Tag: Alumni Spotlight

By: Beth Anne Johnson

For Scout Hamrick, a Biomedical Engineering graduate from Georgetown, South Carolina, Clemson was more than a university—it was the place where her path to a career in medicine took shape. A spring 2025 grad, Scout will begin medical school at the Medical University of South Carolina in fall 2026.

“I came in as a first-year student a little unsure of what college life would bring,” Scout admits. “But through the PEER WISE mentorship program, I really found my way. I learned how to plug into my resources.”

That early support lit a spark that carried her through her time at Clemson. By her junior year—technically her last—Scout was giving back as a PEER WISE tutor, helping other students navigate not just tough coursework but the ups and downs of college life. “As a tutor, I realized that helping people goes way beyond class material,” she says. “Sometimes the struggles are about balance, confidence, or believing in yourself outside the classroom. That experience helped shape the kind of doctor I want to be.”

Now working as a medical scribe during her gap year, Scout is preparing to start medical school, where she hopes to specialize in orthopedic surgery. “I love working with my hands and solving puzzles,” she says. “Surgery excites me—it’s detailed, precise, and deeply rewarding.”

Her time at Clemson gave her more than a foundation in biology, chemistry, and psychology. From bioengineering capstone projects to the BEACH Summer Program at MUSC, she discovered how theory meets practice—and how passion turns into purpose. “That summer program confirmed where I wanted to be for medical school,” she says. “It helped me see that I was right where I needed to be.”

Her advice to current students? “Keep your head down and power through toward your goals. Don’t compare your path to anyone else’s. Everyone’s journey looks different, and that’s okay. Just do your best—and remember, med school applications look at who you are as a whole person, not just your grades.”

With heart, grit, and a steady belief in herself, Scout is proof that finding your way often begins with showing up, working hard, and caring deeply.

By: Beth Anne Johnson

For Brad Buncomb, Industrial Engineering Class of 2017, Clemson has always felt like home. Growing up in North Augusta, South Carolina, Brad spent countless weekends attending Clemson games with his family. But it wasn’t until a spring visit for SEE Clemson—a campus tour and mentorship day—that he felt the true pull of the Clemson Family.

“I remember Mrs. Sue being there,” Brad recalls with a smile. “Everyone was so warm and welcoming. It really helped me feel like I belonged.”
Sue Lasser served as PEER & WISE Executive Director for many years and mentored Serita Acker, who later followed in her footsteps as Executive Director. That legacy of mentorship and community became a cornerstone of Brad’s Clemson Experience.

Brad joined the Math Excellence Workshop—now the PEER WISE Experience (PWE)—where he found both friendship and focus. “There were only about 12 of us, and we became really close,” he says. “That experience helped me come out of my shell, manage my time, and learn how to use the many resources Clemson offered.”

Through his years in PEER & WISE, Brad built habits that continue to serve him in his career. Now an Operations Strategy Manager at Home Depot, he works on implementing new technology in stores and improving operational processes. “If I can make something better, I want to,” he says. “What excites me most is seeing the impact—not just on the business, but on people’s everyday experiences.”

Outside of work, Brad finds joy in sports, family, and maintaining the friendships that shaped his Clemson journey. “There’s always more work to do,” he reflects, “but it’s important to set boundaries and prioritize what matters—family, friends, and community.” Brad also gives back through Emerging 100, a mentoring and leadership organization in the greater Atlanta area.

His advice to current students? “Stay connected. Keep your network strong. That Clemson Family lasts well beyond graduation.”

By: Beth Anne Johnson

When Chemical Engineering alumna Kenetra Johnson (‘21) packed her bags for New York City, she carried more than her Clemson degree. She brought with her the encouragement, resilience, and sense of community she found at PEER & WISE. Today, as she celebrates four years in the city that never sleeps, Kenetra reflects on the moments that shaped her—and the risks that paid off.

A Starting Point in Community
Kenetra first learned about PEER & WISE through her sister, a 2012 graduate in Industrial Engineering. “She told me about PEER & WISE, and I just started hanging out in the office. I studied there, and eventually, Mrs. Lisa encouraged me to share my story. I would attend tutoring, volunteer at events, and really found a community.”

Those early days gave her the confidence to lean into both her academic and personal interests. “I even worked with Girl UP Greenville, combining my love of cosmetics with hands-on experiments, like making lip scrubs and learning what consumers really look for.”

Defining Moments at Clemson
Like many students, exam weeks tested her stamina—but PEER & WISE became her anchor. “I would go there for the pep talks, the reminders that I could do this,” she says. “The tutors met you exactly where you were. There was no judgment, no shame—just people who wanted to see you succeed.”

