Abrachinsky brings a background in workforce engagement, higher education, relationship development and community outreach to the position. She most recently served as member development and events director for the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce, where she focused on strategic partnerships, business engagement and strengthening connections throughout Schuylkill County.
Interim Chancellor Cory Scherer said Abrachinsky’s experience and passion for student success make her a strong addition to the campus community.
“Cierra brings tremendous energy, leadership and a genuine commitment to helping students succeed both personally and professionally,” Scherer said. “Her experience building meaningful partnerships throughout the region, combined with her dedication to mentorship and career readiness, will greatly benefit our students and strengthen the connections between Penn State Schuylkill and the community.”
In addition to her chamber work, Abrachinsky has served as an adjunct instructor at Penn State Schuylkill for the past two semesters, teaching business law and professional development-focused courses centered on communication, leadership, ethics and career readiness.
“Wrapping up my first year of teaching has only reinforced how special this campus truly is — not only for students, but for the community as a whole,” Abrachinsky said.
A graduate of Kutztown University, Abrachinsky earned bachelor’s degrees in philosophy and public administration, along with a master of public administration degree. During her time at Kutztown, she interned and later worked as a graduate assistant for the Pennsylvania Small Business Development Center Lead Office, where she gained experience in business advocacy, legislative engagement and strategic communication.
Abrachinsky said her professional experiences and personal values have reinforced the importance of relationships, encouragement and helping others grow.
“I learned very quickly that relationships are at the center of everything meaningful,” she said. “I genuinely enjoy connecting people, creating opportunities and helping others grow into who they are capable of becoming.”
She also credited her younger brothers with helping shape her approach to leadership and mentorship.
“My younger brothers are my world, and my favorite title will always be ‘big sister,’” Abrachinsky said. “I want them to grow up seeing someone who treated people well, cared deeply, worked hard and continued showing up even when things became difficult.”
In her new role, Abrachinsky will oversee career development initiatives, employer partnerships, internship and cooperative education opportunities, and professional readiness programming for students.
“My teaching philosophy has always been simple: I never want students to feel like they are being talked at,” she said. “I want them to feel understood, challenged, supported and prepared for real life. Students deserve someone in this role who will advocate for them, invest in their growth and genuinely keep their best interests at the center of the work being done.”
Abrachinsky said she looks forward to continuing to strengthen the connection between Penn State Schuylkill students and regional employers while helping students prepare for long-term success.
“Penn State Schuylkill serves as such an important place for students to thrive academically, professionally and personally,” she said. “I could not be more excited to continue building relationships throughout the community, strengthening connections between students and employers, and helping students gain meaningful real-world experiences that prepare them for long-term success.”
Outside of work, Abrachinsky enjoys traveling, visiting Disney theme parks with her husband, attending her younger brothers’ sporting events, spending time with their two cats and reading.