June 2026
Dana Vandergrift
Dana Vandergrift is a behind-the-scenes connector whose work helps major moments on campus run smoothly from day-to-day coordination in Athletics to high-impact events and postseason hosting. Her connection to Gettysburg College began through family: her son works at the College and is married to a Gettysburg alum, and her daughter is an alum as well. Dana joined the College in 2013, starting as a bookstore manager before transitioning into Athletics and Advancement, where she now supports campus-wide collaboration through database management, signature event execution, and NCAA postseason logistics—always focused on creating a strong experience for student-athletes, visiting teams, and the broader Gettysburg community.
Read the full spotlight here:
Dana Vandergrift is a behind-the-scenes connector whose work helps major moments on campus run smoothly from day-to-day coordination in Athletics to signature events that bring the Gettysburg community together. Her connection to the College runs deep through family: her daughter is a Gettysburg alum, and her son works at Gettysburg College and is married to an alum. Dana’s own path to campus began in 2013, when she joined the College as a bookstore manager, later transitioning into roles that sit at the intersection of Athletics and Advancement.
Now in her fifth year working on campus, Dana says one of the most meaningful things she has learned is just how interconnected the College truly is. Even when work seems rooted in one department, she has found that events, student support, and operations rely on many teams moving in sync—and she values how readily colleagues across campus step in to support one another toward shared goals, especially when students are at the center of the work.
In her current role, Dana has been instrumental in strengthening how Athletics manages and shares information across campus. She helped implement and expand the use of Teamworks, a database used for student-athlete information, training coaches and helping other campus departments access relevant information for scheduling, logistics, and operational needs. Dana describes this as a step toward making information more unified and accessible, allowing different offices to collaborate more smoothly while supporting student-athletes more effectively.
Event coordination is also central to Dana’s work—particularly Athletics signature events and postseason hosting. For the O&B Golf Classic, Dana supports the event from end to end: she leads outreach efforts to secure major sponsorships, identifies and builds relationships with new partners, and helps coordinate participating teams and individual golfers. She also assists with sourcing and securing items for the raffle table and manages key logistical components such as securing and reviewing the Hanover Country Club contract, building the event registration platform, and developing and distributing event communications.
For the Hall of Athletic Honor (HOAH), Dana collaborates with multiple campus departments to execute the event and works closely with inductees and their guests to ensure a positive experience. Her responsibilities include supporting registration, table assignments, invitations, and overall event coordination—along with building the registration system and managing the event’s communications.
Dana also plays a major role in postseason logistics. For both Centennial
Conference and NCAA playoff competitions, she coordinates day-of operations across various campus departments. In these settings, she serves as the NCAA Onsite Host, working directly with visiting teams and NCAA representatives to ensure every experience is organized, welcoming, and well-run from arrival through completion.
When asked what makes Gettysburg College a great workplace, Dana points to the people—describing a culture that is helpful, team-oriented, and united by a common purpose: creating the best possible experience for students. She sees that spirit come alive most clearly during high-stakes moments like tournament hosting, when staff and coaches step forward beyond the boundaries of their own roles to make sure teams, families, and visitors feel supported.
In addition to her primary responsibilities, Dana has completed three seasons as an assistant volleyball coach, a role that gives her another lens on student life and the chance to support student-athletes as they grow through dedication, teamwork, and leadership. Having both her professional and coaching responsibilities rooted on the same campus has been especially meaningful—and she adds that volleyball remains one of her favorite stress relievers.
Previous employee spotlight series
May 2026
Paige Cook.
Meet Paige Cook, a familiar face in OSAGL (Office of Student Activities & Greek Life) whose work helps shape some of the most memorable and meaningful parts of student life at Gettysburg. Paige joined Gettysburg College in September 2018 after working at nearby McDaniel College, starting as Assistant Director of Student Activities and Greek Life before growing into her current role as Associate Director, a position she has held for nearly five years. Her very first introduction to Gettysburg actually came much earlier, on an eighth-grade field trip, a full-circle moment she still remembers fondly. Over the course of her career, Paige says one lesson rises above the rest: the power of people. She speaks with deep gratitude about the community she's found at Gettysburg, describing her OSAGL colleagues as some of the most supportive people she has ever known, and noting that those relationships have remained constant through both the hardest and happiest moments of her life. She loves working directly with students, watching them engage with programs, clubs, and communities, and believes the Gettysburg experience, for students and employees alike, is defined by the people you encounter every day.
