As part of our regular “We Are!” feature, we recognize 19 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:
- Wynter Adams, learning designer in the Dutton Institute in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences (EMS), who received multiple nominations. One nominator said: “Wynter’s bright personality, strong work ethic and unwavering commitment to fairness make her an invaluable member of our team. She approaches challenges with creativity, bringing innovative ideas to her work and to our group. Her energy and sense of fun lift us all up!” Another nominator said: “Wynter consistently goes above and beyond to produce high-quality work. She is a tremendous team player and her collaboration skills are exceptional. She is service-oriented and she always maintains a positive attitude. She is an asset to any team!”
- Susan Bowser, business analyst in the Office of the Senior Vice President for Research, whose nominator wrote: “Susan is our go-to person for anything related to our SaaS application, and we honestly don’t know what we’d do without her. Stakeholders know they can reach out to her with any question or concern and get a clear, reliable answer. We’re so lucky to have her on the team!”
- Julie Davitt, nutrition education adviser for Penn State Extension, whose nominator wrote: “Julie demonstrates exceptional dedication through the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP), helping resource-stressed families build skills for greater self-sufficiency. She often goes above and beyond, even visiting partner agencies on her days off to ensure participants gain lasting healthy lifestyle skills.”
- Emily Foley, project manager in Penn State IT, whose nominator wrote: “Emily deals with competing priorities, unexpected issues and delicate situations with ease and utmost professionalism. In an extremely high-pressure environment, Emily is calm and collected, and she guides her project teams and stakeholders effortlessly through projects. We’d be lost without her!”
- Jeff Gerstein, assistant director of student engagement and leadership at Penn State Berks, whose nominator wrote: “Jeff is an exceptionally thoughtful and reliable colleague. He immediately stepped in to help and went above and beyond to find a timely solution. I’m truly grateful for supportive people like Jeff who consistently go the extra mile for our students.”
- Cali Glasgow, academic support at Penn State Greater Allegheny, whose nominator wrote: “Cali is an exceptional team member who exceeds expectations. She is easy to work with, highly organized, quick to adapt and always ready to help. Her steady presence and willingness to contribute strengthen every project and event.”
- Michelle Kelley, events assistant in the College of Information Sciences and Technology (IST), whose nominator wrote: “Michelle continues to be an impactful part of the events team at IST. Faculty, staff and students can always count on Michelle for her willingness to lend a helping hand, quality of care in her work and a positive attitude. Her kindness and professional contributions benefit everyone at IST!”
- Bradley King, strategic finance partner in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences (EMS), whose nominator wrote: “Brad is a rockstar! EMS is incredibly lucky to have him. He is open to questions and feedback. Despite the sheer volume of emails and Teams messages we all know he receives, he always makes time for each person. With Brad, you know you are seen and heard."
- Guoyang Lin, director of enrollment analytics and strategy in the Office of Enrollment Management, whose nominator wrote: “Lin carries an incredible amount of institutional knowledge and generously shares it through reports, dashboards and analysis that help all of us do our work better. He’s thoughtful, responsive and a trusted collaborator who supports colleagues across campuses.”
- Nancy Lucas, administrative support assistant at Penn State New Kensington, whose nominator wrote: “Nancy takes on challenging tasks with confidence and precision. Her organization, efficiency and expertise make her an invaluable resource to faculty, staff and students. She manages a wide range of responsibilities with excellence and true leadership.”
- Tasha Marasco, academic program coordinator at Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, whose nominator wrote: “Tasha is an exceptional member of Huck’s Graduate Programs Office. Always willing to learn and support others, she brings professionalism, initiative and a “let me find out for you” mindset that sets her apart. We’re grateful to have her on Team Huck!”
- Lisa Miller, academic adviser at Penn State Lehigh Valley, whose nominator wrote: “Lisa is especially committed to international students and student-athletes, making it a priority to check in with them. Through her involvement in sophomore programming and her genuine care, she helps students navigate important academic transitions and feel welcomed, supported and confident on campus.”
- Lori Pifer, administrative support manager and assistant to the director of the School of Hospitality Management in the College of Health and Human Development, whose nominator wrote: “Kudos to Lori! Despite being short-staffed, Lori stepped up to support multiple projects and always delivers with a smile and great attitude. Her strong work ethic and commitment help build a positive, high-performing team. Thank you, Lori!”
- Kellie Provost-Brown, career strategist at Penn State Lehigh Valley, whose nominator wrote: “Kellie consistently goes above and beyond to support our students, staff, faculty and employers. Always willing to adjust her schedule to meet others’ needs, she brings positivity, dedication and a welcoming smile that makes everyone feel supported and encouraged.”
- Brian Reed, creative designer in the Stuckeman School in the College of Arts and Architecture, whose nominator wrote: “Brian consistently exemplifies reliability, adaptability, professionalism and a commitment to supporting others. When challenges arise or extra help is needed, he never hesitates to step in going above and beyond to foster continuity and stability. He upholds the Penn State Values by supporting community.”
- Lois Rice, administrative support manager in the College of the Liberal Arts, whose nominator wrote: “Lois excelled throughout the multi-phase window replacement project in the Kern Graduate Building. She coordinated staff, faculty and classroom moves with precision, kept technology accessible and maintained her full workload, showing exceptional organization, adaptability and commitment.”
- Nick Trusnovec, coordinator of athletics facilities and events in Penn State Athletics, whose nominator wrote: “Nick is new to the Tennis Center athletics match operations, and he has already made a strong impression. His organization, clear communication and attention to detail have elevated our operations and are truly appreciated by everyone who works with him.”
- Joe Wright, food preparer in Auxiliary and Business Services, whose nominator wrote: “Joe is known around Pollock for his kindness and generosity to students. He recently found out it was our daughter’s birthday and made her a special pizza dinner to celebrate. As a parent, it means so much to know people like Joe are looking out for your child while they are away from home. Thanks, Joe!”
- Billie Jo Yuhaniak, chancellor’s assistant at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus, whose nominator wrote: “Billie Jo brings remarkable efficiency and composure to her work. She strengthens campus connections, supports the chancellor proactively, and organizes events that succeed because of her thoughtful planning and steady leadership.”
Thank you to these individuals and everyone across the University who contributes to making 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.