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:
Deanna Beamer, finance manager for the Center for the Performing Arts, whose nominator wrote: “Dee is happy. I like being around happy people. Dee is helpful and quick to assist co-workers, patrons, students and her community. Dee is kind. I strive to be half as kind. Dee is an example of what it means to embrace change, lead through transition and jump in without fear.”
Matt Caracappa, assistant director of communications for Outreach and Online Education (OOE), whose nominator wrote: “Matt planned and executed a wonderful event for OOE employees this summer. Much of our organization works remotely, and we do not see each other much outside of Zoom or Teams meetings. Matt meticulously took care of all the details to ensure everyone had a great time.”
Blake Colaianne, assistant research professor in the College of Health and Human Development, whose nominator wrote: “Blake Colaianne, the meditation teacher for a staff wellness series, has had such an outsized positive impact. He introduced us to Thich Nhat Hanh and Mary Oliver, and to the ability to pause and be at ease even if it is just for a moment. Thank you, Blake, for your calm and your sparkle.”
Geno Corradetti, assistant director in Auxiliary and Business Services, whose nominator wrote: “Geno has run the Pollock Dining Commons for years, keeping our students fed throughout the school year. He strives to make it a dining destination by working with his team to develop new ideas, always pushing to be better than last year.”
Jeff Fink, transportation coordinator for fleet operations in Auxiliary and Business Services, whose nominator wrote: “Jeff went above and beyond helping with an extremely complex and complicated vehicle reservation for a weekly recurring class field trip. He patiently guided me through the process and worked closely with me to get our reservation right!”
Shawn Hough, research and development engineer in Applied Research Laboratory, received multiple nominations. One nominator wrote: “Shawn Hough is a tremendous leader, with years growing business and teaching other engineers to be successful. He sets an example of integrity, honesty and dedication that truly represents what we love about being Penn Staters!” Another nominator wrote: “Shawn is a phenomenal division head. He pairs dogged perseverance with asking ‘Are you happy?’ and being an empathetic listener. He brings out the best in people, cares deeply and makes me laugh really hard.” A third nominator wrote: “Shawn has built an amazing group and keeps everything going. He is truly an architect of culture.”
Kevin Mahood, manager of financial reporting in the Office of Budget and Finance, whose nominator wrote “Kevin is a joy to work with. He treats everyone with respect and kindness and is always willing to go above and beyond to provide support and guidance. He sincerely cares about all of us and provides an atmosphere that allows us to succeed. Thanks for all you do!”
Tesha Omeis, summer camp program director at Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center, whose nominator wrote: “Tesha managed an extremely successful summer camp season at Shaver's Creek that saw campers ages 4 to 14 and leaders in training ages 14 to 17 learning to understand and appreciate their place in this natural world in spite of heat, storms and smoke.”
Jill Putnam, director of the Childcare Center at Hort Woods, whose nominator wrote: “Jill goes above, beyond and out of her way to make sure that the center’s families and staff are safe and have a welcoming environment to share every day. Jill supports our strengths and growth. Jill may be our director, but she pitches in anywhere she is needed at any time.”
Jeff Remington, STEM outreach liaison for the Center for Science and the Schools in the College of Education, whose nominator wrote: “Jeff hasn't been here long, but he is making quite a name for himself. He seeks out opportunities to make everyone feel welcome at Penn State as he goes out to visit many stakeholders, including schools, education organizations, new faculty and staff, industries and so many others. He is an asset!”
Amir Sheikhi, assistant professor of chemical engineering in the College of Engineering, whose nominator wrote: “Amir has been an incredible mentor to me. He is also an outstanding researcher. His work is characterized by a meticulous attention to detail and a rigorous approach to scientific inquiry. He is always willing to collaborate with others, sharing his expertise and knowledge to advance the field.”
TaWanda Stallworth, program manager for the Antiracist Development Institute at Penn State Dickinson Law, whose nominator wrote: “TaWanda's work in the Antiracist Development Institute is both important and inspiring. She leads on and off our campus by her presence, voice, and vision for the future. TaWanda represents the best of the 'We Are’ spirit in all she does. Dickinson Law is grateful to have her light among us.”
Thank you Deanna, Matt, Blake, Geno, Jeff, Shawn, Kevin, Tesha, Jill, Jeff, Amir and TaWanda — and to everyone who helps make Penn State such an incredible community!
Do you know a Penn Stater who deserves a shoutout? If you do, consider nominating that individual by filling out a short online form.