One of Paige's proudest accomplishments has been helping strengthen the systems that make student involvement easier to track, support, and grow. When she arrived at OSAGL, the College lacked a centralized student engagement platform. That changed with the adoption of engageGettysburg, and Paige has served as its direct administrator since 2021, expanding how data is used to better understand participation and improve programming. Last academic year, OSAGL programming connected with over 84% of the student population, a milestone she credits to the strength of her team, student staff, and campus partners. For Paige, that number reflects something bigger than attendance: it means students can find connection and belonging in many different ways, and that there is truly "a place for everyone" to find a home away from home. She has also witnessed a major shift in student programming over the years, from the earlier Campus Activities Board model to a more consistent structure of weekly and weekend events that build campus energy and tradition. When asked what makes Gettysburg a great workplace, Paige points again to people and leadership, noting that her longtime working relationship with Jon Allen, built on complementary styles of analytical thinking and creativity, has been a source of real support. She also values the everyday hallway conversations and committee work that create connection across campus, and is grateful that the communal energy lost during the pandemic has steadily returned.
Outside of work, Paige's creativity and love of the local area show up in simple but meaningful ways. She enjoys drawing, gardening, and spending time with her three cats, Baxter, Bartleby, and Diego. Lately, she has been making a point to be more of a "tourist" in her own town, exploring downtown Gettysburg, visiting local shops, venturing further into the battlefield beyond familiar landmarks, and discovering places she hadn't fully experienced despite living in the area for over a decade. It is the same curiosity and community-mindedness that defines her work on campus, showing up now in the way she engages with the town she has called home for so long.
April 2026
Angela Sontheimer.
Meet Angela Sontheimer, Executive Assistant in the President’s Office and Office of Diversity & Inclusion, a Gettysburg alum whose relationship with the College comes full circle through a career shaped by education, leadership development, and service.
Angela’s Gettysburg story began when she arrived on campus as a first-year student at 17. She entered in Fall 1986 and graduated in 1990 as an English major, immersing herself in campus life. She wrote for the student newspaper, participated in a sorority, and was part of the class that helped launch the Women’s Center. She was also deeply involved in the first-year orientation program—then entirely student-run—and after her sophomore year, Gettysburg became her year-round home. Through an internship with The Gettysburg Review and summer work in town, she spent every summer here, building ties to the campus and community that stayed with her long after graduation.
After college, Angela began her professional career in higher education as a development officer at Dickinson College, where she worked for ten years. Following the birth of her second daughter, she transitioned into a new chapter that would define much of her career: she spent roughly twenty years as the Chief Operations Officer of a company that designed experiential leadership development programs for corporate leaders, using history as a metaphor for navigating modern business challenges. During that time, she earned a Master’s of Leadership and Liberal Studies from Duquesne University, deepening her passion for leadership, learning, and organizational work. When the pandemic disrupted her field, Angela took an unexpected but purposeful turn—returning to school, becoming a paralegal, and working in that profession for two years before making her way back to Gettysburg College.
Angela joined the College in September 2024, encouraged by friends who pointed her toward an open position at a moment when she was ready for change. She began her role split between Diversity & Inclusion and Enrollment & Educational Services (including areas like admissions, financial aid, and athletics). In October 2025, she transitioned fully into her current work in the President’s Office, bringing with her a steady, behind-the-scenes focus on supporting people, processes, and key moments on the College calendar.
In the time she’s been back, Angela says one theme has stood out above all: community. She describes Gettysburg as a place with a strong, welcoming culture — one where colleagues become friends and where it’s easy to feel you’re part of something bigger than your job description. That sense of belonging matters to her, both for her own happiness at work and for the satisfaction of contributing to an institution she cares about.
Recently, Angela reached a major milestone in her role which was ensuring the February Board of Trustees meeting ran smoothly. As the person responsible for Board logistics on campus, it was her first time leading that process – something she approached with nerves, preparation, and a lot of attention to detail. Seeing it all come together successfully was a proud moment.
