As part of our regular “We Are!” feature, we recognize 12 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:

• Joel Avram, lieutenant in University Police and Public Safety at Penn State Berks, whose nominator wrote: “We recently had an accreditation visit and needed assistance with building access. Joel went out of his way to ensure a smooth visit, including coming in on his day off and working tirelessly to figure out a solution to our needs. We are grateful for his efforts to make the visit a success!” 
• Erik Baxter, graphic design specialist in the College of Arts and Architecture, whose nominator wrote: “Erik took on the extra responsibilities of managing the marketing department at the Center for the Performing Arts for five weeks, allowing a colleague to rest and recover from surgery without any concerns. His stepping up to lead demonstrated care for another's well-being and was much appreciated.” 
• Eliza Bradley, data analyst in Student Affairs, whose nominator wrote: “Eliza is a magical soul that lives to lift others up. She organizes social gatherings, invests her time in campus and community events, and celebrates the achievements of others making them feel special. Even in this great community she stands out as a bright light spreading joy to all who know her.” 
• Noelle Capparelle, administrative support assistant for the Dutton Institute for Teaching and Learning Excellence in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences, whose nominator wrote: “'We Are!' so grateful for Noelle’s support, understanding and expertise! With a myriad of transitions, including a team member out on leave, she has gone above and beyond to ensure that students receive the service they deserve. Always working with integrity and respect, she is a quintessential Penn State team player!” 
• Grace Choi, financial assistant in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences, whose nominator wrote: “Grace is a hard-working, positive, detail-oriented, kind and supportive member of the Department of Energy and Mineral Engineering (EME). She consistently provides top-notch customer service and goes the extra mile to find solutions to the most complicated situations. She embodies the Penn State Values. We're so proud to have her on Team EME!” 
• Kira Goodman, coordinator for facilities and operations in Campus Recreation, whose nominator wrote: “Kira is such a shining light in our office. I appreciate how friendly and welcoming she is. She has such innovative ideas to support student workers. And her office decor brightens our days. Kudos!” 
• Jeremy Hoffman, assistant clinical professor of public policy in the College of the Liberal Arts, whose nominator wrote: “As the faculty and staff engagement co-chair for PSU Votes, Jeremy is encouraging students to exercise their democratic rights and educating faculty and staff on non-partisan civic engagement. Jeremy’s dedication is particularly impressive considering he is not yet a U.S. citizen, but he models great citizenship!” 
• Sharon Hoover, planning and analysis consultant in the College of Arts and Architecture, whose nominator wrote: “Sharon goes above and beyond what is expected of her every day. She is an expert data analyst and is always looking for better and more meaningful ways of synthesizing data from diverse sources for better informed decision-making.” 
• Jessica Judy, Student Health Services nurse at Penn State Beaver, whose nominator wrote: “Nurse Jess provides compassionate care to our students. She has been increasing awareness of services available to our students, and she recently secured a grant through the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board to launch a two-year program aimed at educating students about the dangers of drinking.” 
• Ann Lalik, gallery director and arts coordinator at Penn State Lehigh Valley, whose nominator wrote: “Ann goes above and beyond to help faculty on our campus to integrate arts and arts education into various courses for the benefit of our students.” 
• Sheila Lieb, undergraduate programs assistant for the School of Labor and Employment Relations in the College of the Liberal Arts, whose nominator wrote: “A crazy course scheduling error came to light during the first week of classes, which is a very stressful time for students. The minute Sheila became aware of the issue, she immediately worked to sort it out. At every turn, her focus was on the students who were impacted. Sheila's quick work made a difference!” 
• John Luse, mechanic in the Office of Physical Plant, whose nominator wrote: “John helped me when my fleet car’s tire picked up a nail and was flat at 5 p.m. John was absolutely fantastic — friendly, professional, helpful and safety-minded — and replaced my tire so fast he'd give a NASCAR pit crew a run for their money. Thanks for getting me safely back on the road!” 
• Jeremy Poletto, cyber security systems engineer in Penn State IT, whose nominator wrote: “My unit had been having some issues with a program and I reached out to Jeremy for help. He was incredibly patient with me over multiple days, on calls and chat, to help get things cleared up and get our services back on track. I really appreciate his time, dedication, patience and persistence!” 
• Andrea Selivan, administrative assistant for the Office of Access and Equity in the College of Agricultural Sciences, whose nominator wrote: “Andrea recently joined our office and has excelled as a team member, going above and beyond to ensure our success as a new office. She is dependable and knowledgeable, and she resolves anything that comes her way, making it seem easy. She has a pleasant manner. It’s a pleasure working with her!” 
• Jennifer Stubbs, senior assistant director of recruiting and employer engagement in Career Services, whose nominator wrote: “From the moment I started in our unit, Jenn has popped into my office to check in on me, making sure I don't feel overwhelmed or lost. She has provided important information about my position and how our teams can work together. And she has allowed me professional development opportunities.” 

Thank you Joel, Erik, Eliza, Noelle, Grace, Kira, Jeremy, Sharon, Jessica, Ann, Sheila, John, Jeremy, Andrea and Jennifer — 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.