Author: Colby Lanham

Gregory Batt, Professor, Food, Nutrition and Packaging Sciences

“Greg is excellent at interfacing between the challenges the industry faces, applying his research to address those challenges, and bringing these real-world examples to the classroom.” – Anonymous

Serenity Wolf, Assistant Director of Recruitment and Retention, College of Science Dean’s Office

“Serenity consistently goes above and beyond in supporting student recruitment, engagement, and retention efforts in the College of Science. Her attention to detail, initiative, and genuine care for students make a meaningful impact on our team’s success and the experiences of those we serve, and I am incredibly grateful to have her as my first and outstanding team hire!” – Sharetta Wynn, Director of Recruitment and Retention, College of Science Dean’s Office

Kelly Coffin, Student Services Coordinator, Forestry and Environmental Conservation

“Kelly provides amazing mentorship and guidance to over 200 students every semester, and she is helping the department launch its first student advisory board. Her focus on student success and engagement is helping us deliver the No. 1 student experience!” – Kyle Barrett, Interim Chair, Department of Forestry and Environmental Conservation

Peyton Bade-Snead, Assistant Director of Events, Department of Visits, Events and Orientation

“Peyton successfully spearheaded and executed the second year of Tigertown Takeover, our large-scale accepted student day, hosting 1,000 students. While campus partners across the University supported the event, it would not have been possible without Peyton’s leadership, adaptability, and vision.” – Anonymous

Becky Garrigan, Benefits Navigator, Office of Human Resources

“Becky has truly gone above-and-beyond in helping me navigate between the various Clemson HR Departments, SC PEBA, and other organizations to understand all of the various forms and processes involved in a retirement from Clemson. Becky always made herself available by email and meetings to review these procedures. She also patiently answered all of my questions and found answers when she had to reach out to others.” – Ann Marie Alexander, Associate VP, Office of Corporate Partnerships

Richard Cannady, Security Specialist, Physical Security Operations Center, CU Public Safety

“Consistently puts in the effort to be great at his work. He is regularly trusted by our police to use our technology tools to help them be more effective.” – James Gowan, Physical Security Program Coordinator

Serita Acker, Executive Director, PEER & Wise

“Through Serita’s 35 years of dedication as a staff member with CECAS, Serita’s passion for student success and retention has enabled her to secure more than $7M+ in funding for retention and Engineering awareness programs. She has recently secured $1.6M from GE. Part of this money will be used to give out scholarships to high school students who complete the program. I am honored to work alongside someone with such a passion for helping students. CECAS is very lucky!” – Regina Taylor, Assistant Director, Assessment & Continuous Improvement

Carson Watts, Academic Advisor

“Carson exemplifies what it means to truly support students. As my academic advisor, she has gone above and beyond to help me balance a full-time career, graduate school, and being a present father. She has thoughtfully built my course schedule, supported my certificate goals, and consistently makes the MBA experience both manageable and rewarding. What stands out most is her genuine care and responsiveness. Whether it is a quick question or something more complex, Carson is always willing to help, even outside of normal hours. I am incredibly grateful for her support and the impact she has had on my Clemson MBA experience.” – Stone Tracy, Financial Business Manager, CECAS

Madison Carter, Assistant Director of Academic Advising, Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business

“The General Engineering Advising Center would like to congratulate Madison Carter on her well-deserved promotion! She has consistently demonstrated exceptional skill, dedication, and leadership, often going above and beyond in her role. This promotion reflects the incredible work she has already been doing, and we are excited to see her continue to thrive and make an impact in her new position. Congratulations, Madison!” – Anonymous

Laura Kinard, Student Services Manager, Department of Materials Science and Engineering

“Laura is the gold standard of Student Services staff in the entire university with her unbelievable response time, institutional knowledge, and old-school, proactive work ethic! There’s no job she won’t tackle, as exhibited recently when she was running reports for her department and alleviating student issues, all while organizing a poster competition, a guest speaker event, and coordinating an external advisory board visit – which she set up tables, easels and posterboard for herself. We are lucky to have her at Clemson!” – Anonymous

