2019-2020 Award and Years of Service Recipients
About the University Awards of Excellence
The University’s Awards of Excellence for Faculty and Staff are aligned with the University’s Strategic Pillars and Values and designed to identify and celebrate individuals that make outstanding contributions to the success of Georgia Southern University.
A total of 25 awards are available annually. This year the review committees awarded 18 recipients. Recipient descriptions of accomplishments were taken directly from the applicant’s packet.
Recipients will receive a University Medallion and $1000 to be used for professional development.
2019 – 2020
University Awards of Excellence
Recipients
Student Success
The Student Success award is designed to promote and reward those who have demonstrated outstanding efforts to increase student success.
Kimberly Simpson
Assistant Director, Office of Advising
Assistant Director of Advising Kim Simpson is an individual who truly lives and breathes student success every day. Every decision she makes is in the interest of improving student success at Georgia Southern. She is never satisfied with “good enough” and is constantly seeking ways to “do right.”
Ms. Simpson looks at the way advisors approach SOAR and asks if there are better ways to get information to students. She supports her staff in professional development because she knows that the more knowledgeable her advisors are, the better suited they are for front-line student support. She respectfully questions policies when she cannot draw a line between its implementation and student success.
In her role, Ms. Simpson extensively liaises between advisors and departments to ensure proper course availability to help students progress toward graduation. She develops and implements events to create and deepen the relationship between the College of Arts and Humanities advisement center and its students, overseeing things like “open house” and “Finals Cheer Week,” where advisors visit our students during finals to share candy, motivational tags and sometimes that crucial blue book or scantron. She takes on much more than her role requires, and is the epitome of a student success supporter.
In her department, not only is she supporting the pillar of student success, she is also its foundation.
Amy Hackney
Professor, Department of Psychology, College of Behavioral and Social Sciences
Dr. Amy Hackney, professor of psychology, has a passion for developing a rapport with her students, for being vigilant in remembering that students have complex lives with multiple, unknown stressors, and for creating learning environments inside and outside of the classroom that promote student success for all.
Because of her efforts at building rapport with her students, Dr. Hackney has become a professor that students trust and seek advice from. No matter what the content, she believes in fostering open discussions with the students in her classes and using guided lectures and values self-affirmation exercises to lean into difficult topics. Dr. Hackney forged a path toward increasing her knowledge of diversity and inclusion best practices and has incorporated a “Respect for Diversity” statement on her course syllabi. As a result, students from various backgrounds come to her for help and advice when facing personal challenges on campus that have the potential to affect their student success.
Dr. Hackney constantly advocates for and engages students in undergraduate research, and is committed to providing countless hours to students, both in and out of the classroom. To this end, Dr. Hackney created the Georgia Southern University Psychology Student Research Conference, which helps students from each campus to develop academic, personal and professional development skills. The conference will celebrate its 15th anniversary this year. In everything she does, Dr. Hackney strives to create an environment that increases feelings of belonging, connection and inclusivity, promoting a larger culture of health and wellness that allows all students to thrive.
Teaching and Academic Excellence
The Teaching award acknowledges those that improve student learning and prepare students to compete in the global marketplace.
John Banter
Teaching Award
Associate Director, Office of Leadership & Community Engagement
Dr. John Banter is a vital member of the Office of Leadership and Community Engagement and the Division of Student Affairs at Georgia Southern University. As a Gallup-certified strengths coach and a certified facilitator for the EQ-I 2.0 emotional intelligence inventory, he invests a tremendous amount of time in the education and development of students and gives them the tools to grow and be successful. Through interactions with Dr. Banter – whether it be in one-on-one meetings, classroom or leadership workshops – students can apply leadership theories, assessments and case studies to their personal leadership style. Students realize their potential as leaders and also learn how to apply this knowledge to the practical application of their leadership, both on campus and in their local community.
The student leaders that come out of Dr. Banter’s programming are some of the best that Georgia Southern has to offer. Through his personal interest and doctoral work, he has stays abreast of current research in the field. He also acts as topic expert for our professional staff by serving as a co-facilitator for the Student Affairs Leadership Development Focus Area Network (FAN), an ongoing training network that provides development considerations, best practices and innovations in the field. Dr. Banter has worked tirelessly to incorporate new and advanced resources into the classroom as well. He consistently keeps up with the technology and social media that students are using and tries to incorporate those tools into their learning. Students praise Dr. Banter’s ability to keep them engaged in their classroom discussions and provide them a meaningful educational experience. Dr. Banter also thinks creatively about program assessment and consistently uses data to make programmatic changes to his functional areas. We are all better professionals because of his contributions.
Jacque Kelly
Teaching Award
Associate Professor, Department of Geology and Geography, College of Science and Mathematics
Dr. Jaque Kelly, associate professor of geology and geography, clearly and consistently demonstrates excellence in teaching and has become one of the best, most sought-after instructors in her department. Her strength in teaching resides in her innovative nature, always willing to do more and go beyond for her students.
For Dr. Kelly, “involve me and I learn” is her main objective when she enters a classroom, and she incorporates teaching that is contagious, makes the material fun, and compels students to be engaged and involved. She uses classroom practices that facilitate active learning so that students will have a special perspective and understanding of the discipline, and develop valuable critical thinking skills. To accomplish these strategies, Dr. Kelly completely revised the department’s lab manuals, which now serve as much more effective teaching tools and have greatly improved students’ comprehension of the subject matter. She also initiated and implemented “flipped” labs in which her students do a pre-lab assignment and complete a directed review activity while she facilitates a student-driven discussion of the material.
In the classroom, Dr. Kelly is enthusiastic, personable and professional. Students note that her lectures keep them interested and engaged by using a variety of instructional tools and styles. In lectures and discussions, she makes use of pertinent, real-world examples to explain subject matter, and she encourages students to do the same. Dr. Kelly’s devotion to her students’ success is unparalleled. She is a true team player, and always manages to foster positive discussions among her students and brings out the best in all her colleagues. Dr. Kelly’s work ethic, positivity, intelligence and determination make it clear that she is an exemplary instructor and model teacher.
The Academic Excellence award recognizes those individuals who provide or promote educational opportunities or resources that stimulate students’ academic progression and graduation.
Arpita Saha
Academic Excellence Award
Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Science and Mathematics
Dr. Arpita Saha, associate professor of inorganic chemistry, truly values her role as a teacher, mentor, researcher, and member of the Georgia Southern community. Mentoring is her passion, and guiding students from diverse backgrounds to persist and succeed in STEM is her biggest challenge and reward. Dr. Saha works tirelessly to ensure excellence in inclusive and effective teaching practices so that students can find motivation, purpose, sense of belonging and resources toward the path of success. Her teaching is motivated by improving the learning outcomes of her students. She is a strong mentor to students both in and outside of the classroom.
To improve outcomes for students, Dr. Saha has spearheaded several programs that go above and beyond her normal scope of faculty instruction. She implemented the Freshman Research Program (IFREE), which is an innovative program that engages freshmen science majors in research, and also founded the Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE), a research-based experience in an upper division major’s course. Colleagues say her execution and success with CURE is a tour de force.
To perfect her skills, Dr. Saha has attended several professional development activities nationally and internationally, including workshops offered by the Center of Teaching Excellence (CTE) at the University. She has published articles on classroom assignments for larger scientific communities, shared several best practices strategies at STEM conferences and the SoTL Common Conference. With such a wealth of conference experience, Dr. Saha has helped her students to be selected and to prepare for peer-reviewed presentations at regional and national conferences. With the infusion of project-based courses, Dr. Saha challenges her students to grow in the critical thinking skills, and at every turn, she affirms their identities as scientists in service to their communities. Dr. Saha is an amazing teacher-scholar who from day one at Georgia Southern stood out for her brilliance, creativity, dedication and discipline.
Research and Discovery & Innovation
The staff award for Research recognizes one staff member for outstanding support in the conduct of research or who have advanced processes, methods and systems through research.
The faculty award for Research recognizes a faculty member for excellence in research and/ or creative scholarly activity.
Hedly “Lee” Broxton
Research Award
Scholarship & Research Specialist, School of Nursing, Waters College of Health Professions
Scholarship and Research Specialist Lee Broxton began his service to Georgia Southern as a student. Today, as a valued staff member, Mr. Broxton assists the faculty who once taught him in securing grants and other financial support to change the lives of underserved citizens across Georgia.
