UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Paula Hamaty, associate registrar, degree audits, athletic eligibility, systems and web, in the Office of the University Registrar, has been honored with the 2023 Award for Administrative Excellence.

The award, established in 1970, is given to a faculty or staff member whose performance, methods and achievements exemplify the highest standards of administrative excellence.

Nominators said Hamaty is an expert on University procedures — particularly LionPATH — and knows her work results in a better experience for students and other stakeholders. In her role, Hamaty works closely with the Administrative Council on Undergraduate Education to implement new policies and procedures.

Hamaty is an important resource for colleges, partner units and campus registrars, nominators said. She represents the Office of the University Registrar in meetings while also serving on numerous committees.

An area where Hamaty continues to make a huge impact, nominators said, is the transition to LionPATH. Since its rollout six years ago, Hamaty is educated in the intricacies of the software and is able to resolve issues and advocate for additional functionality. She’s also an effective communicator who is willing to share her knowledge.

Hamaty also routinely consults with the University Faculty Senate, the Administrative Council on Undergraduate Education and the LionPATH Development and Maintenance Organization. Penn State is at times a complicated place, nominators said, and Hamaty is always ready to share insight into melding policy, procedure and system limitations.

“What Hamaty’s resume doesn’t show is the impeccable way in which she serves the University,” a nominator said. “She performs her duties with great humor, attention to detail and the highest level of integrity. She’s always willing to go the extra mile to do what is best for Penn State and its students. She is thoughtful, diligent and professional in all that she does. She epitomizes administrative excellence.”