And now, she’s looking ahead to the next big campus-wide effort which is Commencement, a season filled with moving parts and meaningful celebrations, and one she’s eager to help support.
Angela also finds meaning in the ways Gettysburg recognizes and invests in its employees. She serves on the Support Staff Council and values programs like Employee Enrichment Day and Gettysburg’s Greatest, which build morale, celebrate contributions, and remind staff that the College cares about their growth and well-being—not only their work output.
Outside the office, Angela is an avid gardener. She’s the kind of person who starts spring early, planting seeds indoors in small cells under grow lights and watching them take shape while waiting for warmer weather. She’s also a proud mom of two grown daughters, and her family’s ties to Gettysburg run deep as her husband grew up here and teaches at the local high school. Their home is also happily busy thanks to three dogs, adding energy and humor to everyday life.
Whether coordinating major institutional events or building connections across campus, Angela Sontheimer brings thoughtfulness, experience, and a genuine love of community to her work—making her return to Gettysburg College feel less like a new beginning and more like a meaningful homecoming.
March 2026
Carlee Mayo
Meet Carlee Mayo, a Senior Administrative Assistant at Musselman Library and a Gettysburg College alum (Class of 2022) whose connection to the College began years before her first day on the job. Carlee remembers visiting campus during her senior year of high school and having an interview experience that stood out from every other college she explored. Everyone was friendly and welcoming, and she could immediately picture herself studying, living, and building community at Gettysburg.
After graduating, Carlee worked in a few roles around the area, including positions with Adams County Head Start as a preschool teacher. But her long-standing love for libraries kept pulling her back. Even in high school, she had considered becoming a librarian, and in college she double majored in English and Cinema & Media Studies. When she saw an opening at Musselman Library, she knew it would be an exciting opportunity to learn the library’s work “behind the scenes” and understand its day-to-day operations on a deeper level. That experience has had a lasting impact as Carlee has now started graduate school and is pursuing a Master’s in Library and Information Science, inspired in large part by her work at Musselman.
In her time here at Gettysburg, Carlee says one of the biggest lessons she’s learned is not being afraid to ask for help. Especially early in the role, there were many new workflows, tasks, and systems to learn. What stood out most was how consistently supportive people were in the library & across campus and always willing to answer questions, guide her through a process, and point her in the right direction. That culture of support helped her build confidence quickly and continues to shape how she approaches her work.
Over the past year and a half, Carlee has embraced being a true “jack of all trades,” supporting the behind-the-scenes operations that make the library function smoothly and keep campus programs moving forward. She helps coordinate and support major annual events like Ovation (the College Author Reception) and the CAFE Symposium (a celebration of academic first-year engagement). In addition, she has contributed to the Digital Humanities Summer Fellowship in the library as a mentor and facilitator, along with librarians R. C. Miessler, Mary Elmquist, and Vanessa Sanjuan-Miranda. She found the process of working one-on-one with students to help them develop a digital humanities project extremely rewarding. Looking ahead, Carlee hopes to continue growing in the role, building her skills, and deepening her experience as she works toward becoming a professional librarian.
For Carlee, what makes Gettysburg College a great workplace comes down to community and collaboration. She’s seen how closely the library works with many different departments across campus and how people consistently come together to problem-solve and support one another. That commitment to collaboration creates a strong sense of belonging and makes it easier to show up each day knowing colleagues genuinely “have your back.”
Outside of work, Carlee enjoys spending time outdoors especially trail running and hiking on the Gettysburg battlefield trails. She also loves the arts and is a big fan of the Majestic Theater, where she previously worked. As a student, she even created projects about the Majestic and the role it plays in the Gettysburg community. Now, she still enjoys attending performances and events there and appreciates how the theater brings people together in a way that feels uniquely Gettysburg.
February 2026
Brandi South
Brandi South’s journey with Gettysburg College began in August 2025, when she joined the Payroll team after spending nearly 20 years in higher education. After a brief break to try a different industry, she realized she missed the energy and purpose of campus life and when the payroll position opened, she felt like it would be the right fit. With prior payroll experience at another university, Brandi stepped into the role ready to learn quickly and contribute from
day-one.
