Penn State Schuylkill recognized several distinguished graduates during its annual Alumni Awards Reception and Ceremony held April 14, celebrating alumni achievements, leadership, and impact.
The evening began with a welcome from Kristen Wynn Stellfox, senior director of campus development. Awards were presented by Christina Talley, Alumni Leadership Committee chair, and Marcel Smith, Alumni Leadership Committee vice co-chair. Closing remarks were delivered by Mike Maccarone, Alumni Leadership Committee vice co-chair.
This year’s honorees included:
- Outstanding Alumni Award: Kahalia Solano-Johnson (Class of 2009)
- Outstanding Young Alumni: Stephen Shalamanda (Class of 2020)
- Pride & Spirit Award: Samantha Chivinski (Class of 2012) and Seth Hubler (Class of 2023)
- Alumni Impact Award: Kate Zimmerman (Class of 2012)
Solano-Johnson reflected on the recognition and her time on campus, noting the lasting influence the university had on her personal and professional journey.
“My time at Schuylkill was deeply formative — it was a community that saw my potential, challenged me to grow, and laid the foundation for my journey beyond,” she said. “I carry that experience with me with both gratitude and purpose.”
Shalamanda also emphasized the role the campus played in shaping his development.
“The impact Penn State Schuylkill has had on my personal and professional growth is immeasurable,” he said. “During my time on campus, I was given incredible opportunities to learn, to lead, and to step outside of my comfort zone. I grew not only as a student, but as a person and a leader.”
Recipients of the Pride & Spirit Award, Chivinski and Hubler, highlighted their continued connection to the campus community.
“This recognition reflects the connection I’ve always felt to the Penn State community and the values it represents,” Chivinski said. “I’m proud to continue carrying that spirit forward.”
“As a proud alumnus, I’m grateful to be recognized by a campus that means so much to me,” Hubler added. “I look forward to continuing to give back and support its future for years to come.”
Zimmerman, recipient of the Alumni Impact Award, said the recognition holds special meaning.
“My experience as a Penn Stater has shaped who I am in so many ways,” she said. “This award is incredibly meaningful, and I’m thankful for the opportunities, growth, and community that Penn State — especially Penn State Schuylkill — have provided.”
Abigayle Kaiser, alumni relations and stewardship officer, said the annual event offers an opportunity to celebrate alumni accomplishments while strengthening connections across the campus community.
“This event serves as a meaningful opportunity to highlight the lasting impact our alumni have on our institution and communities,” Kaiser said. “It is not only the largest event our department hosts each year, but also one of the most rewarding.”
The annual Alumni Awards Reception and Ceremony remains a signature event for Penn State Schuylkill, highlighting the achievements of its graduates and reinforcing the strong network that connects alumni to the campus and each other.