In more than five years in this role, Mr. Broxton has been instrumental in securing and managing more than $6.8 million of external funding, has assisted faculty on more than 60 published journal articles, aided in the completion of several book chapters, supported faculty in hundreds of poster presentations, submitted more than 15 grants and has helped with post-award management and coordination. He is a leader in his role, and works continuously and collaboratively with both faculty and students for project success.
On a daily basis, Mr. Broxton is tasked with responsibilities that require intricate knowledge of research processes, and he remains greatly informed about and encourages faculty to pursue relevant grant opportunities. He is highly motivated to produce quality materials for review, and is enthusiastically collaborative with faculty, staff and students to prepare in-depth research for local, regional, and national conferences. His efforts have allowed the School of Nursing and Georgia Southern to expand programming, and he is a stellar ambassador for the work he and other Georgia Southern faculty and students are producing.
Jeffrey Burson
Research Award
Associate Professor, Department of History, College of Arts and Humanities
Dr. Jeffrey Burson, associate professor of history, is a tireless scholar that produces meritorious research with significant originality, quality and impact. His incredible work ethic is demonstrated in his international scholarship — doing archival research, writing, revising and editing in France, the UK and the Netherlands, and working with primary sources in French, Spanish, Latin and Italian.
Dr. Burson’s pace of scholarly production has been nothing if not torrid for the past five years. During the past year alone, he has published a major monograph with Notre Dame University Press; co-edited a book with Anton Matytsin as part of an Oxford University Press series on the Enlightenment; authored an introduction for a special edition of Jesuit Studies; published two additional peer-reviewed articles, one for a prestigious journal; authored another book chapter also published by Oxford University Press; and presented two scholarly papers at professional conferences. His productivity has already out-paced most professional historians during their entire careers. Even more impressive is the fact that he has accomplished all of this despite a heavy teaching schedule.
The quality of Dr. Burson’s production has more than kept pace with the quantity. Indeed, it has been nothing less than field-changing. Top scholars in his field praise his rigorous research, original arguments and ability to collaborate with many scholars. Some of his publications are cited among the essential readings in his field. In 2018, Dr. Burson was referred to as one of the four “most distinguished historians of the Catholic Enlightenment” worldwide. As a creative, meticulous and prolific researcher, Dr. Burson has immensely contributed to Georgia Southern University.
The Discovery & Innovation award recognizes those individuals that promote creative scholarly activities, technologies and/ or environments that encourage innovative and problem-solving research collaboratives.
John Egan
Discovery & Innovation Award
Leadership Development Coordinator, Office of Leadership & Community Engagement
Dr. John Egan serves as leadership educator in the Office of Leadership and Community Engagement, and has excelled in the area of research. He has not only advanced departmental processes through research methods, but also has advanced scholarly activity. He has built research methods into the work of our students and staff to ensure that we examine the most effective and efficient methods of program operation. This has involved using qualitative methods such as focus groups and interviews to hear directly from students about their experiences as well as quantitative methods through questionnaires to examine the program’s offerings.
Developing a system of research methods into the department’s normal operation has led the program to be able to make more informed decisions based on reliable data. These research methods have not only focused on programmatic effectiveness, but also have investigated the impact programming has on student learning. Dr. Egan has collaborated with multiple faculty and staff to support research efforts and support findings, and these efforts have led to several publications and presentations, showcasing this work on a national stage. This research directly informs the work we do in our department as administrators of an undergraduate program.
Dr. Egan is currently working on research projects with faculty members on the use of games as a teaching assessment that will support classroom efforts to teach students. It is significant to note that Dr. Egan’s role as a staff member is not “officially” focused on supporting research efforts. Despite his official responsibility for student leadership development on campus, he has engaged in research outside his normal duties to better inform the work of the Office of Leadership and Community Engagement and we are better for it.
Marshall Ming
Discovery & Innovation Award
Professor, Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, College of Science and Mathematics
Dr. Marshall Ming, professor and distinguished chair in materials science, is a very accomplished scholar, particularly in coating science. He has a national and international reputation in the field as can be noted by his many invited lectures, short course instructorships and editorial board memberships. Dr. Ming advocates “out of the box” thinking, and his unique approach and ability to present complicated scientific concepts into readily comprehensible components is remarkable. He exemplifies the University values of Discovery and Innovation.
His cutting-edge research on polymer and coating has produced several high-impact factor journal publications and U.S. patents. He has made important contributions in several functional materials, including seminal work on super-repellent surfaces (one paper cited over 500 times), antifogging/ frost-resisting coatings and non-leaching antimicrobial coatings, which has garnered media attention. In the last five years, Dr. Ming has been awarded major externally funded grants secured from the Office of Naval Research & the United Soybean Board, an industrial grant from Runtai Chemical Company and an NSF-MRI grant to purchase an electro-spinning system for materials research. He has also published 18 papers in peer-reviewed journals, published one book chapter, two patents and two patent applications for new anti-fogging coatings and numerous presentations including 19 invited presentations at national and international meetings.
Dr. Ming has taken the leadership role in increasing the national visibility of Georgia Southern’s materials program in numerous ways while also regularly volunteering for departmental and college-level committees. His most visible role is as the coordinator of the Interdisciplinary Research Group in Materials Science. In this role, he presides over monthly meetings with faculty from multiple colleges and departments where presentations are made, where members discuss how to improve external proposal submissions, and where faculty solve problems for existing research projects.
Inclusive Excellence and Openness & Inclusion
The Inclusive Excellence award recognizes those individuals who generated valuable ideas that have helped to develop new or improved processes, methods, systems, programs or services for their team, their department, our University or the external community.
Nikki DiGregorio
Inclusive Excellence Award
Associate Professor, School of Human Ecology, College of Behavioral and Social Sciences
Dr. Nikki DiGregorio, associate professor of child and family development, is noteworthy in her continuous engagement in reflective practice to promote the aims of Inclusive Excellence. In her teaching, research, service and mentorship practices, Dr. DiGregorio helps the campus, the larger community and her professional field of practice better recognize, respond to and celebrate human diversity.
Dr. DiGregorio’s work in the classroom has helped students better understand and appreciate the nature and value of human diversity. In doing so, she is helping prepare students to be a part of an increasingly diverse and multinational workforce. Dr. DiGregorio’s conference presentations, journal articles and book chapters in which the voices of LGBTQIA+ couples, families and individuals are held as valid and important in their own right, is helping to transform how the field of human development and family studies approaches family diversity.
Her research interests share intersectional focus around social justice, gender, sexuality, language, families, and social policy. More specifically, she studies how marginalized individuals and families navigate social structures, and how this influences their lives. She has been invited to speak at a number of events pertaining to diversity and inclusivity, creating safe spaces for students and faculty, and intersectionality. She has conducted extensive research exploring some of the many faces of discrimination, including but not limited to heterosexism, sexism, genderism, ageism and ableism, which addresses multiple areas outlined within the University’s Inclusive Excellence Strategic Pillar.
All of Dr. DiGregorio’s professional work, collectively, engages with issues of social justice, social responsibility, and civility. Additionally, and perhaps most importantly, all of these efforts help to move our University, and the world forward, all while fostering social change.
The Openness & Inclusion award recognizes those who exhibit the ideals of diversity, equity and inclusion into practical action.
Sara Nobles
Openness & Inclusion Award
International Student Coordinator,
Office of International Student Admissions & Programs
In her role as the International Student Program Coordinator, Ms. Nobles implemented a best practice in international education: creating a mentor (International Friends) program that pairs new international students with current students. This initiative had a dual purpose: to expose different cultures to students at Armstrong, and to help international students feel welcome and supported, which promotes retention and success.
Finding a gap in the communication between some faculty and staff and the international students with which they work, Sara also created the Global Partners Zone Training program which allows participants to reflect on how differing cultural frameworks can impact their interactions with students.
Ms. Nobles work as the advisor of the International Student Organization also cannot be overlooked. Under her leadership, the organization includes structured educational components in each activity, which has increased the number of students coming to other activities and staying involved with the organization throughout the year. Since the organization recognizes and celebrates cultures from all around the world, it provides opportunities for any student to step out of their comfort zone and learn to be open-minded about people and experiences outside of their own norm.
One of her students summarizes her contribution best: “Under her tutelage, the International Student Organization has become a second home for all students, faculty/staff as well as community members. I can truly attest to the effectiveness of the programs implemented by Ms. Nobles. We have a sense of belonging to the University and community, and the transition to a new country is easier. Her works and continuing efforts are great examples of openness and inclusion, making her deserving for this award.”
