As part of our regular "We Are!" feature, we recognize seven Penn Staters who have gone above and beyond what's asked of them in their work at the University. Do you know someone who deserves a shout-out? If you do, consider taking a minute to nominate that person by filling out a short online form.
This week, we'd like say thank you on behalf of the entire University community to:
Lauren Kooistra of the Humanities Institute at Penn State, whose nominator wrote: "Lauren is an invaluable member of the HI team, guiding us through our transition and keeping track of the myriad details of our daily operations. Her good spirit and organizational acumen has been a godsend to me. I'm eternally grateful for her presence."
Ashley Schools of Penn State Harrisburg, whose nominator wrote: "Ashley created and implemented the WE cARE Food Pantry at Penn State Harrisburg! She has great insight on what the students need and is a wonderful asset to our staff! It is an honor to work with her!"
Karen Beruck of Penn State Hazleton, whose nominator wrote: "Karen has really pitched in to help out in other departments that were short-staffed this summer. She goes the extra mile without being asked and makes us all Penn State proud!"
Amy Gruzesky of Penn State Scranton, whose nominator wrote: "Amy’s role at our campus includes shining a spotlight on others, while she is deserving of accolades herself. Always upbeat, Amy spends countless hours assuring that we are well-represented in the media. A Penn State alumna, she promotes her alma mater as an active volunteer for our alumni society."
Staci Kelly of the College of the Liberal Arts, whose nominator wrote: "A big 'We Are!' to Staci Kelly for going the extra mile with our undergraduate students! Though it is Staci's job to support liberal arts UG students, she takes time to go the extra mile. She is their cheerleader: listening, encouraging and supporting our students with a smile! Thank you Staci!"
Julie Miller of the Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications, whose nominator wrote: "Julie took the lead on logistics and details for our inaugural 'COMM Careers in the Capital' Internship and Career Fair, Nov. 30 in Washington, D.C., all while continuing to meet with students daily as manager of internships. She didn't miss a beat meeting with students! The event was a resounding success!"
Ketja Lingenfelter of the College of Agricultural Sciences, whose nominator wrote: "Ketja is such a great coworker. She's the type of person who is always looking for solutions with a positive attitude. She is also a great mentor to students interested in studying abroad. She gets them excited, but also takes the time to talk through any fears or hesitations."
Thank you Lauren, Ashley, Karen, Amy, Staci, Julie and Ketja — and to everyone who helps make Penn State such an incredible community. We Are!