Category: Shout-outs

Allysa Sutton, Director of Advising, College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences

“Allysa led her advising team through a demanding summer orientation/registraiton season with grace, humility (and tenacity). The culture she has helped instill among an amazing group of advisors is truly inspiring.” – Denise Anderson, Associate Dean, College of Behavioral, Social & Health Sciences

UPIC Team

“The UPIC Team is dedicated to delivering the #1 student experience. Thanks to them, as they continue to work nonstop to hire over 400 interns this fall in the Workday system. We are so grateful for your dedication, patience, and kindness.” – Anonymous

Brandon Barker, IT Consultant, College of Agriculture, Forestry and Life Sciences (CAFLS)

“Brandon’s responsiveness, approachability, knowledge, patience, and commitment to our students and employees in CAFLS is truly exceptional. With faculty moving into new buildings, graduate students joining Clemson, and classes starting, Brandon has gone above and beyond, and we are lucky to have him in CAFLS.” – Anonymous

Kelsey Loftus, Business Analyst, Graduate School

“Kelsey has been invaluable in assisting staff with graduate assistantship input and processing in the new Workday system. Even amid fielding countless questions from across the university, Kelsey has helped us all understand the new system and been a lifeline for staff navigating these changes. We owe Kelsey so much for her expertise and effort!” – College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences (CECAS) Graduate Student Services Staff

Hannah Smith (Fiscal Analyst) and Katherine Dobrenen (Director, IT Budget and Finance)

“While the Workday teams across campus are diligently approving and assigning a flurry of new employees and transfers as they learn the new tool, we want to give a shout-out to some of the heroes in our business office. Hannah Smith and Katherine Dobrenen have patiently answered our questions and helped us move business forward throughout the ERP transition. We are thankful for the tenacity and patience of our business office professionals and the support and confidence they provide. Thank you, Katherine and Hannah!” – Clemson Digital Accessibility Team

ServiceNow Case Teams

“The responsiveness and customer service of those responding to ServiceNow cases has been phenomenal. Their patience and kindness is greatly appreciated!” – Anonymous

The Clemson Home Team

“The Clemson Home team did an exceptional job coordinating another ‘best ever’ move-in and welcome home last month! They know that the #1 student experience starts with a smooth arrival and did everything in their power to ensure that both families and students felt welcomed & cared for!” – Kathy Hobgood, Senior AVP, Student Affairs

Campus Reservations & Events

“Huge KUDOS to the team for all their efforts in ensuring that August graduation ceremonies went off without a hitch! The many MANY logistics, details and needs that were taken care of – while making it all look easy – are beyond impressive. Thank for ensuring a great day for families!” – Kathy Hobgood, Senior AVP, Student Affairs

Charlie Poole, Electrician, University Facilities

“I have worked with Charlie for about 20 years now. He is an outstanding man. Always consistent in his work.” – Vicki Durham, University Facilities

Jeff Haley, Director, Littlejohn Coliseum

“Jeff has been a tremendous partner and contributor to Clemson Commencement success, but he’s also the behind the scenes person who ensures other schools have a wonderful venue for their celebrations as well. In addition to ensuring that Commencement ceremonies are special times of celebration, he also has a huge hand in Ring Ceremony and Convocation traditions too. Jeff deserves our highest praise and appreciation!” – Callie Bunyea, Associate Director of Events

Amber Dees, Director of Residential Living

“Amber was everywhere during move-in helping to solve problems and keep staff morale up. She is an exemplary leader!” – Anonymous

Elizabeth LeCroy, Account/Fiscal Analyst II, Controller’s Office

“Elizabeth provided exceptional training for campus users across the state during the Workday transition. During a chaotic time marked by fiscal year changes and new systems & procedures, Elizabeth remained approachable & available to everyone. Her trainings were user-friendly; she welcomed questions and followed through by circling back to users with specific needs. She has continued to provide timely assistance & support, while showing her colleagues patience and understanding. Thank you!” – Anonymous

Donnie Lloyd, Director, Auxiliary Planning & Support

Forever grateful that you’re always willing to jump in, solve problems, and help get things done—even when the path forward needs a little “concrete” thinking and creativity behind the scenes. Appreciate you greatly. Mission accomplished!” – Brianna Lombardozzi, Director, Housing Operations

Jaquetta Ross, Director, Graduate Student Success, Graduate School

“Jaquetta is extremely helpful, brings a burst a joy to any space, and makes Clemson a better place for grad students, staff, and faculty!” – Anonymous

Alexis Shepard, Training/Onboarding Specialist FIN | Human Resources

“Alexis is a fantastic Workday training session (Finance: Gifts & Endowments) instructor!” – Shelly Geer, Assistant Director, Internal Operations, Athletic Academic Services

McKenzie Betfort, Fiscal Analyst II Payroll Support, Finance & Operations

“McKenzie makes a positive difference. She goes above and beyond to support students and faculty in the SOC Department with kindness, professionalism, and a willingness to help. Her caring attitude and dependability make her someone we can always count on. Thank you, McKenzie, for your dedication and the positive impact you have on the department.” – Anonymous

Anne Grant, AI Literacy/Instruction Coordinator & Humanities Research Librarian, University Libraries

“Anne has assembled a diverse team of faculty, staff, and students to develop and organize resources that advance AI literacy across campus. Her collaborative leadership and ability to distill complex information into clear, practical guidance will help our University better understand the rapidly evolving world of AI and its role in academic settings.” – Kellie Marlatt, Administrative Coordinator

