Tag: Libraries

Taryn Turner, Academic Advisor, College of Arts and Humanities

“Taryn is a ray of sunshine, extending light and joy to the people around her. She’ll lift anyone’s spirits, and I’ve seen it through her interactions with both students and colleagues. She’s the queen of scones, and I can speak for our team in saying that she’s an incredible team player. I look forward to seeing her growth within her role and the impact she’s having on students and their journey on campus.” – Anonymous

OTEI Team

“Wow – the OTEI team put together an exceptional Teaching Excellence Conference! I was invited to co-host a poster session and was delighted to participate in large group sessions, roundtable discussions, and breakout talks as well. The team curated contemplative presentation topics and assembled a spectacular panel of students to answer audience questions on students’ use of AI. Thank you for the hard work in organizing this outstanding event. I hope to be invited to the poster/networking session again next year.” – Walker Massey, Digital Accessibility Specialist, CCIT

Lee Tessnear, Director, Learning Environments, University Libraries

“Lee went above and beyond to help reorganize our office space by relocating and repurposing a large piece of furniture. This might sound insignificant, but his effort allowed us to better maximize our available space, create a more functional environment that supports our team’s work supporting research at the university, and also enhance space for students to use for study.” – Anonymous

Tanisha Alexander, Senior Program Coordinator, UPIC

“Shout-out to Tanisha Alexander in the Center for Career and Professional Development! Tanisha is the definition of dedicated, reliable, and efficient—she truly keeps our office running smoothly. With her can-do attitude, attention to detail, and consistent follow-through, she makes sure our UPIC interns have the information and support they need to be successful from day one. We appreciate you, Tanisha!” – Caren Kelley-Hall, Senior Associate Director, UPIC

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

Ellie Cahill, Coordinator for Advising and Coaching, Fraternity and Sorority Life

“Ellie and the student leaders of Clemson Panhellenic planned and executed a record breaking recruitment that welcomed 1,626 students into sorority life!” – Trish Robinson, Interim Director, Fraternity and Sorority Life

Christie Johnson, eResources and Serials Specialist, Clemson University Libraries

“Huge THANK YOU to Christie for helping me out on a recent project. It’s great to have amazing teammates across campus!” – Jenni Tonkin, Marketing/Communications Mgr., Procurement and Business Services

Marketing and Communications Graphics Designers

“We love it when professionals seek out accessibility training! Big thanks to Jesse Godfrey for teaming with Clemson’s Digital Accessibility team to provide a 9-hour InDesign accessibility workshop series for Clemson’s Graphic Designers. I had a blast teaching this creative, collaborative group. Well done and shout out to Daniel Austin, Bea Bates, Christen Couch, Tim Crain, Baker Gallimore, Jesse Godfrey, Logan Hickey, Kasi Hubbard, Jen Jefferson, Tina LeMay, Pete Martin, Grayson Miller, Christine Prado, Katie Smithson, Tara Stone, Matt Swank, Chris Waldrop, Liz White, and Ben Wyland.” – Walker Massey
Digital Accessibility Specialist, CCIT Internal Operations

Teresa Sharpe, Office Manager, Dept. of Psychology

“Teresa goes above and beyond in her role and offers outstanding customer service to faculty, staff and students. She is incredibly responsive and has a wealth of knowledge. She is delightful to work with and will always get things done both efficiently and effectively. Her work ethic is second to none! She is greatly appreciated!” – Anonymous

Coleman Scroggs, Farm Manager, Piedmont REC

“Coleman is doing a great job, and deserves a huge shout out! He is passionately managing the Restoration Agriculture Farm in the historic bottoms. He pours his heart into improving the land, water and ecosystem habit through tending to the trees in the agroforestry demonstration to growing the most beautiful sunflowers, right off perimeter for all to enjoy!” – Anonymous

Walker Massey, IT Accessibility Specialist, CCIT Internal Operations

“Walker Massey is a fantastic addition to Clemson! Her trainings on digital accessibility are fantastic and very approachable. I love her style!” – Anonymous

Anna Davis (Info Sys. Business Analyst I, Records/Registration), Reagan Blondeau (Student Services Manager II, Records/Registration) and Debbie Race (Asst. Registrar for Scheduling, Records/Registration)

“A big shoutout to Anna Davis, Reagan Blondeau and Debbie Race for their dedication, patience and expertise with registration processes. Their commitment to excellence and willingness to assist (with all complicated Banner questions) has had a significant impact not just in my work, but also on the shared goal of advancing student success. We all benefit so much from your incredible knowledge, thank you for all you do!” – Anonymous