One pivotal conversation came when she confided in Mrs. Lisa about her dream of working in cosmetics. At the time, she had a job offer in another industry. “She told me to believe in myself. To go introduce myself to recruiters. To go seek and do. That changed everything for me.”

Gratitude in Action
Looking back, Kenetra is most proud of how PEER & WISE inspired her to give back. “It really cultivated gratitude into practice,” she reflects. “It’s that network that helps you rise.” She also wants students to remember that Clemson is filled with resources: “There is a service for YOU, no matter what you’re trying to achieve. You just have to take advantage of it.”

Building Skills for a Career
The skills Kenetra honed at PEER & WISE now shape her career as a Technical Process Manager in product development. “It built my work ethic, my public speaking, and my networking,” she says. Today, she helps launch new products, delving deep into formulas, ingredients, and the processes that transform an idea into something customers can hold in their hands. “Reading the reviews on products I helped develop is one of the best feelings.”

Joy in the Everyday
In a fast-paced city, Kenetra makes room for what matters most. “Rest is essential,” she says. “I connect with my body, I exercise, I cook. Cooking is creative for me—it’s mindful and it feels like home.”

Her mom’s advice continues to guide her: take risks on yourself. “Do it even with doubt,” Kenetra says. “Keep putting yourself out there. You are always worth betting on.”

From Hollywood, South Carolina, to the heart of New York City, Kenetra Johnson continues to prove just that.

By: Beth Anne Johnson

With her parents, Travis and Derreka Thomas, and little sister Carmen proudly by her side, Jynaia Thomas stood on stage to receive the Jacquelwyn Willis Anthony Award at this year’s CECAS Honors and Awards Ceremony.

Established by Clemson alumna Janine Anthony Bowen in honor of her mother, this award recognizes a student who has made exceptional contributions to the PEER program. For Jynaia, a senior in Mechanical Engineering, the recognition was not just for her service—it was a celebration of her commitment to bringing others into the Clemson community.

“Meeting Janine and Jacquelwyn was such an honor,” said Jynaia. “I was nervous at first, but Jacquelwyn made me feel seen and supported. She spoke encouragement into whatever comes next for me. It was powerful to have our Clemson families connect in that way.”

Known for her ability to connect, Jynaia has earned a reputation as one of PEER’s most effective student recruiters. Her presence on panels, campus tours, and outreach efforts made a direct impact on who chooses Clemson—and why.

“Jynaia is a woman of many talents,” said Lisa Jackson, Associate Director of PEER. “She spoke on student panels, followed up with prospective families, and truly went the extra mile. One student she personally encouraged ended up choosing Clemson, joined our summer program, and now, Jynaia mentors her as she continues her own Clemson journey.”

At PEER WISE, we believe students are our strongest ambassadors. They don’t just tell the story—they are the story. And leaders like Jynaia help build a lasting community rooted in support, belonging, and purpose.
As for what’s next, Jynaia plans to apply her engineering skills to sustainability efforts in the energy sector. And wherever that path leads, she’s taking with her the confidence, community, and care that shaped her at Clemson.

Want to be part of a student community that supports your goals? Visit us in Freeman 138 and learn how you can get involved with PEER WISE.

By: Beth Anne Johnson

If you ever walk by the PEER WISE offices and hear Disney music floating through the hallway, chances are you’re near Brittany Sanders-Bell’s workspace. A proud Clemson Tiger through and through, Brittany has been part of the PEER WISE family since her first year on campus—as a mentee, mentor, WISER resident, and now, a leader behind one of our most impactful programs.

Today, she serves as the Associate Director for Next Engineers Greenville, where she combines her passion for people, education, and engineering into a role that’s as dynamic as she is.

“I love making a difference in our community,” Brittany says. “Thanks to the support of GE and FHI 360, we’re able to bring engineering to life for students across the Upstate. It’s the perfect blend of everything I’ve trained for—as an industrial engineer and as a researcher focused on engineering education.”

But Brittany’s contributions don’t stop there. She’s also a Ph.D. student, a wife, a mom of two, and a recipient of the Clemson Alumni Roaring 10 Award, balancing it all with her signature joy, energy, and attention to detail. Whether she’s coordinating program logistics, mentoring students, or sharing a playlist full of movie soundtracks, Brittany brings heart and hustle to everything she does.

Her favorite part of the job? Watching students discover that engineering is more than just equations—it’s creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving that matters.

