Penn State School of Labor and Employee Relations Announces 2024 Amy Dietz Advocacy Awardees
The Penn State School of Labor and Employment Relations (LER) is pleased to recognize and honor Lisa Pantoja and Katherine J. Hamilton as the 2024 recipients of the Amy Dietz Advocacy Award.
The Amy Dietz Student Advocacy Award recognizes a World Campus student enrolled in any of LER’s online programs who is actively engaged in advocacy on behalf of an issue, cause, or group. Nominees must be enrolled in at least one online class at the time of their nomination and all school students are eligible for consideration, regardless of academic standing or program.
The award honors the memory of Amy Dietz, a beloved member of the LER community who passed away in 2018. Dietz was part of the school’s staff who then earned an undergraduate degree in labor and employment relations and a master’s degree in human resources and employment relations. She went on to become an academic adviser and faculty member. The award serves as a testament to the impact of individuals committed to driving change and uplifting their communities.
Lisa Pantoja, who is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in labor and human resources, was recognized for her work advocating for foster youth and underserved communities. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Pantoja has faced numerous challenges that have shaped her resilience and commitment to service. A single mother of three, Pantoja has dedicated her life to creating opportunities for others. Her ongoing work with the Anna Forlenza Foundation, which assists and supports youth transitioning out of the foster system, and other initiatives that provide safe spaces to foster youth during the holidays are shining examples that demonstrate her commitment to inspire and support others.“Every child deserves a chance to experience joy and comfort, regardless of their circumstances,” she says.
Katherine J. Hamilton, who is currently pursuing her master’s degree in human resources and employment relations, was recognized for being a champion for education and youth development. As a science education coordinator with the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), Hamilton has created and/or implemented processes and professional development opportunities that bring a unique blend of scientific expertise and leadership to her advocacy efforts.
Hamilton is also a dedicated volunteer with the Girl Scouts of North Carolina Coastal Pines and has empowered her scouts to achieve ambitious goals, including international travel and community service projects, as a scout leader for the past decade. Her efforts have created a sense of community within her troop and reflect her longstanding commitment to, and belief in, mentorship and empowerment.
Congratulations to Lisa and Katherine, whose stories of resilience, leadership, and service embody the spirit of advocacy that the Dietz Award represents