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Congratulations to Meghan Stouter for winning the 2016 James Elliott Award

Congratulations to Meghan Stouter for winning the 2016 James Elliott Award

May 16, 2016

James Elliott began his distinguished career at Penn State in the central Office of Human Resources in October 1954.  Having served in the U.S. Navy during WWII, and being a graduate from Penn State University, it came as no surprise when Mr. Elliott demonstrated leadership abilities that led to many promotions and added responsibilities throughout his HR career.  He quickly became Director of Human Resources, and was a highly respected HR professional both locally and nationally.  He was instrumental in starting the Centre County Personnel Association, which ultimately developed into the Human Resource Association of Centre County.  Mr. Elliott was also the chief negotiator for many years in bargaining with Teamsters Local Union No. 8 and the Pennsylvania Nurses Association. 

Upon his retirement in June 2006, Mr. Elliott was awarded the high honor of emeritus rank in recognition of his exemplary and meritorious service to Penn State.  James M. Elliott died tragically in an auto accident in 2007, shaking the Penn State and HR community.  In 2008, Penn State’s Board of Trustees named the building housing the Office of Human Resources in Mr. Elliott’s honor.

James Elliott served as a mentor to several generations of human resources and other professional staff, whom he considered his extended family. His razor-sharp intellect and wit were legendary, and he was a firm believer in clear-headed thinking.  He was a dedicated student of the English language and gently insisted on its proper usage. Most of all, he was the epitome of integrity and trust, and he never missed an opportunity to help someone in need.

Congratulations to Meghan!

Congratulations to Meghan Stouter for winning the 2016 James Elliott Award