UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — After a nationwide search, Penn State Student Affairs has filled two pivotal roles that will strengthen the ability to support students and advance the University’s mission. Vice President for Student Affairs Andrea Dowhower has announced that Taléa Drummer-Ferrell will join Student Affairs as associate vice president, while Darcy Rameker, previously in the interim role, was named assistant vice president.
Drummer-Ferrell, a seasoned leader in higher education, has a robust background that focuses on health and wellness. She holds a doctorate in higher education administration from Kent State University and has worked at multiple institutions throughout her career, most recently serving as associate vice president for Student Life and dean of students at Kent State. Her work has included overseeing mental health crisis management, basic needs emergencies, and expanding mental health and well-being services. Drummer-Ferrell has also led significant initiatives like the development and opening of the CARES Center, a center that works collaboratively with students to help secure resources that meet their basic needs, and she led the system-wide Kent Cares Summit, which highlights her commitment to supporting students' well-being and fostering a holistic approach to their success.
“Taléa brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to Student Affairs and to this position,” Dowhower said. “I am excited for her to join the team and look forward to her contributions to advancing our health and wellness initiatives and to providing leadership to the division and our broader strategic priorities.”
In addition to Drummer-Ferrell's new role with Penn State, she will continue to be active with NASPA, Student Affairs Administration in Higher Education, serving as their chair of the AVP Steering Committee and part of the conference leadership committee for 2026.
“I am excited to join the dedicated and passionate team at Penn State Student Affairs and am fortunate to be joining such a respected university,” Drummer-Ferrell said. “I have received such a warm welcome and look forward to getting started and continuing to provide a supportive environment for our students.”
Rameker will continue her work in Student Affairs after joining the Penn State community in 2005. She has served in various roles throughout her tenure, including director of Student Leadership and Involvement, the lead of the student COVID-19 response team, an administrative fellow in Undergraduate Education, and most recently as an interim associate vice president overseeing Penn State's health and well-being units. During her years of service, she has successfully led initiatives that support all aspects of student life, developed a broad understanding of the University and served as a lead on Penn State's strategic priority of supporting student success. Rameker's proven track record of implementing strategic initiatives, supporting students, and enhancing collaboration has been and will continue to be critical in advancing Student Affairs goal of ensuring our students a successful and safe experience on campus and beyond, said Dowhower.
“Throughout my career at Penn State, it has been an honor to work alongside talented student leaders and dedicated staff, and faculty committed to student success. I look forward to continuing to prioritize student development and engagement in this permanent position,” said Rameker.
Dowhower said, “Darcy has been a trusted leader in our community for 19 years. Because of her commitment, experience, and expertise, I am confident that she will be an excellent leader in this senior role in Student Affairs. I look forward to continuing to work with Darcy to advance strategic initiatives for our students.”
Both Drummer-Ferrell and Rameker will begin their new roles, focusing on health and wellness and student engagement, respectively on Friday, Aug. 30. They will report to Dowhower and serve on her leadership team.
“With their professional backgrounds, energy, and vision both Taléa and Darcy will be assets to Penn State and our Student Affairs community,” Dowhower said. “I am excited about our leadership team in Student Affairs both at the AVP and director levels. Together, the team will continue to foster an environment where every student can thrive and succeed.”