Sending a 'We Are!' to these Penn Staters

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: 

• Kristy Bunce, academic adviser at Penn State Behrend, whose nominator wrote: “Kristy goes above and beyond to help students and faculty. She has held several roles at our campus and excelled in every one of them. She is definitely worthy of a ‘We Are!’ shoutout and more!” 
• Cassidy Casner, academic support assistant in the Nese College of Nursing, whose nominator wrote: “Cassidy consistently responds to multiple communications and questions with kindness, positivity and patience. As a program coordinator, Cassidy is an exemplar of professionalism balanced with personable, thoughtful communication — qualities that are reassuring and greatly appreciated as a student.” 
• Crystal Frank, interim director of the enterprise constituent relationship management (ECRM) program office in Penn State IT, whose nominator wrote: “With short notice, Crystal stepped into the role of interim director and quickly picked up the reigns. She is thoughtful in her approaches. She is a forward thinker, identifying needs before they arise. Amidst this major change, her actions have made an easy transition for the teams around her.” 
• Erika Jones, administrative support assistant at Penn State Shenango, whose nominator wrote: “Erika has responsibilities with the chancellor and chief academic officer, the development office and the Shenango LaunchBox to lead the planning and execution of events, and she handles the myriad tasks involved with day-to-day administration here.  We are blessed to have her!” 
• Maria Kanute, associate director of enrollment management at Penn State New Kensington, whose nominator wrote: “Maria provides every incoming student with a personal, inclusive and welcoming experience. A new student indicated that Maria helped achieve his dream of attending college — one that he did not think would happen. She treats all students with kindness and care. This is one example.” 
• Karen Kreger, assistant vice president for Housing and Food Services, whose nominator wrote: “Karen embodies the spirit of Penn State, leading by example and adhering to the University’s core values. Our department thrives under her leadership. Her genuine care for her team and for Penn State shines in all she does. We deeply appreciate her kindness and positivity. We're fortunate to have Karen as our leader!” 
• Sue Lauver, curriculum specialist in the College of Information Sciences and Technology (IST), whose nominator wrote: “Thank you to Sue, who exemplifies the Penn State values. I speak for many who especially appreciate the integrity with which she supports academic integrity procedures, the excellence which she delivers at every stage of the curriculum process, and the respect that she shows every individual.” 
• Morgann McAfee, director of strategic communications and recruitment in the Nese College of Nursing, whose nominator wrote: “Morgann's collaborative spirit is a driving force in our efforts to promote the College of Nursing. Her creativity and friendly nature make everyone feel included in the process, and she ensures that Penn State and the College are highlighted for their enriching outreach and research activities.” 
• Denise Murphy, administrative support assistant in the College of Engineering, whose nominator wrote: “Denise is one of the first people engineering students see when they come to Penn State, whether for Spend a Summer Day or New Student Orientation. She greets each student with enthusiasm and a demeanor full of support and care, going above and beyond. She is an exemplar for all.” 
• Samantha Nash, talent acquisition specialist with Human Resources, whose nominator wrote: “Sam is kind and always goes above and beyond. If I have a question when posting a position, she will answer quickly. If she doesn't know the answer immediately, she will respond to let you know she is working on it. Every interaction with Sam is great.” 
• Shanna Pretz, compliance assistant with Human Resources, whose nominator wrote: “Shanna's tireless efforts ensured a smooth background clearance process for faculty and graduate students at Science-U summer camps. She truly went above and beyond and helped our programs immensely this summer!” 
• Lori Reno, assistant director of academic affairs and associate teaching professor of business at Penn State Hazleton, whose nominator wrote: “Lori is a well-organized and hard-working administrator and educator. She supports our academic mission in many ways. Lori is helpful, cooperative and considerate. She enjoys helping students and staff alike.” 
• Derek Shaffer, IT consulting team lead in the College of Agricultural Sciences, whose nominator wrote: “Derek is the most patient person I know!  I worked with him for months on a problem with my computer, and he never gave up.  His support for our department is superb. He's quick to answer any questions we may have, and he sets up computers for new employees in record time.” 
• Tracy Walker, associate director of Commonwealth Campus Housing and Food Services, whose nominator wrote: “Tracy has been invaluable during the College of Medicine housing office's transition to the eLiving portal. She makes herself available for our questions and responds in a timely manner, and always does so with a smile! We would not have gotten through this transition without Tracy's excellent guidance.” 

Thank you to Kristy, Cassidy, Crystal, Erika, Maria, Karen, Sue, Morgann, Denise, Samantha, Shanna, Lori, Derek and Tracy — 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.