This week’s ‘Thumbs Up’ recipients

Carmen Buck

I would like to acknowledge Carmen (Graduate School) for her exceptional ability to manage the numerous moving parts involved in multiple office relocations within Young Hall. Despite her already-full plate, Carmen always made time to pivot and lend a hand wherever needed. Whether it was coordinating logistics or putting other tasks on hold to ensure the offices transitioned smoothly, Carmen was always ready to step in and make things happen. Her problem-solving mindset and dedication kept everything on track, and it couldn’t have been done without her. On top of all this, she took the time to walk me through unfamiliar administrative processes, making the whole experience much easier. Her balance of efficiency and kindness truly makes her a vital asset to Young Hall and the Purdue community. Thank you for all you do! — Stephanie Bowers (Global Partnerships and Programs)

Adam Baxmeyer, Chris Morris, Kyle Wolfe, Dave Powell, Andrew Gembala and Troy Kirk

On the 88th anniversary of Amelia Earhart and Fred Noonan’s disappearance during their attempt to circumnavigate the globe, Purdue Research Foundation and Archaeological Legacy Institute announced a joint effort to locate their lost aircraft and help complete the heroic journey she began almost a century ago. We decided media availability was necessary, and Purdue invited dozens of reporters from across the state to make the announcement at the Purdue Airport. The Airport Operations team, with little notice, worked in the background to move furniture in the lobby, spruce up landscaping and more. The event was a huge success thanks to them. Thank you! — Trevor Peters (Office of Communications)

Heidi Carl

Heidi (Financial Aid) has built a Division of Financial Aid team full of structure, knowledge and purpose. Her leadership provides the division with the tools and confidence to perform our jobs well every day. — Tessa Winkler (Financial Aid)

Stephanie Simms

Stephanie (Financial Aid) is such a warm, welcoming presence and never hesitates to share her deep financial aid knowledge. She makes learning feel less overwhelming and so much more approachable. — Tessa Winkler (Financial Aid)

Nancy Oswalt

Nancy (Financial Aid) made sure every detail of my new role was ready to go before I arrived. Her preparation and care made my first days feel smooth and stress-free. — Tessa Winkler (Financial Aid)

Julie Cox

Julie (Dean of Students) has created an office that feels safe, welcoming and genuinely kind. She goes out of her way to make everyone feel seen, supported and appreciated. — Tessa Winkler (Financial Aid)

Pam Dexter, Mia Brake and Parker Lamb

Shoutout to Pam, Mia and Parker (all Office of Summer and Winter Sessions) for working long days and staying late to ensure everything goes smoothly for high school students and peer mentors! Keep up the great work for the rest of the summer! — John Race (Office of Summer and Winter Sessions)

Zach Hiscox

Zach (Campus Living and Compliance) is always awesome, but we really appreciate him this week as incoming student housing assignments are released. When the Disability Resource Center and University Residences have been emailed regarding assignment concerns, his responses to students and parents have been clear, thorough and kind. He’s always willing to hop on a call with the DRC to talk through difficult or unique situations. Zach is great at managing fast-paced, high-stress situations. He displays a strong work ethic and genuine dedication to addressing student needs, especially under time constraints. Thank you, Zach! — Disability Resource Center