Category: Staff Spotlight

Lisa Jackson is the Associate Director of Programs for Educational Enrichment and Retention, PEER. She joined the PEER & WISE team in 2014.

She is a proud alumna of Benedict College, one of the finest HBCUs in South Carolina, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Economics Business Administration. It was there she realized education was the tool she needed to change the world. Therefore, in May 2021, she received her MBA here at Clemson University to be the agent of change for her family, community and country.

She said one of her greatest achievements while in this role occurred in 2017; the program received an award from NAMEPA, Inc., the National Association of Multicultural Engineering Program Advocates. This award recognizes retention programs that have increased the participation of students from historically underrepresented (URM) populations in engineering. This accomplishment allowed PEER & WISE to join other prestigious public engineering research institutions. Subsequently, the morale and participation of engineering students at the university have vastly increased.

“My personal philosophy is to treat others as you want to be treated. Being kind to others costs nothing but can leave every place you travel and every individual you encounter better because of you. When I engage with PEER mentors, I use those moments as opportunities to plant and water seeds of wisdom, kindness, love and compassion. I believe with this mixture, we will make lifetime changes and eventually make this world a beautiful garden, a better place.”

What her co-workers have to say about her:

“Lisa has such a kind spirit, she is always willing to help, and she’s a great leader to students in her care.” -Maegan Hinson

“Mama” Lisa is hard working and loves our children, our Clemson students!” -Serita Acker

“I love to see Ms. Lisa in action! Whether she is working a room or supporting her students, Lisa puts heart into everything she does. She is a tremendous resource to me in stewarding our students and together, we can do anything! I am so thankful to have her as my colleague and friend!” -Beth Anne Johnson

Serita earned her bachelor’s degree from Lander University and a Master of Education in Human Resource and Development from Clemson University. Before becoming the PEER/WISE director in August 2015, Serita Acker was Director of the Women in Science and Engineering program. Additionally, she has more than 25 years of experience in higher education, both in the areas of student support services, mentoring, and diversity programs. She is a certified Global Career Development Facilitator and Life Coach.

Serita Acker sees the PEER/WISE main role as providing student success programs and services that can equip students with the resources they need to excel at Clemson University and achieve their educational goals so that they are prepared for success after graduation.

She has won several State and National Awards: Thomas Green Clemson Award, Woman of Distinction by the Girl Scouts of Mountains to Midlands, the James E. Bostic Diversity and Inclusive Excellence Award in 2017 as a diversity champion at Clemson University, Clemson University Woman of the Year, Martin Luther King Jr. Award, Clemson University Board of Trustees Award, Women in Engineering Pro-Active Network Distinguished Service Award, Career Communications Magazine College Level Promotion of Education Award, National Association of Multicultural Engineering Advocates Award, Upstate Diversity Award, Calder D. Elhmann Outstanding Individual. As well as being featured on the cover of Insight into Diversity.

She also served as MentorLinks Consultant for the American Association of Community Colleges in Washington DC and sits on many state and national boards to help promote STEM. She currently serves as the National Society of Black Engineers Student Chapter campus advisor at Clemson University. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and traveling.

What her co-workers have to say about her:

“She is my BBE – “BEST BOSS EVER”. She leads by example and is a true and loyal advocate for our students.” – Francene Thomas

“She is always looking for ways to help others.” -Lisa Jackson

“Ms. Serita shines bright! When she speaks, her words of encouragement uplift and inspire me to perform my very best! As a leader, she is a fantastic coach that listens and cares deeply. Without a doubt, she brings out the best in our students and our PEER WISE team. I am so honored to have Serita as my own mentor to help guide me and facilitate my success in all future endeavors. Thank you for all you do, Ms. Serita!” – Beth Anne Johnson

Kelsey Campbell is an Undergraduate Intern for PEER & WISE, starting in January 2020.

She is soon to be a proud alumni of Clemson University, as she will graduate in May 2021 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management accompanied by a minor in communications. She has previously worked as a Physical Therapist’s Assistant after receiving her degree from Greenville Technical College in 2018. She plans to return to Clemson University in the Spring of 2022 to pursue her MBA.

A quote she strives to live by is “The distance between your dreams and reality is called DISCIPLINE.”

