Skully's Circle Award Recipients

March

Millersville University’s April Skully’s Circle Award is presented to Dr. Scott Helfrich of University Housing & Conference Services.

Scott began his journey at the ‘Ville as the Director of Housing & Residential Programs in July 2016.

Scott was nominated for behaviors related to: Work Performance, Customer Service, Attitude and Commitment, Interpersonal Skills and Overall Furtherance of Millersville University’s Mission and Vision.

The following comments were provided in his nomination:

In considering someone who touches on all five of the EPPIIC behaviors, I can absolutely attest that my Director, Dr. Scott Helfrich, meets all of them while also serving in very much of an "unsung hero" manner. In Housing, it is easy to sometimes feel that things fall onto us; as incidents require, we are pseudo-plumbers protecting student belongings during Christmas night flooding, triage staff working to de-escalate an incident and determine who is the best resource both then and later for the student, customer service representatives answering student and family questions, coaches and counsel to our own team because we "get it," and a resource to the other departments on campus creating the avenue for them to engage with students and affording various events, and providing significant data points from which data-informed decisions can be drawn by our administration. While all the widely variable needs that pop up at all hours of the day or night do fall into different staffers' roles, Scott has never hesitated to offer help, guidance, support, and on some occasions, water extraction services, to any and all of us. We are very grateful to have a servant leader overseeing our department.

While I can speak little to Scott’s meeting deadlines as I am usually not involved in those scenarios, I can absolutely affirm that we get frequent “please put this on your radar” messages to alert us to upcoming changes or needs and requests for different data points so that he can include this on his quarterly and other reporting. Scott has high expectations from us for work performance and that is to ensure that we exceed quality expectations in our service to students and our MU Community. Scott encourages creative thinking and ideas; in meetings, even ideas that would not work out are always met with an affirmation of that being a good thought, is appreciated, etc. so our team are not discouraged to continue trying to be innovative. He welcomes others’ thoughts and ideas, asks questions for us to expand on them, and I can personally attest to having seen work changes based on conversations I have had with him. Scott is very careful to ensure that all voices are at the table when planning or making decisions that may include or impact other departments and areas, and advocates for us to also be included when these decisions and planning are lead by other departments. It is refreshing, respectful, encouraging, and considerate of all of us.

Pertaining to customer service, Scott does intentionally go the extra mile to ensure that other’s thoughts, questions, or concerns are heard, valued, and followed up with. I have frequently witnessed Scott reaching out to our department for context or any additional information as needed to best assist who he is working with and provide thorough, accurate information. Although sometimes the information is not what the constituent wants to hear, they are undeniably met with respect and dignity and know that they have been heard. Preceding this is always a message to the constituent to acknowledge receipt and explain we are investigating or to anticipate a different staffer may be the best to respond so the individual knows what and who to expect. This does also demonstrate Scott’s positive attitude and dignity, because all communication and experiences with Scott are met with respect and dignity and without indication that he may have bigger, more pressing matters happening within his sphere. Scott does not make any matter feel small or beneath him which is incredibly valuable to me in a “littler person” role- Scott has taken time out of his day to speak with me about all sorts of matters, big and small.

If the above does not speak to Scott’s interpersonal skills, I can also share that Scott brings empathy and compassion to all interactions. Even when having to challenge others, he does so in a way that encourages inclusivity and further thought or discussion rather than shutting down conversation. Scott has often pointed out language, policy, or practice that could be more inclusive and invites conversation about this. In addition, Scott uses his experience to encourage others’ growth- he attends many seminars, reads voraciously, and participates often in professional development areas relating to residential life, leadership, and student success just to name a few. What is more, these resources are always open to his team as well. He sends us invitations to topics we might find helpful, links to articles and other resources with thoughtful content, and has even helped me better learn to weed out the vast supply of unhelpful content presented as expert thoughts.

