Sending a 'We Are!' to these Penn Staters — March 5

As part of our regular “We Are!” feature, we recognize 17 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: 

• Seth Bailey, financial associate for the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (BMB) in Eberly College of Science, whose nominator wrote: “Although Seth has only been at Penn State for less than a year, he has been great help in financially supporting the Department of BMB. He has been an asset to my team, to the department and to the college. He took great efforts and time to help a new faculty member transfer grant-related equipment to the lab here.” 
• Cheyenne Bastian-Brown, an undergraduate student studying agricultural and extension education in the College of Agricultural Sciences, whose nominator wrote: “Cheyenne has been an exceptional support system during her time at Penn State. She recently was crowned as the 2025 American Honey Queen where she was honored for her poise, knowledge and advocacy efforts. This is an exceptional honor for her, as she continues to show Penn State pride.”  
• Kelly Chan, administrative assistant for science and engineering in academic affairs at Penn State Abington, whose nominator wrote: “Kelly provides efficient and thoughtful support for faculty, staff and students in Penn State Abington's Division of Science and Engineering. She is also gracious in lending her time to help the college host large-scale community events.” 
• Tom Dimick, outreach coordinator and computer support website contact for the Department of Food Science in the College of Agricultural Sciences, whose nominator wrote: “Tom has been a valuable member of the Department of Food Science for over 35 years. He is always willing to help new employees understand how the department works and how far it has come. He strives for excellence in everything he does and sets an example for everyone in the department.” 
• Danyell Fondl, campus registrar at Penn State Lehigh Valley, whose nominator wrote: “Danyell is an exceptional professional with strong organizational and communication skills. She greets everyone with a warm smile and positive energy, creating a welcoming atmosphere. She goes above and beyond to ensure everyone feels supported. We are fortunate to have such a dedicated registrar.” 
• Toni Irvin, director of education and engagement at WPSU, whose nominator wrote: “Toni is an amazing employee and supervisor. She goes above and beyond her job duties every day to ensure her team members' needs are met, their goals achieved and our mission accomplished. She's a huge Penn state fan and brings positivity, integrity, dedication and friendship to the office daily!” 
• Marilynn Kristofits, administrative assistant in Auxiliary and Business Services, whose nominator wrote: “Marilynn's dedication to providing exceptional service is evident in every interaction. Whether assisting parents on the phone, guiding students in the office or supporting colleagues at her desk, Marilynn is highly supportive. She possesses a genuine desire to help everyone she encounters.” 
• Rawb Leon-Carlyle, undergraduate studies adviser and Division of Undergraduate Studies programs coordinator for the College of the Liberal Arts, whose nominator wrote: “Rawb is always going above and beyond for our staff — boosting morale, sharing scholarly articles and creating internal opportunities for professional networking and growth. Rawb has also created programming for our students who want to learn more about graduate school. Thanks, Rawb!” 
• Erin Mickney, financial assistant for the Department of Animal Science in the College of Agricultural Sciences, whose nominator wrote: “Erin always has a smile and a cheerful attitude. She is willing to help faculty with all the details of financial accounts and goes the extra mile to provide what is needed. She is a great member of the team. Thanks, Erin!” 
• Kristin Oberg, learning center and disabilities coordinator in the Center for Academic Achievement at Penn State Beaver, whose nominator wrote: “Kristin has created an inclusive, supportive holistic environment for students in the Center for Academic Achievement. Students visit the CAA not only for tutoring help, but also to have club meetings, do homework, socialize or just relax. She makes everyone feel welcome and supported.” 
• Ali Rill, undergraduate studies adviser and Division of Undergraduate Studies programs coordinator for the College of Arts and Architecture, whose nominator wrote: “Whenever Ali comes up with a good idea for working with students, she is the first to share it with colleagues. Thanks, Ali, for being so generous with your expertise and talent!” 
• Megan Schrock, academic adviser for the Department of Psychology in the College of the Liberal Arts, who received multiple nominations. One nominator wrote: “Megan consistently goes above and beyond for her students. She is welcoming, empathetic and a constant support. She collaborates across college units, always looking to lend a hand, and utilizes those strong relationships to refer students to the best resources available. She is truly the best!” A second nominator wrote: “We knew we were getting a talented adviser when Meg recently joined our team, but we completely underestimated her 'rock star’ qualities. An events planner in a former life, Meg is remarkably organized and can be counted on to get things done with a mix of humor and humility. We are so lucky!” Another nominator wrote: “Megan really gets to know her students, remembering what is going on in their lives and making them feel special. She guides them to resources to help them be outstanding Penn Staters and citizens. I often hear laughter and good advice coming from her office.” 
• Pepsi Umberger, assistant teaching professor of health and human development at Penn State New Kensington, whose nominator wrote: “Pepsi is one of the most understanding professors we have on our campus. She makes sure everyone feels like they belong in her classes. Pepsi goes above and beyond her teaching job making sure she understands her students. Students look forward to talking to her in and out of class.” 
• Dayna Wenger, student and alumni relations coordinator and career coach in the College of the Liberal Arts, whose nominator wrote: “Dayna brings joy, creativity and positivity to every interaction with alumni, students and staff. A natural coach, she empowers students through unwavering support. Her dedication to our Liberal Arts Alumni Mentor Program helps our students and alumni build meaningful connections that last a lifetime!” 
• Johnna Weston, assistant director for education abroad advising and engagement in Penn State Global, whose nominator wrote: “Johnna goes the extra mile to advocate for students and staff. She is a welcoming, encouraging presence in our office, where she leads with clarity, positivity and a solutions-oriented attitude.” 
• Victoria Wojciechowski, administrative support assistant for student services at Penn State Harrisburg, whose nominator wrote: “Victoria, thank you so much for everything you do for us in the Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) and Student Disability Resources (SDR) office in addition to your own responsibilities in your office! We appreciate everything you do for our team and for our students.” 
• Gail Wray, administrative support assistant for academic affairs at Penn State Brandywine, whose nominator wrote: “Gail has been wonderful to work with in transitioning to my new role. She has the utmost patience in training and provides the most detailed information to ensure the job is completed accurately. She is tolerant of my questions and always makes herself available. She is a great asset to Penn State!” 

Thank you Seth, Cheyenne, Kelly, Tom, Danyell, Toni, Marilynn, Rawb, Erin, Kristin, Ali, Megan, Pepsi, Dayna, Johnna, Victoria and Gail — 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.