Let's hear a 'We Are!' for these Penn Staters — Jan. 28

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:

• Jay Arcuri, chief student affairs officer at Penn State Mont Alto, whose nominator wrote: "Jay exemplifies outstanding regional leadership across Penn State. Consistently prioritizing a student-first approach, he transforms and elevates the student experience, while his visionary leadership drives meaningful change and advances the strategic vision of Student Affairs."
• Addie Bitzer, community health educator for Health Promotion and Wellness in Student Affairs, whose nominator wrote: "Addie brings heart and professionalism to her role. She supports students with a friendly, approachable style. Her empathy helps students feel understood. She is a strong team player who strengthens health and well-being across campus."
• Mindy Cain, administrative assistant in Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, whose nominator wrote: "Mindy joined us a year ago and quickly became an invaluable teammate. She brings enthusiasm, professionalism and a collaborative spirit to every task. She strengthens our team and exceeds expectations. She's also an excellent baker who loves to share her creations!"
• Susan Chyczewski, director of strategic partnerships and resource development at WPSU, whose nominator wrote: "Whether she is assuming extra responsibilities after staff departures, assisting other teams when short-staffed or supporting her own team's efforts and events, Susan is always ready to help. She consistently shows exceptional dedication and a commitment to helping WPSU to thrive."
• Tammy Connelly, development coordinator in Penn State Extension, whose nominator wrote: "I would like to acknowledge and appreciate the positivity that Tammy brings to our workplace. Her uplifting attitude makes such a difference; she helps others see the good in themselves and in one another, even on the toughest days. Thank you, Tammy, for always encouraging kindness and a brighter perspective."
• Kadi Corter, University Faculty Senate curriculum coordinator, whose nominator wrote: "When things get complicated, which can often happen, Kadi has a meticulous focus on detail. She makes sure that processes move forward and important communication happens. As the communicative face of curricular systems, Kadi is reliable and critical to success. Thank you, Kadi!"
• Timber Ebersole, academic adviser in Smeal College of Business, whose nominator wrote: "Timber advises hundreds of students each year, serving as a sounding board as they navigate their academic journeys. She leads the OMBA Ambassador Program, which connects prospective students, current students and alumni, resulting in increased program enrollment and impactful relationships."
• Jennifer Eury, associate dean of undergraduate education in Smeal College of Business, whose nominator wrote: "Jen's leadership style and career path inspires Smeal students, faculty, staff and alumni. She embodies Penn State's values in all interactions and models the importance of professionalism and integrity. Jen will be key in realizing Smeal's vision of becoming a top 5 public business school by 2030."
• Kim Fanucci, greenhouse manager in Botany Greenhouse, Eberly College of Science, whose nominator wrote: "In just a few short months on the job, Kim has managed an amazing transformation in the Buckhout Greenhouse, replacing old infrastructure and reorganizing spaces - all while liaising with course instructors and researchers about space needs and keeping a diverse population of plants happy. Great job!"
• Amanda Gallo, Human Resources strategic partner, whose nominator wrote: "Amanda is a wonderful resource and a wealth of knowledge. She is very thoughtful and truly cares about the individuals in the College of the Liberal Arts. She is always available and doesn't know the meaning of "working hours." She is a devoted and caring representative to all of us in our college. We are lucky to have her!"
• Rita Griffith, career services specialist in the College of Information Sciences and Technology (IST), whose nominator wrote: "Rita is an exceptional career coach and dedicated mentor who has transformed countless student lives through her compassion, expertise and unwavering guidance. Her remarkable commitment, integrity and positivity make her invaluable to our college community."
• Amy Ilgen, administrative support assistant for undergraduate education in Smeal College of Business, whose nominator wrote: "Amy manages a multitude of initiatives, programs, and people. Her job is a 'catch all' of just about anything to make the office run successfully. She is extremely capable and truly committed to providing excellence, and she takes the personal responsibility of her role to heart every day."
• Leanne Lenz, senior associate director in Student Care and Advocacy, whose nominator wrote: "Leanne goes above and beyond in her work. Over the last several months, while our unit has been understaffed, she stepped up and took on several additional responsibilities. She successfully approached these additional tasks while still smiling and providing our students with holistic care."
• Paula McConahy, time and attendance associate in Auxiliary and Business Services, whose nominator wrote: "Paula is always available to answer my payroll questions and walk me through new processes with a smile on her face. She is so pleasant to work with."
• Shelley Miller, talent management specialist in Human Resources, whose nominator wrote: "I reached out to Shelley on a whim for a quick answer and she went above and beyond to help me get an award nomination submitted before the deadline! She was so kind, quick to help and handled everything. I really appreciated this chance to interact with her!"
• Denise Murphy, administrative support assistant for undergraduate advising in the College of Engineering, whose nominator wrote: "Denise is the kind smiling face greeting all students, staff and faculty that come through the doors of our student support suite. She keeps our whole team running smoothly and does so with joy. She is always one to extend a helping hand, give a compliment and make you laugh. She's the best!"
• Michele Peese, transfer credit specialist at Penn State World Campus, whose nominator wrote: "Michele is the ultimate colleague who always seeks to build camaraderie and offer a lending hand. Whether leading the Retreat Planning Committee or our Connections Committee, she shares her creative energy and love of crafting by planning fun team building activities to our team."
• Shane Staret, AI integration developer for MyResource in Student Affairs, whose nominator wrote: "Shane is a great human being. Although he hasn't been at Penn State long, he's been a tremendous asset to his team. He takes pride in his work and fully invests himself. His passion and professionalism are unmatched. Thanks, Shane, for working hard, caring greatly and always striving to grow!"
• Shannon Stover, marketing associate in Smeal College of Business, whose nominator wrote: "Shannon consistently goes above and beyond for her department and partners across Smeal and University Park. She is a trusted and respected collaborative leader who is dependable in every situation. Her hard work does not go unnoticed, and we at Smeal are incredibly lucky to have her!"

Thank you Jay, Addie, Mindy, Susan, Tammy, Kadi, Timber, Jennifer, Kim, Amanda, Rita, Amy, Leanne, Paula, Shelley, Denise, Michele, Shane and Shannon - 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.