Category: Shout-outs

Michael Parrish, Assistant Director of Fraternity & Sorority Housing

“Michael is always available to help with IT questions and needs in our office. He is patient and supportive and we are very grateful for his role on our team.” – Fraternity and Sorority Life team

The Clemson University Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine team

“As Clemson University prepares to welcome the inaugural Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Class of 2030, the faculty and staff of the Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine have accomplished something truly remarkable. While recruiting faculty, staff & students, developing curriculum, establishing clinical partnerships, hiring, and preparing to move into a brand-new campus, this team has worked tirelessly to build Clemson’s newest college from the ground up. Their collaboration, resilience, and unwavering commitment are creating a legacy that will impact veterinary medicine and generations of Clemson students for decades to come.”

Tori Charles, Director of Applied Research, Clemson’s Learning Institute

“Tori consistently goes above and beyond for her team, always making herself available to support others even during her well-deserved time off. She is an exceptional leader, mentor, and colleague who generously offers feedback, lends a helping hand, and encourages the professional growth and success of everyone around her.” – Alexis Sales, Research Associate, Clemson’s Learning Institute

Mitch Day, Executive Talent Partner, Office of Human Resources

“Mitch and his team have been integral to keeping my transition to using Workday smooth. Mitch provided exceptional support and timely updates regarding my questions. It was a pleasure working with him.” – Anonymous

Emily Arrowood, HRIS Business Analyst, Office of Human Resources

“Emily has been a standout support during the Workday transition! Her knowledge, problem-solving superpowers, and patience are unmatched. I am grateful to have the opportunity to work with Emily.” – Anonymous

Barbara Ramirez, Faculty, College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences (CECAS)

“Barbara comes into work each day waiting to encourage and assist faculty, staff and students on proposals, dissertations, ABET reports, articles for publications, help graduate students on personal statements to grad schools, government grants and a plethora of other things. She is above and beyond, but for her, “it’s just fun.” She is amazing and needs to be celebrated.” – Tracy Dodson, Administrative Coordinator

Ken Marcus, Robert Adger Bowen Professor of Chemistry, Department of Chemistry

“Ken has been a remarkable mentor to junior faculty in the Department of Chemistry over the last several years. His leadership and mentoring have directly resulted in sustained excellence by assistant professors, evidenced by numerous major NIH and NSF awards.” – Anonymous

Dave Lee (Assistant Vice President, CECAS Promotion) and Tim Crain (Director of Design, CECAS Promotion)

“Dave Lee and Tim Crain helped the Department of Mechanical Engineering upgrade the innovation lab space. The improvements will help enhance the ME brand to people who visit and use the space. We appreciate Dave and Tim working with Dr. Todd Schweisinger to promote the department. The new space looks amazing! Students, faculty and visitors will love it!” – Anonymous

Esther Kauffman, Accounting/Fiscal Manager I, Architecture

“Esther worked tirelessly and efficiently to maintain the finances for the School of Architecture. But more than that, she is true professional, colleague, and friend to those around her. With her retirement on July 1, she deserves all the recognition for her years of service. I dare say she is irreplaceable!” – Anonymous

Elise Eggert, Lead Procurement Coordinator, Business Office (College of Architecture, Art and Construction)

“Elise consistently goes above and beyond her job duties in helping the Dean’s Office. You can give her a task and you’ll know it will get done right, and with kindness and a sense of humor.” – Anonymous

Tina Parker, Clinical Facility Manager, Godley-Snell Research Center

“Tina is always a big help! She provided key advice and we are super grateful!” – Anonymous

Hyma Priya Donepudi, Finance /Human Resources Development

“Hyma consistently goes above and beyond to support our team. Her dedication, responsiveness, and commitment have a tremendous impact on our team’s success. Whenever we reach out for assistance, she is always ready and willing to help, approaching every request with professionalism, positivity, and a genuine desire to find solutions. Hyma is exceptionally organized and proactive. She stays on top of critical tasks, follows through on commitments, and ensures important items are completed on time. Her contributions positively influence the work we accomplish and play an important role in helping us achieve our goals.” – Anonymous

Jen Groff and Cristina Shorts, Office Manager and Program Manager, Department of Automotive Engineering

“Jen and Cristina worked hard to pitch a new initiative at CU-ICAR for the students and were granted funding. They are working hard to build an outdoor terrace area for students at CU-ICAR.” – Chali Hunter, Undergraduate Student Services Coordinator

Anthony Bernarducci, Professor and Choral Director, Performing Arts

“Anthony is the best boss and coworker anyone could ask for. His work ethic is unmatched, and his genuine care for the department and our students shines through in everything he does. I’m incredibly grateful for his leadership, support, and the countless ways he makes a difference every day.” – Alyssa Conner, Administrative Assistant, Performing Arts

Ian Cummings, Lab Specialist II

“Ian works hard to keep the microbiology labs running as smoothly and well-maintained as possible; he plays a key role in giving Clemson Students the best possible lab experience offered.  He is a valuable member of the Department of Biological Sciences!” – Anonymous

Susan “Su” Cole, Grants and Contracts Administration, Division of Research

“Su is a ray of sunshine and goes the extra mile! In my time at Clemson, she’s pushed an ice cream cart around the office while playing ice cream truck music and wearing popsicle sunglasses, led lunchtime crafts, and more! She is a joy to those around her and is much appreciated!” – Meredith Williams, Grants Administrator, Sponsored Programs

