Former Executive Director Recognition

A retrospective highlighting the achievements and contributions of CSCR's former director, Steve Tracey.

Portrait of Steve Tracey.After a decade of exceptional leadership, Steve Tracey stepped down as the executive director of the Center for Supply Chain Research® (CSCR®) in fall 2024. His work has had a remarkable impact across Penn State University and the Smeal College of Business, where he advanced both strategic initiatives and industry collaborations. Steve’s tenure reflects a legacy of deep commitment to innovation, collaboration, and educational advancement.

Below are highlights of his extensive contributions within CSCR and beyond:

  • Leadership and Strategic Roles: As a member of the management and leadership committees for the Smeal College of Business, Steve influenced strategic decision making and growth across the college. His involvement extended to roles in the advisory board for the Penn State Center for Medical Innovation (CMI) and the strategic core team for the new Industrial Biotechnology Institute.
  • University and College-wide Contributions: Steve held pivotal roles such as executive director of the Penn State Executive & Professional Programs (PSEP) and member of the Executive Committee for Strategic Procurement Transformation. Notably, he co-chaired the Health Resources Task Force, which was instrumental in designing and implementing Penn State’s Covid-19 planning, testing, and contact tracing efforts.
  • Industry and Community Engagement: Steve was a former board member for the Marcellus Center for Outreach and Research (MCOR) and a former advisory board member for DISCOVER, where he supported diversity and innovation in the supply chain. At Smeal, his initiatives included launching the college’s first virtual career fair and Smeal’s inaugural podcast, enhancing student engagement and industry connectivity.

Steve Tracey’s decade of service has positioned CSCR and the broader Smeal community for continued success. We are grateful for his leadership and the strong foundation he leaves behind, ensuring CSCR’s continued impact on research, education, and industry advancement. Thank you, Steve, for your dedicated service and lasting contributions.