Highlighting P&S Staff

Nominated by Ellen Johnsen, she said “Dan has worked as the Commercial Vegetable and Specialty Crop Specialist since 2021. He works with fruit and vegetable growers, as well as people who sell cut flowers. He has started a new podcast with the state climatologist and another Extension educator. Dan created a new partnership that keeps fruit and vegetable growers informed about what to expect from the weather, so they can grow specialty crops better. Dan also works with Extension educators around the Midwest to plan regional events. Thanks, Dan, for working with so many partners to improve the lives of Iowa’s fruit and vegetable growers!”

Lori was nominated by Rachel Haynes who had this to say, “I'm highlighting Lori for her outstanding work on the Ivy College of Business dean search and her support of the Undergraduate Research Symposium. Her attention to detail, organization, and calm coordination made both high-priority projects look effortless. Lori managed these responsibilities with grace while balancing her regular workload, demonstrating professionalism, dedication, and excellence every step of the way.”

Nominated by Lydia Richards, she said “Jessica & Jim are invaluable colleagues who support our undergraduate students seeking study-away opportunities. On numerous occasions, they have handled complex or challenging situations with a high level of care, strongly advocated for students, and gone above and beyond to support student success. They have also assisted our team greatly in navigating the transition to Workday, including identifying challenges or efficiencies, as well as suggesting new approaches or processes. They are both eager to help, whether the ask is big or small, always keeping a focus on how they can support student success. We couldn't do what we do without them!”

Nominated by Lydia Richards, she said “Jessica & Jim are invaluable colleagues who support our undergraduate students seeking study-away opportunities. On numerous occasions, they have handled complex or challenging situations with a high level of care, strongly advocated for students, and gone above and beyond to support student success. They have also assisted our team greatly in navigating the transition to Workday, including identifying challenges or efficiencies, as well as suggesting new approaches or processes. They are both eager to help, whether the ask is big or small, always keeping a focus on how they can support student success. We couldn't do what we do without them!”

Sydney was nominated by Michelle Thompson who had this to say, “Sydney is filled with boundless energy and enthusiasm. She is willing to tackle anything and always ready to help a coworker. In the two years she's been at EH&S, she has learned at a ferocious rate - if she doesn't know an answer to a question, she'll put in the work to figure it out! She sets a great example by cross-training and learning new skills by helping wherever she's needed, even if it isn't within her work group.”

Nominated by Malisa Rader, she said “I nominate Barb Dunn Swanson for recognition as an ISU Professional & Scientific employee for her outstanding contributions as a Health and Human Sciences Educator with Extension and Outreach. Barb’s unwavering support and encouragement make her an invaluable team member. She co-leads The Science of Parenting and Powerful Tools for Caregivers programs statewide and has played a pivotal role in introducing Working Out Loud circles. With over 30 years of active involvement and past presidency in Epsilon Sigma Phi, Barb’s dedication to Extension professionals and the community exemplifies excellence and leadership.”

Sarah was nominated by Dawn Bowker who had this to say, “I would like to recognize Sarah Miller for her significant contributions to the nursing program. Sarah has played a crucial role in several initiatives, including collaborating with the registrar to improve the admission processes for nursing students, assisting with 3+1 agreements with community colleges, and advising potential, new, and existing students. She has also built strong relationships with nursing students and our community partners and has actively participated in College Fairs and other recruitment activities. Thank you, Sarah, for being a valuable part of our nursing team. Your knowledge and expertise have been essential!”

Nominated by Emily Anderson, she said “Mary has been an integral part of our student services team. She has been the lead person for all legacy system processes after our data & degree audit specialist retired in mid-2024. She always provides a welcoming, inclusive space in our office for our students, staff,& faculty. Mary's knowledge of the college and the relationships she has built within the college and the university is a major asset to our office's success.”

