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: 

• Trisha Carlson, administrative support coordinator in the Smeal College of Business, who received multiple nominations. One nominator wrote: “Trisha is so helpful, knowledgeable, patient and attentive with every aspect of the office. She always has a positive attitude and makes everyone feel welcome and appreciated. Our office is so blessed to have Trisha!” Another nominator wrote: “Trisha recently started working in the Undergraduate Education Office at Smeal. She brings so much knowledge from being other units of the college for many years. Everyone can always go to her for guidance. She brings so much positivity to the office.”   
• Monica Dreibelbis, lead student account associate for Penn State Outreach, whose nominator wrote: “Monica consistently demonstrates integrity, vision and resilience, guiding our team through challenges. She goes above and beyond for everyone she encounters, and her genuine care for the well-being of others has fostered a sense of camaraderie and unity that defines our team spirit.” 
• Laura Hennessey, academic adviser in the College of Health and Human Development, whose nominator wrote: “Laura shines as a beacon of support and guidance, with an unmatched dedication to her students' success. Her unwavering positivity and encouragement light up the academic journey, guiding students through any challenge they encounter. We are lucky to have her.” 
• Keisha Johnson, director of residence life and community standards at Penn State Abington, whose nominator wrote: “Keisha has done an outstanding job of bringing the living learning community (LLC) to life in Lions Gate. The First Gen LLC has seen growth and commitment from alumni and mentors interested and invested in helping students succeed. Keisha was the architect of this program, which she continues to champion.” 
• Kelli Jones, administrative support coordinator in the Eberly College of Science, whose nominator wrote: “Kelli is a great manager. She goes above and beyond not only for the staff but for the entire department. She is always helpful with questions and concerns. She is kind and easy to talk to and always willing to help, and she has made such a positive difference for many of us. Thank you, Kelli!” 
• Brenda Kasubick, proposal and award generalist in the College of Engineering, whose nominator wrote: “Brenda always goes above and beyond for students, faculty and staff members. She is the first one to lend a helping hand and normally has a witty joke in her pocket. She is truly an asset to our team and a pleasure to work with.” 
• Erica Lawrence, health service assistant in the Penn State Psychological Clinic, whose nominator wrote: “Erica continues to grow in her position, and from day one she has impressed not only those she works with but everyone that she encounters at the clinic. Erica's work ethic is amazing. She is responsible and efficient and always has a great attitude. We are lucky to have her as part of the team!”
• John Pachence, associate teaching professor at Penn State Abington, whose nominator wrote: "John is an amazing partner for our student and academic affairs collaboration with Lion Productions, the campus sound and light group. John teaches students the craft of sound and lighting while providing our student events with amazing lights, effects and music. John is the best!" 
• Marta Plumhoff, food systems coordinator in Student Affairs, whose nominator wrote: “Marta consistently supports students through the Sustainable Food Systems Network. Her passion for her job is what makes the network what it is!” 
• Sonia Ramsey, transfer credit specialist at Penn State World Campus, whose nominator wrote: “Sonia goes above and beyond the daily task of just doing the job. She is always lending kind words and a helping hand, no matter what is happening in her life. How she juggles all of this with a smile and encouraging words is what I admire and respect her for. She is so deserving of this recognition.”  
• Jony Rommel, events manager in the College of Information Sciences and Technology, whose nominator wrote: “In a role where things can and often do change, Jony and her team exemplify the ‘We Are!’ spirit by meeting each challenge with grace and flexibility.  Her thoughtful expertise and guidance ensure that our events are executed beautifully. We are so appreciative of all she and her team do for us.” 
• Lisa Stevenson, assistant teaching professor of psychology in the College of the Liberal Arts, whose nominator wrote: “Lisa has been a champion for student disability services. Her unwavering support and adaptability have been invaluable even when faced with a challenging situation.” 
• Sondra Struble, academic program specialist at the College of Medicine, whose nominator wrote: “Sondra is one of several critical individuals who form the ‘glue’ that holds the college’s Regional Campus together. Her professionalism, attention to detail and composed style allow medical students in State College to focus on their education amidst sometimes dizzying changes in scheduling.” 
• Armon Zolghadr, IT support specialist in the College of Agricultural Sciences, whose nominator wrote: “Armon has been great to work with. He is very patient and a quick responder whenever I have had issues with my machine. Thanks for the hard work and positive, easy-going demeanor, Armon!” 

Thank you Trisha, Monica, Laura, Keisha, Kelli, Brenda, Erica, John, Marta, Sonia, Jony, Lisa, Sondra and Armon — 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.