As part of our regular “We Are!” feature, we recognize 20 Penn Staters who have gone above and beyond what’s asked of them in their work at the University.
This week, on behalf of the entire Penn State community, we’d like to say thank you to:
- Kara Anderson, assistant director of Student Care and Advocacy, a division of Student Affairs, whose nominator wrote: “Kara consistently goes above and beyond in her daily work to ensure our students receive the support they need. She is an integral member of our team, and her leadership reflects true excellence. Her commitment, reliability and genuine care make a meaningful difference every day.”
- Don Brennan, assistant director of Residence Life at Penn State Brandywine, whose nominator wrote: “Don has played an integral role in the emerging success of our Center for Social Impact at the Brandywine campus. His interim leadership was invaluable for the center. His curricular approach has taken the department to another level.”
- Candace Burns, academic program coordinator in Eberly College of Science, whose nominator wrote: “When a major issue arose during a high-profile guest visit, Candace took immediate initiative. She resolved the crisis — which included an unscheduled off-campus trip — without being asked. Her swift action saved the event and ensured the department made a great impression on our guest.”
- Anna Davis, early childhood development educator, whose nominator wrote: “Anna is a wonderful educator that creates a community where children and their families not only grow but find joy! Her knowledge, empathy, professionalism, leadership, compassion and willingness to have fun are just some of the qualities that deserve a shoutout!”
- Megan Friday, building maintenance worker in the Office of Physical Plant, whose nominator wrote: “Megan works so hard to make sure that everything is always taken care of, clean and set up in a timely manner in the Katz Building. She always brings a positive attitude to work and frequently goes the extra mile in performing her duties.”
- Brian Griffiths, lab coordinator in the College of Health and Human Development (HHD), whose nominator wrote: “Brian goes above and beyond for the Cafe Laura's reservation management and outreach. You can tell he is passionate about his professionalism and kindness. When problems arise, he quickly investigates them to ensure customers have the best experience. He is an example of what we should strive to be!”
- Ester Haffner, early childhood development educator, whose nominator wrote: “Ester is known for her kind and warm heart, especially by the young children that she works with every day. She listens with intention, so each child feels heard. Ester supports all our classrooms with a smile on her face and laughter in heart. Our center is better because of Ester!”
- Jerry Henry, Human Resources strategic partner (HRSP), whose nominator wrote: “A huge thank you to Jerry, our HRSP for Nese College of Nursing, who never gets enough credit for all he does. Jerry is the kind of person you can always count on. He is knowledgeable, dependable and always willing to help, especially during times of transition. We are so grateful for him!”
- Kelly MacGregor, student engagement specialist in Student Affairs, whose nominator wrote: “Kelly's unwavering passion for encouraging student achievement, combined with her innovative approach to involvement and genuine concern for students, exemplifies the values of ‘We Are!’ Because of her, students feel encouraged, motivated and empowered to do their best.”
- Denise Maines, operations and membership coordinator in Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI), whose nominator wrote: “Denise is exceptional in supporting the new OLLI registration system. Thorough, eager to learn and grounded in outstanding customer service, she goes the extra mile daily. Her genuine compassion for OLLI members shines in everything she does. We are so grateful for her dedication.”
- Eric McCracken, maintenance worker utility in the Office of Physical Plant, whose nominator wrote: “Eric recently exceeded expectations in assisting with cleaning up after a department event. He had the room spotless before 8 a.m. the very next day without even being prompted to do so. He constantly takes initiative, is a forward-thinker, and, as a bonus, he radiates a positive and optimistic attitude.”
- Suzanne Morgan, administrative support assistant at Penn State Scranton, whose nominator wrote: “Beyond her regular duties, Suzanne assisted students and their faculty mentors who participated in a national engineering competition for the first time. She supported students competing in the ASME EFX student competition, hosted by Dallas College in Dallas, Texas, where they took part in the e-Human Powered Vehicle challenge. She helped order materials, find transportation options for their project and fill out travel approval forms, to ensure the project and travel were compliant with University policies. Her help is much appreciated.”
- Katie Odhner, associate librarian at Penn State Abington, whose nominator wrote: “Earlier this semester, one of my students suffered a medical emergency during a library session for my class. Katie assisted me by calling for medical assistance on campus so that I could attend to the student. Katie was calm under pressure, and I am so thankful for her assistance!”
- Alice Puzarowski, pre-award coordinator in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences (EMS), whose nominator wrote: “Alice is a joy to work with. Her positivity, attention to detail and tireless dedication ensure every research proposal is submitted in its best form and fully compliant. EMS is fortunate to have her as part of the pre-award team.”
- Gemma Rapone, administrative assistant for Athletics at Penn State Brandywine, whose nominator wrote: “Fairy new in her role, Gemma goes above and beyond by also supporting Student Affairs during a gap. She is positive, eager to help, active on the Mental Health and Wellness Committee, and already building strong connections with students across campus.”
- Rachel Sausser, assistant director of academic advising in the College of the Liberal Arts, whose nominator wrote: “Rachel is my direct supervisor and is unbelievably supportive. I have dealt with some very difficult things personally, and she is always there. She offers to meet with my students if needed and with anything else she can do. To have that support in the darkest of times is priceless. She's just the best!”
- Sara Saxby, pre-award coordinator in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences (EMS), whose nominator wrote: “Sara would hate the spotlight, but she is exceptional. Her knowledge runs deep, her work is impeccable and she supports researchers with quiet confidence. She seeks no fanfare —she simply excels every day, making our team stronger.”
- Christina Shade, Human Resources consultant, whose nominator wrote: “Christina efficiently leads monthly supervisor discussions, introducing important topics and resources to supervisors from across the University. She promotes valuable resources, ensures alignment among supervisors, and responds quickly and reliably to questions.”
- Cody Symanietz, pre-award coordinator in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences (EMS), whose nominator wrote: “Cody has been a pure joy to work with. He is intelligent, eager to work, and goes above and beyond the call of duty. Thank you, Cody, for all that you do. EMS is lucky to have you.”
- Sarah Zipf, research project manager in Teaching and Learning with Technology, whose nominator wrote: “Sarah is always ready to jump in, offer thoughtful ideas and lend a hand wherever it’s needed. She brings such positive energy to our office and consistently lifts up the people around her. Her encouragement and collaborative spirit make a real impact. It’s a pleasure to work with her!”
Thank you to these individuals and everyone across the University who contributes to making Penn State such an incredible community!
Do you know someone who deserves a shout out? If you do, consider nominating that person by filling out a short online form.