What makes Scott especially appreciable is that he is also very much a “human” with his team. He acknowledges mistakes, takes accountability, and works extra diligently to ensure we know we are valued. On more than one occasion, he has made it a point to assure us that if he or our Associate Director Steve reach out with questions about an incident or situation, it is always from an information-gathering need and never with a judgmental tone or attitude. Scott makes a consistent, constant effort to tell and show us we are valued and appreciated, which directly translates to our work with students. We work much better and more enthusiastically when we know our efforts are seen and valued. I do hope that Scott can be considered for an award so that he knows his efforts are seen and valued just as well.

CELEBRATING prior recipients

2024

MARCH

Millersville University’s March Skully’s Circle Award is presented to Lydia Yeager of University Events. Lydia began her journey at the ‘Ville as a student employee and as a representative of SSI, a partner to Millersville University. In July 2020, she assumed the role of Assistant Director of Conference Services in Housing & Residential Programs. In 2022 she was appointed as Interim Ticket Office Manager during the position’s vacancy. In February 2023, Lydia was promoted to Director of University Events in the Advancement division.

Douglas Kyle, Major Gift Officer in Development, nominated Lydia for behaviors related to: Work Performance, Customer Service, Attitude and Commitment, Interpersonal Skills and Overall Furtherance of Millersville University’s Mission and Vision. Douglas shared the following comments:

Work Performance- Lydia has been in her position as director of events for just about a year. She has taken everything in stride, and every event I have worked or attended that was planned by her has been seamless. The number of people who have commented that the events are very nice and well done is too many for me to count. Lydia exemplifies the value of Exploration in her role. Not only does she show a passion to learn from others who are involved in the events she is planning, she is always looking for new ways to operate and be both more efficient and effective.

Customer Service - Lydia has a one-of-a-kind relationship with everyone on campus. I have not seen anyone else who has the level of mutual respect with everyone at Millersville than her. She is respectful of the needs of her colleagues and is helpful to her campus partners when putting events together. She makes sure that everyone has what they need. Lydia also shows customer service with the other community members who attend her events. When planning food options for events with catering, she is cognizant of other's dietary restrictions and needs. In this, she exemplifies our value of compassion. She also exemplifies our value of inclusion. By making sure everyone has a dining option that is safe for them to eat, she is not allowing people to be singled out. She is also aware of and actively plans for the needs of those with special accommodations. One example is deciding to use a ramp on graduation instead of stairs to get on the stage.

Attitude and Commitment - Lydia's job is hard. She is planning multiple events at once, but she is always willing to help and understands the importance of the events to the university. An example was when planning for Celebrate Scholars, Winter Commencement, and Glorious Sounds of the seasons was happening at the same time. Lydia approached every project with the same vigor and commitment as always. She shows the value of professionalism and integrity by making sure that despite the stressors of many events at the same time, she makes sure each event is put together 110%.

Interpersonal Skills - Lydia knows exactly how to talk with her campus partners. She may have to have difficult conversations, or simply collaborate with others. If Lydia has a suggestion or criticism, she is never rude or harsh. She comes from a place of good. She also can effectively communicate when collaborating, making sure that coworkers have a sense of friendliness while keeping communication effective and focused on the goal at hand.

Advancement of Mission - Lydia has put together some amazing donor events. She understands the stewardship aspect of these events and how they allow the university to connect with it's donors, and further giving. An even better example has been seeing her commitment to putting together a perfect graduation. We are all here to see our students succeed and commencement is the ultimate image of a student’s success at MU. Lydia makes sure that the event feels special and important for the students. She truly shows the value of public mission in all of her event planning and endeavors.

FEBRUARY

Samantha Moreno began her journey at the ‘Ville in June 2020 as a Financial Aid Counselor. In June of 2023, Samantha was promoted to the position of Senior Financial Aid Counselor and Client Services Supervisor.

Douglas Kyle, Major Gift Officer in Development, nominated Samantha for behaviors related to: Work Performance, Customer Service, Attitude and Commitment, Interpersonal Skills and Overall Furtherance of Millersville University’s Mission and Vision.

