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:
- Sarah Dyer, lead application developer in the Office of Research Information Systems, whose nominator wrote: “Sarah is a shining star. Sarah makes sure that all developers consider all the abilities of the users who will be using our systems and focuses on ensuring equal access for all using the tools available to ensure accessibility. Thank you to Sarah for always going the extra mile.”
- April Gunsallus, administrative support assistant in Student Affairs, who received multiple nominations. One nominator wrote: “April's care and creativity has profound and positive ripple effects. She is the person we call when we don't know where else to turn. She helps us brainstorm and stay on track.” Another nominator wrote: “April is a new member of the Student Affairs team that is making a big impact. She's mindful of all the work and effort that happens to make this campus a beautiful place, and actively appreciates the people that do it. From coordinating early morning coffee, treats, goodie bags and soup groups - she's a wonderful example of ‘We Are Penn State!’”
- Amy Hasan, administrative support coordinator in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences, whose nominator wrote: “Amy is the perfect leader. She is positive and encourages the growth of staff, faculty and students through identifying areas for improvement and helping them with training and learning. She routinely provides on-the-job training to staff and has even held work sessions on SIMBA for faculty.”
- Stephanie Hill, administrative support assistant at Penn State Harrisburg, whose nominator wrote: “Miss Stef is a pillar on our campus who shows up every day with a smile. If you need a volunteer to support an event, extra care for a student, help with piling tasks, someone to brainstorm with or just an ear to listen, Miss Stef will be there. Our staff and students are so lucky to have her!”
- Erin Koncoski, financial coordinator at Penn State World Campus, whose nominator wrote: “Erin was new to Penn State when she started just over a year ago. She has been an outstanding coworker! Recently, she took on some very tricky expense reconciliations and persevered, so policy and procedures were followed accurately. I know she will continue to be a great asset to the team and to Penn State!”
- Rosanna Mersinger, administrative assistant in Schreyer Honors College, whose nominator wrote: “Rosanna goes above and beyond to serve and support Schreyer Scholars. Rosanna’s advice and input on programming ideas and logistics, coupled with her insights and years of experience, make her an incredible resource of all things Schreyer. She serves with the utmost pride and positive attitude.”
- Christine Onder, financial manager in the Eberly College of Science, whose nominator wrote: “Chris has been a team player since the first day I worked with her. Her willingness to help or direct others in finding an answer is a task that comes easy to her. In a time of change and transition, she has been a common ground, a level head and a listening ear. She is a true mentor and asset to Penn State!”
- Dianne Petrunak, academic adviser in the College of Agricultural Sciences, whose nominator wrote: “Dianne is an exceptional academic adviser and academic partner. Not only does she work tirelessly to support colleagues, but she is a persistent advocate for Penn State online student success. She goes above and beyond every day to provide expertise and guidance and exemplifies the ‘We Are’ spirit.”
- Andrew Pron, director of instructional design at Penn State Great Valley, whose nominator wrote: “I am constantly in awe of Andy! His commitment to innovation and inclusivity has been instrumental in some really cool projects that our team has undertaken this past year. I can't overstate the impact he has on our team, making every one of us feel so valued and appreciated every single day.”
- Stephanie Valente, graduate program coordinator in the College of Health and Human Development, whose nominator wrote: “Stephanie goes above and beyond to support graduate students and faculty. As a graduate student, I appreciate how she deliberately makes an effort to check in with us. Recently she even brought in lunch for us! I am so thankful for Steph and her support.”
- Lisa Weller, financial manager at Penn State University Press, whose nominator wrote: “Lisa is always motivated to do what's best. She is a great collaborator! We are grateful for all she brings to her position. From her involvement with the Parents Program to alumni events, Lisa is dedicated to bettering the Penn State community as a whole. Thank you, Lisa, for all you do in the office and beyond!”
- Boni Wozolek, director of inclusive excellence and associate professor of early childhood and elementary education at Penn State Abington, whose nominator wrote: “Boni works tirelessly to make our campus a better place by coordinating resources and organizing amazing events for faculty and staff, as well as connecting with the Abington community. She provides support to anyone — faculty, staff or student — who is facing an unjust challenge. Thank you, Boni!”
Thank you Sarah, April, Amy, Stephanie, Erin, Rosanna, Christine, Dianne, Andrew, Stephanie, Lisa and Boni — and to everyone who helps make Penn State such an incredible community!
Do you know someone who deserves a shoutout? If you do, consider nominating that person by filling out a short online form.