Helena Gaines, Human Resources Payroll Liaison, University Libraries

“Big thanks to Helena with all the work she does to help the University Libraries! Her wisdom, wit, kindness, and understanding make her an incredible colleague, especially when working through various issues and challenges.” – Anonymous

Ashley Childers (Principle Business Intelligence Analyst), Jacob Goodale (Business Intelligence Analyst)

“Ashley and Jacob revamped the dashboard for our professional development work and made it so much more functional. Not only did they do great work, but they were so easy to work with, even on something that was messy and complicated. I cannot say enough about the quality of their work and they’re also fun!” – Jenny Presgraves, Director of Professional Development and Well-being for the Graduate School

Matt Howle, Invasive Species Program Manager, Department of Plant Industry

“Matt has done a great job building and guiding staff in his program as well as working with other groups with in Clemson and nationally. He has grown to become a wonderful supervisor. He is full of creative ideas, open to improvements, and adapts to the needs of his team. A true leader.” – Anonymous

Shannon Coker, Student Services Program Coordinator II, Records/Registration

“A shout out to Shannon Coker! You always go above and beyond in everything you do. Thank you for putting in the extra effort—it makes all the difference.” – Jen Charette, Administrative Assistant, Graduate Dean’s Office

Danielle Nesbitt, Student Services Program Coordinator II, Records/Registration

“I just wanted to thank you. Your hard work did not go unnoticed!” – Jen Charette, Administrative Assistant, Graduate Dean’s Office

Cindy Jefferson, Account Fiscal Analyst III, Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business

“A thank you for being a great mentor, trainer, and advisor that has the answers or knows where to find them.” – Anonymous

Marvin Morris, Surplus Warehouse Specialist, Procurement and Business Services

“Demonstrated outstanding customer service by stepping in when a delivery driver was unable to locate the correct drop-off point for three pallets of concert equipment, preventing the shipment from being returned. His quick action—coordinating with University leadership and arranging for delivery to the event field—helped avoid delays and meet our deadlines, and we’re truly grateful for his initiative and support.” – Keith Martin, Director of Support Services, University Facilities

Kelsey Wylie, Exec Assistant to Senior Associate Provost- Academic Affairs/Faculty Affairs

“Kelsey keeps a complex set of “trains” running on time and headed in the right directions! We’re grateful for your service-oriented approach and pleasant professional demeanor!” – Anonymous

Dani Brewer, Faculty Systems Coordinator, Office of the Provost
“Dani is always willing to pitch-in, even when (perhaps especially when) it requires learning new things. We’re grateful to have a talented team and Dani adds much with her talent and commitment!” – Anonymous

Jessica Serrao, Metadata Librarian for Digital Collections
“Jessica plays a crucial role in our Metadata Services unit by creating descriptive metadata for digital collections and managing workflows and partnerships across departments. She mentors early career faculty, is always ready to help, and is a kind-hearted and inspiring colleague.” Tomeka Jackson, Resident Librarian , Collections and Discovery 

Dave Sargent, Counselor and Director of IT, Center for Career and Professional Development
“A huge thank you to Dave Sargent! For seven years, Dave has been a steadfast supporter of our JCPenney Suit-Up events and Career Clothes Closet. He generously gives up his Sunday afternoons to ensure our technology runs smoothly and even helps transport clothing—whether by golf cart or truck. His dedication, long hours, and ever-positive attitude make a lasting impact. We appreciate you, Dave—thank you for always coming through for us!” – Caren Kelley-Hall, Senior Associate Director – UPIC/Clemson Career Clothes Closet

Ryan Real and Colby Lanham, Institutional and Operational Communications
“This (and every) issue of OURClemson is digitally accessible thanks to the calculated work of Ryan Real and Colby Lanham. They intentionally use high-contrast colors, descriptive link text, and accessible structure elements like headings and bulleted lists, and they check (and double-check!) image alternative text on photos. Ryan & Colby, the Digital Accessibility team at Clemson appreciates your commitment to providing internal news that everyone can access.” – Walker Massey, Digital Accessibility Specialist, CCIT Internal Operations

Sherri Rowland, University Controller

“Sherri was so helpful with an issue – she was quick and direct in getting me the answer I needed to solve my problem. I really appreciate her willingness to ensure that assistance was provided!” – Anonymous

