Sending a 'We Are!' to these Penn Staters — Week of July 29

As part of our regular “We Are!” feature, we recognize 12 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: 

• Mikala Andino-Dockter, executive assistant to the dean in Penn State University Libraries, whose nominator wrote: “I’d like to express my gratitude to Mikala for her unwavering commitment and support of all things related to University Libraries. Her consistent efforts to organize and collaborate effectively, as well as her cheerful presence, are truly appreciated.” 
• Audrey Bonchack, associate director of admissions at University Park, whose nominator wrote: “Audrey's ‘We Are’ shoutout is overdue. She is an exemplary professional. Whether she is managing the workload on our team, jumping in to assist with a project or working with a prospective or current Penn State student, Audrey has zero quit in her. She is a pleasure to work with!” 
• Sarah DeWolfe, assistant director of outreach and special programs in the Sokolov-Miller Family Financial and Life Skills Center, whose nominator wrote: “Sarah serves with much dedication at the front lines of financial wellness at Penn State. She guides students across the complex landscape of personal finance, and she expertly coaches employees through the hoops and red tape of federal loan forgiveness. Sarah is a tireless public servant for whom 'We Are' grateful!” 
• Erik Fasick, administrative assistant in Penn State University Libraries, whose nominator wrote: “Big thanks go to Erik for his steadfast dedication and invaluable behind-the-scenes work he does for University Libraries. His generous spirit, exceptional service and readiness to assist in any way possible are deeply valued.” 
• Mischelle Forgy, administrative support assistant in the College of Agricultural Sciences, whose nominator wrote: “Mischelle works diligently to support the Animal Science Department. In addition to her work in the department, she also is a tremendous support to the Global Teach Ag Network and has helped to coordinate many details in preparation for travel to research conferences this summer.” 
• Mary Fretz, administrative assistant for Police and Public Safety at Penn State Berks, whose nominator wrote: “Mary deserves a shoutout for her guidance, support, patience and cheerfulness during a time of staff shortage. She not only took on an additional workload, but she assumed the role of mentor to the rest of the administrative assistant team. Her contributions have made a positive impact on the team and on the organization as a whole.” 
• Alecia Hollinger, international student adviser at Penn State Behrend, whose nominator wrote: “Alecia boldly goes where no one has gone before. She has the courage to ask difficult questions and an adventurous spirit to take on new tasks. She is a problem solver and thrives in an environment where challenging questions are asked. She is a great team player and colleague.” 
• Kate Hynes, senior academic program specialist in the College of Health and Human Development, whose nominator wrote: “Kate consistently goes above and beyond to advocate for all students and to work toward building community in the Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS) Department.” 
• Mackenzie Ironside, admissions officer at Penn State World Campus, whose nominator wrote: “Mackenzie is always going above and beyond in her work. She asks questions to make sure she is getting the best information for each student. She is always quick to jump in and help others without being asked. She is a true asset to our admissions team!” 
• Lynn Persing, administrative support manager in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences (EMS), whose nominator wrote: “Lynn not only embodies the spirit of our department, but she also tirelessly champions for others. She is always seeking ways to boost morale and enhance our team's well-being, and she makes great service a priority. EMS truly benefits from having such a compassionate and diligent advocate within the college.” 
• Georjanne Rosa, assistant program director for the Millennium Scholars Program, whose nominator wrote: “Georjanne has been instrumental in mentoring staff through the yearly cycle of events and processes. She is extremely knowledgeable and dedicated to the students we serve. Through periods of turnover the last few years, she has been a steady presence who consistently offers support and guidance.” 
• Ann Stone, administrative assistant in the College of Agricultural Sciences, whose nominator wrote: “Ann is so kind and caring to our visiting scholars from Ukraine. She helps them navigate Penn State and the community, and she supports them during these difficult times away from their home and the challenges of war.” 

Thank you Mikala, Audrey, Sarah, Erik, Mischelle, Mary, Alecia, Kate, Mackenzie, Lynn, Georjanne and Ann — 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.