Madison Carter, Program Coordinator/Advisor, General Engineering Advising Center

“The General Engineering Advising Center would like to congratulate Madison Carter on her new role as the Assistant Director of Academic Advising in the Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business! Her dedication, professionalism and consistent excellence make her an invaluable member of our team, whom we will miss dearly! This achievement reflects the great work she has already been doing, and we are so excited to see all she will accomplish in her new role.” – Anonymous

Anthony Work, Associate Director, CECAS CORE

“Thank you so much to Anthony Work for coming out at the last minute to help us set up for a faculty meeting. He is super knowledgeable and always willing to help!” – Kay Faith, Mechanical Engineering

Patricia Whitener, 4-H Natural Resource Programs & Well-Being Council Ambassador, Extension

“Patricia did another wonderful job organizing Forest Fest. It was such a success and added value to the Clemson Community.” – Anonymous

Jennifer Robertson, Office Manager, General Engineering

“Jennifer did a fantastic job organizing and running Major Discovery Night. Because of her work, over 400 students had a fantastic experience networking with Clemson alumni working in engineering, along with faculty and students. It got rave reviews from students and alumni, all thanks to her planning, hard work, and dedication to providing the number one student experience.” – Anonymous

Kimberly Francis, Administrative Coordinator I, Finance & Operations

“Kim is an amazing person! She is so kind and helpful, and if she isn’t sure how to help, she finds someone who can.” – Anonymous

Johnsie Stancil, Honors Advisor/Registration Coordinator, Honors College

“Appreciate all your help with the Distinction Ceremony planning, I couldn’t do it without you! Three words – Spreadsheet of Truth. 🙂 ” – Ashley Romero, Office Manager, Honors College

Cheryl Ingram-Smith, Associate Professor, Genetics and Biochemistry

“Cheryl Ingram-Smith genuinely cares about people, and she is wonderful to work with. She has a gift for bringing light into moments that can sometimes feel stressful or dim. Her thoughtfulness, support, and optimistic spirit have an impact on those she interacts with. I personally feel blessed to work in her department and I hope this reciprocates some of that back to her. Cheryl, if you are reading this, please know how special you are to our community! Thank you for being you.” – Anonymous

Anna Grace Araiza, Language and International Business (LAIB) Advisor, Student Services

“Anna Grace consistently demonstrates exceptional diligence as the LAIB advisor, going above and beyond to support her students with thoughtful guidance and a genuine commitment to their success. Her proactive approach, attention to detail, and unwavering dedication make a lasting impact on both her advisees and the broader College of Arts and Humanities community.” – Daja Daniels, Recruitment and Career Specialist, Student Services

Derek Antos, The Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business, CCIT

“Derek is always responsive and knowledgeable! He is always there when unexpected tech issues arise and goes above and beyond to support our students, faculty and staff. We are so fortunate to have Derek’s patience and talent in The Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business!” – Anonymous

Carson Watts, Academic Advisor, MBA program

“Carson leads with genuine kindness and a willingness to always go the extra mile, making a real difference for our students and our team every day. When we needed her most, Carson stepped up to take on over 200 additional students and handled it all with positivity, grace, and a smile that never faded.” – Anonymous

Victoria Davich, Grants Coordinator I, Grants and Contracts Administration

“Victoria Davich and her Grants Transactional Services team deserve recognition for their outstanding support. Victoria has played a key role in streamlining contract modification processes, and her professionalism—along with her team’s efforts—has been invaluable in advancing our research and supporting Clemson Elevate; she is a pleasure to work with, even on complex projects.” – Anonymous

Nidhi Verma, Business Communications/Technology Specialist, Office of eRA

“Nidhi’s responsiveness, technical expertise, calm demeanor, and professionalism during our website project have been outstanding. We are fortunate to work alongside Nidhi in this process. Thank you, Nidhi!” – Diana Thrasher, Associate Director, Office of Sponsored Programs