What her co-workers have to say about her:

“Kelsey is a kind, hardworking woman. She is immensely helpful and a fabulous communicator. When she enters the work force, the world better watch out. She is going to SHINE bright!” – Beth Anne Johnson

“What can I say about Kelsey Campbell? Kelsey has always maintained a positive attitude regardless of what is going on and what needs to be  done and  she is willing to help others whenever needed.  She is truly an asset to the team.” – Lisa Jackson

“Kelsey is a tremendous asset to the team. She does excellent work with our newsletter.   We are so proud of her being a new Clemson grad in May We look forward to her returning as a graduate student!”- Serita Acker

“Kelsey is a gentle spirit and a force to be reckoned with! Her stick-to-itiveness and commitment to service in PEER&WISE and at Clemson University are exemplified by the outcome of the PEER&WISE Newsletter.  Additionally, I appreciate her upbeat “no worries” personality and work ethic. Kelsey, I appreciate you and everything that you do to support the PEER&WISE mission to provide opportunities and experiences in outreach, recruitment, and retention! I am excited that you are a part of our team!” -Karleisha Kakraba

Josh is a graduate Student assistant for PEER & WISE, joining the team in 2020. He is currently pursuing my PhD in Bio Engineering with a BSc. And Msc. in mechanical engineering from Purdue University and Carnegie Mellon university, respectively.

“Joining the PEER & WISE family has been an amazing part of my academic journey here at Clemson, where I have been able to witness students mature and become the best versions of themselves ready to be integrated into the society. It has been a pleasurable experience thus far and I have learnt a lot from PEER &WISE.”

What his co-workers have to say about him:

“Josh is a jack of all trades!  He is a very important part of the team.” – Serita Acker

“Josh is a wealth of knowledge and a joyful team member. He always has an interesting perspective or insight to share.” – Beth Anne Johnson

Brittany Fatima Sanders is a Graduate Assistant for PEER & WISE, starting January 2021. She held various positions within PEER & WISE since 2014, including Undergraduate Mentee, WISER Resident, Undergraduate Mentor, and Newsletter Committee Chair. As a graduate assistant, Brittany collects, organizes, and interprets data relating to creating inclusive and supportive learning environments for underrepresented student populations at Clemson University.

She is a proud alumna of Clemson University, where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in industrial engineering accompanied by a minor in mathematical sciences in December 2020. Currently, Brittany is pursuing a Master of Science degree in industrial engineering with a concentration in operations research (OR). Her research interests focus on understanding and addressing widened racial and socioeconomic inequities in academia through OR models and optimization.

“I value my work with PEER & WISE because there is nothing more I want than to make my ancestors’ unimaginable dreams a reality for my daughter. I never want her to doubt her worth because of how she looks or struggle academically because of financial limitations. When I look at her, I see more than the color of her skin and her gender; I see my mom, dad, grandparents, and all the bright-eyed little girls in the world.”

A passionate believer in building strong family bonds, Brittany is happily married to her life partner, Derek. They share a three-year-old daughter, Lincoln.

What her co-workers have to say about her:

“Brittany is a grade A super star! She is attentive to details and always has sound, solid advice. I particularly love her grounded and calming spirit.” – Beth Anne Johnson

“Brittany, is a wealth of knowledge and expertise.  Brittany is always looking for ways to make sure everyone succeeds in whatever endeavors.  She is a young lady with many talents. Brittany is truly and gem and Blessing to our team.  And may I add the best bargain finder and shopper there is. She loves to shop just as much as I do, yeah that part (shopping till you drop).” – Lisa Jackson

“Brittany is such as sweet soul. She has played a tremendous part in my success here at PEER&WISE and I would not have been able to make it without her! She is always willing to help no matter who it is, and I admire that about her.” -Kelsey Campbell

Jonathan Figueroa is a Graduate Student Assistant for PEER & WISE, joining the team in 2020.

He is a proud, fellow tiger, earning his Bachelors of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Clemson University. Currently, he is pursuing his Masters of Science in Mechanical Engineering. One of Jonathan’s biggest accomplishments was becoming a First Generation high school and college graduate.

“To start a new legacy and build a new foundation for my family is something I could have never dreamed of. I would not be where I am today without all the amazing people that helped me along the way. That is why I chose to join the PEER & WISE family. I want to be a bridge builder for the next generation of students, to help and guide them with open arms as what was done for me.”