Douglas shared the following comments:

The advancement office has been working on our annual reports for the endowments held by the MU Foundation. During this process, there were some questions about scholarships, awarding, etc. Samantha has provided prompt and thorough information in a positive way and clearly has a phenomenal understanding of not only her role but financial aid as a whole.

I also had the opportunity to work with her on the possibility of a donor funded textbook fund for students in need. Her face lit up when we discussed any possibility of helping students in any way. And it was obvious that she does what she does because she knows she is helping make a difference in our students lives. I have also recently been working with her on scholarship criteria from a very generous donor, and she was able to make criteria suggestions that ensure successful scholarship awarding and a three-fold benefit to the donor, the university, and the student. She not only exhibits compassion when discussing the financial needs of Millersville students, but she also understands the role of financial aid from a retention perspective. There is no doubt that the work she does in financial aid and her collaboration with other departments is a key piece in Millersville retaining our students. She has a deep knowledge of what she does, and she provides information to those who need it in a professional and courteous way. I can think of no one better to be a Skully Circle recipient.

January

Millersville University’s January Skully’s Circle Award is presented to two recipients who tied for this recognition. They are Amanda Amspacher and Dr. Ellen Long, both of the College of Education and Human Services.

Amanda Amspacher began her journey at the ‘Ville in January 2023 as the Administrative Assistant in the College of Education and Human Services.

Dr. Lara Willox, Dean of the College of Education & Human Services, nominated Amanda for behaviors related to: Work Performance, Customer Service, Attitude and Commitment, Interpersonal Skills and Overall Furtherance of Millersville University’s Mission and Vision.

Dr. Willox shared the following comments:

Amanda is just completing her first year of service at Millersville University as an Administrative Assistant to the Dean of the College of Education and Human Services. Jumping into a new role is never easy, but Amanda has worked extremely hard to navigate MU and learn her position. In early October, we lost our Administrative Manager; Amanda displayed professionalism and a willingness to explore when she took on several immediate responsibilities and learning activities well outside her job description. Two weeks ago, our new hire joined us, and I have been so impressed with the compassionate and inclusive way that Amanda welcomed our new hire into our office. She has been patient and kind as she shares her knowledge of the role with our new Administrative Manager. She has supported her onboarding and learning of all the MU systems. Her professionalism and integrity have impressed me. She has unwavering support for the office, our new employee, and the institution. She would be an excellent candidate for a Skully Award. She consistently embodies the EPPIIC values, even in challenging situations.

Dr. Ellen Long began her journey at the ‘Ville in August 2005 and currently serves as an Associate Professor in the Special Education department within the College of Education and Human Services.

Dr. Janet Bertoni, Associate Professor/Chair in the Special Education department, nominated Dr. Long for behaviors related to:Work Performance, Customer Service, Attitude and Commitment, and Interpersonal Skills.

Dr. Bertoni shared the following comments:

It is my pleasure to nominate my colleague, Dr. Ellen Long, for a Skully's Circle award. Ellen and I have worked closely together in my 10 years at MU, but most recently we became departmental colleagues with the formation of the new Special Education Department. Dr. Long was a key player in getting the department up and running, providing me with lists of action items the very day my sabbatical ended in Spring 2023. Her work performance is commendable. Ellen is so responsive to student needs, often scheduling appointments with students well outside of typical working hours. She exhibits a high level of customer service to our prospective students at Open House recruitment events, welcoming families and sharing the many opportunities available to special education majors here on campus. Her dedication to the Public Mission of MU is apparent in every interaction she shares with applicants and their families. Dr. Long is also committed to our value of Professionalism at the University and program level; she is unafraid to have uncomfortable conversations with students to improve their communication and collaboration skills. Her interpersonal skills as related to Professionalism make these challenging conversations flow effortlessly as she carefully considers the student perspective when mitigating issues. She has vast institutional knowledge but is also unafraid to suggest change when warranted- further evidence of her commitment to exploration as our programs grow with the climate of special education.
2023

December

Millersville University’s December Skully’s Circle Award is presented to Margaret (Margo) Thorwart. An alum of MU, Margo returned to MU in 2021 to serve as an Assistant Field Hockey Coach. In September 2022 she was appointed the Director of the Center for Health Education and Promotion.