Elizabeth Desnoyers-Colas
Openness & Inclusion Award
Associate Professor, Department of Communication Arts, College of Arts and Humanities
Dr. Elizabeth Desnoyers-Colas, associate professor of Communication Arts, embodies openness and inclusion by providing a voice that represents her experiences and her identity in a way that serves others and allows them to learn. Her work is present across all campuses through her participation in a variety of panels and sessions, ranging from an analysis of Wakanda presented in Savannah, a discussion of representation in the media at the Statesboro Campus screening of the movie “Red Tails,” to serving as a panelist for a screening of “An Outrage” as part of the Ogeechee International History Film Festival in Statesboro.
Dr. Desnoyers-Colas has served on several key committees and projects in which her contribution of openness and inclusion have been key to the success of the specific work. Her generous support positively contributes to the university community and superbly represents the university on the national stage. In addition to teaching a number of courses in speech communication, she has served as the coordinator of the Communication Track Professional Communication and Leadership Program, and has served at the national level in a variety of roles. She served on the National Association of African American Studies Task Force on Mentorship, chaired the National Communication Association’s Feminist Women Studies Division, and has been part of National Communication Assembly’s Legislative Assembly.
She now acts as the departmental representative to the College Diversity Council, and represents the College at the University level. Because of Dr. Desnoyers-Colas and her excellence and dedication to openness and inclusion in all that she undertakes, the Georgia Southern community is stronger and our future is brighter.
Operational Efficiency, Effectiveness and Sustainability
The Operational Efficiency, Effectiveness and Sustainability Award was designed to recognize those with a commitment increase operational efficiency and effectiveness while maximizing financial capital and human resources to ensure the University’s long-term sustainability–investing in our people and processes to grow others.
Sheryl Lewis
Business Manager, Office of the Vice President for Enrollment Management
Sheryl Lewis has been with Georgia Southern University for 25 years, working in the Division of Business and Finance for most of those. Around three years ago, she made the leap to Student Affairs and Enrollment Management — now just Enrollment Management — as the division’s business manager. She was vital in ensuring the division’s split was a success. Her colleagues say they can share countless positive sentiments about Mrs. Lewis’ commitment to her team, her service to her division staff, her caring attitude, and the ways that she goes above and beyond to help every person who asks for her assistance.
Mrs. Lewis has been very mindful of accounting for resources in the best manner and is interested in the reuse or sharing of expenses to aid in budget reductions. She has a consciousness to utilize existing resources. When working with campus partners, she often says, “If I can help you to be successful, I am successful.” She really is interested in the best outcome for others and the University.
In addition, Mrs. Lewis’ co-workers say she is one of those rare individuals who can churn out work quickly and accurately, but also has a servant’s heart. In her role in Enrollment Management, her focus is to ensure pillar four of the Strategic Plan: Operational Efficiency, Effectiveness and Sustainability. It’s a goal she doesn’t just pursue because it’s her job, but also because she believes in fiscal responsibility, fairness and process. She is meticulous in ensuring all the details are reviewed and each action is done according to best practice and University/state policy. Her colleagues say this pillar of the Strategic Plan may have been written with her in mind.
Community Engagement and Collaboration
The Community Engagement award was designed to give recognition to those who display outstanding community engagement in support of the University.
LaShai Campbell
Community Engagement Award
Budget Analyst I, Russell Union
LaShai Campbell, a budget analyst in the Russell Union Facilities and Event Services office, cares for a lot more than numbers. In 2017, she co-founded the nonprofit organization Restoring the Breach, Inc. with her husband to bridge gaps in the community between youth, residents and college students. Their organization provides several programs to benefit the community such as literacy programs, financial counseling, baby showers and school supply drives, and assists at the local soup kitchen and health fairs.
Not only does Mrs. Campbell actively collaborate with community and student leaders, she serves on the front lines. She diligently leaves work every Tuesday and Thursday to tutor K-12 students at the local library. Additionally, she serves on the board of the Bulloch County Commission on Human Services, and works with the Jiann Ping-Hsu College of Public Health to provide quality wellness programs to the community.
Perhaps most importantly, Mrs. Campbell motivates and mentors Georgia Southern students to become involved in the community as well, either by advising the Restoring the Breach student organization or connecting them with other outreach opportunities. One student remarked, “She has pushed and motivated me to be a leader and example at Georgia Southern. Because of LaShai, I have developed professional experience and personal growth in my community.”
Another student wrote, “I’ve watched myself grow in terms of the care I now exhibit for others and the lengths I see myself willing to go to simply make someone’s day…The heart she has and the care she exhibits for others is not only astonishing to watch, but something that (we) should work towards implementing in our day-to-day lives…I feel at home for the first time since being at Georgia Southern.”
Mrs. Campbell continues to make an impact on students at Georgia Southern and in Statesboro. Another of her students put it best: “LaShai taught me that there is no limit to the good that empathy and hard work can do for a community.”
Stacy Smallwood
Community Engagement Award
Associate Professor, Department of Health Policy and Community Health, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health
Authentic, meaningful community engagement is central to who Stacy Smallwood is as a scholar, professional and citizen. As associate professor of community health education and behavior, Dr. Smallwood deeply believes in the power that comes from diverse people coming together in dialogue, debate, reflection and ultimately, action.
One of the most meaningful service initiatives he is involved in is serving as the moderator for the Bulloch County Beloved Community. It is a grassroots community initiative whose purpose is to plan and implement projects designed to improve relationships, build trust and create opportunities for meaningful dialogue among diverse communities within Statesboro and Bulloch County. As a result of his work with the Beloved Community, the mayor of Statesboro asked him to serve on the newly formed Statesboro Commission on Diversity and Inclusion, also known as “One Boro,” the purpose of which is to foster opportunities for healthy connections between diverse communities within Statesboro through deep listening, community programming and policy advisement.
On campus, he serves on various committees in the department, college and University level. His goal is to strengthen Georgia Southern internally and externally by building relationships with community stakeholders. Dr. Smallwood’s work with professional affiliations involves bridging gaps between the profession and community they serve. He serves as the Immediate Past President of the HIV/AIDS section of American Public Health Association. He also serves as a Planning Committee member of the annual Rural HIV Research and Training Conference and a member of the planning committee, assisting with identifying keynote speakers and reviewing abstract submissions.
Dr. Smallwood has also been an ad hoc reviewer for several journals, and works closely with the Southeast Health Unit Summit on AIDS Care (SEHUSAC), a nonprofit consortium of HIV professionals in the Southeast Health District that seeks to improve the quality of care available to people living with HIV (PLWH) in the district. Through all of these efforts, he exemplifies a passion for community engagement in all that he does.
The Collaboration Award recognizes and promotes those who are dedicated to service to their departments, students, faculty, other departments on campus, and/ or the surrounding community through communication, innovation, integrity and inclusion.
Urkovia Andrews
Collaboration Award
Assistant Director, Office of Leadership & Community Engagement
According to her colleagues, Assistant Director for Service Learning Dr. Urkovia Andrews has challenged our institution, our region and higher education as a whole to do better by initiating conversations, facilitating dialogue and dedicating her time to organizations that can make a difference. In everything she does with her department, students, communities and especially vulnerable populations are being built up and strengthened.
In her role, Dr. Andrews looks for crossovers, win-win solutions and opportunities for collaboration. A colleague from a sister USG institution said Dr. Andrews “has a way of pulling everyone together. [She] is passionate about service-learning and providing students with high-impact, transformative experiences. It was this collaborative spirit that drove me to keep in contact with Urkovia as someone to share success, explore challenges and workshop ideas to better the service-learning programs at our institutions.”
Dr. Andrews trains students in the Service-Learning Facilitators program to be peer educators: organizing, planning and leading projects in collaboration with local non-profits and under the supervision of faculty. She strives to benefit the field of service-learning academically, and is currently working on the final edits for a book chapter proposal which gives insight into the complex relationship between non-profit directors, faculty and service-learning professionals. Additionally, Dr. Andrews serves on numerous governing boards, committees and task forces, both in the community and at the University and system levels.
Her colleagues say she is not afraid to question the status quo, ask difficult questions or raise divergent points of view. She listens, builds trust, shares ideas and fosters relationships for the benefit of Georgia Southern students, faculty and staff, our region and beyond.
