McNeil-Washington named to community relations post at Lehigh

Lehigh University recently named former University of Phoenix adviser Adrienne McNeil-Washington its assistant vice president of community relations.

Previously serving in a key leadership position for United Way of Lancaster County, she will take the place of Dale Kochard, who has retired. 

“Adrienne’s breadth of experience and her commitment to developing relationships to build stronger communities are truly impressive,” Vice President of University Communications and Public Affairs Fred  McGrail said.

The university’s new vice president plans to engage with a range of constituents to acquaint herself with the region and the institution as she completes her relocation from the Lancaster area to Lehigh Valley.

“Just about everyone I spoke with was so passionate about their work, about Lehigh and about the community we serve,” McNeil-Washington said. “During one phase of the interview process alone, I met people from seven departments talking about their work in South Bethlehem. It’s very inspiring to hear about the many ways Lehigh is engaging with the local community, and I’m excited to be a part of that.”

McNeil-Washington is working toward her Ph.D. in higher education administration via the University of Phoenix. She graduated from York College with a B.A. in public administration and earned her M.S. in human resource development from Villanova University.

In addition to her stint with United Way, McNeil-Washington served as an executive director for the York County Community against Racism and continues in an adjunct capacity with Duquesne University.

“I’m going to be listening to what community leaders and advocates have to say … and looking for ways in which we can work together to continue our progress in South Bethlehem,” she said.