This week’s ‘Thumbs Up’ recipients

Joshua Gonzalez

I would like to take a moment to recognize my supervisor, Joshua (Chemical Engineering), before I retire. Every day, you go above and beyond in your role. Your hard work is clearly evident, and your willingness to take on additional responsibilities does not go unnoticed. We all truly appreciate your dedication, your ability to learn quickly, and the time you invest in training and supporting others. Great job! You are a valuable asset to the Davidson School of Chemical Engineering, and your contributions make a positive impact on faculty, students, staff and especially our team. Thanks for all you do. — Melissa Schwartz (Chemical Engineering)

David Leonard

David (Computer Science) deserves a thumbs-up for leading the establishment and completion of the Computer Science Integrated Safety Plan (ISP) certification as a newly onboarded program. This effort required working through the ISP self-audit process, organizing and developing required documentation, and coordinating with faculty and stakeholders to ensure alignment with university safety program expectations. He supported implementation of key program elements, including communicating 3D printing protocols, obtaining training acknowledgments and completing hazard assessments for applicable tasks. Throughout the process, he maintained clear ownership of the Computer Science scope, remained responsive and followed through on outstanding items to move the program to completion. His efforts established a structured and sustainable safety management framework that supports ongoing compliance and continuous improvement within the department. — Heath Bentley (Environmental Health and Safety)

Those who helped navigate senior banquet venue change

I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to Rosita Lopez, Harley Barta, Heather Hassenplug, Eric Bousman, Ryan Manuel (all Construction Management Technology), and student workers and teaching assistants in the Bowen School of Construction for their exceptional support and flexibility during the senior banquet. Due to the storm the night prior, our original venue was left without electricity, creating a significant last-minute challenge. Despite this, the team stepped up immediately and worked collaboratively to transform our construction lab into a beautiful and welcoming event space in just a few hours. Their willingness to adapt, problem-solve, and go above and beyond ensured that the evening remained a success for our students. Thank you for your professionalism, creativity and dedication — it truly made a difference. — Trina Martin (Construction Management Technology)

Meghan Beals

Meghan (Engineering) did an amazing job putting together the Purdue Engineering Design Expo. She handled complex and changing event logistics, worked long hours, and communicated with hundreds of student teams. The event was a total success and showcased the creativity and innovation of our students. Without Meghan’s work, the event wouldn’t have happened! — Tyson McFall-Wankat (Engineering)

Volunteers for the Spring Undergraduate Research Conference

With almost 1,200 student presentations from April 13-17, we had a wonderful turnout of 427 volunteer judges, who provided important feedback to student presenters and helped determine top awards. With consistent support from the Purdue community, we can continue growing this event without losing the individualization of the presenter feedback process. Additionally, we had 44 day-of volunteers who helped ensure smooth conference operations. Thank you! — JJ Sadler (Undergraduate Research)

Amanda Trapp

Amanda (International Student Services) is a ray of sunshine in our office and also very supportive. Her area of expertise is much bigger than her actual job description, and we would not be able to do our jobs without her. She is always friendly, thoughtful and kind as well as ready with a quick answer to my constant questions. This week she has been a lifesaver with my laptop issues and didn’t hesitate to jump in when I needed her. Heartfelt thanks for all you do for us! — Suzie Orr (International Student Services)

Joshua Contreras and Jill Churchill

Josh and Jill (both Global Engineering Programs and Partnerships) have done such an amazing job arranging the short-term study abroad programs and managing all of the endless administrative processes that go into making those programs successful. They did an amazing job working to set up programs over winter and spring breaks, and they’re still hard at work as many of the final programs are getting ready for their turn to make the world into their classroom. We’re lucky to have such dedicated advocates for giving Purdue students opportunities! — Sam Day (Global Engineering Programs and Partnerships)

PACADA Professional Development, Membership and Awards committees

The amazing members of the Purdue Academic Advising Association’s Professional Development, Membership and Awards committees did an incredible job of organizing and leading our second annual Global Advising Week celebration here at Purdue. And thank you to the research committee for hosting our poster session! Special shoutouts to Ayrielle Espinosa, Rachel Baker and Monica Peck Cottrell (all Daniels School); Christine Schertz (Chemistry); Aimee Griggs (Purdue Polytechnic Institute); Lavonna Kuhn (Education); Lydia Campbell (Science); and Brooke Gibson (Health and Human Sciences) for the time and effort they put into making this week of celebrating our academic advisors a huge success. Thank you! — Tim Grasham (Purdue Polytechnic Institute)

Trina Martin, Rosita Lopez, Heather Hassenplug and Eric Bousman

Huge shoutout to Trina, Rosita, Heather and Eric (all Construction Management Technology) for saving the day for our senior banquet! With a pivot due to weather at the last hour, they pulled together as a team, made phone calls, ran errands, put together items and helped make it the best senior banquet yet. Way to go, team! — Harley Barta (Construction Management Technology)

Pam Jenkins and the credit evaluation team

Pam (Registrar) and her team have done a remarkable job over the past few years in streamlining the credit evaluation process. It is wonderful that our transfer applicants often have a complete transfer credit evaluation within a week of being accepted to Purdue. Thank you all for your hard work! — Kathi Ferrero (Admissions)

Kate Kozikowski

Thank you, Kate (Innovative Learning), for being incredibly prompt and knowledgeable. No matter how complex or random the EdTech question, she always delivers. Thanks, Kate! Appreciate you. — Daniela Ribeiro Beard (Center for Instructional Excellence)