Stephanie Bagwell, Nurse Practitioner, Student Health Services

“Stephanie demonstrates genuine care for her patients and her colleagues. She is always happy to help you learn in an approachable and nonjudgmental way and has a beautiful gift of kindness. Thank you.” – Anonymous

Allysa Sutton, Director of Academic Advising, CBSHS

“Allysa goes above and beyond for her advisors and for the students at Clemson. She is supportive and always ensures that advisors and students are treated with kindness and respect. CBSHS is lucky to have her!” – Autumn Donnelly, Academic Advisor, CBSHS

Shannon Coker (Enrolled Student Services) and Danielle Nesbitt (Records and Registration)

“Thank you both for consistently being so prompt in your responses and always willing to help! Your support is truly appreciated!” – Toni Becker, Graduate Student Services Manager

Gila Holland, Administrative Assistant, Kershaw County Extension Office

“Gila comes in every day ready to tackle anything that comes her way! She is upbeat, kind, and so knowledgeable about a variety of things. She always goes above and beyond for the community, clients and agents! She is a joy to work with!” – Toni Heriot, 4-H Youth Development Agent for Kershaw & Lee County, Kershaw County Coordinator

Matthew Sheldon, Programmer, Marketing and Communications

“Matthew consistently goes out of his way to help with website-related questions and is highly responsive. He is knowledgeable, professional, and genuinely invested in finding solutions. He follows through on the tasks and issues he is responsible for, making him someone we can consistently depend on whenever we need support or run into challenges.” – Nidhi Verma, Business Communications Technology Specialist

Levis Holden (Customer Service Specialist) and Candice Gleason (Accounts Payable Coordinator), Procurement

“You bring your absolute best to every interaction, turning challenges into smiles and building deep trust with your customers. Your patience, empathy, and quick problem-solving don’t just resolve daily issues; they create lifelong advocates for Clemson. Thank you for going the extra mile, listening with genuine care, and representing Clemson with pride.” – Vivian Watson, Director of Training, Development and Retention, Office of Human Resources

Jodi Cox(director of Visits, Events and Orientation), Matthew Boudreaux (Associate of Orientation), Averie Johnson-Walls (Assistant Director of Orientation)

“I want to give a huge shoutout to this incredible team! Thank you for your dedication, energy, and countless hours spent creating a welcoming and memorable experience for every new student and family. Your hard work, teamwork, and commitment have made a lasting impact all summer long. We couldn’t do this without you, and I’m so grateful for everything you’ve poured into Orientation. Thank you for all that you do!” – Norma DeLuna, Assistant Director of The Visitor Center

Extension Statewide County Office Administrative Assistants

“A huge shout-out to our amazing county office admins for stepping up and carrying the team through our transition to Workday. Your patience, flexibility, and commitment have made a complicated change feel manageable. You have answered countless questions, solved problems behind the scenes, kept important details moving, and supported everyone. Even as you learned new processes yourselves, you remained the steady, dependable resource the entire office could count on. This transition would not have gone as smoothly without your hard work, positive attitude, and willingness to help. Thank you!!” – Anonymous

Charlie Poole, Electrician, Maintenance

“Thanks for solving an electrical short in such a timely manner! Charlie was responsive, patient, and thorough in getting our essential equipment running safely in no time.” – Shannon Alford, Lab Director, Agricultural Service Laboratory

Lydia Arneson, Administrative Coordinator, Department of Political Science

“I want to give a heartfelt shout-out to Lydia for everything she’s been doing. With the implementation of Workday, she has taken on the workload of two people and stepped in to help another department keep things moving—all while maintaining a positive attitude. No matter how busy things get, she’s always willing to jump in, solve problems, and support those around her without hesitation. She has helped so many of us across the college, and her willingness to share her knowledge and lend a hand has made a real difference. Thank you, Lydia, for all the long hours, the extra effort, and the care you put into your work. Your contributions do not go unnoticed, and our team is stronger because of you. We are incredibly grateful for everything you do!” – Anonymous

Taylor Purvis, Project Manager I

“Shout out to our Project Manager, Taylor Purvis for his outstanding communication, professionalism, and diligence throughout the Lee Hall water restoration project. His responsiveness, helpfulness, and commitment to keeping everyone informed made a challenging situation much smoother. Thank you for your dedication and for helping restore water service to Lee Hall!” – Cornelia Robinson, Administrative Coordinator, Dean’s Office

The Nook volunteers

“A heartfelt thank you to the incredible volunteers who make The Nook possible. Their time, compassion, and willingness to serve are the reason we’re able to support Clemson employees facing difficult seasons. Whether they are stocking shelves, organizing donations, assisting shoppers, or working behind the scenes, every act of kindness makes a meaningful difference. Thank you for helping create a campus community where people feel cared for, supported, and never alone.” – Tracy Arwood, Chief Ethics & Compliance Officer, University Compliance & Ethics

Alexis Shepard, Training Specialist, Workday Training Team

“Alexis is a rockstar during a very stressful, busy time with the Workday launch! If it weren’t for Alexis, I wouldn’t have been able to lead the training sessions I was assigned this week. She took the time out of her overbooked schedule to discuss the materials and answer any questions before the training. I am very thankful that our paths have crossed! The training team is blessed to have Alexis as part of their team!” – Tara Long, Associate Business Officer, Provost Office

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