As part of our regular "We Are!" feature, we recognize eight Penn Staters who have gone above and beyond what's asked of them in their work at the University. Do you know someone who deserves a shout-out? If you do, consider taking a minute to nominate that person by filling out a short online form.

This week, we'd like say thank you on behalf of the entire University community to:

• Adam Homer, staff member at Penn State Allegheny, whose nominator wrote: "Throughout the pandemic, Mr. Homer led our maintenance team and kept our campus safe. He was on top of all safety protocols at all times. In addition, he was engaged with a number of building projects that transformed our campus throughout the past year."
• Sandy Confer, staff member with Penn State Information Technology, whose nominator wrote, "We are...a team player! Sandy Confer brings her best self to work every day as a stellar team player at the IT Service Desk. Sandy is loyal to Penn State and her team, calling us her 'Penn State family.' Sandy’s positive energy is contagious and ensures we have a fun, supportive environment."
• Wanda Barlett, staff member in the College of Agricultural Sciences, whose nominator wrote: "Wanda has been working very hard on projects out of our office. She is a true pleasure to know and work with. She is always willing to help out, and she has always been pleasant to everybody."
• Stephanie Zelem, staff member in the College of Agricultural Sciences, whose nominator wrote: "Stephanie has worked very hard learning the SIMBA system, but she was a trooper, managed the stress and knows it quite well now. She is such a pleasure to work with and be around."
• Beth Nemez, staff member at Penn State Behrend, whose nominator wrote: "Beth has been a shining light for Penn State Behrend's Black School of Business during this global pandemic. She always has a smile and time to help. Beth has been adaptable as she moved between remote and office work while navigating the transition to SIMBA. We are lucky to have her."
• Kathy Deustch, staff member at Penn State Behrend, whose nominator wrote: "Kathy is a complete joy to work with! She is always the first one to offer her help with anything we have going on. She completes a task before you even realize it needed done. I honestly do not know what we would do without her in Youth Education Outreach at Behrend!"
• Christine Haddock, staff member at Penn State Behrend, whose nominator wrote: "Tina has been steadfast and gone above and beyond to coordinate the move of the Copy Center from Erie Hall to Fasenmyer. From packing, coordinating companies and times, organizing on the days of moving and getting equipment set up, she was a vital reason for the success."
• Adam Hollinger, faculty member at Penn State Behrend, whose nominator wrote: "Professor Hollinger continuously goes above and beyond for his students. He strives to provide them with the best learning opportunity during these difficult times, and even adds a bit of humor and compassion, such as class awards and cookies before exams, which engage and motivate students."

Thank you Adam Homer, Sandy Confer, Wanda Barlett, Stephanie Zelem, Beth Nemenz, Kathy Deustch, Christine Haddock and Adam Hollinger — and to everyone who helps make Penn State such an incredible community