Tag: faculty

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

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

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

Levi Roach, Outreach and Operations Manager

“Levi is a consistently positive and dedicated member of our team. He oversees the Fluor Study Hall and Tutoring Center, providing academic support to all undergraduate students in the college. He also leads community outreach efforts that bring K–12 students to campus, exposing them to STEM disciplines and Clemson University. While managing a full-time role, Levi recently completed his master’s degree and actively serves in Staff Senate. His leadership, commitment to student success, and service to the university make him highly deserving of this nomination.” – Serita Acker, Executive Director

Brittany Sanders-Bell, Assistant Director of Next Engineers Greenville

“Brittany Sanders-Bell is a true standout and an invaluable leader on our team, deserving of this shout-out. She plays a key role in supporting a $5 million grant awarded to PEER & WISE to strengthen the engineering pipeline. Brittany helps oversee outreach to middle and high school students and the community, as well as an exceptional academy program that has successfully recruited many students to Clemson University with scholarships. Her leadership, dedication, and impact make her highly deserving this shout-out.” – Serita Acker, Executive Director

Department of Residential Living

“Thank you for showing up in such a big way during the recent inclement weather and supporting Housing Operations and the Area Desk. Your flexibility and willingness to jump in wherever needed made a real difference for staff and our students. Because of your teamwork, our operations continued to run smoothly and residential students were supported – which is what your department does best! We are so grateful for your partnership and behind-the-scenes hard work—ResLiving truly came through, and we couldn’t have done it without you!” – Brianna Lombardozzi, Director, Housing Operations

Leah Qualkinbush, Human Resources Service Manager

“We appreciate Leah so very much for her ongoing assistance! Whether it is a quick administrative need or a longer-term thought process or research project, she is a great partner in our work to support both staff and students!” – Kathy Bush Hobgood, Associate Vice President, Student Affairs

Daja Daniels, Recruitment and Career Specialist

“Shout-out to Daja Daniels for always going above and beyond in every area. She does a wonderful job and organizing open houses for the college, advising her student ambassadors, and ensuring every prospective student visit is coupled with an advisor or faculty member of the major. She also does an exemplary job in her position of Building Security Coordinator. Daja spreads joy and laughter everywhere she goes.” – Anonymous

Emily Goodyear, Administrative Coordinator to the Dean, College of Arts and Humanities

“Thank you for all of the help with room reservations! You are awesome!” – Stacey Marcus, Program Manager, Student Success Initiatives

HR Document Editors and Authors

“I’m offering an enthusiastic shout-out to this tenacious group of document authors in the Office of Human Resources. Kudos to the following individuals for learning and applying digital accessibility best practices to the resources that support every Clemson University employee: Anna Cobranchi, Latoya Daniels, Sharon Frye, Lisa Holland, Jennifer Lannom, Katie Papakostas, Leah Qualkinbush, Jennifer Ray, Katie Smithson, Kristy Snider, Sydney Waugh and Robyn Williams.” – Walker Massey, Digital Accessibility Specialist, CCIT

Academic Success Center Staff

“Shout out to the Academic Success Center staff: Brittany Goodson, Amber Eckersley and Joe Wilson. Thanks for hosting me for a conversation on document accessibility. Your investment in learning to provide accessible files to students is just another step toward students strengthening skills, building confidence and resourcefulness and learning how to learn. Thank you for prioritizing digital accessibility in the learning resources you provide to Clemson students.” – Walker Massey, Digital Accessibility Specialist, CCIT

Ladell Watson, Coordinator for Advising and Coaching, Fraternity and Sorority Life

“A big shout out to Ladell Watson, the NPHC Exec Board, and the NPHC organizations at Clemson for a successful Fall Fest Step Show as part of Homecoming. It was a great show and students, families, and alumni had an amazing time.” – Trish Robinson, Interim Director, Fraternity and Sorority Life

Tara Wood and Nick Richbell, Instruction and Outreach Archivist (Tara), Head of Special Collections and Archives (Nick)

