State College Area School District (SCASD) has appointed Loren Crispell as its new athletic director, effective this spring. The school board made the decision on February 17, 2025, selecting Crispell to succeed Chris Weakland, who is retiring after eight years in the role and a 35-year tenure with the district. Crispell, an alumnus of both State High and Penn State University, brings over two decades of experience in athletics administration. Having served as assistant athletic director since 2017, Crispell's deep-rooted connection to the community and extensive background in sports management make him well-suited for this leadership position.

Crispell's journey in athletics began long before his appointment as assistant athletic director. With a career spanning 23 years, he has held various roles that have prepared him for this significant step. Prior to joining SCASD, Crispell spent 15 years in marketing for Penn State’s athletic department, where he gained invaluable insights into the world of collegiate sports. Since 2017, he has been instrumental in overseeing numerous aspects of the district's athletic programs, including managing 77 teams across 32 sports, coordinating events, and fostering partnerships within the community. His contributions have not only enhanced the athletic experience for students but also introduced new initiatives like the ninth-grade girls' basketball program and unified bocce.

Crispell's dedication to the district extends beyond athletics. He has been actively involved in advising student clubs and activities, co-managing intramural programs, and leading initiatives such as PULSE, which promotes pride, unity, leadership, service, and excellence among students. Superintendent Curtis Johnson praised Crispell's outstanding performance as assistant athletic director, highlighting his ability to build strong relationships and support the district's commitment to athletics. Assistant Superintendent Jonathan Bucher echoed this sentiment, noting Crispell's passion for nurturing the next generation of student-athletes and his profound understanding of the school's values.

The transition to his new role will occur this spring, and Crispell's annual salary as athletic director will be $128,000. Crispell expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the students, coaches, and families within SCASD, emphasizing his commitment to maintaining the district's tradition of excellence. His vision includes uniting resources with dynamic leaders to create opportunities for long-term success for students. As Crispell steps into this new chapter, the community looks forward to seeing how his leadership will shape the future of athletics at State College Area School District.