Laura Eicher, Director of Teacher Residency and Strategic Initiatives, College of Education

“Working so hard to submit a Department of Education grant!” – Anonymous

Annette Parker, Accounts Payable, Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management (PRTM)

“Annette consistently goes above and beyond to support fellow staff members both within and outside of her department. She is always willing to lend a helping hand, share her knowledge, and step in wherever needed to ensure CU’s success.” – Anonymous

David Alexander, Jody Patterson, and Lee Ann Gowin; University Facilities

“Our department needed a grab bar because one of our employees was injured and needed assistance in standing from a seated position. We submitted a work order and received immediate and outstanding service in a friendly and helpful manner.” – Linda Rice, Director, Risk Services

Abby Buck, Administrative Coordinator, School of Nursing

“Huge shoutout to Abby Buck for organizing our department’s pack-out for our temporary relocation. Your dissemination of information, planning and positive attitude is making a stressful experience as smooth and efficient as possible for your School of Nursing teammates—thank you for your hard work!” – Anonymous

Jim Grieger, Executive Director, Occupational and Environmental Safety

“Jim was instrumental in helping us get our hoods up and running so we could continue our cell research. He and OES are a great resource for the University.” – Cassie Gregory, Lab Manager, BIOE

Caroline Brunson, Administrative Assistant, Public Health Sciences

“Rising to the occasion in completing both her duties and that of a vacant position, all while managing the relocation of an entire department from one building to another in advance of renovations.” – Rebecca Moses, Graduate Student Services Coordinator, Public Health Sciences

Andie Eaton, Associate Director/Training Director, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)

“Andie spearheaded the comprehensive redesign of the psychology internship program, ultimately securing its APA re-accreditation.” – Amy Massingill, Associate Director/Clinical Services Director, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)

Cassidy Karker, CRM System Specialist

“In her short time at Clemson, Cassidy has proven herself to be a fantastic resource and campus partner. I am so appreciative of her generosity and flexibility – we couldn’t have gotten through this application cycle without her!” – Caleb Rogers, Director of Honors Admissions

Andrea Ward, Manager of Payroll Ops (supports CECAS)

“Andrea first listened to me vent about a problem I was facing until I felt better. Then, she found a solution that I didn’t think was possible and got it implemented to the benefit of a student.” – Anonymous

Suzanne Turner, Director of Donor Communications, Central Donor Relations

“Suzanne’s attention to detail and dedication to her work streamline complicated behind-the-scenes processes, resulting in intentional touchpoints that truly resonate with donors. She is a valued partner and a joy to work with.” – Grayson Miller, Art Director, Advancement

Brooke Sunshine, Senior Manager, Human Resources Customer Service

“When I reached out to HR with a complex and confusing situation, Brooke responded promptly, listened with genuine empathy, and made me feel like a priority. She took the time to fully understand my needs and guided me to the right solution with clarity and care. Her professionalism and compassion made a stressful experience feel manageable.” – Anonymous

Bennie Brundidge, Director of Talent Management, Advancement

“Bennie embodies the Clemson spirit in everything he does. His impact across our department is felt in the way he interacts with others and provides support in any challenges team members are facing. We are so lucky to have him in Advancement!” – Anonymous

Lisa Arslaner, Conservation Scientist/Chemist, Conservation Center

“Lisa always goes above and beyond to help anyone and always ensures the lab is functional and well-maintained. She far exceeds expectations and always does so with a smile. We are extremely lucky.” – Anonymous

Elizabeth Brown, Post Award Accountant, Dean’s Office (College of Science)

“Elizabeth is committed to helping out everyone she can, whenever she can. She is an invaluable asset to the team and the professors she supports.” – Anonymous

Michelle Newman, Receiving Triage Leader, Veterinary Diagnostic Center

“Michelle has been the driving force in the successful transition to new laboratory software. She has spent unequivocal time and effort to ensure all lab sections were programmed properly. Thank you Michelle!” – Anonymous

Madison Ballard, Assistant Business Officer, College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences

“Maddy recently served as the interim Financial Business Manager for the Department of Environmental Engineering & Earth Sciences. She has been a tremendous support to the department, responded to emails in a timely manner, provided insight, efficient and a great person to work with!” – Kim Bartholomew-Neptune, Office Manager

Janet Bean, Lo Ross, Hannah Callison, Dan McGee (Department of Finance Advisors)

“Our advisors handle a ton of students, 300-400+ each, and they do so with kindness and detail to make sure the students succeed. Their work loads don’t diminish their spirit towards their colleagues at large and they’re always willing to help out.” – Lisa Kieffer, Factuly and Program Support Specialist, Department of Finance

Kathryn Koning, Assistant Athletic Director of Football Academic Services

“Kathryn is a dependable and proactive presence in our office, consistently ensuring that both staff and student-athletes have the support they need to succeed. She is always willing to step in wherever needed. Kathryn always goes above and beyond to support our football student-athletes, and while it is often a thankless job, her impact is felt daily in the success and stability of our program.” – Erin DeChellis, Senior Associate Director for Athletic Academic Services