Since arriving, Brandi says she’s been struck by how supportive and collaborative the workplace culture is. She’s met “a lot of wonderful people” and has found that the College truly values its employees by creating opportunities and positive experiences for staff. In payroll, teamwork is essential, and Brandi notes that her team works closely together to troubleshoot issues, strategize solutions, and coordinate with HR when needed. That steady collaboration has made a big difference as she’s gotten settled into a new position and a new campus community.
In her first months, Brandi is proud to have already contributed fresh ideas like bringing a new perspective and offering suggestions to make processes more efficient. Looking forward, she hopes that after a full year in the role, she’ll have an even bigger-picture understanding of payroll operations and can continue identifying ways to improve systems and strengthen workflow. For Brandi, what makes Gettysburg College such a great place to work is the kindness of the people. From staff to students, she’s noticed a genuinely positive environment — one where people enjoy being here and are quick to help each other.
Outside of work, Brandi enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter, especially doing things together like going to baseball games and spending time at the beach. She also loves the outdoors, including hiking, and is actively involved with her church. At work, one of her favourite parts of payroll is that it’s people-facing. Many visitors stop in with a question or concern, and Brandi appreciates that those moments allow her to connect with coworkers across campus. She even encourages colleagues to stop by and say hello, whether they have a payroll issue or not, because building community is part of what makes Gettysburg feel like home.
November 2025
Nick Cromer
Nick Crome's journey with Gettysburg College began in January 2025 when he joined Dining Services as a cashier at the Bullet Hole. He moved to the area in December 2024 to be closer to his sister and her new baby, settling into an apartment just down the street from campus. The walkable commute and opportunity to become part of the campus community drew him to the role, and since then, he has become a familiar and welcoming face to students, faculty, and staff alike.
Working at Gettysburg College has helped Nick discover how much he enjoys interacting with people from diverse backgrounds. His favorite part of the job is engaging with the international student community, where daily conversations offer cultural exchange and fresh perspectives on American culture. Looking ahead, Nick hopes to broaden his responsibilities and grow within the campus community, noting, "I like the job here, but I would like to do more on campus eventually—maybe kind of broaden my horizons here a little bit."
Nick appreciates Gettysburg College as a workplace because of how it treats and supports its employees, from vacation time to invitations to special events like a summer food show. He's also grateful for how Human Resources has made navigating health benefits clear and straightforward. Outside of work, Nick enjoys exploring his interests in music and cinema, often catching films at the Majestic Theater downtown.
October 2025
Lucy Bourdeau
Lucy Bourdeau's journey with Gettysburg College began unexpectedly during her senior year of high school when she attended Camp Psych, the college's psychology-focused summer program. Despite growing up just 40 minutes away in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania, she hadn't initially considered Gettysburg until that transformative experience propelled it to the top of her college list. As a student, she immersed herself in campus life, working as a tour guide and intern in the Admissions Office where she fell in love with both the town and its community. After graduating in 2024, she returned to the very office where her journey began, this time as an Admissions Counselor and then currently as an Assistant Director.
In her current role, Lucy has discovered the dual nature of admissions work—beyond answering questions and guiding applicants, she sees it as an opportunity to advocate for students during a pivotal chapter of their lives. She's particularly proud of overseeing the College's tour guide program, which includes 45+ guides and a team of interns, a role close to her heart given how her own experience as a student tour guide shaped her career path. What matters most to her isn't individual accomplishments but the opportunity to mentor students and create an environment where they can grow with confidence, fostering a collaborative space that connects student guides more deeply to the professional staff and broader college community.
For Lucy, Gettysburg's strength lies in its people and the supportive network she's found both within the Admissions Office and across campus. Many of her colleagues are fellow alumni, creating a shared sense of identity and mission that has made her transition from student to professional both meaningful and fulfilling. Outside work, she enjoys all that Gettysburg has to offer—from regular visits to Presidents Coffee for matcha and walks on the battlefield trails to thrifting with friends and gatherings at Garryowen Irish Pub. Whether studying the town's history or exploring local spots with coworkers who have become close friends, Lucy finds joy in the perfect balance of small-town charm and strong community that defines Gettysburg.
