UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — 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: 

• Eric Aitala, web designer for Undergraduate Education, whose nominator wrote: “Eric is the man behind the magic for our website. He can troubleshoot any issue that arises and never hesitates at our design requests. I appreciate that I can reach out to Eric in a message and feel confident he will be responsive and fix the issue. I’m so grateful for his professionalism and support.” 

• Elizabeth (Betsy) Beck, senior administrative support for Social Science Research Institute (SSRI), whose nominator wrote: “Betsy supervises staff and supports faculty, coordinates events and projects, and keeps so much moving along. Betsy's grace and good humor light up the spaces where she works. She consistently assists multiple units within the SSRI realm with a joyful attitude and helpful presence.” 

• Kelly Bell, administrative support manager for physical plant and maintenance operations at Penn State Harrisburg, whose nominator wrote: “Kelly is a light to all of those around her. She is caring and kind to all. She jumps in to help anyone who needs it. She is a team player and positive influence. She is an asset to her department and the entire campus.” 

• Jenny Blew, administrative support assistant in the College of Arts and Architecture, whose nominator wrote: “Jenny is a calming voice, attentive ear and wealth of resources. Welcoming and charismatic, she's often the first to engage with prospective families and the last for graduates. She is a master at troubleshooting and deescalating situations, is a fierce ally for students, and cares for her colleagues as family.” 

• Michelle Evan, assignment coordinator for Housing and Food Services at Penn State Behrend, whose nominator wrote: “Michelle is a star at logistics and makes the working relationship between Residence Life and Housing work seamlessly. Her constant communication and ability to meet the needs of each individual student and their housing requests is simply remarkable!”   

• Yesenia Figueroa-Lifschitz, library assistant at Penn State New Kensington, whose nominator wrote: “Yesenia is always ready to help with a smile on her face. She is the person who gets the course reserves ready for faculty and she is always 10 steps ahead. Yesenia always goes the extra mile to make sure everything is ready before the start of the semester.” 

• Elizabeth Gherlone, administrative assistant in Applied Research Laboratory, whose nominator wrote: “Elizabeth oversaw and assisted in the move of our division of 34 people and has been very open throughout the process. She has been so willing to help and answer questions. She goes the extra mile for us to feel comfortable in our new spaces. She has ensured a smooth transition for each of us!” 

• Michele Kirkpatrick, administrative assistant in Smeal College of Business, whose nominator wrote: “Michele should be recognized for her dedication not only to the Smeal College of Business, but also to Penn State. She is in her 29th year and cares deeply for her colleagues and the University!  She goes over and beyond to make everyone feel welcomed! She definitely deserves a 'We Are!’” 

• Ilhan Kucukaydin, web manager at Penn State Harrisburg, whose nominator wrote: “Ilhan is a gem! He meticulously works to keep our websites updated and user friendly. He is speedy with his work, often able to make changes within the same day. He offers suggestions, which oftentimes are better than what was submitted for change. He is a true delight to work with!” 

• Arintha Lynch, administrative assistant in Undergraduate Education, whose nominator wrote: “Arintha joined our team a year ago and we have benefited from her presence since. She is always there with a can-do attitude and ready to help students, staff or whomever reaches out to the center. She is a natural helper and a fast learner, and she brings great positivity to our office environment!” 

• Cobi Michael, teaching professor of psychology at Penn State Harrisburg, whose nominator wrote: “Dr. Michael is well known for her dedication to student success, outstanding teaching and kindness. She is the program coordinator for psychology and has been for many years. She is also the adviser to the Psychology Club. Simply put, she is the students' favorite and deserves a shoutout.” 

• Brad Morrissey, group lead for mail services in Auxiliary and Business Services, whose nominator wrote: “Brad makes sure that research participants receive study materials and outcome data following assessments. He has gone above and beyond by finding the most economical and reliable service options for us, troubleshooting address and delivery problems, and locating lost packages.” 

• Tony Picardi, marketing communications specialist in the College of Health and Human Development (HHD), who received multiple nominations. One nominator wrote: “Tony delivers exceptional work for the College of HHD. His creativity, meticulous attention to detail and strong work ethic are evident in everything he does. He swiftly grasps the objectives and carries them out efficiently and with great finesse.” Another nominator wrote: “Tony's support in our communication efforts has been exceptional. He has captured great photos at every major event and provided crucial behind-the-scenes help. His dedication has greatly strengthened our connection with students and alumni, making a significant impact.” A third nominator wrote: “Tony is a joy to work with. He is creative, timely, thoughtful and excellent at his communications role. He follows up with timely and effective solutions consistently. His favorite expression is, ‘I got you!’ and he really delivers on that promise.”   

• Jenn Stoner, kindergarten teacher at the Bennett Family Center, whose nominator wrote: “Ms. Jenn is loved by every student she interacts with because she always listens to them actively, speaks to them kindly and appreciates their every ‘win’ — whether it's reading a word, drawing a spiral or balancing on one foot. She treats her each student like they are a masterpiece.” 

Thank you to Eric, Betsy, Kelly, Jenny, Michelle, Yesenia, Elizabeth, Michele, Ilhan, Arintha, Cobi, Brad, Tony and Jenn — 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.