Penn State Mont Alto employees recognized for campus impact

MONT ALTO, Pa. - Penn State Mont Alto kicked off the spring 2026 semester by recognizing four employees who have gone above and beyond in their efforts to improve life for students and the campus community.

All honorees were acknowledged with speeches by Regional Chancellor Marilyn J. Wells during a special luncheon held during the biannual Mont Alto Day of Enrichment for faculty and staff in January.

Three employees received the Penn Stater Award, given to employees who have traits that include enthusiasm for their job, advocacy for students, and active participation and leadership on campus and in the community. These employees were nominated by their peers:

• Kristi Addleman (faculty). Addleman is a member of the Academic Festival Committee and was recognized for her efforts to use the latest technology to help faculty and students use the library system and other resources. Addleman is a strong supporter of students and has taken on many additional tasks. "She is not afraid to step forward and take responsibility for any work and has a clear sense of mission for the campus and university as well as a professional librarian," Wells said about Addleman. "She has never shied away from participating in activities on campus and is a strong voice for the campus as a whole."

• Mary Jo Stevenson (staff). Stevenson was nominated for the Penn Stater award by peers who say she's an expert at helping others navigate University policy. She's also mentored countless students over the years, helping them get involved in campus activities. Stevenson is especially involved with THON and student government at Penn State Mont Alto. "There is no doubt by taking a glimpse of Mary Jo's office, attire or game attendance, that she is a Penn Stater," Wells said.

• Darla Barkdoll (tech services). Barkdoll has been a receiver at The Mill for the past 12 years. Her peers said she always has a smile on her face and makes The Mill a fun place for her co-workers and for students. Wells described Barkdoll as "an incredibly reliable worker with a great spirit that shows what being a Penn Stater is all about."

In addition to the three employees who received the Penn Stater Award, Jackie Schwab was honored with the Sustainability Award. Schwab, an associate professor in the Human Development and Family Studies program, is perhaps best known on campus for maintaining beautiful planter boxes and flower beds. Her impact goes beyond teaching and making Penn State Mont Alto visually appealing; her peers who nominated her said she's always encouraging students to reflect on their work building and serving a strong community.

"In a world where environmental challenges can feel overwhelming, Jackie has shown us that meaningful change begins with consistent, thoughtful action," Wells said.