UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — As part of our regular “We Are!” feature, we recognize 21 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:
- Christian Alves, IT support specialist in the College of Information Sciences and Technology (IST), whose nominator wrote: “While IST was hosting its Alumni Board for its annual in-person meeting, a last-minute important virtual meeting ended up being scheduled. Christian stepped up, reserving me space and setting up the necessary equipment in a matter of minutes — and all went well with both. Thank you, Christian!”
- Jeffery Barber, education program specialist at Penn State Behrend, whose nominator wrote: “Jeff leads the College for Kids program, managing teachers, classes and participants while overcoming logistical challenges. His dedication ensures a smooth experience for families and students, reflecting his commitment and resilience in enriching young lives through this impactful initiative.”
- Rich Corl, campus shuttle services driver in Auxiliary and Business Services, whose nominator wrote: “Rich truly makes a difference in our day. As a campus shuttle driver, he greets everyone with kindness, creates a welcoming environment and turns a routine ride into a positive experience. His enthusiasm is contagious and truly reflects the Penn State spirit.”
- Jenna Davis, labor and employee relations specialist in Penn State Human Resources, whose nominator wrote: “Jenna is a strong commander of labor relations! I truly appreciate her attention to detail and collaborative approach. Her insights are spot on, her work is precise and she is a pleasure to partner with.”
- Tom Deau, assistant teaching professor of media production, media and communication at Penn State Behrend, whose nominator wrote: “I am nominating Professor Tom Deau for his exceptional teaching and mentorship. He creates an engaging, supportive environment, clearly explains complex concepts and goes above and beyond to support student success. His impact on our academic growth has been invaluable.”
- Carly Dreibelbis, multimedia specialist in Eberly College of Science, whose nominator wrote: “Carly has stepped forward to help with the college’s efforts in accessibility. She has organized and hosted office hours, delivered workshops, written clear and practical guidance, and formed accessibility teams to support the college.”
- Chris Gamrat, associate teaching professor in the College of Information Sciences and Technology (IST), whose nominator wrote: “Shout out to Dr. Gamrat for achieving a 100% Canvas Ally Accessibility Score in two courses — no small feat! We appreciate the care and intention he brings to creating accessible experiences for all learners.”
- Jen Gooch, administrative support coordinator and academic success coach in Penn State Educational Equity, whose nominator wrote: “Jen demonstrates exceptional leadership and sustained impact on student success through her work with Student Disability Resources. She fosters a professional, student‑centered culture and works closely with campus partners to ensure coordinated and consistent support for students with disabilities.”
- James Gans, IT support specialist in Penn State IT, whose nominator wrote: “James goes above and beyond for customers, staying on calls until issues are resolved. He contributes valuable insights to the night shift’s quarterly newsletter and supports colleagues as a sounding board, offering advice and helping to direct users to the right resources.”
- Sandra Harlow, benefits administrator in Penn State Human Resources, whose nominator wrote: “Sandy has gone above and beyond in her assistance with my benefits process since I started my career at Penn State. She devotes her time and will find answers to any question. She was also there to communicate and simplify the entire benefits process. She has helped create the best future for me.”
- Dawn Hoover, financial planning analyst in the Office of Budget and Finance, whose nominator wrote: “Dawn goes above and beyond. She not only answers questions, but also explains her process so you can learn for next time. She is always kind, approachable and never makes you feel like a bother. It’s truly a pleasure working with her.”
- Sharon Jackson, administrative assistant in Undergraduate Education, whose nominator wrote: “I’d like to recognize Sharon for her outstanding work in planning, coordinating and executing a truly successful student event — the Undergraduate Exhibition. Her attention to detail, organization and calm leadership ensured everything ran smoothly from start to finish.”
- Lan Lewis, administrative assistant in the Department of Meteorology and Atmospheric Science in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences (EMS), whose nominator wrote: “Lan has been instrumental in keeping our department running smoothly during a period of staff turnover. She has skillfully balanced multiple different projects and events. Even with her demanding workload, Lan consistently offers support to me and the rest of the team. She's the best!”
- Stacey Maline, senior associate director for Campus Recreation, a division of Student Affairs, whose nominator wrote: “Stacey is the true definition of a compassionate leader. She shows up for her staff both personally and professionally, guiding tough conversations, supporting thoughtful decisions and helping frame outcomes that create space for ideas to grow and succeed.”
- Allyshia Mohr, office administrative assistant for Student Affairs at Penn State Lehigh Valley, whose nominator wrote: “Allyshia, a proud Penn State Lehigh Valley alum, is a true campus staple who has served in many roles. Often the first face you see, her welcoming spirit reflects the best of our campus and naturally draws students in, fostering connection and belonging for students, staff and visitors.”
- Katina Posney, administrative support manager in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences (EMS), whose nominator wrote: “Katina is always willing to help, and she fosters a strong, collaborative team environment. She encourages knowledge-sharing across departments and supports continuous learning, while motivating us to develop new skills and find efficient ways to streamline our daily responsibilities.”
- Leanne Sulewski, adjunct instructor in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences (EMS), whose nominator wrote: “Dr. Sulewski brings exceptional dedication to her online teaching. She continually revises courses based on student needs, deeply mentors learners and supports struggling students through thoughtful, authentic assessment they remember long after graduation.”
- Jan Tannehill, proposal developer in Penn State Outreach, whose nominator wrote: “Jan has been incredibly helpful in getting complicated and rigorous proposals together for Outreach programs. With impeccable organization, research, communication and attention to detail, Jan provides much needed support that allows us to be bold in our efforts to amplify the land-grant mission.”
- Mindy Vail, financial associate in Eberly College of Science, who received multiple nominations. One nominator wrote: “Mindy consistently went above and beyond to support both initiators and financial hubs during the finance transition. She navigated challenges with grace, collaboration and an unwavering commitment to finding workable solutions.” Another nominator wrote: “Mindy gives 110% in everything she does. During the finance OST, she led college-wide efforts to ensure everyone felt supported. She’s knowledgeable and hardworking, and she truly cares about people.”
- Johey Verfaille, administrative assistant in the College of Information Sciences and Technology (IST), whose nominator wrote: “Johey brings a positive energy to the dean’s suite, greeting everyone with warmth and a welcoming smile. Always ready to pitch in, she approaches every task with a can-do attitude. Her reliability and upbeat spirit make her an invaluable part of the team.”
- Matt Yatison, IT consultant in Penn State IT, whose nominator wrote: “Whether you schedule time with him or walk into his office unannounced, Matt always welcomes everyone with a smile, ensures every question is anwered and consistently follows up. His friendliness and dedication make him an invaluable resource to all!”
- Tanya Yohn, administrative assistant for Housing and Food Services (HFS) at Penn State Altoona, whose nominator wrote: “Tanya consistently goes above and beyond for all people she encounters at Penn State. She's always willing to help or share her ‘tricks of the trade.’ She never seems too busy to take my call when I need an extra hand. Her knowledge runs deep, and her commitment to Penn State HFS is unmatched.”
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.