Jessica was nominated by Emily Anderson who had this to say, “During her time in CALS, she has taken the lead in managing data analytics for the college. After the retirement of a 20+ year data analyst, Jessica quickly learned much of his work and has taken initiatives to build upon that with Workday Student implementation. She has developed a strong outreach program with a national partnership program,Ag-Ngine, to assist CALs with recruitment.  Her attention to detail and proactive approach to learning new systems and processes have greatly enhanced the office and team.”

Nominated by Laura Shaw, she said “Amanda is the dynamic leader of Lectures with a keen eye for detail, a strong knack for problem-solving, and a never-ending list of unique and innovative ideas. She’s a persistent advocate for students and constantly asks, “How can we make this the most engaging opportunity for them?” while negotiating speaker contracts, making connections to new collaborators, and working collectively with other programs and units across campus.”

Sarah was nominated by Ellen Johnsen who had this to say, “Sarah Canova is the Business Manager at the ISU Creamery, which means she oversees the daily work of the Creamery. She hires, schedules, and supervises the student workers. An ISU graduate herself, Sarah teaches her employees the skills that they will need to succeed in food science related careers. She takes the extra time to get to know her student workers and cares about their lives outside of work. The students hang out in her office, because they know it's a safe place to spend their time. Thanks, Sarah, for being a great co-worker and for making sure we can all enjoy ice cream on campus!”

Nominated by Sarah Canova, she said “Danielle is a tremendous advocate for student well-being. Amidst teaching the students the principles behind how to pasteurize ice cream mix and make cheese, she also acts as their secondary advisor. Danielle sits down with students to help them navigate their personal health insurance, find tutors for classes they're struggling in, teaching them concepts they don't understand from their courses, and hosting routine mental health check-ins.”

Erin was nominated by Andrew Makowski who had this to say about Erin, “Erin has consistently demonstrated excellent leadership and knowledge in her area of expertise. Erin has built a team of experts to transform the MGWII and its fermentation and food interests into a broad-spectrum, full-service institute and fee-for-service laboratory.” Erin continued leadership allows the the institute the ability remain dynamic and provide expert knowledge and analytical capabilities.

Rod was nominated by Andrew Sevcik who said “Rod is the teammate everyone hopes to have.” Rod is always ready to step in, keeps things running smoothly while making those around him feel supported and valued. He has a proactive approach and attention to detail that have led to improved processes, empowered faculty and streamlined learning. He has kindness, humor and a calm presence that brings positivity to the learning environment.

Lindsey was nominated by Brian Rowe-Barth who said “Lindsey is the go to person in the VCS Department. Her tenure and experiences allow her to guide faculty in the correct direction regarding policies and procedures.” Lindsey is always offering to supply offices with green hanging folders, push pins and pens (a little fun in the VCS!). And finally, Brian says “On top of all of this, she is a great colleague and friend to all.”

Debbi was nominated by Jessie Liebenguth who said "Debbi is always willing to take on new projects, lends a hand to other departments at Reiman Gardens, and nurture the heart of fellow staff, student employees and visitors...While a lot of her work goes on behind the scenes, visitors to Reiman Gardens during the holidays know one of her most eye-catching accomplishments; The Everlasting Tree.  The Everlasting Tree displays a wide range of plants all grown and harvested from our Garden as a stunning retrospective of the year, preserved by a dedicated group of volunteers."

Anne was highlighted by Lorraine Lanningham-Foster who had this to say about Anne "Anne is the point person for our FSHN department with the Workday Student transition.  She did such a great job conveying all of the material that advisors need to know as registration begins.  She has worked with providing constructive feedback on Workday Student to help make the system better for students, faculty and staff."

Ellen Johnsen nominated Whitney because she focuses on writing student features and various news releases as well as STORIES Online, the college's month alum email newsletter.  Ellen said "Whitney takes the time to get to know the subjects she is highlighting to accurately tell each person's story."

Jennifer Schroeder highlighted Jake by saying "Jake has been vital to the success of Council's hybrid meetings.  Jake makes himself available before each of our hybrid meetings to ensure all technology is set-up properly.  He has also taken time to teach me about the technology settings in the Launch Pad of the Student Innovation Center."