Margo was nominated by Darlene Newman, Director of Student Access & Support Services, for satisfying Work Performance, Customer Service, Attitude and Commitment, Interpersonal Skills and Overall Furtherance of Millersville University’s Mission and Vision criteria of the Skully’s Circle award program. Darlene shared the following comments in her nomination:

Margaret is charged to make this campus safe & healthy while providing our students and the MU community with important information, resources, and services that will lead to a healthy lifestyle. She is one of our campus advocates for students that are in a crisis and need immediate support or resources. An example of some of her wellness programming includes domestic violence, sexual assault kits, hygiene kits, Safe Sex kits, feminine hygiene, Green Dot training, It's On Us programming, Suicide Prevention workshops, and the list goes on! Her office and staff are very diverse and welcoming to our community. Her peer educators are trained to help inform and reach out to our campus community through weekly tabling events. She built the foundation of Health Education and Promotions, and demonstrates her leadership, compassion, integrity in a professional manner that impacts not only students but our campus community. She is a tireless advocate for this university that continues to be present and passionate about her work. She is in the trenches and amplifies all the positive engagement that strategically empowers our students!

November

Millersville University’s November Skully’s Circle Award is presented to Pete Anders. Pete joined University Police as Chief of Police in December 2010.

Pete was nominated by Dr. Mary Beth Williams, Vice President for Student Affairs, for satisfying Work Performance, Customer Service, Attitude and Commitment, Interpersonal Skills and Overall Furtherance of Millersville University’s Mission and Vision criteria of the Skully’s Circle award program.

Chief Anders was nominated by Dr. Mary Beth Williams for his display of compassion during difficult events our community has faced this semester. In her words, “Pete is a pillar of compassion in our community, and we are honored to have him as our Chief of Police.”

October

Millersville University’s October Skully’s Circle Award is presented to John Sicotte, who began his journey at MU in June of 2003 as a Clerk Typist in the Professional Training and Education Department. In 2004 he transitioned to the Registrar’s Office where he worked his way toward his current role, in 2009, as the Assistant Registrar for Academic Scheduling & Registration in the Registrar’s Office.

John was nominated by Dr. Janet Bertoni, Associate Professor/Chair of the Special Education Department, for satisfying Work Performance, Customer Service, Attitude and Commitment, Interpersonal Skills and Overall Furtherance of Millersville University’s Mission and Vision criteria of the Skully’s Circle award program. Dr. Bertoni shared the following comments in her nomination:

John consistently demonstrates professionalism and passion for assisting students. Faculty around campus know that whenever there is a student issue with scheduling, John will be able to assist. He is always available to handle a new challenge, which is incredibly important in the summer and winter sessions when we welcome transfer students to our university. He demonstrates integrity and compassion by remaining solutions-focused, and always assisting to find a remedy to any challenge. He is kind and highly communicative. He is a sincere asset to this community.

September

Millersville University’s September Skully’s Circle Award is presented to Liz Thompson, who began her journey at MU in 2022 as the Executive Assistant to the Interim Chief Technology Officer in the Technical Support Services department.

Liz was nominated by Kathy Nazarenus, Assistant to the Provost, for satisfying Customer Service, Attitude and Commitment and Interpersonal Skills criteria of the Skully’s Circle award program. Kathy shared the following comments in her nomination:

I nominate Liz Thompson, Executive Assistant to the Interim Chief Technology Officer, for a Skully Circle award. Liz has recently volunteered to take a co-lead position for the CORE group on campus. Even though it's not her job title, she is truly an office manager of IT. If you contact her about an IT concern, she knows who to direct you to. If someone is out of the office, she is willing to fill-in to help you. She always has excellent customer service skills. Her attitude and commitment to helping you serve your problem are evident at every step of the process. I think of Exploration and Professionalism when I think of Liz. She is not afraid to say that she is "unsure" of how to do something, but she always "explores" ways to help you. She is very resourceful and professional in helping you to solve your problem, and she doesn't give up until she's successful in helping you. Liz Thompson deserves to be recognized for a Skully Circle Award for these reasons.