Jen Jones, Metadata Specialist, Clemson Libraries

“Jen is an amazing co-worker who helps our Metadata Services Team stay updated on the latest AI tools we can integrate into our workflows. Jen is also pursuing a PhD in Digital History and regularly shares new insights with the team. Additionally, she is the creative force behind our library’s Halloween Pumpkin Contests, where we won in two categories!” – Tomeka Jackson, Library Resident

Cassie Gregory, Lab Tech, Bioengineering

“Cassie goes above and beyond every day for the department. If anyone needs help, she is the first one to say yes. We had five events on November 1st and without her, I would have never been able to get it all done. She is the true definition of what Teamwork is. We have worked together for 16 years. She is a pillar in the department, and we are all very blessed to have her.” – Leigh Humphries,Executive Assistant to the Department Chair/Office

Latasha Chappell, Early Childhood and Elementary Placement Coordinator

“Latasha consistently goes above and beyond to support early childhood students in their field placements. She actively problem-solves, offers guidance, and responds promptly to their needs.” – Koti Hubbard, Lecturer of Early Childhood Education

Want to shout-out a colleague for their great work? Fill out our short nomination form and visit previous editions!

Katie Smithson, Director of Communications, HR and Payroll 

“The Digital Accessibility team is excited to shout out another talented advocate for document accessibility – Katie Smithson! Katie worked quickly and thoroughly to apply new knowledge about WCAG 2.1 standards to Clemson’s New Employee Handbook. Thank you, Katie, for advocating for accessibility and ensuring every new Clemson employee can access these helpful resources and information. I’m excited to continue working with you as you create documents from which all employees will benefit.” – Walker Massey, Digital Accessibility Specialist, CCIT Internal Operations

Wayne Orego, Web Developer for CAFLS, Marketing & Communications

“Wayne has worked on numerous projects for CAFLS Academic Affairs, including a complete overhaul of the CAFLS Advantage websites last summer and now an extensive project reviewing and updating all Academic Affairs webpages. Wayne’s attention to detail, patience, and promptness make him an excellent co-worker! I am so appreciative of all his work to help us.” – Lillian Essaf, Administrative Coordinator, CAFLS Academic Affairs

Nick Baldwin, Library Specialist, Clemson Libraries

“He is always willing to lend a helping hand and always learning. He has done a great job with getting more students involved with the Data Viz Lab in Cooper Library!” – Anonymous

Want to shout-out a colleague for their great work? Fill out our short nomination form and visit previous editions!

Teri Alexander, Director, Learning Environments, Libraries

“Teri works 24-7 to ensure that students, faculty and library staff enjoy a safe, secure library. If there is an emergency, say, a broken water pipe, Teri is Johnny-on-the-spot with help to handle it. Also, she is a true team player and promotes camaraderie among library staff.”  – Anonymous 

Elizabeth Milam, Director of the Office of Student Financial Aid | Jennifer Williams, Associate Director of the Office of Student Financial Aid

“Congratulations to Elizabeth Milam and Jennifer Williams on their recent designation as a nationally recognized Certified Financial Aid Administrator®. This certification is a prestigious accomplishment highlighting their extensive knowledge in their profession, and we are honored to celebrate their dedication and support of students throughout the financial aid process. During a turbulent year with the rollout of FAFSA Simplification, we could not be more grateful to have the expertise of both Elizabeth and Jennifer.” – Division of Enrollment Management

John Kozlowski, Administrative Project Manager, Procurement and Business Services

“John knocked it out of the park while assiting us in reviewing and revising the approval workflow in BuyWays. We gave him an outline of how we would like it to work and he made it happen! We now have a working template to request any future updates as needed.” – Anonymous

Want to shout-out a colleague for their great work? Fill out our short nomination form!

Weston Link, Building Manager for Biological Sciences (Jordan Hall)

“Weston always goes above and beyond to help and assist others whenever or wherever he is needed. He has done an excellent job since joining the BioSci team!” – Anonymous

Jessica Kohout-Tailor, Interim Learning Commons Director, University Libraries

“Dr. Jessica Kohout-Tailor cares deeply about the students at Clemson and works hard to ensure that the newly developing Learning Commons at Cooper Library does all that it can to become a hub for student growth and development. The events and collaborations taking place within the Learning Commons are shaping how students perceive the connections between various campus support services.” – Anonymous

Dr. Charles Privette III, Department Chair & Professor, Agricultural Sciences

“Dr. Privette is an EXCELLENT chair and a visionary leader, we love how he leads our department. He is very kind and collegial. We appreciate you, Dr. Privette!” – Anonymous