September 2025
Omar Moreno
Omar Moreno joined Gettysburg College in 2022 after graduating with his master's degree in Higher Education from Villanova. An internship at Villanova University's admissions office sparked his interest in higher education, and when he saw a position at Gettysburg, the welcoming atmosphere during the application process drew him in. "Everyone was so friendly and personable, and that sense of community is what drew me in." He's been continually impressed by how involved students are through internships, study abroad, and programs like the Eisenhower Institute, but what truly stands out is how supportive the faculty and staff are in fostering genuine belonging.
Recently transitioning from Admissions to College Advancement, Omar was proud of his work increasing outreach and supporting students from various backgrounds, especially first-generation college students like himself. In his new role, he looks forward to building relationships with alumni and donors to provide future students with transformative experiences. What makes Gettysburg a great place to work for him is "the people and the culture of support—you never feel like just another employee. It's a place where people recognize you, care about your well-being, and encourage you."
Omar appreciates the genuine collaboration and commitment to the college's mission throughout the community. While he hasn't encountered any Penn Hall ghosts yet, he's moved by the lasting connections at Gettysburg—like when he witnessed a 2009 graduate run into his former history professor Bill Bowman, who immediately remembered him after more than a decade. "It's moments like that which speak volumes about Gettysburg—the lifelong impact the faculty have and the lasting bonds formed here."
August 2025
Charles Stockman - Executive Chef
Fourteen years ago, Charles made a significant career shift from traditional fine dining to institutional food service at Gettysburg College. After growing up right in Gettysburg, attending culinary school, and gaining experience in Virginia and Maryland restaurants, the demanding hours and limited family time of fine dining prompted him to search for better work-life balance. With two young kids at home and his wife, he needed something closer to home. Returning to Gettysburg College provided the perfect opportunity to combine his culinary expertise with a more family-friendly schedule while serving his local community.
The transition from serving 100 restaurant guests to preparing meals for up to 1,500 people required significant adaptation in both scale and approach. Rather than upscale white tablecloth service, Charles shifted his focus to accessible, comforting meals that accommodate diverse dietary needs and cultural preferences. He's particularly proud of developing the dedicated allergy-free kitchen with specialized equipment and protocols to safely serve students with severe allergies—what started as a small station has grown into a robust program supporting dozens of students every meal. The team has also implemented digital menu systems with detailed nutrition and allergen information, and Charles has expanded their cultural offerings including Asian cuisine and halal options in response to changing student demographics. His goal has always been to create a comprehensive, inclusive dining experience that makes all students feel seen and cared for.
The collaborative environment, adequate resources, and creative flexibility make Gettysburg College an exceptional workplace for Charles as a culinary professional. The supportive team culture encourages innovation, from themed dinners to special events like smoking alligators for Mardi Gras celebrations—they love shaking things up! This creativity extends beyond novelty—Charles has learned that food serves as a powerful connector that brings students together across different schedules and backgrounds, creating shared experiences that transform routine meals into meaningful community moments. Even something as simple as butter chicken night turns into a mini reunion. The combination of operational challenge, creative freedom, and positive impact on student life makes each day engaging and purposeful for him.
July 2025
Caleb Jones - Counseling & Wellness Services
Meet Caleb Jones, Senior Administrative Assistant of the Counseling & Wellness Center! After three years of working for the Dining Services at Gettysburg College, Caleb stepped into his new role in August of 2024. It was during these three formative years that he established an instant connection with the student body and quickly realized that he desired a position within the institution that could make a greater impact on both the individual and the college campus at large. Caleb’s work at the Counseling & Wellness Center places him in the unique position to be able to execute exactly the work he envisioned.
“I’m always happy to meet people where they are and enjoy creating a space for them to feel seen, understood, and valued.”
The most important part of Caleb’s day-to-day is, of course, the swift assessment of a student’s needs and getting them connected with a clinician by appointment, or a peer-educator and drop-in counselor if the client’s needs present as urgent. Caleb also works very closely with his director as an assistant; manages the Campus’ Medicat program; and works dutifully as his office’s administrator.
The most important part of Caleb’s day-to-day is, of course, the swift assessment of a student’s needs and getting them connected with a clinician by appointment, or a peer-educator and drop-in counselor if the client’s needs present as urgent. Caleb also works very closely with his director as an assistant; manages the Campus’ Medicat program; and works dutifully as his office’s administrator.