“Brittany is the kind of leader who makes you feel seen and supported,” says Serita Acker, Executive Director of PEER WISE. “She understands what it means to walk in a student’s shoes, and she brings that empathy to her work every day.”

As Brittany continues her own journey in academia and leadership, she remains committed to one thing: opening doors for the next generation of engineers.
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Want to see Brittany in action? You can catch her at the next Saturday session with Next Engineers—or just follow the Disney music.

By:  Beth Anne Johnson

Last week, the PEER WISE Department welcomed back some of our most distinguished alumni for an unforgettable breakfast that filled the room with wisdom, empowerment, and heartwarming moments. This special event featured Markel Thomas, Ilerioluwa “Olu” Dosunmu, Rachel Steadman, and Candice Saunders—each a testament to the strength and success that comes from the PEER WISE community.

As our students and faculty gathered, the excitement was palpable. These alumni weren’t just returning to campus; they were coming home to share their experiences, lessons, and encouragement with current students. It was a morning full of connection, inspiration, and deep-rooted community.
Serita Acker, Executive Director of PEER WISE, shared her reflections on the event:
“It was so wonderful to invite these alumni home to remind our students of their empowered belonging. Each of them stands as a shining example of what our program represents—the resilience, brilliance, and success that come from both hard work and community support. We are incredibly proud of them.”

The alumni shared stories of their personal journeys—triumphs, challenges, and how PEER WISE had been instrumental in shaping their paths. They reminded students that while they are navigating their academic and professional journeys, they are never alone.

Markel Thomas, now thriving in his career, emphasized the importance of perseverance:
“PEER WISE gave me the foundation to keep pushing forward, even when things got tough. That sense of community and belonging stays with you long after you leave Clemson.”
Ilerioluwa “Olu” Dosunmu echoed this sentiment, stating:
“What PEER WISE gave me was more than just academic support—it gave me a network of people who truly cared about my success, both personally and professionally. It’s a lifelong relationship.”

Lisa Jackson, Associate Director of PEER, highlighted how unique these relationships are:
“What’s so wondrous about PEER WISE is that we form long-term relationships with our students. We don’t just celebrate their success during their time at Clemson—we continue to relish in their accomplishments long after they graduate.”

The breakfast served as a powerful reminder of the lifelong community that PEER WISE fosters. Seeing these successful alumni return to pour into the next generation is a true reflection of the family-like bond that defines the program. As students left the event, they carried with them not only words of encouragement but the knowledge that they, too, are a part of this thriving and supportive network.

The PEER WISE Alumni Breakfast wasn’t just a moment of reflection; it was a continuation of a legacy—one that will empower students and alumni for years to come. Here’s to our alumni and their continued success, and to our current students as they chart their own paths forward.

By:  Beth Anne Johnson

As we embark on the April recap of PEER WISE Connections, prepare to be captivated by the extraordinary journey of Melissa DeSantiago, a shining star within our community. Melissa’s story is noteworthy, filled with determination, passion, and a commitment to making a difference.

Serita Acker, Executive Director of PEER WISE, beautifully encapsulates Melissa’s impact, describing her as nothing short of inspiring. Melissa’s multifaceted trajectory from undergraduate to Ph.D. candidate is a testament to her unwavering dedication and passion for making a difference.

“Melissa is the epitome of inspiration,” Serita Acker remarks. “Her ability to seamlessly transition from industry to academia while staying true to her roots in PEER WISE is truly remarkable. She embodies the spirit of our organization and serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring scholars everywhere.”

Indeed, Melissa’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of friendship and mentorship. Beth Anne, PEER WISE Community Engagement Coordinator and close friend of Melissa sheds light on their profound bond, emphasizing its pivotal role in her personal and professional success.

“Melissa’s friendship has been the cornerstone of my journey,” Beth Anne reflects. “From our days as undergraduates to navigating the challenges of adulthood, her unwavering support and guidance have been instrumental. I owe much of my success to her, and it’s through her that I discovered the invaluable opportunities PEER WISE offers, first as an undergraduate myself and now as a working professional. I am so thankful our students had the opportunity to connect with her.”

Melissa’s trajectory is nothing short of extraordinary. As a Ph.D. Candidate in the Department of Environmental Health and Engineering at the Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, her research in exposure science and environmental epidemiology is paving the way for meaningful change. Collaborating with the ongoing Maule Cohort (MAUCO) study in Chile, Melissa’s innovative approach to assessing environmental and occupational exposures to agrochemical mixtures is poised to impact vulnerable working communities significantly.

