UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The 8th Annual University Staff Advisory Council (USAC) Summit, held on June 11 at the Eric Barron Innovation Hub, brought together Penn State staff for a day of inspiration, reflection and unity under the theme “We are Stronger Together.”
The annual summit kicked off with a welcome and morning refreshments. The event, lead by co-chairs of the Outreach Committee, Leah Carraway-Justice and Paul Smith, set the tone for a day centered on embracing change, celebrating growth and reinforcing the core values that keep the staff community strong. The day’s theme coincides with USAC’s recent membership model expansion.
“When we take time to listen to one another and share our stories, we strengthen the very foundation of our work and why we do it,” said Paul Smith. “USAC isn’t just about what we do — it's about who we do it with and how we support each other along the way.”
The morning keynote, on the theme of “We Are Stronger Together,” was delivered by Nalini Krishnankutty, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Program manager in Penn State Human Resources. Building upon examples from her first-generation immigrant journey, her leadership roles in public and private spheres, and lessons gleaned from cultures around the world, Krishnankutty emphasized the importance of inclusivity and collective strength in achieving both institutional and personal goals.
“There is a general consensus that we must be united to enable collective progress, but unity is realized more easily when we create conditions where individuals can also thrive,” she said. “Personal and institutional growth are so interconnected, and understanding that connection is vital, especially in times of rapid change.”
In the afternoon, attendees engaged in a rock-painting activity designed to spark creativity and symbolize individual contributions to the greater whole. The session culminated in a keynote address by Bobby White, assistant athletics director for premium seating, titled “Sharing in the Climb.” Drawing on his journey from student to coach to staff leader, White shared a personal and motivational message about overcoming adversity, growing through change, and the value of leading with purpose.