Events Specialist, Schreyer Honors College

Penn State University • University Park, IL

15h • Onsite

About The Position

The Schreyer Honors College is seeking an Events Specialist to support the numerous academic, professional, and social events that advance the College’s mission and enhance the experience of Scholars, alumni, faculty, staff, and external partners. The Events Specialist will support the planning, coordination, execution, and evaluation of about 30 major college events that require collaboration across multiple teams. These include signature programs such as the ceremony celebrating the graduating class of Scholars. The role will also provide support for dozens of smaller events, such as student community‑building programs.

Requirements

• Experience in event planning, event operations, project coordination, or related administrative support roles.
• Outstanding organizational and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with a variety of stakeholders.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and Teams (or related standard office software), and the ability to learn new systems.
• Commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment.
• Problem-solving skills and the ability to make informed decisions under pressure.
• Ability to adapt quickly in dynamic, fast-moving environments.
• Associate Degree
• 2+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with budgeting and/or vendor contract review.
• Experience with program assessment, survey tools, and data interpretation to support continuous improvement.
• Experience with project management software, such as Asana or a similar system.

Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and manage all aspects of Schreyer Honors College events, including scheduling, logistics, and on-site execution.
• Advise internal stakeholders on event strategy, program flow, venue selection, décor, rentals, catering, and technology needs.
• Meet with clients and vendors to review requirements, negotiate contracts, and recommend options that align with budget guidelines.
• Create and manage event work orders; communicate event needs to internal units and service providers.
• Oversee event setup and teardown, while ensuring inventory, supplies, signage, displays, printed materials, and equipment are organized and available.
• Maintain outstanding relationships with vendors and coordinate on-site vendor activities.
• Partner with Strategic Communications on event marketing, including email outreach, social media, and printed materials.
• Maintain the College’s 25Live calendar and other internal database systems.
• Identify opportunities for event improvement and implement process enhancements.
• Track, analyze, and document event metrics and maintain accurate records.
• Compile data for annual reports and provide insights to College leadership.

Benefits

• Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being.
• In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time.
• One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree