Eight members of the faculty and staff at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus have been recognized for excellence in 2011. The Advisory Board of Penn State Fayette funds these awards annually to recognize individuals for their outstanding accomplishments and to acknowledge the contributions of those who have served the University well.
“We are proud to honor the hard-working and dedicated individuals who help make Penn State Fayette the wonderful place that it is,” said Chancellor Francis Achampong.
Those honored for their excellence in 2011 include:
Administrative Excellence – Rita Gumbert, assistant to the financial officer, for her professionalism and personal investment in the campus, including her participation with the campus’ Emergency Management Team, her assistance with international students and her support of the Fayette campus’ athletic teams.
Scholarly Excellence – Joseph Shostell, associate professor of biology, was recognized for the scope, quality and consistency of his publications, as well as the collaborative nature of his work as professor and researcher. He routinely involves his students in his important research, and he served as the faculty advisor for the first place winner of the spring 2011 Learning Fair.
Support Services Excellence – The Financial Assistants Team of Earla Knoyer and Sharon Rendine were recognized for their dedicated professionalism in working with faculty, staff and students to enforce the financial policy and procedures of the University.
Teaching Excellence – Janet Knott, nursing instructor, was honored for her consistent and effective performance as a teacher and for her contributions to her profession. Through a grant, she was able to obtain needed equipment for the nursing department to enhance the teaching environment.
Adjunct Teaching Excellence – Shirley Dempsey, a lecturer in psychology, was recognized for her vested interest in her students and their abilities to achieve academic success within the classroom. As a licensed psychological counselor, she uses life experiences and employment off-campus to educate and relate to her students.
The Ellen M. Laun Advising Excellence Award -- Lawrence Hunchuck, instructor and program coordinator for mining technology, was honored for his recognizable passion for teaching and his ability to clear the way to help students perform at a high level. He is always available to his students, but most especially at critical times of need during the year.
The Barbara B. Solesky Staff Assistant Excellence Award – Michelle Henrish, for exceptional service in improving communication for the Nursing Program coordinator, eight full-time faculty, six part-time faculty and approximately 100 nursing students.