“The counselors that I work with are such a wonderful group of people. They are uplifting, quick-witted, and have made me feel like a vital member of the team. I am uniquely lucky to be in a position to learn from them and observe them in their element, doing what they do best: supporting our clientele.”
Having established himself in his current position, Caleb is now working to deepen his professional relationships and foster meaningful connections across different campus divisions. He values the collaborative spirit that comes from genuine workplace relationships and their positive impact on serving students. Outside of work, you can find Caleb enjoying a book at a local café, shopping at businesses along the square, making art in the park, running in the early evenings, or enjoying a night out with friends.
May 2025
Cyd Tokar - Student Activities and Greek Life
Meet Cyd Tokar, Administrative Services Assistant in the Office of Student Activities & Greek Life (OSAGL). Cyd’s journey with Gettysburg College began in a truly serendipitous way—while working as the props master for A Christmas Carol at the Majestic Theater with Totem Pole Playhouse. During one performance, a chance conversation with John Stiles led to a part-time job at the Majestic that lasted several years. Her connection to the College deepened as both her child and niece became Gettysburg students, and her child even worked at the Majestic alongside her. Eventually, Cyd transitioned to campus through the administrative support pool, taking on a temporary role in OSAGL that later became permanent. Over three years later, she remains a central figure in the department, bringing energy and warmth to all she does.
Cyd has taken on many roles that showcase her creativity and commitment—from decorating the office for each season to advising the yearbook team and supervising student workers at the CUB Desk and campus social venues. She also serves on the Support Staff Council and has developed meaningful, long-lasting relationships with students, especially the Class of 2025—the first cohort she has seen through all four years. Her day-to-day work continues to evolve as she steps further into mentorship and leadership, always with an eye toward improving both student experiences and workplace dynamics. Cyd brings joy and surprise to campus events—famously donning an inflatable T-Rex costume for the Fall Carnival and embracing orientation traditions like the First-Year Walk, which she finds deeply moving.
Throughout her time at Gettysburg, Cyd has grown both professionally and personally. She’s learned practical skills (like tapping a keg!) and gained valuable insights into student engagement and Greek Life—something she had little exposure to before joining OSAGL. What she values most is the College’s tight-knit, supportive environment where ideas are heard and efforts make a real impact. She hopes to see more professional development pathways for support staff so team members can grow without leaving the departments they love. With her creativity, passion, and dedication to student success, Cyd exemplifies what it means to be Gettysburg Great.
March 2025
Kim Smith - Transportation & Facilities Services
Meet Kim Smith, the Transportation & Facilities Helpdesk Supervisor! Kim joined the team in January 2015 as the Facilities Service Response Coordinator, quickly mastering the ins and outs of campus operations and facilities tasks. Her dedication and expertise led her to a supervisory role in 2018, where she took on the challenge of overseeing both Facilities and the Transportation Services Helpdesk. Managing two distinct departments keeps her role dynamic and rewarding, as each presents unique, time-sensitive responsibilities crucial to the campus community.
"I’m grateful that the busiest times for each department tend to balance each other out!"
A Leader in Facilities Management. Kim played a key role in modernizing facilities operations, implementing the TMA ticketing system in 2015 and leading the transition from paper work orders to iPads in 2019. She also provides ongoing training and support for staff using the electronic work order system. Leading a dedicated team of three full-time colleagues, Kim takes great pride in their hard work and commitment.
Driving Excellence in Transportation. On the transportation side, Kim oversees vehicle reservations, maintenance, and repairs while managing a team of 20 part-time drivers. These drivers play a vital role in shaping first impressions of the college, offering warmth and professionalism to prospective students, staff, and guests. Their dedication embodies what it truly means to be “Gettysburg Great." With her leadership, passion, and commitment to excellence, Kim continues to make a lasting impact on both Facilities and Transportation Services.
"Working closely with all the trades makes us feel like one big family."
February 2025
Tom Ahlers - Campus Safety
In 2025, I’ll celebrate 35 years at the college, all in the same department. I’m still in college, LOL. My journey started in December 1988 as a part-time dispatcher, answering the main phone line 24/7 and logging calls on an electric typewriter. Reports were handwritten the day of the incident and then transcribed by Mary Ann Remaley (MAR), now retired, who had a remarkable gift for reading our handwriting.
