As part of our regular “We Are!” feature, we recognize Penn Staters who have gone above and beyond what’s asked of them in their work at the University.
Credit: Michael Owen
October 30, 2024
As part of our regular “We Are!” feature, we recognize 15 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:
- Destiny Anderson, communication and web specialist for University Faculty Senate, whose nominator wrote: “Destiny is the most efficient person I know, and possibly the most efficient person at Penn State! She is uniquely adept at anticipating difficulties and addressing problems, often before anyone else notices there is a problem. She is unfailingly calm, friendly and a joy to work with!”
- Bambi Auman, graduate enrollment services (GES) coordinator in the Fox Graduate School, who received multiple nominations. One nominator wrote: “Bambi has been a saint! She answers all of my questions, comments and concerns. Bambi has guided me through different processes on the GES side each semester. She has gone out of her way to help me. I appreciate everything that she does!” Another nominator wrote: “This summer, Bambi took on the additional responsibility of assisting students with letters of certification, always meeting the high demand with grace and efficiency. You can always rely on her to handle what comes her way. Thank you, Bambi, for everything you do!”
- Sam Black, vendor IT solutions specialist with Penn State IT, whose nominator wrote: “Sam's responsiveness, care and consideration is unparalleled. He ensures all questions are answered, makes sure needs are met and truly sets users up for success. Sam balances significant responsibilities with a friendly attitude, a sense of humor and a smile.”
- Beckie Bomberger, research technologist in the College of Agricultural Sciences, whose nominator wrote: “Even when things get tough or super busy, Beckie always has a great attitude and a smile on her face! She is always willing to step up and help out in areas that are not in her job description. She is a great asset to our team, and working with her is always a joy!”
- Stacey Budd, program coordinator of the team development center at Shaver’s Creek, whose nominator wrote: “Stacey goes above and beyond to support the needs of our clients. The time, detail and effort she contributes to each program from the assessment stage to the program delivery is remarkable. She is kind and authentic in her interactions with others and is one of the most helpful people I know!”
- Natasha Dinsmore, academic adviser in Eberly College of Science, whose nominator wrote: “Natasha did an amazing job overseeing and working with student organization Nexus to coordinate the Welcome Day Involvement Fair for the college. The event ran smoothly, with hundreds of students in attendance. I am certain the new students felt welcomed and supported because of her efforts!”
- Laura Felix, research project manager in the College of Medicine, whose nominator wrote: “Driven to succeed and committed to achieving results, Laura goes above and beyond her job duties for the Penn State Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI) and Project ECHO. She's a thoughtful teammate who shows professional maturity during crucial conversations and transparency in problem-solving. She is bold in ways that benefit Penn State.”
- Linda Fultz, accountant at Penn State World Campus, whose nominator wrote: “Thank you to Linda, who always goes the extra mile to help students even if it is something that does not fall under her area of expertise. She is always willing to dig into the details and make sure the student gets the help they need quickly.”
- Stephanie Grossnickle-Batterton, coordinator of peer tutoring at Penn State Harrisburg, whose nominator wrote: “Steph is all about student success! Whether it's making all students and tutors feel supported at the Learning Center, providing tutoring herself, or working with faculty to develop innovative support programs, she displays a determination, grace and joy that make her an asset to the University.”
- Keith Jedlowski, systems administrator at Penn State New Kensington, whose nominator wrote: “Keith has been instrumental in helping campuses navigate new tools and processes for device management. He has stepped up to assist campus IT peers who were struggling with decreased resources, showing dedication to collaboration and teamwork. His leadership is much appreciated!”
- Chris Lawson, endpoint infrastructure systems administrator for Penn State IT, whose nominator wrote: “Chis is a great example of the Penn State values in action, providing excellent customer service. He received many ‘thank yous’ from IT peers across the commonwealth as he helped them through new process challenges as they prepared computer labs for the start of the semester.”
- Karen Marosi, director of student engagement and associate teaching professor in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences (EMS), whose nominator wrote: “Please recognize Karen for her exceptional leadership and organization of TEEMS 2024. Her dedication to ensuring a smooth transition for first-year EMS students was evident in every detail, from logistics to fostering connections. Her efforts made the program an invaluable experience for all.”
- Feryne McSweeny, undergraduate studies adviser in the Division of Undergraduate Studies (DUS), whose nominator wrote: “Feryne is an amazingly positive presence in DUS. She is always there for colleagues with a helping hand and words of encouragement, appreciation and humor. Thanks for making DUS a great place to work, Feryne!”
- Kristin Price, facilities administrative assistant in the College of Agricultural Sciences, whose nominator wrote: “Kristin has really stepped up in the face of staff transitions to pick up extra responsibility and cover other duties. She brings positive energy to our customers and supports our team in any way she can! She is truly an asset!”
- Shelly Sneeringer, interim administrative support manager for science, engineering and technology at Penn State Harrisburg, whose nominator wrote: “During a period of staff transition, Shelly did not hesitate before stepping up to lead our team. Shelly is the face of optimism, support and teamwork — especially in a challenging time!”
Thank you to Destiny, Bambi, Sam, Beckie, Stacey, Natasha, Laura, Linda, Stephanie, Keith, Chris, Karen, Feryne, Kristin and Shelly — 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.