Meca Williams-Johnson
Collaboration Award
Professor, Department of Curriculum, Foundations, & Reading, College of Education
Dr. Meca Williams-Johnson, professor of curriculum, foundations and reading, exemplifies the essence of service and collaboration. She believes that building strong alumni starts when students arrive on campus, not after they graduate. As such, she strives to enhance students’ skill sets and curriculum to grow their natural curiosity to explore, create, and discover.
In her role as chair of the tenure and promotion committee within her department, Dr. Williams-Johnson does more than set agendas, she mentors faculty preparing their documents for review. At the college level, she has chaired the Diversity and Inclusion Committee, which established several professional development opportunities for faculty such as book circles and online journaling, as well as creating a website to share opportunities with others throughout campus.
At the University level, she has served on the Faculty Senate as Librarian and Chair for the University Elections Committee, as a representative for COE on the Faculty Development Committee, speaker for Scholar Showcase, and a member of the Organizational Working Group for faculty governance. She is a reliable contributor to each committee and advocate for faculty concerns. In terms of professional service and national leadership, she is heavily involved with the Educational Psychology Division of the American Psychological Association, where she has served as conference program chair and the chair for the Early Career Psychologist committee. She also worked within several committees to improve communication (Webinar Committee) and funding opportunities (Early Career Grants Committee) for members around the country. Lastly, her service to the community includes work with the March of Dimes and tutoring for families in rural areas. She has also developed strong ties with East Georgia College to ensure students’ transition seamlessly to Georgia Southern through the Bridge program.
In summation, her community service experiences have supported families and students from cradle to career. She has collaborated with several faculty and staff members within the college, throughout the university, and within the larger academic community to enhance educational experiences for all students.
Integrity
The Integrity Award honors those who practice ethical awareness in decision making and demonstrate an on-going commitment to integral ethical behavior and practices.
Logan Grodi
Customer Relations Analyst, Information Technology Services
IT Technical Service Specialist Logan Grodi leads by example. An IT representative has to be one of the utmost integrity; this is Logan. The students that work under him are coached to his standards of integrity. This is evident to all who have had his students work on anything in their area. He also gives his co-workers great advice on how to solve problems and how to employ “best practices” that not only affect their specific IT needs, but also the departments they service.
Many people do not realize that certain actions on their IT hardware can have very negative impacts on the people sharing the network with them. Mr. Grodi strives to meet their needs without doing anything that would be detrimental to anyone else. He does this in a way that makes people understand the ramifications of “going outside of the rules” without making them feel like they are being attacked. He offers them solutions that are acceptable for all standards and still get the job done.
Integrity is definitely evident in Mr. Grodi’s job performance. He must work in areas where both personal and research confidentiality are very important. He is very careful not to compromise individual, departmental or University security. This doesn’t just mean protecting someone’s accounts or passwords. There are areas to which he has access that are very expensive items — both physical and intellectual — and he is very conscientious with both IT and physical security. Something as simple as leaving a door unlocked in some of these areas could result in losses of more than $100,000.
Ultimately, Mr. Grodi shows devotion, initiative and leadership for the people with whom he works and to Georgia Southern University. He is one of IT’s “hidden treasures,” and there is no one more deserving of the Integrity award.
Team Award
The Team Award recognizes a group of individuals comprised of three or more employees (staff and/or faculty) that contribute to one of the five strategic imperatives while demonstrating one of the six core values to help the University be the best place to work, learn, and succeed.
Members will receive a certificate, team photo with the President and a crystal plaque to be displayed in the office of the team leader.
Commencement Work Group (CWG)
Georgia Southern University’s growth into a complex, multicampus institution made it necessary to engage the University at large in planning commencement events. The newly formed Commencement Work Group (CWG) consists of leaders across the University with expertise in a variety of areas that are essential to providing a successful and safe commencement for our graduates and their guests.
The efforts of the CWG directly support three Strategic Pillars (Student Success, Academic Excellence, and Operational Efficiency, Effectiveness and Sustainability) and two Institutional Values (Discovery and Innovation and Collaboration). In many instances, the assigned responsibilities for commencement fall outside of the scope of the team member’s regular job duties, but each member of the team recognizes their importance and is enthusiastic about their work.
The CWG took what was a very difficult and challenging situation and turned it into a tremendous success that showed how a consolidated institution can exceed community expectations. The work of this group is a great example of cross-divisional collaboration. This group produced a fall commencement ceremony that addressed all of the concerns of the University community and was, by all accounts, very successful. Most importantly, the group worked in a spirit of continuous improvement and cooperation to help shape the experience of graduating students for years to come. The Commencement Work Group has demonstrated the dedication and work ethic that is Georgia Southern University.
Commencement Work Group Members as of January 2020
Ashlea Anderson
Information Technology Services
Dustin Anderson
Provost’s Office, Faculty
Annalee Ashley
President’s Office, At Large
Amy Ballagh
Enrollment Management, CWG Co-Chair
Diane Badakhsh
Continuing Education, CWG Co-Chair
Nichole Booker
Registrar’s Office, Candidates
Wallace Brown
Registrar’s Office, Candidates
Diana Cone
Provost’s Office, Faculty
Carol Cox
Office of Research, Purchasing & Budget
David Cutler
Athletics, Ticketing & Gates
Derrick Davis
Parking & Transportation
Ava Edwards
Enrollment Management, Guest Services
Amanda Heinz
Continuing Education, Venue
Jodi Kennedy
Leadership & Community Engagement, Guest Services
Kendria Lee
President’s Office, Program
John Lester
University Communications & Marketing, Communications
Sheryl Lewis
Enrollment Management, Purchasing & Budget
Scot Lingrell
Enrollment Management, At Large
Larry Mays
Athletics, Ticketing & Gates
Adrianne McCollar
Custodial & Grounds, Venue
Laura McCullough
Public Safety, Risk Management
America Minc
Campus Recreation & Intramurals, Guest Services
Cassie Morgan
Registrar’s Office, At Large
Kelly Nilsson
Public Safety, Risk Management
Leigh Price
President’s Office, VIP
Joey Reeves
Information Technology Services
Jason Salzer
Campus Recreation & Intramurals, Program
Nick Scull
Athletics, Parking & Transportation
Ashley Thornton
President’s Office, VIP
Katie Twining
Facilities Services, Venue
Ashley Walker
Graduate Studies, Candidates
Jennifer Wise
University Communications & Marketing, Communications
Jeremiah Womble
Information Technology Services, Production
Years of Service
Years of Service recipients will receive a photograph taken with the President, a service year certificate, and a service year lapel pin.
