HAZLETON, Pa. — Penn State Hazleton recognized four longtime employees who are retiring at the end of 2016.
Donna Ellis, Michael Conway, Matthew "Gene" Broyan and Sue Ann Cervasio were honored at a special luncheon with words from campus Chancellor Gary Lawler along with their supervisors.
“This is a celebration of the legacy our retirees are leaving behind at Penn State Hazleton. We appreciate all their contributions to our students and our campus and wish them all the best in their retirement,” Lawler said.
Donna Ellis, of Hazleton, was honored for 16 years of service. She worked in several different departments, including Residence Life and Continuing Education, before transitioning into her role as administrative support assistant in November 2011.
“Donna has a great personality. People like her and she likes people. For years, she has very efficiently handled the needs of students, faculty and staff alike, always with a smile on her face,” said Debra Conway, director of continuing education.
Ellis is often the first face students or visitors see when they enter Pasco Schiavo Hall, the campus administration building.
Lawler said, “In all the years she has been our receptionist, she has done a tremendous job in serving our students. Her customer service is just as fresh as it was the first time she interacted with a student.”
Michael Conway, of Hazleton, was recognized for 20 years of service. He is retiring from his position as supervisor of safety and police services.
“What really stands out about Mike is his regard for students and his ability to work with them and understand their situation. He always sought what was best for students and what would help them grow,” Lawler said.
Bill Moerschbacher, interim director of Commonwealth Campus Police, described Conway as a “capable and confident” chief whose career experience has been a valuable asset to Penn State Hazleton.
Director of Business Services Michael Morrison noted that Conway has worked with police services at University Park at every home football game for more than 15 years.
Matthew "Gene" Broyan, of Dorrance, Pennsylvania, was honored for 22 years of service. He began his time at Penn State Hazleton as a janitorial worker and advanced to a role as a maintenance worker in utilities in 1996. In 2001, he was promoted to group leader.
“Gene has been instrumental in getting our events ready for students, serving students and the community. His attention to detail is greatly beneficial to our campus,” Lawler said.
Maintenance Supervisor Michael Chura said, “Gene is a very dedicated and conscientious employee who genuinely cares about the campus and will always go the extra mile to make something right. He takes pride in how the buildings on campus are maintained.”
Sue Ann Cervasio, Lattimer Mines, Pennsylvania, was recognized for 37 years of service. She is retiring from her position as staff assistant for the campus advising center.
Director of Academic Affairs Elizabeth Wright said Cervasio could always be counted on to be a “listening post” or supportive ear for students at the campus, adding, “Time and again, she was the person students continued to seek out when they just needed someone to listen.”
Academic Advising Manager Karen Sofranko said, “Sue is very heartfelt and the kindest human being I’ve ever met. She is also mired in family, whether it’s her immediate family, Penn State family or the students she considers family. She knows our students on a personal level, and that is something you cannot replace. She has made a difference in every life she has touched.”