Faculty and Staff

Sending a "We Are!" to these Penn Staters

Credit: Bryan BennerAll Rights Reserved.

This week, we recognize eight Penn Staters who go above and beyond what's asked of them in their work at the University. Thank you to:

Maria Schmidt and Gary Abdullah, in the College of Education, whose nominator wrote: "Thank you Maria and Gary for always going the extra mile for students in the College of Education and for always being our biggest fans! We appreciate you so much!" 

David Guthrie, in the College of Education, whose nominator wrote: "Thank you to Dave Guthrie who has been an incredible source of support for the M.S. higher education program. Dave has almost one year with the program down — but deserves a huge congratulations for having many more to come!"

Sandra Dreibelbis, in the Bursar's Office, whose nominator wrote: "Sandra brings a great and positive attitude every day to the office. She goes above and beyond with many of the parents and students she works with, taking extra time to connect them with the correct office or sending additional information."

Karen Stylianides, at Penn State Hazleton, whose nominator wrote: "Karen ("Ms. S." to students) teaches awesome kinesiology courses, researches and enables people with disabilities, helps many students every day, encourages everyone to be their best, maintains a positive environment and helps keep people happy at the Hazleton campus gym and across our campus."

Amir Marvasti, at Penn State Altoona, whose nominator wrote: "Dr. Marvasti cares about you as a student and a human being. He gave me a lot of help during a difficult time in my life in dealing with family issues and academics. It helped me achieve in his sociology class."

Melissa Maguire, at Penn State Hershey, whose nominator wrote: "There is no nursing informatics problem Melissa can't handle! She does everything with a smile, and genuinely wants everyone's input and has the patient front and center. Thank you Melissa!"

Marie Duvall, at Penn State Hershey, whose nominator wrote: "Before I had even met Marie face to face she included me in the lab. She likes to leave holiday inspired gifts of goodies to everyone. I would find presents and not even know who to thank! It is a wonderful surprise to come into a little token to brighten your day."

Do you know someone who deserves a shout-out? If you do, consider taking a minute to nominate that person by filling out a short online form. For more information about the process, visit the "We Are!" guidelines

Last Updated April 21, 2015