45 Years
Olavi Arens, Professor, Department of History, Academic Affairs
40 Years
Judy Hendrix, Program Specialist, Continuing Education, Academic Affairs
35 Years
Jessica Hines, Professor, Department of Art, Academic Affairs
Curtis Ricker, Dean Academic/Professor, College of Arts and Humanities, Academic Affairs
Ellis Sandt, Warehouse Foreman, Armstrong, Logistical Services, Business and Finance
Tomasz Warchol, Associate Professor, Department of Literature, Academic Affairs
30 Years
Martha Abell, Professor, Department of Mathematical Science, Academic Affairs
Ellen Bunch, Budget Analyst III, Budget Office, Business and Finance
Stephen Frawley, Superintendent-Mechanical Operations, Mechanical Maintenance, Business and Finance
Timothy Giles, Professor, Department of Writing and Linguistics, Academic Affairs
Beverly Graham, Associate Professor, Department of Communication Arts, Academic Affairs
Todd Hizer, Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Academic Affairs
Caroline Hopkinson, Librarian Assistant Professor, Lane Library, Academic Affairs
Saba Jallow, Associate Professor, Department of Political Science and International Studies, Academic Affairs
Herman Johnson, Police Corporal, Office of Public Safety, Business and Finance
William Levernier, Professor, Department of Economics, Academic Affairs
Julian Mooney, Director of Graduate Programs, Parker College of Business, Academic Affairs
Walter Pollard, Equipment Mechanic, Grounds Operations, Business and Finance
Craig Roell, Professor, Department of History, Academic Affairs
Yassaman Saadatmand, Dept Chair/Head AC, Department of Economics, Academic Affairs
Linda Smith, Senior Administrative Assistant, Department of Geology and Geography, Academic Affairs
Helen Taggart, Professor, School of Nursing, Academic Affairs
Gregory Vaughan, Information Analyst, Associate, Library General Operations, Academic Affairs
Stephen Watkins, Electrical Engineer, Mechanical Maintenance, Business and Finance
Timothy Whelan, Professor, Department of Literature, Academic Affairs
25 Years
James Akins, Custodian, Custodial Operations, Business and Finance
Christopher Baker, Professor, Department of Literature, Academic Affairs
Lillian Brown, Library Technical Assistant, Library General Operations, Academic Affairs
Patricia Carter, Professor, Department of Art, Academic Affairs
Calvain Culberson, Assistant Director of RAC Operations, Student Recreation Center, Student Affairs
Rebecca Davis, Associate Professor, Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology, Academic Affairs
Dora Dupont, Administrative Assistant, Library General Operations, Academic Affairs
William English, Carpenter, Structural Maintenance, Business and Finance
Lori Gwinett, Librarian Associate Professor, Library General Operations, Academic Affairs
Heidi Harsha, Systems Software Developer, Intermediate, Enterprise Application Service, Office of the President
Danny Henry, Groundskeeper, Grounds Operations, Business and Finance
Joseph Jeffers, Research Systems Administrator, Computational Research Support, Office of the President
Catherine Johnson, Associate Professor, Department of Foreign Languages, Academic Affairs
Delores Liston, Professor, Department of Curriculum, Foundations, and Reading, Academic Affairs
Christopher McBride, Civil Rights Investigator, Office of Equal Opportunity & Title IX, Office of the President
Steven Moss, Professor, Department of Enterprise Systems and Analytics, Academic Affairs
Onyile Onyile, Professor, Department of Art, Academic Affairs
Sara Plaspohl, Associate Dean & ASOP, Waters College of Health Professions, Academic Affairs
Kent Rittschof, Dept Head-Professor, Department of Curriculum, Foundations, and Reading, Academic Affairs
Camille Rogers, Associate Professor, Department of Enterprise Systems and Analytics, Academic Affairs
Reed Smith, Professor, Department of Communication Arts, Academic Affairs
Kendall Turner, Groundskeeper, Grounds Operations, Business and Finance
Carol Waller, Senior Administrative Assistant, Department of Marketing, Academic Affairs
Christine Whitlock, Professor, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Academic Affairs
Kimberly Wiggins, Human Resources Associate, Office of Human Resources, Business and Finance
Janie Wilson, Professor, Department of Psychology, Academic Affairs
Gregory Wimer, Professor, Department of Health Sciences and Kinesiology, Academic Affairs
Teresa Winterhalter, Associate Dean/Professor, College of Arts and Humanities , Academic Affairs
Alan Zwald, Professor, Department of Health Sciences and Kinesiology, Academic Affairs
20 Years
Tabitha Anderson, Senior Administrative Assistant, Office of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Academic Affairs
Anthony Barilla, Associate Professor, Department of Economics, Academic Affairs
Gregory Brock, Professor, Department of Economics, Academic Affairs
Linda Carwell, Business Operations Manager, RAC Operations, Student Affairs
Amelia Castilian-Moore, Assistant Director of Student Accessibility Resource Center, Student Accessibility Resource Center, Student Affairs
Kathleen Comerford, Professor, Department of History, Academic Affairs
Angela Cook, Systems Software Developer, Intermediate, Enterprise Application Service, Office of the President
Lisa Denmark, Associate Professor, Department of History, Academic Affairs
Brenda Edenfield, Administrative Assistant, Office of the Registrar, Enrollment Management
Steven Engel, Director Academic-ASOP, University Honors Program, Academic Affairs
Sharon Gilliard-Smith, Assistant Professor, Department of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Sciences, Academic Affairs
Sara Grimes, Lecturer, Department of Management, Academic Affairs
Alice Hall, Professor, School of Human Ecology, Academic Affairs
Sarah Hancock, Lecturer, Department of Music, Academic Affairs
Josephine Hanschke, Educational Program Specialist II, Academic Success Center, Academic Affairs
Andrew Hansen, Associate Professor, Department of Health Policy and Community Health, Academic Affairs
Patricia Hart, Customer Relationship Analyst, Student Technology Fee, Office of the President
Rodney Hennon, Head Baseball Coach, Extramural Physical Activities, Office of the President
Angel Howard, Chief Information Security Officer, IT Security, Office of the President
Tyndall Jackson, Director of Sports Information, Sports Information, Office of the President
Dorothy Kempson, Director of the Liberty Center, Liberty Campus, Academic Affairs
Sybil Kirkland, Accounts Payable Assistant, Financial Accounting Office, Business and Finance
Brian Koehler, Asst Dean Academic/ASOP, College of Science and Mathematics, Academic Affairs
John Kraft, Associate Dean & Professor, College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Academic Affairs
Christine Ludowise, Associate Provost for Student Success, Office of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Academic Affairs
Larry Mays, Senior Associate Athletic Director for External Affairs, Extramural Physical Activities, Office of the President
Starla McCollum, Professor, Department of Health Sciences and Kinesiology, Academic Affairs
Richard McGrath, Professor, Department of Economics, Academic Affairs
Bridget Melton, Professor, Department of Health Sciences and Kinesiology, Academic Affairs
Donna Mullenax, Senior Lecturer, Department of Physics, Academic Affairs
Karen Nunnally, Accountant I, Bursar’s Office, Business and Finance
Edie Olliff, Lecturer, School of Accountancy, Academic Affairs
Michael Pemberton, Professor, Department of Writing and Linguistics, Academic Affairs
Sheila Porter, Systems Administrator, Enterprise Infrastructure, Office of the President
Deborah Reese, Associate Professor, Department of Writing and Linguistics, Academic Affairs
Laura Regassa, Professor, Department of Biology, Academic Affairs
Edward Rinalducci, Associate Professor, Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Academic Affairs
Cheryl Rogers, Staff Assistant, School of Nursing, Academic Affairs
Amy Rowell, Career Development Specialist, Career Services, Student Affairs
Janice Stanford, WEB Content Manager, University Communications and Marketing,
Gloria Stuart, Lecturer, School of Accountancy, Academic Affairs
Marian Tabi, Professor, School of Nursing, Academic Affairs
Desiree West, Custodian, Custodial Operations, Business and Finance
Matthew Williamson, Associate Professor, Department of Health Sciences and Kinesiology, Academic Affairs
15 Years
Lorenza Beati Ziegler, Professor, James H. Oliver, Jr., Institute for Coastal Plain Science, Academic Affairs
Benjamin Bentley, Laboratory Technician, Department of Communication Arts, Academic Affairs
Diana Botnaru, Professor, Department of Health Sciences and Kinesiology, Academic Affairs
Thomas Buckhoff, Associate Professor, School of Accountancy, Academic Affairs
Myka Campbell, Instructor, Department of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Sciences, Academic Affairs
George Davies, Professor, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Academic Affairs
Andrew Diamanduros, Academic Professional, Department of Biology, Academic Affairs
Terry Diamanduros, Professor, Department of Leadership, Technology and Human Development, Academic Affairs
Suzette Dillard, Financial Aid Counselor, Office of Financial Aid, Enrollment Management
Karen Heller, Staff Assistant, Library General Operations, Academic Affairs
Robert Jackson, Assistant Professor, School of Accountancy, Academic Affairs