Melissa shares her wisdom with students, advising them, “Follow your instincts and values with conviction. You will never be happy if you compromise yourself or your values. You know what work still needs to be done, so go out there and do it because the world needs you.”

PEER WISE Connections is a professional development series hosted by the PEER WISE department that introduces current students to alumni and industry professionals. Serita shares, “Melissa is the perfect speaker to end the 2023 to 2024 academic year with because she has a heart of gold. May all PEER WISE students see her heart and, in her likeness, do a world of good.”

By: Beth Anne Johnson

Setting the Stage

The stage was set, the energy palpable, and Freeman Hall transformed into a hub of inspiration and celebration for an unforgettable Women’s History Month event. On a balmy March evening, CECAS students gathered to witness the brilliance of three remarkable WISE alumni: Sarah Baum, Dajonia Jackson, and Kasey Kilgore. From medical school to consulting and industry, their journeys illuminated the path for future generations of aspiring women in STEM.

Experience the Stories

Each panelist brought a unique perspective and a wealth of experience to the table, offering insights that resonated deeply with the audience. Reflecting on her undergraduate experience and the role of PEER WISE, Sarah Baum shared, “PEER WISE was more than just a program; it was a community of support and empowerment. I made lifelong connections and found mentors who guided me through challenges and triumphs.”

Dajonia Jackson echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of community and mentorship during the formative years of one’s academic journey. “As women in STEM, we often face unique obstacles, but having a support system like PEER WISE made all the difference. It’s where I built the foundation of building myself back up and discovered the power of collaboration.”

Lessons Learned and Words of Wisdom

Kasey Kilgore offered a candid perspective when asked what they wished they had done more or less of during their undergraduate years. “I wish I had taken more risks and embraced failure as part of the learning process. It’s easy to get caught up in perfectionism, but true growth happens when we step out of our comfort zones, so my advice is to go explore. Find and discover your passions.”

As the conversation delved into the impact of mentorship on professional development, Sarah Baum shared a valuable insight. “My mentorship role not only shaped my approach to leadership but also taught me the importance of intentional listening. As future leaders, it’s our responsibility to uplift and empower the next generation, and one of the best ways to do that is thoughtfully listening to others.”

Advice for Future Trailblazers

In closing, the panelists offered encouragement and advice to current undergraduate students embarking on their own STEM journeys. Dajonia Jackson emphasized the power of resilience, stating, “Don’t let setbacks define you. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow stronger and more resilient.”

Kasey Kilgore urged students to embrace their unique strengths and passions. “Your journey may not look like anyone else’s, and that’s okay. Embrace your authenticity and let your passion guide you.”

Sarah Baum echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and self-belief. “Believe in yourself and your abilities. You can achieve greatness, and the world needs your unique perspective and contributions.”

Celebrating Women Making Waves

“Sarah, Dajonia and Kasey are tremendous examples of talent in our PEER WISE family. From mentees to mentors, these women are phenomenal leaders. It is a tremendous privilege to see them thriving in their careers,” shares Serita Acker, Executive Director of PEER WISE.

The PEER WISE Connections March event was more than just a celebration of Women’s History Month; it was a testament to the power of community, mentorship, and resilience. As we reflect on the wisdom shared by Sarah Baum, Dajonia Jackson, and Kasey Kilgore, let us remember their words as we forge our paths in STEM. Together, we can break barriers, shatter glass ceilings, and inspire the next generation of trailblazing women in STEM.

By: Beth Anne Johnson

In February, PEER WISE hosted a motivating event featuring the esteemed Dr. Lauren Garner. As the Executive Director of PEER WISE, Serita Acker, succinctly shared, “If I had one word to summarize the words of wisdom Lauren gave PEER & WISE, it would be tenacity.” Garner’s journey exemplifies the power of determination and its profound impact on both personal and professional success.

Garner’s professional journey is noteworthy and a tremendous example of how to honor and achieve your dreams. A board-certified pediatric pharmacy specialist at the University of North Carolina Medical Center, she has dedicated her career to serving the pediatric hematology oncology community. Raised in rural South Carolina, Garner’s roots at Clemson University laid the foundation for her passion for pediatric care. She pursued her doctorate of pharmacy at the Medical University of South Carolina, where her dedication to pediatric medicine flourished.

Throughout her career, Garner has embraced the importance of resilience and adaptability. Lisa Jackson, PEER Associate Director, reflected on Garner’s insightful advice: “I love how Lauren reminded students to not stop at ‘no’ and to think of ‘no’ as more so a ‘not now’ or to dive deeper and ask more questions.” Garner’s emphasis on perseverance resonated deeply with attendees, highlighting the significance of navigating setbacks with determination and grace.

