Escorting Faculty Marshal: Michael Nelson, Associate Professor of Political Science 

Charles is the son of Amy Linch and Pete Ryan of Riegelsville, Pennsylvania. A Paterno Fellow, Schreyer Scholar, and alumnus of the London School of Economics, Charles is graduating with B.S. degrees in Political Science and Economics. Charles was involved in the Presidential Leadership Academy and was the president of Pi Sigma Alpha, the National Political Science Honor Society. Charles is currently a finalist for the Coro Fellowship in Public Affairs and plans to relax for a few weeks while thinking about his next step.  

“Take your interests seriously, whether they be academic or extracurricular, and leverage the resources here at Penn State to learn and grow. Our faculty are the most generous people, and you should have the confidence to ask questions and learn from them, both in and outside of the classroom. Most of all, branch out, learn something new, take risks, and reflect on what you are learning from your engagements and how you are contributing to your community.”