UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — 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:
- Jessica Aguilar, education curriculum and assessment specialist in Fox Graduate School, whose nominator wrote: “Jessica is the ultimate problem-solver and one of the friendliest colleagues you’ll meet! She helps anyone — even people outside her office — and never hesitates to dig for answers beyond her role. Even virtually, she makes you feel supported and part of her team.”
- Becky Blair, graduate enrollment coordinator in Fox Graduate School, whose nominator wrote: “Becky’s great sense of humor and immense knowledge make her a tremendous asset. Her ongoing dedication to improving our constantly evolving manual helps her team operate with greater ease and efficiency.”
- Matt Bonsell, network operations manager in Penn State IT, whose nominator wrote: “I've been having many issues with the phones in my college, and Matt was super patient in double-checking all of our network assignments and processes. Thanks to his assistance I was able to get the one room all set up appropriately. I couldn't have done it without his assistance. Thanks, Matt!”
- Lanie Brunk, administrative support assistant at Penn State Berks, whose nominator wrote: “Lanie goes above and beyond to support Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences Division members not only helping them to understand and complete complicated necessary documentation and processes, but also by attending events on campus hosted by members of that division. She always juggles so much so well, and always with a smile.”
- Kaycie Gallaher, front desk coordinator for the Department of History in the College of the Liberal Arts, whose nominator wrote: “Kaycie efficiently and cheerfully manages the front desk in Weaver Building for four different units. She responds quickly to every email and request and never misses a moment to do her job well. She is forward-thinking and helpful, day in and day out. She is a real pleasure to work with.”
- Carla Glisan, senior student aid coordinator for Federal Work-Study and Community Service Federal Work-Study Programs in the Office of Student Aid, whose nominator wrote: “Carla's dedication to the Work Study program and its students is unmatched. She goes above and beyond to see its successful operations, while also making herself readily available to anyone that may need assistance. We're lucky to get to work with her!”
- Carol Hall, administrative assistant in the career services office at Penn State Dickinson Law, whose nominator wrote: “Carol is a smart, steady, hardworking and kind presence in our office. She keeps everything moving forward amidst a very busy schedule and competing demands. She does it all with a positive attitude, energy and always a warm greeting to all who enter the office. Thank you, Carol!”
- Beth Johnson, director of the integrative science major and director of academics for the science BS/MBA program in Eberly College of Science, whose nominator wrote: “Beth is an excellent mentor and colleague! Her calm, methodical demeanor is paramount to the success of our team. Whether talking through student audit issues or helping a student find a home in our college, she is always there to guide. I sincerely appreciate her support of our team's growth!”
- Michelle Lauder, academic program coordinator in the Department of Mathematics in the Eberly College of Science, whose nominator wrote: “Michelle recently transitioned into a new position and has fully taken over tens of thousands of paper exams. Her attention to detail has made the semester run so smoothly for students and faculty. We are loving having her in her new role!”
- Alaina Leasure, educator for 4-H youth development in Penn State Extension, whose nominator wrote: “Our office needed help with getting a piece of equipment installed in the office, and Alaina was willing to assist us! She took time out of her busy schedule to assist us even though the task was not in her normal job responsibilities. Thank you, Alaina. We appreciate you!”
- Nathan Mellace, IT support specialist in the College of Information Sciences and Technology (IST), whose nominator wrote: “Nathan goes above and beyond for everyone in the college. He consistently provides excellent IT assistance by responding quickly in urgent situations or by simply guiding us through every day tech challenges. He has an infinite amount of patience and a positive attitude.”
- Seth Palmer, marketing and communications specialist in Eberly College of Science, whose nominator wrote: “Seth works tirelessly to make sure that all units and departments have marketing materials that make the college shine and exemplify the amazing work that's being done. He is a cornerstone in the office and is always willing to take the time to help others.”
- Brooke Pier, marketing communications specialist in the College of Health and Human Development (HHD), whose nominator wrote: “Brooke is a reliable communicator for Kinesiology and Nutritional Sciences. Her attention to detail, clear messaging and consistent follow-through ensure her departments are well represented and their work is widely shared.”
- Christina Stover, undergraduate exam coordinator for the Department of Chemistry in Eberly College of Science, whose nominator wrote: “Christina is an amazing exam coordinator! Her organization keeps everything running smoothly and when challenges arise, she tackles them with dedication and grace. Her hard work doesn’t go unnoticed. Thank you for all you do, Christina!”
- Jennifer Straka, administrative support assistant in Eberly College of Science, whose nominator wrote: “Jen consistently goes above and beyond in her daily responsibilities, creating a welcoming and solutions-focused environment for everyone she supports. Her attention to detail and strong commitment to follow-through have helped streamline processes and improve efficiency in our Research Office.”
- Jodi Vender, coordinator of undergraduate and alumni programs for the Department of Geography in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences (EMS), whose nominator wrote: “Jodi has coordinated the Department of Geography's undergraduate and alumni programs since 2005. As a longtime and beloved undergraduate advisor, she's an important presence, making a point to understand all the electives, distributions, etc. so that she can effectively guide students.”
- John Waters, teaching professor of biology and anthropology in Eberly College of Science, whose nominator wrote: “A huge thank you to Professor Waters for always going the extra mile for students. His kindness, compassion and willingness to spend time guiding and encouraging students exemplify what great teaching is all about.”
- Steven White, lab coordinator of The Learning Factory in the College of Engineering, whose nominator wrote: “Engineering students experience Steve’s work and impact from the first to the last engineering class they take. Students enjoy hands-on work and design experiences provided by Steve and his team. The College of Engineering appreciates his initiative.”
- Elaine Whitmer, instructional technology specialist in the College of Engineering, whose nominator wrote: “Thank you, Elaine, for going above and beyond in the college’s Office of Digital Learning. Elaine is the lead on micro-credentials and non-credit programs, serving a wide student population. Her knowledge, ability to gather requirements and find solutions for many projects are models for all.”
- Anna Zuckerman, events coordinator in the College of the Liberal Arts, whose nominator wrote: “Anna is the best events coordinator ever! She is beyond efficient, in that she anticipates every part of planning an event and personally sees it through at the venue. When an event is in her confident and capable hands, everything goes perfectly. She's a jewel in this role.”
Thank you Jessica, Becky, Matt, Lanie, Kaycie, Carla, Carol, Beth, Michelle, Alaina, Nathan, Seth, Brooke, Christina, Jennifer, Jodie, John, Steven, Elaine and Anna — 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.