Bellisario College: A Family for Every Student

Creating a Sense of Belonging at Penn State

At Penn State’s Bellisario College of Communications, Gary Abdullah is dedicated to ensuring every student feels like they belong. As the assistant dean for diversity and inclusion, Abdullah understands the challenges students face, from academic pressures to adjusting to a new environment far from home. His office, a welcoming space in the Carnegie Building, is equipped with tissues and chocolates—simple comforts that accompany a listening ear.

Abdullah’s approach is a careful balance of support and encouragement. “We want this to be a safe place, but I know it’s my responsibility not to coddle you but so much, because we have to go back to work,” he explains. His primary goal is to help students navigate their college experience, fostering a sense of community and ensuring they feel like a valued part of the “We Are” Penn State family.

Navigating the Transition to University Life

Many students arriving at Penn State face significant adjustments. The rural setting of central Pennsylvania can be a stark contrast to their hometowns, creating a culture shock for some. “We are in a rural part of Pennsylvania; depending upon where you are coming from, this is a large change for folks,” Abdullah notes. Some students, especially those from urban areas or other countries, may be surprised by the landscape, even encountering cows for the first time.

Beyond the environmental differences, students must also adapt to a new level of academic rigor. The combination of these challenges, coupled with the emotional and personal growth that occurs between the ages of 18 and 22, can be overwhelming. Abdullah and his team work to ease this transition, providing support and guidance to help students succeed.

Lion’s Paw Medal: A Recognition of Extraordinary Service

Abdullah’s dedication to students earned him the prestigious Lion’s Paw Medal in 2025. This award recognizes individuals who have gone above and beyond their professional duties to serve the university and its students. Lisa Bistline, president of the Lion’s Paw Alumni Interest Group, praised Abdullah’s humility, strength, and selfless service, highlighting his compassionate leadership and his role in reshaping student support at Penn State.

Abdullah’s commitment extends beyond his office. He has been known to personally assist students in need, even picking them up when their cars break down. “I truly believe if you take care of the people, then the institution will be fine,” he says.

A Lifelong Connection to Penn State

Born and raised in State College, Abdullah’s connection to Penn State runs deep. He earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in telecommunications from the university and has worked in various roles for two decades. This lifelong association gives him a unique understanding of the student experience and the challenges they face.

Addressing Challenges to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Abdullah acknowledges the current climate of uncertainty surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in higher education. “Higher education as a whole in our current situation is shifting,” he observes. Despite these challenges, he remains committed to his work, vowing to continue making Penn State a welcoming place for all.

His vision is that every Penn State graduate will look back on their time at the university with joy. “That’s what we’ve been doing for generations now, because I stand upon the shoulders of giants, those who have done it before me. We’re going to continue to do the work.”

The Mission: Creating the Right “Vibes”

Abdullah sees his role as ensuring the “vibes” are right within the Bellisario College. He wants every student, regardless of their background or identity, to feel like they are part of the college family. This includes international students, students with neurodiversity, and students from diverse sexual and gender identity backgrounds.

“My job is to make sure that no matter where you’re coming from, no matter how you identify, you feel as if you are part of what we like to call the Bellisario College family,” Abdullah explains.

Navigating National Challenges and Uncertainties

Abdullah recognizes that national debates over DEI impact students directly. Changes to international student statuses, for example, have created anxiety and uncertainty. Even with institutional support for DEI at Penn State, the broader national climate casts a shadow.

When faced with arguments that everything should be merit-based, Abdullah raises important questions about who determines merit and what biases might influence those decisions. He emphasizes that DEI encompasses a wide range of needs, including support for students with disabilities and those facing socioeconomic challenges.

“When you really begin to think of what all DEI encompasses, people have become so fixated upon certain racial and ethnic things they don’t see the fullness of what this work is,” he states.

Abdullah also underscores the importance of recognizing that not everyone starts from the same place. Penn State’s commitment to serving the entire state of Pennsylvania, including its rural communities, reflects this understanding.

Looking Ahead: Continuing to Support Students

As higher education evolves, Abdullah and his colleagues remain focused on supporting students, faculty, and staff through uncertain times. They are committed to ensuring that everyone has access to the resources they need and feels good about their experience at Penn State. “Folks like myself and the folks that I work with, we’re going to work hard to try to make sure that everyone, even in times of uncertainty, can feel certain enough to be able to access the fullness of what we have available and feel good about doing so. And that’s tough. But that’s the work we’ve chosen to undertake.”