As part of our regular "We Are!" feature, we recognize 16 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:
Bob Boor, facility coordinator at the Eberly College of Science, whose nominator wrote: “During an event that we hosted, Bob went above and beyond to make sure we had the proper equipment and all the supplies that we needed. He was always ready to help, and when a problem arose and he was quick to find an effective solution. We are very appreciative for his help!”
Suzanne Brokloff, academic adviser in the College of Education, whose nominator wrote: “Suzanne is a fantastic academic advisor who is always willing to go the extra mile for her students. Regardless of what is happening in a student's life, Suzanne is a source of positive energy and is incredibly supportive of them!”
Stacey Faircloth, administrative assistant for Physical Plant and Maintenance Operations at Penn State Harrisburg, whose nominator wrote: “Stacey is a great asset to our campus and office! She is always willing to assist everyone that calls or comes to our office. She is our go-to person for all things SIMBA, always willing to assist others with the process of SIMBA forms.”
Angela Gephart, director of analytics and reporting for World Campus, whose nominator wrote: “Angela is a dynamo. Above and beyond all that she does in her busy role, she also helps lead the Power BI Community of Practice. Using her energy, warmth and great ideas, she fosters an actively engaged community that encourages best practices, accelerates learning and makes people feel included.”
Matt Gutshall, IT support specialist at Penn State Harrisburg, whose nominator wrote: “Matt consistently has a positive, upbeat and happy attitude. He values his work and strives for perfection. Matt is an amazing asset to Penn State. Thank you for all that do and for your excellence!”
Joyce Hanscom, export compliance specialist in the Office of Ethics and Compliance, whose nominator wrote: “Joyce has been a steady, dependable presence, helping support export control through a time of significant transition. Her dedication, commitment and willingness to step up have been notable in helping Penn State continue with critical daily activities. Her work is greatly appreciated.”
Chrissy Long, stewardship coordinator in the Division of Development and Alumni Relations, whose nominator wrote: “Chrissy goes above and beyond in her role to make sure that philanthropic gifts are properly documented, and that successful awards are acknowledged and donors are thanked. She engages stakeholders across the University with faculty, research administrators, development officers and external foundation staff.”
Ashley Medina, instructional production specialist at Penn State Great Valley, whose nominator wrote: “Kudos to Ashley Medina! Her diverse contributions, innovation, and creative problem-solving have made her an invaluable asset, elevating the Great Valley instructional design team and inspiring us all.”
Amanda Lutz Moore, associate director for graduate admissions at Penn State Harrisburg, whose nominator wrote: “Amanda has a beautiful way of connecting with students and their families. She goes above and beyond what is expected and always goes the extra mile for the students. She has a magnetic personality and is a true asset to Penn State. You are valued and appreciated. PSU is fortunate to have you!”
Karen Mullen, administrative assistant in the Department of Food Science in the College of Agricultural Sciences, whose nominator wrote: “Karen is a warm and welcoming face to the Food Science Department. She always goes above and beyond to make our department atmosphere fun, light and positive.”
Brittany Rossi, academic adviser in the Division of Undergraduate Studies (DUS), whose nominator wrote: “Brittany exemplifies the ‘We Are!’ spirit in her work in DUS. She is incredibly helpful, resourceful and knowledgeable, and she utilizes her skills to support projects for the entire unit, while serving her roster of students. Brittany exemplifies excellence and great leadership.”
Jena Soult, digital communications specialist in the College of Information Sciences and Technology, whose nominator wrote: “A smiling Jena can be seen at every college event, enthusiastically engaging with students, staff, faculty, leadership and alumni. She continually challenges us to think outside the box to find new ways to promote and celebrate IST. Her joyful spirit and unwavering dedication are truly infectious.”
Michael Tocimak, grants and contracts administrator in the Office of the Vice President for Research, whose nominator wrote: “Mike is always responsive to my requests, even on days when he has many other competing priorities. He takes the time to explain the process or situation so I can learn and do my job more effectively. His dedication to excellence makes him an invaluable colleague and a pleasure to work with.”
Steph Wehnau, director of the Center for Survey Research at Penn State Harrisburg, whose nominator wrote: “Steph is an outstanding leader! In the last few years our staff has doubled, and Steph has worked hard to create a work environment of positivity, support, collaboration and a space where everyone feels valued and part of the team. She is truly the glue that holds us together!”
Stephanie Wells, adjunct professor at Penn State Harrisburg, whose nominator wrote: “Professor Wells is amazing at what she does. She goes out of her way to ensure her students understand the material, both in and outside the classroom. She goes the extra mile for her students and is always available to have a conversation, regardless of whether or not it’s related to the class.”
Darlene Young, student success specialist at Penn State Schuylkill, whose nominator wrote: “Darlene is such an innovator and looks to the future. She works hard to find ways to meet students where they are and to make the Learning Center a welcoming place. She continually comes up with new ways to help students access tutoring more readily, so they can succeed academically.”
Thank you Bob, Suzanne, Stacey, Angela, Matt, Joyce, Chrissy, Ashley, Amanda, Karen, Brittany, Jena, Michael, Steph, Stephanie and Darlene — 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.