August

Millersville University’s August Skully’s Circle Award is presented to Tara Borgna, Director of Enterprise Applications in the Enterprise Applications and Digital Solutions department. Tara began her journey at MU in 2000 as an Associate Database Administrator. Over the years she grew into various roles, serving our IT Department as a Developer, Applications Services Manager and Director of Enterprise Applications.

Tara was nominated by Megan Jones, Senior Assistant Registrar, for satisfying "Work Performance", "Attitude and Commitment" and "Interpersonal Skills" criteria of the Skully’s Circle award program.

"I've worked with Tara for a number of years closely as she manages the applications that our office works with. Through COVID-19, the network hack in March 2021 and the network issues in December 2021, she has always been available and responds quickly to the needs that impact our office and our students. Despite having a hefty workload, Tara is always responsive and helps to prioritize issues that affect students. Her skills at working with our office and with third party software consultants as well as her positive attitude and commitment to Millersville make her deserving of this recognition. She is the epitome of professionalism and integrity in her role and always prioritizes the projects and issues that most affect our students. With all of the projects currently underway, including the massive oneSIS project, it is an overwhelming time for many of our offices and the fact that Tara continues to work effectively and with a positive attitude is deserving of this recognition."

July

Jackie Aliotta, Assistant Director of Student Organizations & Leadership in the Campus Life Department, was selected as July's Skully's Circle award recipient.

A member of the MU community since February 2019, Jackie was nominated by Kelly Davis, Administrative Manager in the Office of the Dean of Education and Human Services, for satisfying all categories of the Skully’s Circle award criteria.

"Jackie Aliotta is a strong advocate for students, faculty, and staff alike, and I believe she is very deserving of this honor. I've worked with Jackie in small ways over the years, but I've really come to know her as a member of the President's Commission on the Status of Women. She has a strong reputation as an advocate for students and has always presented herself with professionalism and great integrity in our work interactions. She and I have often worked together to resolve issues for student organizations using our space on campus, and she has modeled excellent interpersonal skills to those students in that correspondence. It is a beautiful way to help them build their soft skills in a very organic and authentic way. She teaches them to problem solve but also provides them support as we work together through those minor snafus and issues that may come up. Jackie's logistical skills shined bright as she and her committee organized a very successful International Women's Day at the Ware Center this March. Her work furthered the mission of the PCSW and the University as a whole that night. She is a kind and thoughtful person who works with integrity and compassion with all the members of our community - faculty, staff, community stakeholders, and students alike. She is well-deserving of this honor."

June

Dr. Richard Glenn, Professor and Chair of Government, Policy & Law, was nominated as the "human embodiment of all that is good, just and worthy to be included within the Skully Circle and exemplifies all EPPIIC values. Dr. Glenn's efforts to explore novel teaching pedagogies inside and outside the classroom is to be applauded. His bar is set high because he is viewing the students not just in the moment but what they will need to be successful once they graduate.

MU's public mission is to generate graduates who can not only think critically but they should also be able to read and write critically - these attributes epitomize a consistent thread in all of Dr. Glenn's courses. This effort may explain why his former students have attained such ranks as judges and various political offices.

As Chair of the Government Department, he goes above and beyond the call of duty with respect to creating not only an inclusive environment within the classroom but also his efforts to include former successful students in the education and furtherance of MU's mission and vision to provide a living network between current and former students to enhance their training and future professionalism once they leave MU. His value in terms of customer service to MU and beyond is priceless.