As part of our regular “We Are!” feature, we recognize 23 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:
- Billy Andre, business intelligence specialist in the Office of Research Information Systems (ORIS), whose nominator wrote: “Billy created a custom Power BI dashboard that exceeded every expectation. He brought skill, patience and creativity to the job, and his work will support our office across many projects. We’re so grateful for his effort.”
- Amanda Becoate, associate director of Student Affairs at Penn State Greater Allegheny, whose nominator wrote: “Amanda recently moved to our campus from Penn State New Kensington, but she is still helping to ensure the last years at PSNK will be filled with good memories for our students. She has worked tirelessly to provide students opportunities they wouldn't be able to achieve on their own, all while making sure they are healthy, happy and well-fed.”
- Krystal Bloom, financial associate at the College of Medicine, whose nominator wrote: “We'd like to recognize Krystal for her outstanding contributions to the LION Mobile Clinic. She is an invaluable asset to our team. Her guidance, superior work ethic and support directly contribute to the success of this vital community initiative. Thank you, Krystal, for your exemplary service!”
- Bryan Butler, applications developer in Penn State IT, whose nominator wrote: “Bryan’s responsiveness and expertise make our IT requests and issues stress-free. His patience and kindness ensure smooth operations, and his attentiveness keeps interruptions minimal. We’re grateful for his outstanding support.”
- Gina Catalano, financial aid coordinator in Enrollment Management, whose nominator wrote: “For 12 years I've worked closely with Gina and always find her tolerant and prompt with student aid questions — even the repetitive and seemingly easy ones! In person and online, Gina demonstrates the helpful spirit that Penn State embodies. So many students have benefited from her expertise. She's the best!”
- Kelly Conlon-Mazzucca, lecturer of corporate communication and program coordinator at Penn State Scranton, whose nominator wrote: “Kelly and her CC 490W class at Penn State Scranton recently hosted our campus's inaugural Corporate Communication Day. This day was a celebration of all things related to the topic and featured guest speakers, a faculty panel and other interactive activities.”
- Thomas Dennis, multimedia specialist at Penn State Dickinson Law, whose nominator wrote: “Tom has a keen eye for detail, is always reliable and is extremely supportive of the students at Penn State Dickinson Law. Thank you, Tom, for being dedicated to the law school!”
- Jordan Futrick, graphic design specialist in the College of Arts and Architecture, whose nominator wrote: “Jordan has only been with the Center for the Performing Arts since September, but she has established herself as a solid contributor to the team! Her photos and videos show the excitement and magic that surround live performance and tell the stories of memories being made and the impact of the arts.”
- Charlotte Harro, administrative support assistant in Student Affairs, whose nominator wrote: “I am grateful for Charlotte’s kindness, helpful attitude and welcoming presence. Charlotte is a hardworking staff member always willing to lend a hand!”
- Jenelle Izer, professor of surgery at the College of Medicine, whose nominator wrote: “I’m truly grateful to work under such an amazing boss. Jenelle’s support, encouragement and willingness to listen make me feel valued and confident. She leads with strength and empathy, celebrates my wins, guides me through challenges and consistently helps me grow.”
- Tara Koller, academic adviser and Division of Undergraduate Studies coordinator at Penn State Lehigh Valley, whose nominator wrote: “Tara goes above and beyond to support students with expertise and genuine care. She provides personalized guidance, bridges connections to resources and offers thoughtful advice, making every student feel valued and supported.”
- Cierra Naglowsy, administrative support assistant in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences (EMS), whose nominator wrote: “Cierra goes above and beyond in everything she does. She recently began a creative workshop called ‘Crafternoons,’ which is a place for reducing stress and encouraging connections."
- Tim Perry, solutions engineer in Penn State IT, whose nominator wrote: “Tim is a hero! I was bounced from person to person for an issue I’ve had for years that no one could fix. I finally got Tim, who did not give up on me and spent weeks trying to find a solution. After regular meetings with him for multiple hours at a time, he finally helped me to fix the years-long issue!”
- Tony Picardi, marketing communications specialist in the College of Health and Human Development (HHD), whose nominator wrote: “Tony brings energy and creativity to his work with the School of Hospitality Management and the Department of Recreation, Park, and Tourism Management. His approachable style and storytelling skills help elevate department visibility and showcase the exciting work happening across both programs.”
- Sarah Prentice, administrative support assistant in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences (EMS), whose nominator wrote: “Sarah has been working in our unit for three years and has shown wonderful dedication and passion in her role. She consistently goes above and beyond, helping our team be the best that we can be. Thank you for all that you do, Sarah! We are so lucky to have you on our team.”
- Allie Seiber, HRIS analyst in Penn State IT, whose nominator wrote: “I'd like to recognize Allie for being an incredible teammate. Despite moving into a new role, she continues to share her expertise and is always willing to help others succeed. Her knowledge, dedication and upbeat attitude are truly appreciated. Thank you, Allie. I appreciate you!”
- Amanda Sherry, senior enrollment services counselor at Penn State World Campus, whose nominator wrote: “Amanda has been a stellar trainer and subject matter expert throughout our unit's transition to SalesForce. She is recognized as the go-to team member for questions, thoroughly researching what she doesn't have at her fingertips and teaching the team with patience and grace.”
- Crista Spratt, graduate programs coordinator in the College of Health and Human Development (HHD), whose nominator wrote: “Crista’s contributions to the Health Policy and Administration Department have had a tremendous impact. She does excellent work with a positive attitude and a smile. You can always count on her. Crista has improved processes which benefit current and prospective students. We are incredibly fortunate to have Crista on our team!”
- Ryan Stroup, programmer lead for research compliance systems in the Office of the Senior Vice President for Research, whose nominator wrote: “Ryan is a key member of our team. He is very inclusive, making sure to consider all points of view. He is always patient with those of us without a technical background. He is so great, we forgive him for his love of Notre Dame football!”
- Ken Thornton, group leader and maintenance worker utility at Penn State Greater Allegheny, whose nominator wrote: “When Ken is on the job, you can be confident that tasks will be handled quickly, efficiently and with a level of care that goes above and beyond expectations. Ken doesn’t just complete the work; he actively looks for solutions that make everything run smoother.”
- Mindy Tillinger, research project manager at the College of Medicine, whose nominator wrote: “When I started everything felt overwhelming, but Mindy guided me with patience and kindness. She’s always willing to teach, support and check in, making my learning easier. Her steady encouragement has made her not just a co-worker, but a mentor I truly appreciate.”
- Yvette Willson, director of R-VOICE in Student Affairs, whose nominator wrote: “Yvette tirelessly addresses relationship violence with empathy and dedication. She supports and encourages her team, fostering new programs and services that help students navigate the aftermath of violence with care and innovation.”
- Carey Zettle, grants and contracts administrator in the College of Information Sciences and Technology (IST), whose nominator wrote: “Carey is an expert, tenacious and fun to work with. A rare combination! Despite the significant pressures of research administration, she keeps a positive attitude and leads her team with diligence and empathy. We are so lucky to have her.”
Thank you Billy, Amanda, Krystal, Bryan, Gina, Kelly, Thomas, Jordan, Charlotte, Jenelle, Tara, Cierra, Tim, Tony, Sarah, Allie, Amanda, Crista, Ryan, Ken, Mindy, Yvette and Carey — 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.