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Lycoming College announced the winners of its 2026 Staff Awards during its annual Staff Appreciation Day celebration. Six staff members were recognized for their outstanding work and dedication to the College.
“I am grateful for all that our staff contribute to the life and mission of the College,” said Missy Keiffer, executive director of human resources at Lycoming College. “Staff Appreciation Day is one of my favorite traditions because it gives us the chance to pause and celebrate the dedication, talent, and hard work our staff colleagues bring to Lycoming every day. Each of this year's honorees exemplifies the spirit and commitment that make our campus community so special.”
The following staff members were honored:
Employee of the Year – Earl Hoffman, custodian, was named Employee of the Year. Lycoming's most prestigious staff award, Employee of the Year is presented to the staff member who during the past year best demonstrated the embodiment of the institution's core values.
Rookie Warrior of the Year Award – Susan Lorson, faculty administrative assistant, won the Rookie of the Year award for demonstrating exceptional abilities as a new employee.
Warrior Spirit Award – Andrew Stafford, Ph.D., associate provost for teaching excellence, was awarded the Warrior Spirit Award for his embodiment of the positive spirit of the institution.
Blue and Gold Leadership Award – Lori Patterson, director of career & professional development, earned the Blue and Gold Leadership Award for exemplifying significant leadership skills and characteristics.
Benjamin Crever Outstanding Service Award – Colleen Fox, faculty administrative assistant, was named the recipient of the Benjamin Crever Outstanding Service Award for demonstrating excellent service and for making significant contributions to her department and to the campus community.
Jackie Bilger Dedication to Lycoming College Award – Melanie Taormina, director of foundation relations, won the Jackie Bilger Dedication to Lycoming College Award, which was created to honor the memory of Jackie Bilger, who served Lycoming College with distinction for more than 13 years as the director of human resources. Taormina received the award for providing outstanding service to Lycoming while demonstrating Bilger's dedication, initiative, creativity, positive attitude, and unwavering commitment to caring for fellow employees.
Lycoming College values its staff and believes in fostering a culture of belonging, built on trust, mutual respect, and open communication. For more information about career opportunities within the Lycoming College community, please visit https://www.lycoming.edu/human-resources/.