Sending a 'We Are!' to these Penn Staters —Sept. 29

As part of our regular "We Are!" feature, we recognize 21 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:

• Kassie Barry, admissions counselor at Penn State World Campus, whose nominator wrote: "Kassie took on the challenge of serving as a change champion representing World Campus admissions for the ECRM transition to Salesforce project. Her willingness to deep dive on the user experience in Salesforce and serve as a trainer to her team has made for a smooth experience within her unit."
• Robin Bierly, student engagement director in the College of Arts and Architecture, whose nominator wrote: "The College of A&A Early Welcome Program has become a signature experience for our students. Students arrive early to connect with fellow students in a relaxed, informal way. The experience transitions to college and fosters community from day one. Robin's commitment sets the tone for a supportive and welcoming environment."
• Karen Carrier, educator in Penn State Extension, whose nominator wrote: "Karen always does so much to support the team at programming and events. She leads quietly but contributes greatly. Her witty sense of humor lightens the mood and improves the climate during busy, stressful days. Karen is kind, hardworking and well-organized."
• Abby George, instructional technology specialist at Penn State Great Valley, whose nominator wrote: "Abby is an outstanding multimedia specialist who supports our ID team with creativity and collaboration. She recently produced innovative videos for the large-scale computer science program featuring a virtual avatar, AI voiceovers and motion graphics."
• Andy Hirneisen, distinguished extension educator and team leader for retail and consumer food safety in Penn State Extension, whose nominator wrote: "As a program team leader, Andy recognizes team efforts, promotes cross-training, supports skill growth and always steps in when needed. His proactive planning and leadership create a positive, productive environment where everyone can thrive. Andy ensures that everyone feels valued and appreciated."
• Kori Johnsonbaugh, receptionist and building facilities liaison in the Nese College of Nursing, whose nominator wrote: "Kori is the heart of our nursing team, always going above and beyond. From hand delivering extra office chairs to easing transitions during renovations, she ensures everyone feels supported and welcomed. She is a true cornerstone of our community!"
• Jenn Leedy, administrative support assistant in the Office of the Senior Vice President for Research, whose nominator wrote: "Jenn has been working hard to get ready for a big review off campus at another institute. Then a couple weeks later she handled a big program review off campus at another university. Thanks to Jenn for working long days to get everything prepared to run so smoothly. You're awesome!"
• Bob Lehman, patrol officer in the University Police and Public Safety Department at Penn State York, whose nominator wrote: "Bob is the most welcoming and accommodating person at the York campus. He is always ready with a helping hand, answers to all questions and a friendly smile. It's great to know there is someone there who genuinely cares about the well-being of everyone on campus."
• Savanna Lumpkin, coordinator of marketing and communication for Campus Recreation, a division of Student Affairs, whose nominator wrote: "Savanna keeps our campus and community connected to Campus Rec through her hard work and dedication. She inspires and supports student staff like no other. Even though she avoids the spotlight, we're grateful for her and want everyone to know how much she's appreciated!"
• Jennifer Malaga, student success coach at Penn State Hazleton, whose nominator wrote: "With a team member temporarily away, Jennifer stepped up to take on extra responsibilities and support others with theirs. She's a true advocate for our students and always ready to help. We are so much better with her on our team!"
• Jennifer Meengs, assistant teaching professor of nutritional sciences in the College of Health and Human Development (HHD), whose nominator wrote: "Jen is one of the most innovative and passionate professors who truly cares about student learning. Every semester she goes above and beyond to get students excited about nutrition. She also plans engaging hands-on experiences. Her energy is contagious and sets the standard for others!"
• Samantha Nash, talent acquisition specialist in Human Resources, whose nominator wrote: "Huge thanks to Sam for being incredibly helpful, patient and knowledgeable. No matter how tricky the hiring process gets, Sam always makes it easier. If she doesn't know the answer, she quickly finds someone who does. She's a true rockstar!
• Rebecca Parthemore, academic program coordinator at Penn State Harrisburg, whose nominator wrote: "Becky is responsive, welcoming, friendly and hardworking. Becky is my go-to person for figuring out simple and more complex answers related to our program, college and campus. She connects people, which fosters community in the School of Behavioral Sciences and Education. I am thankful for Becky's energy and warmth!"
• Sherry Rice, faculty engagement specialist in Teaching and Learning with Technology, whose nominator wrote: "Sherry leads the technology team that powers Penn State's New Faculty Orientation, making a complex event seamless. She also built and manages the new faculty Teams and Canvas sites, providing vital tools that support and connect new faculty from day one."
• April Ripka, business analyst in the Office of Research Information Systems, whose nominator wrote: "April is always going above and beyond! Her dedication, willingness to step in wherever needed, and positive attitude make a huge difference for our team and stakeholders. She's truly a star. We're lucky to have her!"
• Jennifer Saltsgiver, director of first year advising in the College of Engineering, whose nominator wrote: "Jen is instrumental in the college's advising program, leading the first-year advising team to work with more than 2,000 University Park students and nearly 1,000 change-of-campus students every year. Although her focus is on pre-major students, her efforts to ensure early success set the conditions for graduation lineup."
• Susan Santos, IT solutions engineer in Penn State IT, whose nominator wrote: "Susan was a tremendous help with our point of sale replacement project. In addition to her everyday responsibilities, she organized multiple menus, assisted with questions and learned various aspects of the system to troubleshoot problems. We couldn't have done this without you, Susan!"
• Jackie Sheader, public information officer for University Police and Public Safety (UPPS), whose nominator wrote: "Jackie goes above and beyond to spread the word about UPPS resources, events and information to keep our Penn State community safe."
• Dani Thomas, post award generalist in the College of Agricultural Sciences, whose nominator wrote: "Dani's attention to detail and dedication to quality work make her a top-notch employee. She is willing to help faculty, staff and students with all the details of financial and research accounts, and she goes the extra mile to provide what is needed. She is a great member of the team. Thanks, Dani!"
• Kristi Ughetto, CRM analyst in Penn State IT, whose nominator wrote: "Without even being asked, Kristi offered to cover for a fellow team member who was unexpectedly unavailable. She recognized the gap in coverage, reached out to offer support and even rolled with a few unexpected hiccups. Kristi is proactive and resilient!"
• Heather White, administrative support manager in Penn State IT, whose nominator wrote: "Heather is true partner and a magician who can make even the most complex scheduling work. Heather was covering for two other support colleagues while also helping me coordinate a complex set of cross-functional meetings. Within days she had figured out a path that had a lot of moving parts."

Thank you Kassie, Robin, Karen, Abby, Andy, Kori, Jenn, Bob, Savanna, Jennifer, Jennifer, Samantha, Rebecca, Sherry, April, Jennifer, Susan, Jackie, Dani, Kristi and Heather - and to everyone who helps make 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.