I thoroughly enjoy all the work we do in Campus Safety. I enjoy passing on what I have learned over the years to new Officers. After 30 years of straight patrol, I am now involved with Life Fire Safety which coincides and compliments the first responder world. I’ve been a life member of Barlow Volunteer Fire Department since 1991, and a member of Gettysburg Fire Department (also since 1991) and York Springs Fire Department since 1984.
I am blessed to have many friends and colleagues at the college who are family to me. We are one team, same mission.
January 2025
Fallon DePorter - Financial Services Office
Fallon DePorter has been a Student Accounts Representative in Financial Services since March 2023. She enjoys meeting and helping students and their families navigate the financial aspects of their college experience with confidence and clarity. With a degree in Business Management from HACC, Fallon uses her organizational and problem-solving skills to support students through the financial process.
Fallon enjoys working with different departments across campus to ensure accurate billing and smooth communication, which allows her the opportunity to meet new people and contribute to the College community in meaningful ways. Recently, she joined the Welcome Ambassador Program and looks forward to helping new employees feel welcomed and connected to the Gettysburg community—something she values greatly as a Gettysburg native.
Outside of work, Fallon loves trying new recipes, exploring new cities, writing poetry, reading, and spending time with her husband, Wesley. She also enjoys spending time with their two cats, Nick and Jay—named after iconic characters from The Great Gatsby. Her Catholic faith is a central part of her life, and she enjoys organizing and participating in Bible studies and other related activities.
December 2024
Josh Wagner - Innovation and Creativity Lab
Meet Josh Wagner, the Manager of the Innovation and Creativity Lab. Stepping into the role in 2020, Josh has transformed what began as an empty 600-square-foot classroom with just a handful of tools into a dynamic hub for innovation and exploration. Under his leadership, the lab has grown into a fully equipped makerspace that inspires students, faculty, and staff to bring their creative visions to life.
Josh’s work involves much more than managing equipment and workshops. He collaborates closely with academic departments, student organizations, and campus initiatives to integrate hands-on learning opportunities across disciplines. Whether he’s teaching students how to use 3D printers, laser cutters, or woodworking tools, or supporting faculty in designing project-based coursework, Josh is dedicated to making the lab a space where ideas thrive and skills are built.
He also teaches the popular First-Year Seminar "Fail this Course: Creativity, Making, and Failure." This unique class challenges students to embrace failure as an essential part of the creative process, encouraging them to experiment, take risks, and develop resilience. By exploring the intersections of making, problem-solving, and reflection, Josh inspires students to view failure as a stepping stone to success.
Outside of the lab, Josh enjoys trivia nights with friends, tinkering with DIY projects, exploring local breweries, thrifting, or attending theater performances.
Whether you're a seasoned maker or just curious to try something new, Josh invites you to stop by the ICL, explore the tools, and create something!
November 2024
Christopher Bloomford - Center for Career Engagement
Meet Chris Bloomford, the Associate Director for Marketing and Assessment at the Center for Career Engagement. Since joining Gettysburg College in 2018, Chris has played a key role in both assessing the effectiveness of Career Engagement programs and overseeing the office’s marketing efforts. He manages the Post-Graduate First Destinations Survey, analyzes data from platforms like Handshake, and develops surveys and focus groups to better understand student needs and career goals. His insights help ensure that the office’s services continue to support students, alumni, and the campus community in meaningful ways. Additionally, Chris oversees the office’s social media and web presence, keeping everyone informed and engaged.
One of the things Chris enjoys most is building meaningful relationships with students through counseling appointments, learning about their interests, and helping them connect their passions to real-world career opportunities. The rewarding part of Chris’s work is seeing students develop and grow in their career journeys, and knowing that Career Engagement’s work makes a positive impact on our campus.
When not working on marketing campaigns or analyzing career trends, Chris is likely in the kitchen experimenting with new recipes or tending to his garden. Known for growing 100+ heads of garlic each year, Chris’s green thumb and love of cooking are a big part of his life outside of work.
Chris is proud to contribute to Gettysburg College’s mission of supporting student success and helping students shape their professional futures.
August 2024
Evan Folger - Student Dining Services
Evan Folger has been making a difference as a Dining Services Coordinator at Servo for four years. A proud 2020 graduate of Millersville University, he began his journey at Gettysburg College in high school, working in the conferences and facilities departments.
