The staff members of the Liberal Arts Career Enrichment Network—Susan Knell (director), Katie Wysocki (assistant director), Jillian Balay (communication and stewardship coordinator), Lauren Granese (student and alumni relations coordinator), Stacey Hoffman (program coordinator), and Brandon McCartney (global experiences coordinator)—have been outstanding partners, resources, and guides in all things liberal arts. In particular, they have worked closely with the Alumni Relations and Development team to provide opportunities for connecting Liberal Arts alumni to current Liberal Arts students in meaningful ways. From “Lunch and Learn” sessions to internships and career panels and from the Liberal Arts Alumni Mentor Program to student roundtables, these staff members have been key players in helping Liberal Arts students find opportunities to enhance their Penn State experience and ultimately to prepare them to launch meaningful careers and lives.  

The Welch Alumni Relations Award recognizes College of the Liberal Arts faculty and staff who make significant contributions to enhance connections with alumni at the department, college, or interdisciplinary level. This award is named for and was first awarded to the late former dean Susan Welch, who set the standard for involvement with alumni.