Tag: Office of Teaching Effectiveness and Innovation

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

Vickie Byko, Administrative Assistant, Forestry and Environmental Conservation

“Always helpful and cheerful with a big smile on her face. She always has an answer or finds a way to help you and she loves to organize, all types of organizing — files are her thing.” – Anonymous

Shannon Stefl, Associate Director of Educational Development, Office of Teaching Effectiveness and Innovation

“Shannon’s unwavering support, thoughtful guidance, and commitment to both faculty and graduate students support have made a lasting impact on my academic and personal development. She consistently goes above and beyond, whether by offering timely advice, intentionally creating inclusive opportunities, or simply being a dependable presence. Her leadership fosters confidence and encourages independent thinking, making her a true role model. I’m deeply grateful for her mentorship over the last four years and her continued support as I transition in my staff role. She deserves to be recognized and celebrated across the university for her dedication and positive influence.” – Sarah Otterbeck, Teaching Consultant, Office of Teaching Effectiveness and Innovation

Joy Boatwright, HR Service Manager 

“A huge thank you to Joy for the incredible work she did behind the scenes with the HR hiring processes. Her organization, attention to detail, and steady support help kept everything moving smoothly. Now retired, Joy’s efforts made a big difference for our team. We appreciate you, Joy!” – The Asian Longhorned Beetle Eradication Program

Clemson Online Office (John Dickinson, Millie Tullis, Gray Jackson, Sharyn Emery, David Bassett)

“I find all these people who work in the Clemson Online office very helpful in solving my Canvas issues and answering questions. Great to work with. Very responsive. Thanks for all your assistance.” – Anonymous

Michelle Pickens, CAFLS Business Office Accountant for former PSA Departments

“Thank you for your positive attitude, willingness to take on additional work, great work ethic, strong sense of duty and friendly personality!” – Anonymous

Chris Minor, Dean’s Distinguished Principal Lecturer, Department of Biological Sciences

“Chris has led a two year process to improve the textbook offerings for introductory biology students. Crucially, she obtained grant funding for the 9 faculty affected by this change to work together for a week this summer on course development to integrate the new materials. It was extremely helpful!” – Anonymous

Courtney Dukes, ClemsonLIFE Instructor

“Courtney is an outstanding teacher who always goes above and beyond for her students. As the incoming freshmen teacher she sets the foundation for the success that the students find in ClemsonLIFE. She is an asset to the program; she does it all with a smile on her face and joyful laughter.” – Anonymous

The Office of Teaching Effectiveness & Innovation Team

“What a pleasure to host the exceptional staff from the Office of Teaching Effectiveness and Innovation (OTEI). Miguel requested professional development training in document accessibility, and it was an honor to deliver. This talented team was attentive and engaged throughout this workshop on digital accessibility for Microsoft Word, and I look forward to our next session on PowerPoint accessibility. Shout-out to Taimi A Olsen, Miguel Montoro, Claire Dancz, Shannon Stefl, Sarah Otterbeck, Becky Tugman, and Janet Arnold – thank you for making document accessibility a priority for Clemson students and faculty!” – Walker Massey, Digital Accessibility Specialist, CCIT Internal Operations

Dwayne Skelnik, Landscape Services 

“Thanks for planting the pretty daffodils around West Campus. They brighten my day.” – Anonymous