During the event, Garner emphasized that our journeys are inherently non-linear, punctuated by obstacles and challenges. However, she underscored the importance of maintaining composure and unwavering determination. As she aptly stated, “Persistency and consistency are key.” Garner’s commitment to her patients and her pursuit of excellence serve as an inspiration for all aspiring healthcare professionals, especially our young members of the Clemson Family.

Outside of work, Garner enjoys running and spending quality time with her beloved dog, Anson. Her holistic approach to life serves as a reminder that success is not solely defined by professional accolades but by the joy found in everyday moments. This is a lesson we want all students at PEER and WISE to know – seek life with both determination and joy.

Dr. Lauren Garner’s commitment to excellence and ability to overcome challenges demonstrates the importance of perseverance. We can find inspiration in Dr. Garner’s approach as we face our own obstacles with determination. By working together, we can accomplish remarkable feats and leave a meaningful imprint on our world.

By:  Beth Anne Johnson

The PEER WISE community gathered for an exclusive Q&A session with the phenomenal Jacovia Cherry on a crisp January evening. As the clock struck at 5:00 on Tuesday, January 30th, our screens illuminated, ready to embark on a journey with a distinguished alumna who seamlessly blended her passion for engineering, coaching, and entrepreneurship. “Jacovia is an amazing example for students to see the power of networking and community,” shares Serita Acker, “she goes after the exact life she desires. She has many passions, and she pursues them all. Many students let the fear of failure stop them from pursuing their desired life, but not our Jacovia Cherry.”

Jacovia Cherry: A Multi-Faceted Success Story

A Computer and Electrical Engineering graduate turned Google professional, Middle School Basketball Coach, and small business owner, Cherry embodies the essence of limitless possibilities for PEER WISE students. Her story, punctuated by resilience and achievement, unfolded before us as she shared her insights and experiences.

The Journey Unveiled

Cherry commenced the session by reminding us that every working professional, regardless of current status, once navigated the labyrinth of their initial major’s classes. Her narrative resonated with students and alumni, creating a relatable bridge between past and present Clemson experiences.
“I actually had to take time off from my academics at Clemson,” says Cherry, “During this time, I worked multiple jobs to make ends meet. It was a hard and true wake-up call to say, education is necessary for the life I want for myself.”

Secrets of Perseverance

A beacon of inspiration, Cherry delved into the secrets of perseverance that propelled her toward success. From conquering academic challenges to thriving in a dynamic professional landscape, she emphasized the significance of resilience and commitment to one’s goals. “Ask for help,” says Cherry, “Ask for help and show up. When you ask for community. Your community responds.” Her journey echoed the sentiment that challenges are not roadblocks but stepping stones to growth.

Importance of Community

One of the event’s highlights was Cherry’s emphasis on the community’s pivotal role in her personal and professional growth. She passionately shared how the support and resources provided by PEER & WISE had been instrumental in making her Clemson Experience extraordinary. Her words resonated with the audience, underscoring a supportive community’s profound impact on an individual’s journey.
“Jacovia Cherry was and remains a fantastic PEER & WISE mentor,” exclaims Lisa Jackson, PEER Associate Director, “We want our students to be authentic and intentional leaders, and Jacovia is the very embodiment of this practice.”

Gleaning Insights for Extraordinary Experiences

As Cherry shared her pearls of wisdom, attendees had the opportunity to glean insights into making their own Clemson experiences extraordinary. Whether navigating academic challenges, transitioning into the professional world, or balancing multiple passions, Cherry’s journey was a roadmap for unlocking one’s full potential. The takeaway? Our journeys are not always linear; they have setbacks, but how we react, pivot, and arrive sets our pathway to success forward.

Reflecting on the Event

The January PEER WISE Connections event with Jacovia Cherry was a resounding success. Attendees left with a deeper understanding of Cherry’s journey and renewed motivation and inspiration to conquer their academic and professional pursuits.

Closing Thoughts:

Jacovia Cherry’s Q&A session highlighted the importance of community, perseverance, and embracing individual paths. The event provided valuable insights that we can apply as we seek wisdom and inspiration in our own journeys.

Missed the event? Stay tuned for more enriching sessions and opportunities with PEER WISE Connections. PEER WISE Connections is a professional development series hosted by the PEER & WISE department that introduces current students to alumni and industry professionals. It is open to all students.

Unlock Your Potential with PEER & WISE – Where Wisdom Meets Inspiration!