Mashal Saif, Associate Professor of Religion

“I would like to nominate Mashal because she is consistently supportive of all colleagues (TT and not-TT!) in our department. Her encouragement, especially when it comes to applying for grants and other opportunities, is both strong and motivating, and it has led to many positive outcomes for Philosophy and Religion. Mashal is a very thoughtful and sincere person, as well as an amazing colleague. Her willingness to help others succeed makes a difference in the Phil & Religion department and contributes greatly to its collegial environment.” – Edyta Kuzian, Senior Lecturer

Maddy Powell, Coordinator of Student Recruitment, College of Agriculture, Forestry and Life Sciences

“From a mom of prospective student: ‘We were all so impressed with how you shared about the school, what is available to students, your facilities, and the enthusiasm of the student ambassadors, faculty, and staff. Thank you for the effort you put into offering the Open House and connecting students to instructors, students and advisors. I know it didn’t just happen, and it took a lot of folks to help us all feel welcome and more prepared for this next (big) step.'” – Anonymous

Heather Holliday, Assistant Director, Research Services

“Heather’s knowledge and expertise in her role at Clemson are exceptional. She brings a consistently positive attitude to work each day, setting a strong example for those around her and making a meaningful difference in the lives of both the people and animals she supports.” – Anonymous

Amanda Turner, Operations Manager, Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

“Consistent management of OLLI programs and administrative functions and Incredible customer service. Amanda wears many hats and looks great in them all!” – Anonymous

Sarah P. Reeves, Financial Business Manager, Finance and Operations

“Sarah has been an invaluable resource and enthusiastic cheerleader during departmental growth and budget changes. Her reliable support enables the team to remain focused on their core responsibilities and consistently improves our effectiveness.” – Fraternity and Sorority Life Team

Jill Bunch, Director of Communications, Graduate School

“Jill is not only the most fun co-worker; she is also an incredibly gifted designer and communications expert. She always makes our work look good, and she helps us come up with innovative ways to capture our graduate students’ attention for important events. She is also quick to help with any project and offers unique insights for any challenge. We are so lucky to have her!” – Jenny Presgraves, Assistant Dean, Graduate School

Sarah Reeves, Financial Business Manager, Finance and Operations

“Sarah is always great to work with and it there to help even if a task may seem too difficult. She will step up and lend a hand while also being sure everything is done properly. With how busy this year has been, she’s been a great help.” – Anonymous

Shay Vinson, Student Services Coordinator, Richard A. McMahan School of Architecture

“Shay is one of those rare people who makes everyone around her feel a little more supported, a lot more seen, and incredibly cared for. Her heart for student, faculty, and staff wellness and mental health shows up in the small, everyday moments. Whether checking in after a tough studio week, sharing encouragement when it is needed most, or highlighting the achievements of her colleagues, Shay always makes the School of Architecture feel like home.” – Anonymous

Xiao Yang, Manager, Department of Plant Industry Laboratories

“Dr. Yang does a great job managing his many labs. He is a wonderful supervisor and has really grown into his role. He supports his employees and students to help them grow by creating a respectful and fun environment.” – Anonymous

Barbara Bass, Director of Research Support Services, College of Science

“Barbara finds answers to tough questions…and often makes me laugh, even when the news is bad!” – Anonymous

Kristie Marr, Project Manager, Clemson University Learning Institute

“Kristie leads with kindness, solves problems with creativity, and keeps everything organized along the way. She notices what people need and is always willing to speak up on behalf of others. Kristie leads with integrity, and her commitment to excellence and passion for serving others shine through in everything she does. Her innovative thinking and willingness to troubleshoot challenges are truly an asset. It is truly a joy working with her.” – Cathy Moore, Director of Training, ThinkShops – Clemson University Learning Institute

