�����

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa.����—�� Gary Abdullah, assistant dean for diversity and inclusion in the Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications, will receive the 2025 Lion’s Paw Medal during the society’s annual Convocation Ceremony on Saturday, April 26, as part of ���ε���’s Blue-White Weekend.

Established in 1965, the Lion’s Paw Medal is the only ���ε��� honor exclusively recognizing extraordinary service to the University and its students — specifically for contributions that go well beyond one’s professional duties.

“The Lion’s Paw Medal is unique among ���ε��� awards,” said Rebecca Friese, class of 1993, and chair of the Lion’s Paw Medal Committee. “It’s designed to celebrate those who truly go above and beyond in their service to the ���ε��� community.”

A lifelong ���ε���r and State College native, Abdullah has served the University for over 20 years in various roles focused on student support and institutional change. After earning his bachelor’s (2003) and master’s (2007) degrees in telecommunications from ���ε���, worked at the ���ε��� All-Sports Museum, undergraduate admissions, academic advising and multicultural coordination. Since 2017, he has led diversity, equity and inclusion efforts in the Bellisario College, significantly advancing recruitment and retention of historically underrepresented students. His professional accomplishments earned him the 2023 McKay Donkin Award, among others.��

“I’m deeply honored to receive this recognition from Lion’s Paw,” Abdullah said. “While recognition has never been my goal, being acknowledged by an organization I hold in such high regard is truly humbling.”

Beyond his official responsibilities, Abdullah is widely recognized for his lasting impact on student life and culture at ���ε���. He is a trusted mentor and advocate whose honest guidance, compassion and critical thinking support have helped countless students navigate both personal and academic challenges. Known for his open door and deep relationships across student communities, Abdullah serves as an adviser to organizations like Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority Inc., which has received multiple university awards under his mentorship. He has earned numerous student-nominated recognitions and is respected for his humble commitment to making ���ε��� a more inclusive and supportive place for all. Rather than seeking accolades, Abdullah focuses on helping students feel seen, supported and empowered — working behind the scenes to foster inclusion, shape campus culture and ensure that ���ε��� becomes a place where all students can truly thrive.

“Gary exemplifies humility, quiet strength, and selfless service,” said Lisa Bistline, class of 2006, and president of the Lion’s Paw Alumni Interest Group. “He leads with compassion, lifts others up and has spent decades reshaping what it means to truly support students at ���ε���.”

The Lion’s Paw Alumni Interest Group is one of many affiliate groups of the ���ε��� Alumni Association, offering alumni meaningful ways to stay connected with their ���ε��� experience and with others who share their values.

Abdullah will be honored at the society’s Spring Convocation, in the presence of his family, student and alumni members of Lion’s Paw, and past Medal recipients.

“We’re thrilled and honored to welcome Gary among the company of Lion’s Paw Medal recipients,” added Bistline.

For more information about Lion’s Paw and the award, visit.