Wayne Johnson, Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Academic Affairs
Howard Keeley, Assistant Professor, Department of Literature, Academic Affairs
Barbara King, Lecturer, Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology, Academic Affairs
Gregory Knofczynski, Professor, Department of Mathematical Science, Academic Affairs
Rochelle Lee, Assistant Professor, Department of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Sciences, Academic Affairs
Kendria Lee, Director, Economic Development & Community Relations, Chief of Staff and External Affairs, Office of the President
Willene McMillan, Custodian, Custodial Operations, Business and Finance
Willie Mikell, Licensed Practical Nurse, General Health Services, Business and Finance
Tony Morris, Professor, Department of Writing and Linguistics, Academic Affairs
Linda Mullen, Associate Professor, Department of Marketing, Academic Affairs
Lisa K Muller, Lecturer, Department of Communication Arts, Academic Affairs
Tonya Owens, Senior Administrative Assistant, Office of Public Safety, Business and Finance
Reinhard Piltner, Assistant Professor, Department of Mathematical Science, Academic Affairs
Rebecca Rhinehart, Clery Compliance & Records Mgr, Office of Public Safety, Business and Finance
Carol Ruffo, Nurse Manager, General Health Services, Business and Finance
Pamela Sears, Professor, Department of Communication Arts, Academic Affairs
Jack Simmons, Professor, Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies, Academic Affairs
Wei Tu, Professor, Department of Geology and Geography, Academic Affairs
Ruth Whitworth, Academic Professional AC, Public Health General, Academic Affairs
Francois Ziegler, Assistant Professor, Department of Mathematical Science, Academic Affairs
10 Years
Mohammad Ahad, Associate Professor, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Academic Affairs
Lisa Akers, Research Coordinator, College of Education, Academic Affairs
John Ard, Librarian Lecturer, Library General Operations, Academic Affairs
Jason Beck, Associate Professor, Department of Economics, Academic Affairs
Jennifer Berghoff, Budget Manager for Academic Affairs, Office of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Academic Affairs
Mark Braswell, Director of Retail Brands & Catering, Eagle Dining Services, Business and Finance
Lisa Bridges, Office Manager, University Communications and Marketing,
Krista Briel, Associate Director of Research Services, Office of Research Services and Sponsored Programs, Academic Affairs
David Bringman, Assistant Professor, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Academic Affairs
Sally Brown, Professor, Department of Curriculum, Foundations, and Reading, Academic Affairs
Tricia Brown, Associate Professor, Department of Mathematical Science, Academic Affairs
Avia Brown, Assistant Manager, Lakeside Cafe, Business and Finance
Jermaine Bryant, Library Technical Assistant, Library General Operations, Academic Affairs
Darius Butts, General Manager (Large Operations), Chick-Fil-A, Business and Finance
Janee Cardell, Administrative Coordinator, Department of Biology, Academic Affairs
Gwendolyn Carroll, Senior Lecturer, Department of Biology, Academic Affairs
Sharon Chavers, Production Chef, Lakeside Cafe, Business and Finance
Stephen Collins, Men’s Golf Coach, Men’s Golf, Office of the President
Cynthia Costa, Senior Lecturer, Department of Art, Academic Affairs
Lydia Cross, Assessment Coordinator, College of Education, Academic Affairs
Francis Desiderio, Associate Director of University Honors, University Honors Program, Academic Affairs
John DiCesare, Associate Dept Chair-Professor, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Academic Affairs
Lawrence Driggers, Carpentry Supervisor, Structural Maintenance, Business and Finance
Emily Eisenhart, Instructor, Department of Health Policy and Community Health, Academic Affairs
Nellie Floyd, Custodial Foreman, University Housing, Business and Finance
Stacy Floyd, Custodian, University Housing, Business and Finance
Zwisel Gandia Torres, Associate Dean of Student Conduct & Community Standards, Dean of Students, Student Affairs
Marie Graf, Instructor, School of Nursing, Academic Affairs
Ben Green, Assistant Head Baseball Coach-Pitching, Men’s Baseball, Office of the President
Sara Gremillion, Associate Professor, Department of Biology, Academic Affairs
Annette Harlie, Custodian, University Housing, Business and Finance
Angela Harn, Communications Officer, Advancement & External Affairs, Office of the President, University Communciations and Marketing
Spencer Harp, Lecturer, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Academic Affairs
Amanda Hedrick, Lecturer, Department of Writing and Linguistics, Academic Affairs
Megan Heins, Director of Residential Education, Resident Life, Business and Finance
Nicholas Herrington, Painter, Structural Maintenance, Business and Finance
Elsie Hill, Associate Professor, Department of Art, Academic Affairs
Charles Hodges, Professor, Department of Leadership, Technology and Human Development, Academic Affairs
John Hodges, Groundskeeper, Grounds Operations, Business and Finance
Jay Hodgson, Associate Professor, Department of Biology, Academic Affairs
Jesse Hopkins, Electrical Foreman, University Housing, Business and Finance
Fern Howard, Executive Assistant, Herty, Herty Advanced Materials Development Center, University Advancement
Samantha Hutto, Associate Director of Financial Aid, Office of Financial Aid, Enrollment Management
Justin Janney, Associate Vice President for Finance, Finance Division, Business and Finance
Sharon Jenkins, Certified Medical Assistant, General Health Services, Business and Finance
Cynthia Jones, Chef de Cuisine, Lakeside Cafe, Business and Finance
Stephanie Jones, Associate Professor of Instructional Technology, College of Education, Academic Affairs
Kristin Karam, Interim Director, Office of Global Engagement, Academic Affairs
Seonghoon Kim, Associate Professor, Department of Civil Engineering & Construction, Academic Affairs
Joshua Lambert, Associate Professor, Department of Mathematical Science, Academic Affairs
Eric Landers, Associate Professor, Department of Elementary and Special Education, Academic Affairs
Bruce Lehman, Carpenter, University Housing, Business and Finance
Nikiya Lewis, Assistant Professor, School of Nursing, Academic Affairs
Thomas Markovcic, Electrical Supervisor, Mechanical Maintenance, Business and Finance
Adam Martin, Assistant Director of Career Development, Career Services, Student Affairs
Ginny McPhail, Lecturer, Department of Finance, Academic Affairs
Thomas Mikell, Director of Financial Accounting & Assistant Controller, Financial Accounting Office, Business and Finance
Robert Noah, Senior Graphics Technician, Structural Maintenance, Business and Finance
Mary Poe, Assistant Director of Institutional Research, Institutional Research, Enrollment Management
Ria Ramoutar, Senior Lecturer, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Academic Affairs
Deandra Raymond, Budget Analyst I, Office of Global Engagement, Academic Affairs
Lynne Reed, Maintenance Worker, Student Union Facilities & Event Services, Student Affairs
Daniel Riggs, Grounds Foreman, Grounds Operations, Business and Finance
Rebecca Robertson, Custodian, University Housing, Business and Finance
April Robinson, Custodian, University Housing, Business and Finance
Sabrina Ross, Professor, Department of Curriculum, Foundations, and Reading, Academic Affairs
Jeffery Secrest, Associate Professor, Department of Physics, Academic Affairs
Chasen Smith, Lecturer, Department of Mathematical Science, Academic Affairs
Carol Smith, Administrative Assistant, Student Accessibility Resource Center, Student Affairs
Lina Soares, Professor, Department of Middle Grades and Secondary Education, Academic Affairs
Alexander Stokolos, Professor, Department of Mathematical Science, Academic Affairs
Lace Svec, Senior Lecturer, Department of Biology, Academic Affairs
Reid Tatum, General Manager (Small Operation), GUS Mart, Business and Finance
Jamie Thomas, Human Resources Manager, Office of Human Resources, Business and Finance
Masahiko Uchida, Lecturer, Department of Mathematical Science, Academic Affairs
Melissa VanHall, Customer Relationship Analyst, Student Technology Fee, Office of the President
James Walker, Carpenter, Structural Maintenance, Business and Finance
Joshua Wallace, Custodian, Custodial Operations, Business and Finance
Karen Wells, Administrative Specialist, College of Business Office of Graduate Programs, Academic Affairs
David Wiggins, Plumber, Mechanical Maintenance, Business and Finance
Frank Williams, Custodian, Custodial Operations, Business and Finance
Curtis Williams, Custodian, Custodial Operations, Business and Finance
Kim Wingfield, Senior Administrative Assistant, Office of the President,
Shaowen Xu, Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Academic Affairs
Melanie Yarley, Dispatcher, University Housing, Business and Finance
5 Years
Daniel Adams, Assistant Athletic Director of Fan Experience & Promotions, Extramural Physical Activities, Office of the President
Atin Adhikari, Associate Professor, Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Environmental Health Sciences, Academic Affairs
Mete Akcaoglu, Associate Professor, Department of Leadership, Technology and Human Development, Academic Affairs
Omar Ali, Program Director-BioMat, Herty, Herty Advanced Materials Development Center, University Advancement
