading educator and researcher, earning the prestigious George W. Atherton Award for Teaching Excellence in 2016. She was promoted to associate professor in 2018, maintaining an active research agenda that includes a National Science Foundation grant aimed at enhancing reasoning skills in chemistry and physics.

In July 2020, Dr. Nagel was appointed associate chief academic officer, where she provided strategic support to faculty on the tenure track, managed the advising office, and co-led the Digital Fluency Project, which led to the campus being designated as an Apple Distinguished School through 2025. As interim chancellor and chief academic officer in June 2022, and continuing in the role of chancellor in 2024, she has prioritized career readiness and student success, launching the CREATE for Tomorrow initiative that integrates career competencies into the curriculum and establishing a student success team to enhance campus belonging and academic progression.

Dr. Nagel has been instrumental in fostering collaborative relationships with local corporations, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies to address community needs and enhance economic conditions. She is currently working with the city of McKeesport and other partners on a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention grant to tackle chronic diseases, food security, and healthcare access. Now serving as Regional Chancellor for Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus, Penn State Greater Allegheny, and Penn State New Kensington, Dr. Nagel continues to drive innovation and excellence, fulfilling Penn State’s land-grant mission while delivering a world-class education in southwestern Pennsylvania.

Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus Penn State Greater Allegheny Penn State New Kensington