In his current role, Evan manages dining staff, oversees scheduling, and handles student worker hiring. He thrives on connecting with students, faculty, and guests, always eager to answer questions, gather feedback, and ensure everyone enjoys their dining experience. “We are fortunate to have a great team,” he says, highlighting his favorite aspect of the job: collaborating with dedicated dining employees.
A resident of Adams County, Evan deeply appreciates the positive impact Gettysburg College has on the local community. When he's not working, you can find him spending time with family, hiking, or cheering on his favorite sports teams: the Baltimore Orioles, Washington Commanders, and Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
August 2024
Bekah Hurwtiz - International Student Services
Bekah Hurwitz is the Assistant Director of International Student Services, a role which she began in June. Throughout August, Bekah worked alongside the ISS team to welcome 85 international first years, from 35 different countries, to campus. Introducing the cohort of students to the Gettysburg College community provided the perfect opportunity for Bekah to reflect on her own Gettysburg journey, and why this place means so much to her.
While she grew up only 45 minutes from Gettysburg, Bekah’s first visit didn’t occur until she was touring campus as a prospective student. She committed to the college as a member of the Class of 2019, graduating with degrees in Psychology and Organization & Management Studies. After graduating, Bekah moved to Copenhagen, Denmark for 1 year to work for DIS Study Abroad. The rise of Covid meant her return home in 2020, but luckily she was welcomed back to Gettysburg College with open arms. Since then, Bekah has worked 1 year in the Office of Residential Education and 3 years in the Center for Global Education.
Bekah lives in town with her fiancé, Sean, and their two cats, Pinto and Reuben. They’ve spent the summer tending to an out of control garden, trying plenty of new recipes and baking projects, and slowly but surely decorating their new house.
Regardless of the department she finds herself in, Bekah is always amazed by the work of her colleagues: their creativity, thoughtfulness, and their commitment to supporting the students. Whether it’s sending students abroad or welcoming them to campus, she finds the opportunity to work with students inspiring, and believes it’s an honor to play such a direct role in each of their Gettysburg College journeys.
August 2024
Susan Fumagalli - Athletics
Susan Fumagalli is the Senior Associate Director of Athletics at Gettysburg College, beginning her 21st year on September 20th. Recently, she’s been accompanied by Marshal, a balance/mobility dog from Susquehanna Service Dogs. Marshal, a yellow lab/golden retriever mix, assists Susan with balance and mobility. When Marshal is in his vest, he’s working, so please don’t engage with him. If you’re curious about Marshal or service dogs, Susan is happy to share more.
In her role, Susan manages all 24 athletic teams and the department’s overall administration, including finances, logistics, travel, championship planning, NCAA compliance, and technology oversight. She also coordinates with various campus departments and finds the dynamic nature of her job both challenging and rewarding. Susan enjoys the strong community at Gettysburg and the relationships she’s built over the years.
Beyond her professional role, Susan is an advocate for the disability community and stays active by walking with Marshal. She continues to set new personal records for steps and hopes to participate in a 5k or longer races soon.
July 2024
Kim Landauer - Center for Career Engagemen
Greetings from Kim Landauer, Career Counselor at the Center for Career Engagement, a position she’s held for the past year. Kim joined the GBC community in 2021, when she stepped into the role of Administrative Assistant for Career Engagement. This new role followed 13 years in public education as an Elementary School Counselor for the Northern York County School District. She was drawn to the position and Career Engagement after recognizing a passion for supporting students on their career journey.
In the role of Career Counselor, Kim has the opportunity to interact with students on a daily basis. Whether in a one-on-one meeting, presentation or programming event, she seeks to provide students with the information, resources and support to navigate their career path. She highly values the aspects of her job that allow her to build relationships with students, staff, faculty, parents and friends of Gettysburg College.
Kim is a life-long member of Adams County and was raised in the Gettysburg area. She has fond memories of walking the college campus as a resident and now appreciates the opportunity to be present on the campus as an employee. She finds the GBC community to be warm and welcoming and enjoys the time to engage with its members. Away from work, you’ll find Kim hiking in the woods, caring for a multitude of plants and with her nose in the next great read.