As part of our regular “We Are!” feature, we recognize 14 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:
- Cathey Chaffee, academic program coordinator in the College of the Liberal Arts, whose nominator wrote: “Cathey helped back up an open position while being a new staff member. She's a self-motivated team player who has proven to be an integral member of the office. Thank you for all you do, Cathey!”
- Leo Conway, director of Upward Bound Programs in the Office of the Vice Provost for Educational Equity, whose nominator wrote: “Leo is dedicated to providing outstanding opportunities to the students in the Upward Bound Program. He is kind and generous with his time and talents.”
- Aimee Crihfield, event services coordinator at the Center for the Performing Arts, whose nominator wrote: “Attention to details makes Aimee an excellent coordinator of our artists' contracting process, from transportation and hotel arrangements to unusual catering requests. I have witnessed her courteous and professional approach with our visiting artists, which ensures they have a good experience here.”
- Rachel DeMesa, global engagement coordinator at Penn State Global, whose nominator wrote: “Rachel is incredibly student-centered and does all she can to support global learning among all students with a special focus on international student engagement and success! She works tirelessly to support student programing and never complains. Thank you, Rachel!”
- Penny Hoover, academic program coordinator at Penn State Altoona, whose nominator wrote: “Penny’s meticulous recordkeeping and management of large amounts of student data make her the unsung hero of our nursing programs. The vast amount of knowledge she readily recalls keeps things running smoothly and efficiently, and we can always rely on her to go above and beyond without being asked.”
- Terra Ingram, administrative support coordinator in the College of Agricultural Sciences, whose nominator wrote: “What word comes to mind to describe Terra? Dedicated. She will complete her tenure with USAC soon, and I cannot thank her enough for all that she has done for Penn State staff. I appreciate all the hours she spent making sure staff felt heard and appreciated. 'We Are!’ thankful for you, Terra!”
- Beth Johnson, director of academics in the Eberly College of Science, whose nominator wrote: “Dr. Johnson goes above and beyond for students in the BS/MBA program. She provides unwavering support as an adviser while also prioritizing enriching out-of-classroom experiences. She recently helped lead an amazing NYC trip for students to connect with alumni and other professionals in the city.”
- Kaylee Keller, academic program coordinator in the College of the Liberal Arts, whose nominator wrote: “While performing her duties as philosophy graduate program assistant, Kaylee also worked as the backup for two open positions in our office. She trained new staff once they were hired and has proven herself to be an essential part of our office. Thank you, Kaylee!”
- Brian Macafee, farm specialist in the College of Agricultural Sciences, whose nominator wrote: “Brian consistently exhibits a supportive attitude, consistently going the extra mile to ensure your comprehension. My collaboration with Brian brings me immense satisfaction. Brian is an invaluable University asset, contributing significantly to its success.”
- Gina Montgomery, manager of parking and transportation at Penn State Abington, whose nominator wrote: “Gina does an amazing job of managing vehicular and pedestrian traffic at the bustling entrance to the Abington campus. Gina coordinates student buses, campus visitors, deliveries and anything else that comes her way. Gina is always welcoming and willing to help everyone. Thanks, Gina!”
- Sarah Moyer, admissions officer at Penn State DuBois, whose nominator wrote: “Sarah goes above and beyond to support her colleagues and is a true team player. She has a positive attitude and is a joy to work with. Sarah truly represents the ‘We Are!’ spirit. The DuBois campus is fortunate to have her!”
- Sue Patterson, director of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging at Penn State Altoona, whose nominator wrote: “Sue is an invaluable member of our staff. She not only promotes inclusion, but she lives it. I have experienced Sue's welcoming smile and dedication, as well as her commitment to building an inclusive environment on our campus, first-hand. Thank you, Sue!”
- Stefania Rhoades, administrative support assistant in the Nese College of Nursing, who received multiple nominations. One nominator wrote: “Stefania goes above and beyond every day to help the faculty. I cannot thank Stefania enough for all that she does.” Another nominator wrote: “Stefania is a windmill when it comes to work. She can easily engage in teamwork with ease and accountability. She works well with every faculty member, and they have come to rely on her. She engages faculty and students with her sweet disposition. She welcomes everyone and treats them like family.”
- Arianne Waddington, IT consultant, whose nominator wrote: “Arianne excels as a leader and team player. Her initiative and dedication to exceptional IT service (even in complex projects) make her invaluable. Strong bonds she has built across all levels at Penn State solidify her as a true asset.”
Thank you Cathey, Leo, Aimee, Rachel, Penny, Terra, Beth, Kaylee, Brian, Gina, Sarah, Sue, Stefania and Arianne — 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.