Sending a 'We Are!' to these Penn Staters — July 28

As part of our regular “We Are!” feature, we recognize 22 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: 

• Chaustin Anderson, education program coordinator in the Penn State World Campus Chaiken Center for Student Success, whose nominator wrote: “A spring 2025 World Campus graduate praised Chaustin, her academic coach, for the support she received. The student faced numerous difficulties during her journey. Through Chaustin, she learned resilience, even making the dean's list her last two semesters. Without Chaustin, she wouldn't have graduated.” 
• Nikki Brown, HR consultant for Penn State World Campus, whose nominator wrote: “Nikki provides excellent service to World Campus. She goes above and beyond to partner with many across the University and to find the correct process to perform work that needs to be completed. She is friendly and always responds quickly to ensure everyone has what they need to move forward.” 
• Anna Butler, administrative support assistant for University Faculty Senate, whose nominator wrote: “Anna is always available to assist with any questions for campus submitters. She is a quick Zoom meeting away. She is very patient and so very knowledgeable about the process of submission, and her kindness and helpfulness is much appreciated. I am so grateful for her!” 
• Emily Eckley, campus staff assistant for Career Services at the Commonwealth Campuses, who received multiple nominations. One nominator wrote: “Since joining Career Services, Emily has been an exceptional team member. Always ready to help, her positive attitude and warm smile make her someone everyone can rely on. She consistently goes above and beyond in everything she does. Thank you for being you, Emily!” Another nominator wrote: “Emily embodies the Penn State values in the excellence she brings into our career community every day! From project work to daily details, she goes above and beyond in all her efforts. She is known for leaning in to lend a hand to colleagues across the university with enthusiasm and a smile.” 
• Marlowe Ellenberger, administrative assistant in Auxiliary and Business Services, whose nominator wrote: “Marlowe was a great help to me with working on a report in Concur. She took her time to show me what to do step by step and was very patient with me.  She is a great asset to our team, and we are all lucky to have her. I appreciate her kindness and efforts!” 
• Derek Gittler, IT service manager in Penn State IT, whose nominator wrote: “Derek is dedicated to his role as a service manager in academic technology. He goes above and beyond to support these services and assist the many faculty, staff and students who benefit from these useful resources. Derek is both a wealth of knowledge and highly inquisitive.” 
• MaryAnn Godinez-Starks, talent management specialist in Human Resources, whose nominator wrote: “MaryAnn is an incredibly helpful colleague! I've had to miss a few scheduled management trainings due to illness, and she is always proactive in helping me schedule new training times. I really appreciate her help, flexibility and professionalism. Thank you, MaryAnn!” 
• Becky Heltman, buyer in Central Procurement, whose nominator wrote: “Becky is always willing to help out, answer questions, explain software purchasing and processes, and so much more. She is a great resource and lifeline. She is always there for you and is appreciated more than words can say. Penn State is lucky to have her!” 
• Alexa Hodge, interim associate director of student success at Penn State Berks, whose nominator wrote: “Alexa not only realizes the potential in creating an environment of inclusive excellence, but she lives it in her everyday actions. A huge shout out to Alexa for bringing superb leadership to the Campus Access and Success Grant review process in support of Pennsylvania students.” 
• Beth Johnson, financial coordinator for Intercollegiate Athletics, whose nominator wrote: “Beth goes above and beyond to provide support, answer questions and resolve any issues or concerns with a smile and a friendly demeanor. She is always upbeat, kind and incredibly supportive! Her expertise and knowledge of the financial programs are incomparable and a huge asset to Athletics!” 
• Barbara King, executive assistant in the College of Health and Human Development (HHD), whose nominator wrote: “Barbara exemplifies excellence, going above and beyond to support HHD’s mission and its people. A natural leader and mentor, she fosters collaboration among lead staff assistants. Her dedication, reliability and care make her an inspiring and invaluable member of the college.” 
• Careth Krajack, senior cash coordinator for Penn State Health, whose nominator wrote: “Careth an exceptional person, with a wealth of knowledge and experience who is always ready to help others. She is a true example of the statement ‘Penn State Proud’.” 
• Gretchen Little, assistant director of alumni and donor relations in University Libraries, whose nominator wrote: “Gretchen deserves a shoutout for her dedication and leadership for Library Discovery Hours (LDH). The events have flourished, offering enriching educational sessions that foster learning and engagement for Penn Staters and beyond. Her passion for knowledge-sharing and dedication to enhancing library services have made a lasting impact.” 
• Rob Lydick, executive producer of Weather World and assistant teaching professor in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences, whose nominator wrote: “Rob is a wonderful person who carries on the legacy of Paul Knight and Fred Gadomski on Weather World every day! Rob always has a positive attitude and is willing to help students learn — always with a smile on his face. He is also a fantastic club advisor for Campus Weather Service.” 
• Leah Mendoza, administrative assistant in the chancellor’s office at Penn State Great Valley, whose nominator wrote: “Leah is a fantastic colleague and a shining light who consistently goes above and beyond. She juggles tasks with grace and ease. Leah always steps in to help without being asked, offers encouragement and spreads positivity. She is the most selfless team player, and we are lucky to have her.” 
• Justin Moyer, an employee in the sign shop at Penn State Health, whose nominator wrote: “Justin is so great and accommodating and always does a great job.” 
• Timothy Perry, solutions engineer in Penn State IT, whose nominator wrote: “Tim was invaluable and courteous in promptly researching and finding a solution for a Microsoft 365 situation. He went above and beyond to research solutions, open a case with Microsoft, and assist in training us to use the technology to help us support employees across the University.” 
• Ronda Reid, project manager in Penn State IT, whose nominator wrote: “As project manager for the IT Optimized Service Team since its inception, Ronda has been the linchpin between the co-leads and those working across many teams. She puts incredible thought into every process, puts people first and keeps momentum going. She is phenomenal to work with!” 
• Linda Rumfield, learning center coordinator and disability coordinator at Penn State Lehigh Valley, whose nominator wrote: “Linda is a strong advocate for students. Her door is always open to get students the support they need to be successful in the classroom.” 
• A dual nomination for Ashly Sumner and Brittany Shreckengast, janitorial workers in the Office of Physical Plant, whose nominator wrote: “Ashly and Brittany have both provided outstanding janitorial services for our building. Without hesitation they ensure their assigned area is clear of debris, recycling, refuse, etc. They both deserve a huge thank you and show of appreciation for their attention to detail, which often goes unnoticed.” 
• Susan Warner, development communications specialist in the College of Agricultural Sciences, whose nominator wrote: “Susan beautifully tells the stories that inspire, show gratitude, and recognize alumni and friends' support and engagement with the college. Her work is essential to the success of the office, and she continues to grow and take on new responsibilities to further our efforts.” 

Thank you Chaustin, Nikki, Anna, Emily, Marlowe, Derek, MaryAnn, Becky, Alexa, Beth, Barbara, Careth, Gretchen, Rob, Leah, Justin, Timothy, Ronda, Linda, Ashly, Brittany and Susan — 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.