“The University Libraries recently hosted a Special Collections and Archives – Behind the Scenes Tour, offering the opportunity to view a diverse collection of historical objects and documents from Clemson University’s history. Tara and Nick guided our small group through the exhibit, showcasing their extensive knowledge of Clemson University and its artifacts. We left with new information and found the tour to be very engaging and fun. Thank you, Tara and Nick!” – Morgan Pew, HR Service Manager 

Sarah Edison, Associate Director, Brooks Center for the Performing Arts

“Sarah’s commitment to the Brooks Center and staff is evident by her strong work ethic and compassion for others. She is always the first to offer help when needed.” – Anonymous

Nalinee Patin, IRB Manager

“Nalinee goes above and beyond to help everyone with their research compliance needs. She is such a pleasure to work with, and I’m proud to call her my friend and colleague.” – Anonymous

Emilee Mayo, HR Service Manager

“A huge shout-out to our amazing HR Service Manager, Emilee, for her incredible dedication and efficiency! Her proactive approach and commitment to excellence keep our departments running smoothly and make a real difference every day.” – Anonymous

Toni Shaw, Executive Assistant to AVP for Enrollment Management

“Toni’s kindness, professionalism, and dedication stand out every day. Since my first day at Clemson, she has gone above and beyond to support those around her and ensure everything runs seamlessly. She truly embodies what it means to be an outstanding colleague.” – Teodor Giusca, Data Manager, Enrollment Management

Derek Antos, IT Consultant, Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business

“Derek is an incredible Clemson employee and is always ready to help. He goes above and beyond the call of duty regularly and even he helped our Real Estate Club remotely at 7 p.m.!” – Elaine Worzala, Clinical Professor

Clemson Department of Plant Industry, Nursery Inspection Team (Alayna Vasilakis, Ashley Vaughan, Gus Elmore, Jimmy Lisenby, Kerrie Roach, and Michael Franks)

“The Nursery Program team took our mission of “Inspect to Protect” to a whole new level with more inspections, surveys, export certifications, and invasive species detections than ever before.” – Theodore Zee, Nursery Operations Coordinator, Department of Plant Industry

CBSHS Grant Administrators team (Daniel Thrift, Ellen Saltzman, Elizabeth Hays, Jennifer Kelly)

“Thanks to our amazing team for taking care of our CBSHS faculty during my vacation. They’re a capable, professional, and hard working group. You’re the best!” – Loria Cass, CBSHS Pre Award Office Manager, Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP)

Joy Patton, Employee Relations Director 

“Shout-out to Joy Patton! A big thank you to Joy Patton for the outstanding support she provided during a challenging employee relations case. Joy approached the situation with professionalism, kindness, and a deep understanding of the issues at hand. Her thoughtful guidance helped the manager navigate a difficult situation with clarity and confidence. We’re grateful for your expertise and steady presence—well done, Joy!” – Anonymous

Beth Schneider, Development Communications Coordinator 

“Beth is truly ALWAYS there to help with any information needed about special events, and she does a phenomenal job at coordinating so many written and spoken pieces for these events. She is always happy to answer questions, always a positive teammate, and always ready to help however she can. Clemson is lucky to have Beth, and I am incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to work with such a rockstar of a person.” – Porscha Elton, Executive Director, Presidential Communications

Susan Keck, Fiscal Analyst CAFLS Academic Affairs

“We are incredibly grateful for the dedication and expertise Susan brings as our accountant every day. Her integrity, and tireless attention to detail keeps everything running smoothly behind the scenes. Whether it’s analyzing reports, or answering last-minute questions, her consistency and professionalism never go unnoticed. Thank you for being the steady hand we can always ‘count’ on—your work truly makes a difference.” – Anonymous

Katherine Mulholland, Executive Director, SC Coalition for Mathematics & Science

“Congrats on a successful first year!” – Tom Peters, Senior Advisor, SC Coalition for Mathematics & Science

Anthony Harvey, Housing/Residence Facilities and Maintenance, Clemson Home

“Anthony is always eager to adjust housing facilities to accommodate our students with disabilities. He problem-solves and comes up with creative solutions and it is clear that he wants students to have the best residential experience possible!” – Margaret Camp, Director, Student Accessibility Services