As part of our regular “We Are!” feature, we recognize 22 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:
- Ryan Aten, interim director of athletics at Penn State Hazleton, whose nominator wrote: “Ryan’s dedication, leadership and care for student-athletes have been instrumental this year. From managing daily operations to supporting students and coaches, he consistently leads with professionalism, commitment and heart.”
- Jake Benfield, professor of psychological and social sciences and of recreation, park and tourism management at Penn State Abington, whose nominator wrote: “Jake has been an amazing colleague. He is a supporter of research and grant ideas, always responds to my emails, and helps to network me to others in Penn State. I appreciate him as a colleague.”
- Gabrielle Caldwell, human resources assistant in University Libraries, whose nominator wrote: “Gabby’s commitment to service truly stands out. She consistently reaches out to connect, makes herself available even on short notice, and approaches every situation with patience and positivity. We are so happy she joined University Libraries.”
- Dr. Elizabeth Cardinale, physician in University Health Services, a division of Student Affairs, whose nominator wrote: “Sending a shoutout to Dr. Cardinale for her exceptional care and compassion. She is incredibly patient and understanding, always ready to guide me in the right direction. Her approach has supported me not only physically, but mentally as well. Through her kindness and expertise, she has eased my apprehension around seeing doctors.”
- Daniel Costantino, teaching professor of physics in Eberly College of Science, whose nominator wrote: “Dan connects students to campus resources such as Student Care and Advocacy in a thoughtful and consistent manner, providing a detailed outline of supports he is able to provide. His referrals are clear and show a high level of concern for students’ wellbeing.”
- Susan Detrick, master gardener county coordinator for Monroe and Pike Counties in Penn State Extension, whose nominator wrote: “Susan consistently goes above and beyond to serve through hands-on education. She actively seeks out meaningful learning opportunities for Master Gardener volunteers, offering to host events and contribute her time to their success.”
- Natalie Ehrie, human resources generalist for Penn State University Libraries and Schreyer Honors College, whose nominator wrote: “Natalie consistently goes above and beyond to support University Libraries. Even with a full schedule, she finds the time, is responsive and is solutions-focused. Her bright and positive approach makes a true impact. We are so grateful to have her!”
- Noel Kelly, assistant director of South Food District in Auxiliary and Business Services, whose nominator wrote: “I’d like to take a moment to recognize Noel for her leadership and understanding of what it takes to drive success. She consistently handles challenging situations with confidence and good judgment without needing direction. Noel is truly one of the best leaders I’ve had the privilege of working with.”
- Staci Kelly, student awards coordinator in the College of the Liberal Arts, whose nominator wrote: “Staci has the most positive and energetic personality. She is an absolute joy to work with and turns all negatives into positives. She will stop everything to jump on a call and figure out an issue. Her knowledge of the student awarding process is a blessing, and her true focus is on our students!”
- Judy Latta, grant relations manager in the Office of the Vice President for Commonwealth Campuses, whose nominator wrote: “Judy is a fantastic asset to our community! She is flexible and supportive. Most recently I reached out to her with not only one but two last-minute grant ideas. My email for help was met with enthusiasm. She is super responsive and such a supporter.”
- Jasun Lego, systems administrator in Smeal College of Business, whose nominator wrote: “Jasun is the backbone of Smeal’s virtual lab offering, ensuring faculty and students have reliable access to critical tools. He tackles issues and frequent last‑minute requests with professionalism, responsiveness and exceptional technical skill.”
- Dave Lenze, associate teaching professor in management in Smeal College of Business, whose nominator wrote: “Dave’s vision for experiential learning unlocked tremendous value for Smeal. His leadership across the Consulting Training Program and Nittany Lion Consulting Group opened doors to new recruiting opportunities, expanded external partnerships and helped students find their passion for consulting.”
- Karen Little, associate director and subaward chair in the Office of the Senior Vice President for Research, whose nominator wrote: “Huge thanks to Karen for going above and beyond when I hit a critical grant deadline crunch! She quickly assessed the situation, connected me with exactly the right person, and did it all with warmth and care. Karen, you made a stressful moment so much better!”
- Aracelys Lopez, student success & dual enrollment coordinator at Penn State Lehigh Valley, whose nominator wrote: “Aracelys leads impactful workshops that help students build skills for success and provides outstanding support to our Pathways program. Her dedication and enthusiasm make a lasting difference for our students every day. Thank you, Aracelys!”
- Clayton Lose, web and creative services team lead in the College of the Liberal Arts, whose nominator wrote: “Clayton has been instrumental in working with us to create amazing promotional material for the Liberal Arts Undergraduate Research Expo and The Student Success Unconference. His enthusiasm to help is only matched by his invaluable talents.”
- Jamie Merida, career strategist at Penn State Lehigh Valley, whose nominator wrote: “Jamie leads our work-based learning program and connects with employers to bring them to campus and organize off-site visits, and actively engages students in valuable career experiences. Thank you, Jamie, for creating meaningful opportunities that connect our students with the world of work.”
- Ian Nalepa, manager of web and multimedia in Smeal College of Business, whose nominator wrote: “Ian led four consecutive training sessions for Smeal leaders and faculty on the project management software supporting our five-year strategic plan. Despite his busy schedule, he delivered with exceptional patience, clarity and expertise.”
- Bequie Perry, assistant teaching professor of nursing at Penn State Fayette, whose nominator wrote: “Bequie energizes every classroom with her creativity and enthusiasm, and she inspires students to reach their full potential and wholeheartedly champions their success — while always stepping up to support colleagues. She is an extraordinary educator and a truly invaluable asset.”
- Jan Reimann, associate professor of mathematics in Eberly College of Science, whose nominator wrote: “Jan has gone above and beyond by leading a mathematics accessibility team to develop workflows that convert curricular materials into accessible formats and by supporting colleagues across the college in advancing accessibility efforts.”
- Raymond Scheetz, institutional biosafety officer at the College of Medicine, whose nominator wrote: “Ray brings thoughtful, collaborative leadership and a strong commitment to research compliance, partnering across the institution to find effective solutions while adding a cheerful sense of humor that makes even tough challenges more enjoyable.”
- Amanda Tuscan, academic adviser in Smeal College of Business, whose nominator wrote: “Amanda does a fantastic job coordinating Smeal’s undergraduate commencement ceremony each year, which requires months of detailed planning across various teams, speakers and student participants. Thank you, Amanda, for your strong leadership and passion for Smeal!”
- Reese Viglione, human resources strategic partner for Penn State University Libraries and Schreyer Honors College, whose nominator wrote: “‘Princess Reese’ brings steady, thoughtful support to every interaction. No matter how busy the day, she makes time to attend meetings and provide clear guidance. Her kindness, responsiveness and sense of humor make a real difference in our work. We appreciate her dedication and reliability.”
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.