Frank ’92 and Karen ’92 Iannella Join Libraries Advisory Board
Syracuse University Libraries is pleased to announce that Frank Iannella ’92 (College of Arts and Sciences) and Karen (Putney) Iannella ’92 (College of Arts and Sciences and S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications) of Danbury, CT recently joined the Libraries Advisory Board. Frank is Chief Information Officer and Senior Vice President of Digital & Technology at Heineken USA. Karen recently retired as Vice President, US Communications & Patient Affairs, with Boehringer Ingelheim.
In his role at Heineken USA, Frank is responsible for enabling digital capabilities in support of the company’s overall business strategy and direction, leveraging the full spectrum of technology services from operational support to digital products. Previously, Frank served as Chief Information Officer at Freshpet, where he led digital transformation efforts within the supply chain. Throughout most of his career he held executive positions at PepsiCo, gaining extensive global experience in driving business results through technology. While a student, Frank was a founding member of the Italian Club at Syracuse University.
Karen retired in 2023 after a 25-year career at Boehringer Ingelheim, one of the world’s leading research-driven pharmaceutical companies. While employed at Boehringer Ingelheim, she served in various roles in marketing, business development and ultimately led the U.S. communications function. Additionally, Karen held the role of president of the BI Cares Foundation. Karen was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma, WJPZ, the Student Alumni Association and was recognized as a 1991-1992 Remembrance Scholar.
“We are honored to join the Syracuse University Libraries Advisory Board and give back to an institution that shaped so much of who we are today,” said Frank. “The Libraries are at the heart of the University's academic mission, and we look forward to contributing to its growth and innovation in meaningful ways.”
“Syracuse University has always been a special place for us, not only because it’s where we met, but because of the strong foundation it gave us both personally and professionally,” said Karen. “We are excited to be part of the Libraries’ future, supporting its role in fostering collaboration, intellectual curiosity and community.”
“I am excited that our Libraries Advisory Board is expanding to include two new alumni members, Frank and Karen Iannella, who I know will be excellent new colleagues. They met at Syracuse University and are keen to support the Libraries’ strategic initiatives,” said David Seaman, Dean of the Syracuse University Libraries and University Librarian. “Individually, they each bring a wealth of experience and knowledge that will benefit the Libraries. We are grateful that together they will be supporting the Libraries’ ability to convene, collaborate, connect and celebrate.”