Theresa A. Giardino

Theresa Giardino serves as the Senior Director for Commonwealth Campus Strategy and Planning at Penn State and joined the University in January 2021. She brings more than 30 years’ experience in the real estate, construction management and Higher Education industries to this position. Theresa is the liaison to Finance and Business units, which support all Penn State University Commonwealth Campuses across the state.

Prior to joining Penn State, Theresa served as the Assistant Director for Facilities & Services at Montclair State University in NJ for nearly 17 years. During her time at MSU, Theresa oversaw the new construction of 7 residence halls consisting of 3,000 beds. Additionally, she oversaw the renovation of 5 residence halls, consisting of 2,000 beds. Theresa also served as the Project Manager for Rider University, where she oversaw the renovation of classrooms, chemistry labs, dining halls, outdoor gathering spaces, swimming pool and residence halls.

Prior to her work in higher education, Theresa worked for Community Management, located in Clifton, NJ. Theresa managed, sold and leased residential and commercial real estate.

Theresa graduated from Ramapo College of New Jersey with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication & Journalism. Additionally, Theresa has obtained a certificate in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the workplace from Abington College.

Beyond her work with Penn State, Theresa volunteers with Villa Joseph Marie High School in Bucks County, PA and is also a member of 100+ Women of Bucks County Who Care, which is a philanthropic organization supporting 501c3 organizations throughout Bucks County. Theresa also moderates the Literary Ladies book club, which she founded, and is a member of the Cairnwood Literary Guild.