Denise Callihan created on-line library services to speed research at PPG Industries, Inc.

Denise lives by her mission statement, “We never let anyone go away without at least a reference, a name or a telephone number if we can’t answer their question directly.” Denise and her staff are innovative in their approach to support PPG Research in developing breakthrough products. She has implemented new online systems, created an “eLibrary” with “eBooks” and reaches all her clients through a dynamic Intranet web page. After receiving her MLS degree at the University of Pittsburgh School of Information Sciences, Denise started her information career approximately ten years ago at Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh’s Science and Technology Department. She then moved on to CONSOL Energy, Inc. headquartered in Pittsburgh’s South Hills before joining PPG Industries, Inc. in 1996.

She is a very active member and leader in the Special Libraries Association (SLA). She has served in various positions in the local Pittsburgh Chapter of SLA and has completed a term as President. Currently, she is the Secretary of the Chemistry Division of SLA.

Denise is a loyal and active alumna of the University of Pittsburgh and serves on the SIS Alumni Council (SAC) and is the SIS Alumni representative on the Pitt Alumni Association board. Denise balances her work and personal life by volunteering as a technology trainer for the Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council (GPLC). Her hobbies include reading, cooking (keeping up with her ethnic traditions) and motorcycling with her husband. Mentoring library school students and participating in the internship program are some of Denise’s favorite activities.

Three words describe Denise:
         HAPPY (always smiling)
         GENEROUS (always going the extra mile)
         SINCERE (always there for you)