John Hannon, Founding Director, Brook T. Smith Launchpad

“Dr. Hannon’s vision and implementation for connecting faculty, staff and students with alumni and the greater Clemson community is unprecedented. He cares about our students and their future post Clemson. He serves as a mentor to many, including his own staff.” – Kimberly Stokes Morgan, Executive Operations Specialist, Clemson Athletic Ventures

Jennifer Dunigan, Executive Assistant, Marketing and Communications

“Jennifer always has an eye out for anyone who might need a hand and jumps in to help (and is great at it!). She’s the best kind of colleague to have.” – Anonymous

Sheri Marcus, Administrative Coordinator, Department of History & Geography

“Sheri has an excellent response time and is always kind and respectful. She is always willing to help and is an essential asset to the History Department. Thank you for all that you do, Sheri!” – Taryn Turner, Academic Advisor, History

Bruce Kesler, Facilities and Fleet Management, Forestry and Environmental Conservation

“As our department prepares to move into a new building, Bruce has been an essential player in coordinating the transition. From equipment inventory to lab clean out, Bruce has shown tremendous leadership and consistent communication with the department. We couldn’t do it without him!” – Kyle Barrett, Interim Department Chair, Forestry and Environmental Conservation

Heather Tomlinson, Student Services Manager, Department of Automotive Engineering

“Heather has done a great job transitioning into her new role and serving the department.” – Anonymous

Madison Polyasko Ballard, Assistant Business Officer, College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences (CECAS)

“Maddy exemplifies fiscal stewardship and service excellence within CECAS. She brings clarity to complex financial matters, ensures compliance while remaining solutions-focused, and consistently supports departments with professionalism and integrity. Her responsiveness, technical expertise, and calm leadership during high-volume reporting periods make her a trusted resource across the College. We are fortunate to have someone so dedicated to both accuracy and collaboration.” – Stone Tracy, Financial Business Manager, CECAS

Yuki Kihara (Associate Director of the Pam Hendrix Center for Education Abroad), Keith Walton (International Health, Safety, and Risk Manager) and Meredith Wilson (Director of the Pam Hendrix Center for Education Abroad) Global Engagement

“Thank you to Yuki, Keith, Meredith and the Global Engagement team for all your hard work in bringing students studying abroad home. We appreciate your commitment to our students’ safety and well-being.” – Anonymous

Kasi Hubbard, Graphic Designer; April Pelt, Director of Online Education

“I offer a round of enthusiastic applause to another amazing pack of accessibility-minded content creators and advocates. Kasi Hubbard and April Pelt organized a document accessibility workshop for forty-some faculty and staff in the College of Education who now have the skills needed to produce digital resources that their students can access. Your investment in learning to provide accessible files to students truly equips them for lives and careers that make a difference. Attendees, you are too many to list here, but thank you for prioritizing digital accessibility in the learning resources you provide to Clemson students.” – Walker Massey, Digital Accessibility Specialist, CCIT Internal Operations

CECAS Office Managers

“Shout-out to the Office Managers in CECAS, who play a critical role in ensuring the College’s content meets high accessibility standards. Their efforts to understand and apply digital accessibility concepts in their work contribute to a more inclusive Clemson and directly align with Clemson’s mission to create the No. 1 student experience. You are too many to name here (a good “problem” to have), but you are rock stars. Great work and thank you!” – Walker Massey, Digital Accessibility Specialist, CCIT Internal Operations

Olivia Boice, Lecturer, School of Nursing

“Olivia has done an incredible job moving our nursing fundamentals lab manual online and updating the nursing skills checkoffs to a new format this semester. It has been a smooth and efficient transition; thank you, Olivia!” – Andrea O’Dell, Lecturer, School of Nursing

Caleb McGill, Assistant Director, Global Engagement, College of Science

“Caleb works diligently to inform, plan, and provide global engagement experiences to students in the College of Science. He sees students back-to-back most days, and his role positively impacts Clemson Elevate directly.” – Serenity Wolf, Assistant Director, Recruitment & Retention – College of Science

