Let's give a 'We Are!' to these Penn Staters — May 6

As part of our regular “We Are!” feature, we recognize 13 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: 

• Kimberly Barger, assistant director to Commonwealth Campuses in Student Disability Resources (SDR), whose nominator wrote: “Among Kim’s many duties is being the liaison for the SDR offices at the Commonwealth Campuses. Kim always takes the time to answer our questions or interpret a policy. She is an expert in her field, and her leadership helps each of us at the campuses become better at what we do.” 
• Lori Klein, Penn State Extension educator for food, families and health, whose nominator wrote: “Lori has been an exceptional supervisor to those of us in her unit.  No matter how busy she is, she still offers support.  She pushes us to believe in ourselves and encourages us to try things we never thought we could do.  She always goes above and beyond, and we are better from having her.” 
• Lan Lewis, administrative assistant in the Department of Meteorology and Atmospheric Science in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences, whose nominator wrote: “Lan goes above and beyond to help students, faculty and guest speakers with events. Her positive attitude and dedication to creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere (pun intended) is very much appreciated!” 
• Anna Marshall, associate director for Asia Partnerships in Penn State Global, whose nominator wrote: “Anna is an exemplary partnerships person, excelling in relationship building. Her dedication and ability to navigate diverse cultural landscapes have led to significant strides in fostering strong, effective University collaborations across Asia. Anna is an invaluable asset to our team.” 
• Aaron Mattingly, director of graduate equity programs in Eberly College of Science, whose nominator wrote: “Smart, compassionate and approachable, Aaron is dedicated to supporting graduate students at every stage of their academic journey. He has cultivated an inclusive and supportive environment, ensuring that all students feel valued through his commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.” 
• Paula Maynard, campus registrar at Penn State Harrisburg, whose nominator wrote: “Paula consistently goes above and beyond to make sure student registration needs are met. She collaborates with faculty, administration and other staff units to ensure scheduling is effective and meets the needs of our students. She is a team player and an asset to our campus.” 
• Audrey McGovern, administrative assistant in Penn State University Libraries, whose nominator wrote: “Audrey has been with us for just a short time and has already made a big impact! She successfully completed her first promotion and tenure cycle, consistently steps up when needed, and brings incredible creativity, attention to detail and reliability. We are grateful for her initiative and fresh ideas.” 
• Makenna Owen, administrative assistant in Penn State University Libraries, whose nominator wrote: “Makenna has been an essential part of our search processes, bringing fresh perspective and valuable insights. Her contributions have led to key improvements that have made a real impact. I am grateful for her dedication, innovation and the positive changes she’s helped implement. Thank you, Makenna!” 
• Carla Ruscio, administrative support coordinator in the Office of Physical Plant, whose nominator wrote: “A huge thank you to Carla, who is an amazing team member and asset to Penn State. She always goes above and beyond, and her cheery disposition and willingness to help others is so appreciated! She treats her colleagues like family and is an absolute delight to work with!” 
• Tom Spalding, technical director at the Bryce Jordan Center (BJC), whose nominator wrote: “Tom assisted in the production of THON. He was involved with months of planning and preparation for the event and spent long hours throughout THON weekend helping to make the event happen.” 
• Chad Swires, production manager at the Bryce Jordan Center (BJC), whose nominator wrote: “Chad excels at overseeing a variety of event productions at the BJC — from major touring acts to Penn State wrestling duals to the Martin Luther King, Jr. banquet — but he really went over and above expectations for this year's THON, seamlessly producing a 46- hour, around the clock event with months of planning and preparation.” 
• Jen Williams, research operations technologist in the Department of Animal Science in the College of Agricultural Sciences, whose nominator wrote: “Whenever Jen is asked to handle any task, it is completed accurately and in a timely manner. She works with all faculty and staff in the department to make sure everyone has what they need and is working in a safe, usable space. Thank you, Jen, for being a great team member!” 
• Laura Zimmerman, financial associate in the College of Health and Human Development, whose nominator wrote: “Laura is THE support for our office. She participates in planning events and her questions lead to new considerations. She coordinated CPR training and is planning activities to reinforce our team. These extends Laura’s service to our office that are far beyond financial processes.” 

Thank you Kimberly, Lori, Lan, Anna, Aaron, Paula, Audrey, Makenna, Carla, Tom, Chad, Jen and Laura — 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.