Let's hear a 'We Are!' for these Penn Staters — April 15

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: 

• Joe Bauman, teaching professor of Spanish and director of undergraduate studies for Spanish in the College of the Liberal Arts, whose nominator wrote: “Dr. Bauman is one of the best professors you will ever meet. It is evident that he cares about his students and really wants them to succeed. He knows the material he’s teaching very well, and he makes sure that all of his students engage with the material in a productive way.” 
• Beth Brennan, program coordinator for the Graham Fellows Program for Entrepreneurial Leadership at Penn State York, whose nominator wrote: “Beth meticulously manages the schedule and events for the Graham Center. Beth works very closely with the Graham Fellows Program and is extremely dedicated to the students and entire York campus community. Beth, you're a true treasure, and we appreciate you!” 
• Charlene Bressler, guest/VIP services for the Bryce Jordan Center, whose nominator wrote: “Charlene is an extraordinary example of the ‘We Are!’ spirit. As a frequent BJC guest and season ticket holder, I have had the pleasure to get to know Charlene. She always greets fans with a smile and a warmth that makes you feel welcome.” 
• Michelle Chu, financial specialist in the Department of Biobehavioral Health in the College of Health and Human Development, whose nominator wrote: “Michelle is an exemplary employee who has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to excellence. This is evident in the exceptional results she delivers, which have a significant positive impact on the department's overall success.” 
• Yu Tai Chung, director of IT in the Bellisario College of Communications, who received multiple nominations. One nominator wrote: “Thank you to Yu Tai for his patience helping us access and use Slido for presentations in our unit. He met with us several times to show how we could integrate the software into PowerPoint and use it successfully. This cross-unit collaboration was extremely helpful. Yu Tai is fantastic!” Another nominator wrote: “In all of my interactions with Yu Tai, he is always positive and goes above and beyond to help.  A recent example is his assistance while using Slido polling for our office. He was very patient in helping us test everything. Yu Tai is an asset to the University!” 
• Julia Dumbeck, financial associate at Penn State University Libraries, whose nominator wrote: “Julia provides exceptional service to multiple University Libraries units in their quest to serve students and support strategic priorities. She is a co-chair of our Diversity Community of Advocacy and is passionate about this work. She shares her knowledge and is a valued team player.” 
• Sarah Hamilton, education program manager at WPSU, whose nominator wrote: “Sarah is an outstanding leader who connects educators, families and community partners to WPSU and PBS/NPR resources. She leads a fantastic team, expanding access to valuable educational tools. Her dedication and passion make a lasting impact across our region.” 
• Myles Hernandez, employer engagement coordinator in Career Services, whose nominator wrote: “Myles took on this role in 2024 and has already made quite the impression throughout our office. He is a go-getter who is always smiling and going above and beyond. If you need a hand, he is there to assist. He makes every day brighter with his cheerful spirit and personality. 'We Are!’ thankful for him.” 
• John Ilie, facilities IT resources in the Office of Physical Plant, whose nominator wrote: “John's consistent support for presenters navigating technology is invaluable. His helpful demeanor, ever-present smile, and patient approach puts presenters at ease with the tech. I appreciate how he empowers users without judgment, and I am grateful for his exceptional service.” 
• Amy James, coordinator of disability services at Penn State Behrend, whose nominator wrote: “Amy approaches each student that she works with as a unique and valuable individual. She takes time to speak with each person and make them feel heard and understood. She displays patience and wisdom in situations that can be extremely complex and challenging.” 
• Bradley King, financial manager in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences, whose nominator wrote: “Brad's dedication to the college is unprecedented. He is always looking for ways to improve processes that benefit staff efficiency. He is always willing to provide support, such as offering open office hours and resources, to ensure that colleagues succeed in their roles and to make better impacts within EMS.” 
• David Lingenfelter, director of student records in the College of the Liberal Arts, whose nominator wrote: “Ling is an amazing resource for those of us in LA. The search for classrooms on campus is a huge hurdle when scheduling classes for departments. Ling goes above and beyond to help our departments race for room assignments. We can't be more appreciative for all his efforts. He is a great asset!” 
• Kim Matinchek, copy center operator at Penn State Harrisburg, whose nominator wrote: “Kim goes out of her way to help people with jobs in the copy center. She is organized, fast and hardworking. On a personal level, she is kind, caring and always has a smile. She is an asset to our campus, and we are lucky to have her.” 
• Paula McConahy, payroll associate in Auxiliary and Business Services, whose nominator wrote: “Paula has gone out of her way to help me resolve time punch issues with my student workers. Not only did she help solve the issue, but she also followed up with me at every step to see if the problem was rectified. I was so appreciative of her ‘stick with it’ problem-solving.” 
• Cynthia Pollich, food, families and communities educator with Penn State Extension, whose nominator wrote: “Cynthia is a dedicated leader of the Family Well Being team. She works to find ways to promote programs and support a diverse group of educators. She goes above and beyond to provide outstanding customer service to participants. She is a gem!” 
• Janet Schulenberg, senior director in the Division of Undergraduate Studies (DUS), whose nominator wrote: “Janet consistently goes above and beyond and works tireless to improve the quality of academic advising not just in DUS, but across the University. As a trusted colleague and role model to many, she is always eager to collaborate and share her expertise to help others promote student success.” 
• Sonia Stitzer, financial specialist in the College of the Liberal Arts, whose nominator wrote: “Sonia has the patience of a saint! Her knowledge of the Penn State financial processes is top-notch, and she goes out of her way to help those of us that are struggling. She is quick to offer to jump on a call to share her screen or to help explain what needs to be done. Liberal Arts is lucky to have her!” 

Thank you Joe, Beth, Charlene, Michelle, Yu Tai, Julia, Sarah, Myles, John, Amy, Bradley, David, Kim, Paula, Cynthia, Janet and Sonia — 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.