Kerrin Allen, Custodial Supervisor, Custodial Operations, Business and Finance
Monique Aller, Associate Professor, Department of Physics, Academic Affairs
April Almazan, Communications Officer, Office of Public Safety, Business and Finance
Dragos Amarie, Assistant Professor, Department of Physics, Academic Affairs
Judith Amore, Assistant Manager, Dining Commons, Business and Finance
Danira Beckmann, IT Project Manager, Information Technology Services, Office of the President
Blaine Bennett, Network Administrator, Enterprise Networking, Office of the President
Renee Berry, Lecturer, Department of Writing and Linguistics, Academic Affairs
Joshua Berry, HVAC Mechanic, University Housing, Business and Finance
Srobana Bhattacharya, Associate Professor, Department of Political Science and International Studies, Academic Affairs
Brenda Blackwell, Associate Dean & Professor, College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Academic Affairs
Jessica Bodily, Lecturer, Department of Psychology, Academic Affairs
Monique Bos, Lecturer, Department of Writing and Linguistics, Academic Affairs
Shalah Bowden, Financial Services Assistant Accounting Manager, Financial Accounting Office, Business and Finance
Justin Brabham, Electrician, Herty, Herty Advanced Materials Development Center, University Advancement
Heather Bradley, Human Resources Coordinator, University Housing, Business and Finance
Daniel Bragg, Asst Director Adv Mat, Herty, Herty Advanced Materials Development Center, University Advancement
Ashley Brooks, Custodial Foreman, University Housing, Business and Finance
Christopher Brown, Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science and International Studies, Academic Affairs
Benjamin Brown, Groundskeeper, Grounds Operations, Business and Finance
Lee Broxton, Administrative Assistant, School of Nursing, Academic Affairs
Timothus Burnette, Custodial Foreman, University Housing, Business and Finance
Christy Byczkoski, Nurse Practitioner, General Health Services, Business and Finance
La Shai Campbell, Budget Analyst, Student Union Facilities & Event Services, Student Affairs
Stephen Carden, Assistant Professor, Department of Mathematical Science, Academic Affairs
Julia Carter, Instructional Designer, Center for Teaching Excellence, Academic Affairs
Kelly Carter, Head Track & Field Coach, Extramural Physical Activities, Office of the President
Christopher Cartright, Lecturer, Department of Writing and Linguistics, Academic Affairs
Steven Charlier, Dept Chair-Assoc Prof, Department of Management, Academic Affairs
Zhan Chen, Associate Professor, Department of Mathematical Science, Academic Affairs
Richard Cleveland, Associate Professor, Department of Leadership, Technology and Human Development, Academic Affairs
Morgan Clifton, Academic Advisor II, College of Science and Mathematics, Academic Affairs
Caitlyn Cofer, Assistant Director of Career Development, Career Services, Student Affairs
Aaron Cohen, Administrative Coordinator, Botanic Garden, Academic Affairs
Chelsey Connor, Custodian, University Housing, Business and Finance
Nedra Cossa, Assistant Professor, Department of Elementary and Special Education, Academic Affairs
Linda Covino, Administrative Assistant, Office of the Registrar, Enrollment Management
Brittany Cox, Assistant Track & Field Coach, Women’s Cross Country Track, Office of the President
Francisco Cubas Suazo, Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering & Construction, Academic Affairs
David Cutler, Associate Director of Athletic Development, Extramurals Development, Office of the President
Kye Daniels, Staff Assistant, Continuing Education-Savannah, Academic Affairs
Nicole Davis, Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Academic Affairs
Timothy Davis, Custodian, Custodial Operations, Business and Finance
Kile Deal, Systems Software Developer, Intermediate, Auxiliary IT Services, Office of the President
Stephanie Del Forn, Assistant Director of Admissions – Technology, Office of Admissions, Enrollment Management
Nikki DiGregorio, Associate Professor, School of Human Ecology, Academic Affairs
Jennifer Dippolito, Accountant II, Research Accounting, Business and Finance
Kenneth Dubose, Pilot Plant Tech II, Herty, Herty Advanced Materials Development Center, University Advancement
James Durden, Parking Services Monitor, Parking & Transportation, Business and Finance
Austin Edris, Administrative Assistant, Office of Admissions, Enrollment Management
Vernessa Ellis, Licensed Practical Nurse, General Health Services, Business and Finance
Robert Farber, Professor, Department of Art, Academic Affairs
Charles Futch, Maintenance Worker, Mechanical Maintenance, Business and Finance
Robert Futch, Communications Engineer, Telecommunications, Office of the President
Samuel Garrison, Assistant Director of Student-Athlete Services, Student Athlete Services, Academic Affairs
Delinda Gaskins, Administrative Assistant, Institutional Research, Enrollment Management
Christina Gipson, Assistant Professor, Department of Health Sciences and Kinesiology, Academic Affairs
Frank Glenn, Assistant Professor, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Academic Affairs
John Golden, Groundskeeper, Grounds Operations, Business and Finance
Pamela Goodman, Assistant Director of Employer Relations, Career Services, Student Affairs
Debbie Griner, Degree Program Assistant, Office of the Registrar, Enrollment Management
Michele Guidone, Assistant Professor, Department of Biology, Academic Affairs
Antonio Gutierrez De Blume, Associate Professor, Department of Curriculum, Foundations, and Reading, Academic Affairs
Stephanie Hairston, Assistant Professor, School of Accountancy, Academic Affairs
Tracy Ham, Senior Associate Athletics Director of Internal Operations, Extramural Physical Activities, Office of the President
Hudarphus Hardnett, Admissions Processor, Office of Admissions, Enrollment Management
Steven Harper, Dept Head-Prof, Department of Music, Academic Affairs
William Henry, Financial Services Assistant Accounting Manager, Bursar’s Office, Business and Finance
Deanna Hitchcock, Production Chef, Dining Commons, Business and Finance
Patrick Holloway, Police Sergeant, Office of Public Safety, Business and Finance
Smith Holloway, Degree Program Assistant, Office of the Registrar, Enrollment Management
Rodrick Holsey, Assistant Director of Custodial Services-Res Facilities, University Housing, Business and Finance
Keno Holt, Custodian, University Housing, Business and Finance
Ronald Holton, Auto Shop Mechanic, Grounds Operations, Business and Finance
Timothy Holton, IT Business Analyst, Intermediate, Enterprise Application Service, Office of the President
John Hom, Assistant Professor, Department of Art, Academic Affairs
Brandon Hunt, Professor, Department of Leadership, Technology and Human Development, Academic Affairs
Anthony Hunter, Custodian, Custodial Operations, Business and Finance
Elizabeth Huss, Accountant I, Herty, Herty Advanced Materials Development Center, University Advancement
Duc Huynh, Assistant Professor, Department of Mathematical Science, Academic Affairs
Natalie Ingalsbe, Lecturer, Department of Writing and Linguistics, Academic Affairs
Jordan Ivey, Store Operations Associate, Tech Corner, Business and Finance
Kevin Jennings, Assistant Professor, Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology, Academic Affairs
Anne Johnson, Financial Aid Specialist, Office of Financial Aid, Enrollment Management
Janina Jones, Academic Advisor I, College of Education, Academic Affairs
Jeffery Jones, Associate Professor, Department of Health Policy and Community Health, Academic Affairs
Dontavious Jones, Custodian, Custodial Operations, Business and Finance
Denise Jones, Custodial Foreman, Custodial Operations, Business and Finance
Jenice Jones, Custodian, Custodial Operations, Business and Finance
Joshua Kennedy, Associate Professor, Department of Political Science and International Studies, Academic Affairs
Diane Kessel, Lecturer, Department of Music, Academic Affairs
Dannie Kiely, Police Lieutenant, Office of Public Safety, Business and Finance
Houston Kirkland, Assistant Director of Procurement & Contract Services, Purchasing, Business and Finance
James Kittinger, Business Operations Manager, Campus Recreation & Intramurals, Student Affairs
Emily Kuhfeld, Women’s Golf Coach, Extramural Physical Activities, Office of the President
Jimmy Lane, Pilot Plant Supervisor, Herty, Herty Advanced Materials Development Center, University Advancement
David Langley, Associate Professor, Department of Music, Academic Affairs
Chelsea Lanier, Academic Advisor I, Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering and Computing, Academic Affairs
Kevin Lavender, Assistant Manager, Dining Commons, Business and Finance
Madison Lee, Financial Services Manager, Bursar’s Office, Bursar’s Office, Business and Finance
Bridget Lee, Student Services Coordinator, Student Union Facilities & Event Services, Student Affairs
Mao Lin, Associate Professor, Department of History, Academic Affairs
Lisa Lockhart, Administrative Assistant, Building Operations, Business and Finance
Yuka Loveless, Senior Administrative Assistant, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Academic Affairs
Stacy Lucas, Certified Medical Assistant, General Health Services, Business and Finance
Celine Manoosingh, Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering & Construction, Academic Affairs
