Sending a 'We Are!' to these Penn Staters — Nov. 13

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:

• Melanie Bigalke, associate director in Residence Life, whose nominator wrote: "Melanie is always so authentic, encouraging and supportive when people reach out and ask for help. Mel manages so many tasks with grace and care. Thanks so much for all you do, Mel!"
• Andrew Caldwell, director of advising and career development at Penn State York, whose nominator wrote: "Andrew has always been a superb coach to advisers both new and experienced. He has a wealth of knowledge about our advising system. A gracious support to our campus as we onboarded three new advising staff, he strategized the redevelopment of our department and trained staff robustly. Thanks, Andrew!"
• Patty Craig, director of strategic communications in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences, whose nominator wrote: "Patty strengthens our work every day. She edits and reviews our stories and magazines, provides clear training, is always willing to help, and is giving of her time. We're fortunate to have her guidance and kindness."
• Nashwa Elaraby, teaching professor of electrical engineering at Penn State Harrisburg, whose nominator wrote: "Dr. Elaraby is willing to take on task after task if it is for the betterment of the program and our students. Students seek her out when they have questions because they know they will be met with a kind smile, knowledge and the ability to help them understand. We are a better program because of her!"
• Maelee Ferguson, research project manager at the College of Medicine, whose nominator wrote: "Maelee was very helpful, patient and kind in assisting an employee in completing a required task. We appreciate Maelee's willingness to help and collaborate with us."
• Sharon Gallo, business systems analyst for Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) in Student Affairs, whose nominator wrote: "Sharon is always willing to help and figure out any problem that we encounter. She is very patient, kind and knowledgeable. She always tries to make our lives easier! She is the absolute best!"
• Stephanie Geyer, administrative assistant in the Eberly College of Science, whose nominator wrote: "Stephanie's strong work ethic make her a cornerstone in the Department of Mathematics. Her attention to detail and care for students, staff and faculty contribute significantly to the department. Stephanie's contributions go far beyond her job description, and her impact is felt daily by everyone she interacts with."
• Sharon George, employer engagement coordinator at Penn State Abington, whose nominator wrote: "Sharon's first large-scale event for the campus was a successful employer ice cream social networking event that brought together more than 170 students and more than 20 employers and alumni from across the Philadelphia region!"
• Erin Grenoble-Clouser, event assistant and notary public at the HUB-Robeson Center at the University Park campus, whose nominator wrote: "Huge thanks to Erin for always being incredibly helpful and patient whenever I need to make changes in 25Live. Your willingness to help through the process - no matter how many times I ask - makes a world of difference. You turn scheduling chaos into clarity, and I truly appreciate your support!"
• Marc Kepler, IT consultant in the College of the Liberal Arts, whose nominator wrote: "Marc recently updated two of our conference rooms. He is committed to delivering the best possible service. His knowledge of the systems he installs, coupled with his willingness to provide thorough training, makes him an invaluable resource. His collaborative spirit and professionalism are top-notch."
• David Kitlan, associate teaching professor if information sciences and technology (IST) at Penn State Harrisburg, whose nominator wrote: "Dave has consistently stepped up since assuming the position as chair of the School of Business Administration's technology programs at Harrisburg. He is always helpful with any issues and is willing to answer any and all questions from students, staff and faculty. He is also a great source of historical information regarding the IST programs."
• Chris Knepp, administrative assistant in MyResource Office, whose nominator wrote: "There has been a lot of transition and unknowns the last few months for Chris. She has handled it with grace and poise and has helped us be able to get to where we are today with her expertise, knowledge and advising. She is a huge asset to the new team!"
• Christine Lockard, employer relations engagement coordinator in the Smeal College of Business, whose nominator wrote: "Christine expertly coordinated multiple career fairs and a generative AI panel with top firms and the Smeal dean -supporting over 1,200 students and more than 90 employers. Her leadership, planning and problem-solving made a major impact on student success."
• Katie O'Hara-Krebs, assistant librarian and communication and business liaison in University Libraries, whose nominator wrote: "Katie went above and beyond to host our event. She secured the space, assisted with audio visual needs for a hybrid audience and stayed late to troubleshoot. Her kindness, professionalism and attention to detail made the program run smoothly and improved the experience for speakers and attendees."
• Gary Miller, senior associate director of Student Affairs at Penn State Brandywine, whose nominator wrote: "Gary is always a support for our students during their hardest times through his roles working with the Offices of Student Accountability and Conflict Resolution; Sexual Misconduct, Reporting and Response; and Care and Advocacy. He approaches his work in a manner where students know they matter."
• Erin Raupers, assistant director of health promotion and wellness in Student Affairs, whose nominator wrote: "Erin consistently goes above and beyond her responsibilities to offer students fun and engaging wellness opportunities. She has worked incredibly hard on the Nature & Art Rx initiative while simultaneously supporting her team through their growth and professional development."
• Traces Ryckman, administrative assistant for development and alumni relations in the Smeal College of Business, whose nominator wrote: "Traces, still being very new to her position, stepped up and covered for another admin who was off on medical leave. Traces had to learn on the fly and never missed a step. She did a fantastic job and is well deserving of a shoutout!"
• Jaculin Scarcella, alumni relations and stewardship officer at Penn State Hazleton, whose nominator wrote: "Jackie sought and received the necessary approval to cover the cost of a book for a student. Her compassion & dedication made a direct impact on the student's academic success, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to support students."
• Summer Shirey, undergraduate academic program coordinator in the College of Health and Human Development (HHD), whose nominator wrote: "Summer brings a cheerful attitude to work each day, working diligently to ensure complications are resolved promptly. She is a kind and dependable helping hand to those around her, always contributing to a positive and collaborative environment."

Thank you Melanie, Andrew, Patty, Nashwa, Maelee, Sharon, Stephanie, Sharon, Erin, Marc, David, Chris, Christine, Katie, Gary, Erin, Traces, Jaculin and Summer - 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.