Cari Latimer, Call Center Director, OROD – Clemson University Learning Institute

“Cari is incredible. Her impact is felt daily. Her work ethic is unmatched, and everything she produces is thoughtful, thorough, and truly top-notch. Beyond her talent, she leads with heart. She is empathetic, supportive, reliable and deeply trustworthy. She embodies servant leadership in the truest sense by consistently putting others first while holding herself to the highest standards. Working alongside her is both an honor and a joy.” – Cathy Moore, Director of Training, ThinkShops – Clemson University Learning Institute

Joni Adams, Curriculum and Training Specialist, ThinkShops – Clemson University Learning Institute

“Joni is amazing. Her excellence shows up in both big-picture thinking and day-to-day impact. Her work ethic is exceptional, and the quality of her work consistently elevates our program. She develops new processes that improve efficiency and is gifted at anticipating challenges before they arise and preparing thoughtful solutions. She is selfless by nature and is always willing to step in, support others, and do what is best for the whole. Getting to work alongside Joni is truly a delight.” – Cathy Moore, Director of Training, ThinkShops – Clemson University Learning Institute

Lori Frager, Director, Research Data Analytics – Office of eRA

“Lori needed a Doctoral Dissertation template created in DocuSign, for which I am the Engineer. She was a pleasure to work with, as she quickly responded to questions and requests for information, and tested and approved the design. Thanks, Lori, for making this collaboration easy!” – Denise Boyter, Workflow Engineer, CCIT

Ashley Jones, Director of Photographic Services, Marketing and Communications

“Met her doing faculty and staff headshots and had a wonderful experience. She took the time to make sure the photos looked great. She was professional and the process went smoothly.” – Anonymous

Walker Massey and Dan Lewis, CCIT, Digital Accessibility Specialist (Walker) and Director of Digital Accessibility (Dan)

“Walker and Dan make digital accessibility feel achievable rather than overwhelming. Their approach is refreshingly positive, Instead of focusing on what’s wrong, they meet Departments and Colleges where they are, offering practical guidance and encouragement. They’ve developed comprehensive resources on accessibility best practices and bring that expertise directly to teams across campus. At a recent training for College of Education instructors and staff, they guided participants through authoring accessible Word and PowerPoint documents, turning what can feel like a daunting compliance requirement into something manageable and even empowering. We’re lucky to have such thoughtful advocates leading this work!” – April Pelt, Director of Online Education, College of Education

Lisa Jackson, Associate Director

“Affectionately known as Mama Lisa, she is the heart of PEER & WISE. Students seek her out for her hugs, her wisdom, and her steady presence. She plays a vital role in supporting our retention programs, but more than that—she truly loves students, and it shows in everything she does.” – Serita Acker, Executive Director, PEER and WISE

Stephanie Henry, Associate Director

“Stephanie is truly a jack of many trades. She works hard to survey students, capture their experiences, and help us find creative ways to increase engagement in our mentoring program and strengthen our Living Learning Community. She also brings joy—loving to play games with students and always making our staff laugh. We appreciate your dedication, energy, and heart for students, Stephanie!” – Serita Acker, Executive Director, PEER and WISE

Regina Taylor, Assistant Director of Assessment and Continuous Improvement

“Regina is a hidden jewel and truly a jack of all trades. She is a subject-matter expert in data analysis and a true fighter. Even while waiting for her kidney and pancreas transplant, she worked faithfully until the call came, all while maintaining a positive and steady demeanor. Regina, thank you for your strength, dedication, and commitment. We are grateful to have you on our team.” – Serita Acker, Executive Director, PEER and WISE

Candice Heatherly, CAFLS Administrative Officer

“Candice is consistently helpful and courteous, always willing to step up and support others whenever needed. Her positive attitude and collaborative spirit make her a pleasure to work with everyday. She is an invaluable member of CAFLS, and her contributions and willingness to help others lifts everyone around her.” – Anonymous