Favorite Quote:
“Don’t give up… don’t ever give up”
– Jim Valvano

What his co-workers have to say about him:

“Jonathan has such a great attitude and is always willing to help! He is a great asset to the PEER & WISE family.” – Maegan Hinson

“FIG! Jonathan is an immense JOY to work with! He’s got a great energy and is so supportive of our team and students.” – Beth Anne Johnson

“Jonathan is a great team player who is always willing to help where ever he can and loves PEER.” – Lisa Jackson

“Jonathan is an asset to our team. He is such an amicable, approachable person. He works hard supporting our students and the PEERWISE program.” – Francene Thomas

“I met Jonathan during his final year as an undergrad when I would see him studying or working in the PEER&WISE Main Office. Now, as a fellow grad student colleague, I appreciate Jonathan’s optimism, calm spirit, and dedication as a teammate. He is pro-active and a joy to collaborate with on projects, especially PEER&WISE Tutoring. Lastly, our Executive Director, Serita Acker, affords her professional staff and grad students alike lots of room to “grow and glow” in PEER&WISE and beyond. With this opportunity to exceed and excel, Jonathan exemplifies his creativity, forward-thinking, and “Can Do Spirit” as reflected in his assigned projects and students that he teaches.” – Karleisha Kakraba

Jodi Redlinger earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Clemson University. She began working with PEER & WISE in 2013. She is responsible for handling the accounting for PEER and WISE’s state and foundation accounts.

In her free time Jodi enjoys reading, watching Clemson sporting events, and volunteering with the Oconee Humane Society.

What her co-workers have to say about her:

“Jodi is knowledgeable and friendly and a special part of PEER and WISE. We love having her on our team.” – Serita Acker

“Where would we be without Jodi? Jodi is a thoughtful and hard working colleague. She has a serving heart that not only helps our team but also assists local animal shelters. I love hearing about her fur baby and other adventures. Thanks for all you do, Jodi!” – Beth Anne Johnson

“I lean heavily on Jodi’s financial expertise and have learned so much from her. She is a great resource; always pleasant and approachable. So glad to have her on our team.” – Francene Thomas

Maegan Hinson earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering and her Master of Arts in Teaching in mathematics from Clemson University.

Prior to her work with PEER & WISE, Maegan worked in the public school system teaching math and science for middle and high school students.

As the outreach coordinator, she works to plan and promote programs such as SEE Clemson and STEM day.

Her goal is to show prospective students the value of a degree from Clemson University in the STEM fields.

What her co-workers have to say about her:

“Maegan is a great team player who always works with a smile on her face and loves to laugh.” – Lisa Jackson

“Meagan is a great and a wonderful addition to our team. As a former school teacher and engineer she brings a wealth of knowledge to PEER and WISE. She is always positive, genuine and friendly to all! She is a strong influencer in filling the STEM pipeline.” -Serita Acker

“Maegan is the sweetest soul. She is both kind and thoughtful! This summer she helped throw a virtual baby shower for Baby Johnson: dropping off cake and goodies. She then created fun virtual games for the team and I to celebrate this joyous chapter. Her thoughtful gesture brought a sense of normal in a time of social distancing and for that, I will be forever grateful.” -Beth Anne Johnson

“Maegan has an easy-going disposition. She is such a pleasure to work with and an asset to our Team. She handles all our Outreach events so smoothly and efficiently.” -Francene Thomas

“I have had the privilege of working in PEER & WISE since 2014, currently as the Administrative Coordinator. I enjoy involvement in our student support and outreach programs. It’s such a joy to work with an amazing team, producing high quality programs that promote student success.”

What her co-workers have to say about her:

“Mrs. Fran is fun to work with! She keeps everything light-hearted and is always there to offer a smile. I’m thankful she is part of the PEER & WISE family.” -Maegan Hinson

“Fran is wonderful and funny! Fran has love for our students and the PEER and WISE program. She is very detailed oriented and it’s a skill that helps our office run efficiently. She is always suggesting new ideas to make sure every student gets a chance to preview our offerings.” -Serita Acker

“Mrs. Fran is simply delightful! She has a sweet, adventurous spirit that cares deeply. She asks thoughtful and engaging questions to really get to know students and staff alike. We are so fortunate to have the kindness, advocacy and support of such a phenomenal woman!” -Beth Anne Johnson