As part of our regular “We Are!” feature, we recognize 19 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:
- Allison Albinski, graduate enrollment services coordinator in Fox Graduate School, whose nominator wrote: “I would like to give Allison a shout out as she is always so helpful when it comes to questions that arise and problems that need fixing. She is willing to help anytime someone needs it and is reliable and a true team player! Thanks, Allison, for all that you do!”
- Cynthia Beauchamp, senior executive assistant to the chancellor at Penn State Altoona, whose nominator wrote: “Cindy brings exceptional professionalism, empathy and calm leadership to every project. She recently collaborated effectively and sensitively to prepare for Steve Sheetz’s funeral viewing on the Altoona campus, creating a welcoming environment for mourners.”
- Amanda Boise, academic adviser in the College of Engineering, whose nominator wrote: “Amanda readily greets and works with our students, welcoming them with enthusiasm and a smile. Students are very appreciative of her advice and calm demeanor, helping them through stressful times. Her steadfast positivity and encouragement guide them through any challenge they encounter.”
- Kirk Diehl, director of the Varsity ‘S’ Club and annual giving specialist in Intercollegiate Athletics, whose nominator wrote: “Kirk is excellent in his role and in the way he shows up for others. From my interview to present, he has taken me under his wing, made space for questions, offered guidance, and led with integrity. As a new employee, that matters. I’m grateful to be learning from someone who invests in people.”
- Jessica Griffin, recruiter in Human Resources, whose nominator wrote: “Kudos to Jessica! She went above and beyond on an urgent project added to her already full schedule. She delivered with professionalism and without complaint, and she balanced every expectation flawlessly in a tight timeframe. Thank you, Jessica!”
- Dana Hosko, administrative support manager in Eberly College of Science, whose nominator wrote: “Dana is a wonderful team member and supportive administrative manager. She is always glad to help faculty, students and staff whenever she can. She is knowledgeable on policies and processes. She is problem-solver and has great sense of humor.”
- Beth Kocsis, educator in Penn State Extension and Nutrition Links supervisor, whose nominator wrote: “Beth forged a partnership with a regional correctional facility to provide training to help participants earn their ServSafe Food Safety Manager Certification, which can help them get a job after release. She's taken on this project in addition to a larger teaching load after a retirement.”
- Lori Klein, educator in Penn State Extension, whose nominator wrote: “Lori led a committee that revised the internal peer review process and supporting materials for our programming teams. Her organization, insight as a writer and editor, and steady guidance were essential in pulling together these final materials. We are deeply grateful for her leadership.”
- Chris Laird, sergeant in University Police and Public Safety (UPPS), whose nominator wrote: “Sgt. Laird is always approachable, willing to listen and ready to help manage problems big or small. His steady guidance and calm demeanor put others at ease.”
- Marie Laird, administrative manager in the School of Engineering Design and Innovation (SEDI) in the College of Engineering, whose nominator wrote: “Marie works tirelessly coordinating the many moving pieces in SEDI, supporting staff throughout the college and taking on additional responsibilities with enthusiasm. She is kind, helpful, leans forward and insightfully anticipates the next requirement. Every day she makes the difficult seem easy.”
- Dawn Maguire, academic adviser in Smeal College of Business, whose nominator wrote: “Dawn is a true leader in campus outreach. Her innovative, inclusive 2+2 initiatives set the standard for high‑impact engagement, strengthening collaboration and ensuring campus students feel supported, connected, welcomed and prepared to transition, adapt and thrive at University Park and beyond.”
- Erin McCool, senior contract administrator in the Office of Central Procurement, whose nominator wrote: “Erin has been working diligently on a contract renewal for my campus and has been an absolute superstar! She is kind, patient and detail-oriented. Her contributions have alleviated stress and frustration and have ensured open communication for all parties involved. Erin is a joy to work with!”
- Jessica Michaels, financial shared services associate in the Office of Central Procurement, whose nominator wrote: “Jessica is knowledgeable about policies. She is very supportive and always tries her best to reply to any questions as soon as she can.”
- Kristen Millward, associate director of operations in Auxiliary and Business Services, whose nominator wrote: “Kristen takes charge of leading crisis situations — which usually happen during off-hours! She keeps everyone informed and up to date about events, consistently following up with students, staff and vendors. She goes out of her way to help students and parents, and she provides great customer service.”
- Kaitlin Pander, educator in Penn State Extension, whose nominator wrote: “Kaitlin is instrumental in updating and creating curricula for her entire team. The quality of her work is top-notch, and she produces meaningful content quickly. She's also taken on more teaching responsibilities due to staff vacancies, thereby helping Extension increase reach and amplify impact.”
- Abby Ranio, operations coordinator in the Office of the Senior Vice President for Research, (OSVPR), whose nominator wrote: “Abby is an outstanding team member. Her encouragement, positivity and genuine care create an environment where others feel supported and motivated to do their best. She brings a bright spirit to everything she does and makes those around her feel valued and appreciated.”
- Michelle Rockower, managing director of online specialty masters and certificates in Smeal College of Business, whose nominator wrote: “Michelle is one of the most supportive colleagues I’ve had the privilege to work with. Even when her schedule is full, she makes time to talk through challenges and offer thoughtful insight. She leads with kindness, empathy and authenticity, inspiring those around her.”
- Alaina Shaffer, student engagement specialist at Penn State DuBois, whose nominator wrote: “Alaina offers consistent compassion, presence and guidance to her students daily. She is dedicated to growing leaders at Penn State; she does this best by being a strong leader herself. Alaina contributes gentleness, wit and humility to the Office of Student Engagement on our campus. We are truly lucky to have her.”
- Ashlee Tate, business intelligence specialist in the Division of Development and Alumni Relations (DDAR), whose nominator wrote: “Shoutout to Ashlee for her incredible work on ECRM for DDAR! Her expertise and commitment to solving complex mapping and migration challenges keep the project moving forward. Thank you, Ashlee!”
Thank you Allison, Cynthia, Amanda, Kirk, Jessica, Dana, Beth, Lori, Chris, Marie, Dawn, Erin, Jessica, Kristen, Kaitlin, Abby, Michelle, Alaina and Ashlee — and to everyone who helps make 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.