Robert Mans, Assistant Professor, Department of Biology, Academic Affairs
Keri Mans, Assistant Professor, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Academic Affairs
William Mase, Associate Professor, Department of Health Policy and Community Health, Academic Affairs
Ricky McKuhen, Maintenance Supervisor, Herty, Herty Advanced Materials Development Center, University Advancement
Ronald Mehelic, Systems Analyst, Intermediate, Enterprise Infrastructure, Office of the President
Aakash Mehta, Lecturer, Department of Biology, Academic Affairs
Mia Merlin, Lecturer, Department of Art, Academic Affairs
Marsha Miller, Administrative Coordinator, Center for Teaching Excellence, Academic Affairs
Justin Miller, Grounds Foreman, Grounds Operations, Business and Finance
Matthew Mock, Network Administrator, Enterprise Networking, Office of the President
Christel Monk, Administrative Coordinator, Center for Wildlife Education, Academic Affairs
Candice Moore, Optician, Eagle Eye Care, Business and Finance
Kylie Moore, Research Analyst II, Institutional Research, Enrollment Management
Noriko Mori Kolbe, Lecturer, Department of Foreign Languages, Academic Affairs
Alexander Morris, Police Officer, Office of Public Safety, Business and Finance
Andrew Mosley, Staff Assistant, Eagle Card Program, Business and Finance
Elizabeth Mundhenke, Senior Administrative Assistant, Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering and Computing, Academic Affairs
Joshua Murray, Custodian, Custodial Operations, Business and Finance
Saeed Nasseh, Associate Professor, Department of Mathematical Science, Academic Affairs
Christina Ndaluka, Lecturer, Department of Biology, Academic Affairs
Brittany Nichols, Academic Advisor II, Parker College of Business, Academic Affairs
Christy O’Neal, Senior Administrative Assistant, School of Nursing, Academic Affairs
Gary Oglesby, Millwright, Herty, Herty Advanced Materials Development Center, University Advancement
Samuel Opoku, Assistant Professor, Department of Health Policy and Community Health, Academic Affairs
Amy Perry, Educational Program Specialist II, English Language Program, Academic Affairs
Celine Pfund, Instructor, School of Nursing, Academic Affairs
Maria Phillips, General Manager (Large Operations), Starbucks, Business and Finance
Benjamin Phillips, Leadership & Community Engagement Coordinator, Leadership & Community Engagement, Student Affairs
Daniel Pioske, Assistant Professor, Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies, Academic Affairs
Ann Price, Academic Advisor II, College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Academic Affairs
Meredith Quattlebaum, Educational Psychologist, Regents Center for Learning Disorders, Academic Affairs
Ryan Richardson, Director of Enterprise Infrastructure Services, Enterprise Infrastructure, Office of the President
Amanda Rickard, Clinical Psychologist, Regents Center for Learning Disorders, Academic Affairs
Sara Emily Ridgway-Jones, Administrative Specialist, Jack N. Averitt College of Graduate Studies, Academic Affairs
Desiree Riley, Limited Term INST-Regular, Department of Writing and Linguistics, Academic Affairs
Richard Robbins, Operations Director, Herty, Herty Advanced Materials Development Center, University Advancement
James Roberts, Associate Professor, Department of Biology, Academic Affairs
Daniel Roberts, Research Analyst II, Institutional Research, Enrollment Management
Donald Ross, Staff Assistant, Office of Financial Aid, Enrollment Management
Mariana Saenz-Ayala, Assistant Professor, Department of Economics, Academic Affairs
Adel Sayedahmed, Assistant Professor, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Academic Affairs
Barbara Serianni, Assistant Professor, Department of Elementary and Special Education, Academic Affairs
Lindy Sherwood, Customer Relationship Analyst, Information Technology Services, Office of the President
Minchul Shin, Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Academic Affairs
Nicholas Shrader, Director of Resident Life, Armstrong Housing P3, Business and Finance
Bishal Silwal, Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Academic Affairs
David Simpson, Director of Student Media Administration, Student Media Administration, Student Affairs
Sarah Singleton, Staff Assistant, Regents Center for Learning Disorders, Academic Affairs
Stacy Smallwood, Associate Professor, Department of Health Policy and Community Health, Academic Affairs
Christopher Smith, Lecturer, Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies, Academic Affairs
Chelda Smith, Associate Professor, Department of Elementary and Special Education, Academic Affairs
Donna Smith, Administrative Assistant, Office of Admissions, Enrollment Management
Alphonso Smoot, Custodian, University Housing, Business and Finance
Brian Sowell, Project Manager I, Division of Facilities Services, Business and Finance
Jessica Spearman, Lecturer, Department of Writing and Linguistics, Academic Affairs
Gloria Stuart, Lecturer, School of Accountancy
Kelly Sullivan, Associate Professor, Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Environmental Health Sciences, Academic Affairs
Eileen Swan, Academic Advisor II, College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Academic Affairs
John Swett, Customer Relationship Analyst, Information Technology Services, Office of the President
Matthew Syno, Lecturer, Department of Health Sciences and Kinesiology, Academic Affairs
Mary Thaler, Senior Administrative Assistant, i²STEMe Institute, Academic Affairs
Dylitchrous Thompson, Information Analyst, Associate, Library General Operations, Academic Affairs
Ashley Thornton, Administrative Specialist, Office of the President,
Timothy Tolentino, Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Academic Affairs
Kathryn Twining, Associate Vice President for Facilities Services, Division of Facilities Services, Business and Finance
Ashlie Tyson, Academic Advisor II, Armstrong Advisement Center, Academic Affairs
Jana Underwood, Lecturer, Department of Middle Grades and Secondary Education, Academic Affairs
Heather Valentine, Academic Advisor II, Armstrong Advisement Center, Academic Affairs
Jacqueline Varnell, Instructor, Department of Mathematical Science, Academic Affairs
Kimberly Vedder, Communications Officer, Office of Public Safety, Business and Finance
Angelina Ward, Financial Aid Counselor, Office of Financial Aid, Enrollment Management
Jerry Ann Weaver, Administrative Assistant, General Health Services, Business and Finance
Barbara Weiss, Administrative Assistant, Office of the Registrar, Enrollment Management
Pamela Wells, Associate Professor, Department of Leadership, Technology and Human Development, Academic Affairs
Mary Wells, Assistant Professor, Department of Middle Grades and Secondary Education, Academic Affairs
Maliece Whatley, Senior Lecturer, School of Accountancy, Academic Affairs
Oscar Wiggins, Shipping & Receiving Clerk, Logistical Services, Business and Finance
Rachel Wilburn, Student Services Coordinator, Leadership & Community Engagement, Student Affairs
TimMarie Williams, Assistant Professor, Department of Health Sciences and Kinesiology, Academic Affairs
Lisa Wilson, Executive Assistant I, College of Education, Academic Affairs
Charles Wilson, Associate Professor, Department of Health Sciences and Kinesiology, Academic Affairs
Wendy Woodrum, Associate Vice President for Planning & Analysis, Office of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Business and Finance
Wesley Woods, EH&S Technician, Environmental Health & Safety, Business and Finance
Naomi Woods, Administrative Assistant, Parking & Transportation, Business and Finance
Haley Worst, Assistant Professor, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Academic Affairs
Carol Yarley, Learning Commons Associate, Lane Library, Academic Affairs
Jingjing Yin, Associate Professor, Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Environmental Health Sciences, Academic Affairs
Jennifer Zorotovich, Assistant Professor, School of Human Ecology, Academic Affairs
Committee Review
A total of 10 committees reviewed the Faculty, Staff and Team awards. Six of the committees provided a peer-review process for the applicants and four committees were joint committees. The joint committees consisted of members from both the faculty and staff with equal representation. The charge to the following committees was to review application packets and decide on the Awards of Excellence winners. Each committee evaluated the applicants based upon a set criterion and rubric. Rubrics were designed per award.
University Awards Committee
Helen Bland, Co-Chair, Professor, Department of Health Policy and Community Health, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health
Ava Edwards, Co-Chair, Director, Office of Alumni Relations
Katrina Embrey, Assistant Professor, School of Nursing, Waters College of Health Professions
Andrew Hansen, Associate Professor, Department of Health Policy and Community Health, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health
DeAnn Lewis, Accounting Information Analyst, University Budget Office, 2020-2021 Staff Council Chair-Elect
Trina Smith, Executive Assistant to the Provost, Office of the Provost, 2020-2021 Staff Council Chair
Christine Whitlock, Professor, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Science and Mathematics
Contact: gsawards@georgiasouthern.edu
Separate Committees
Faculty Peer-Review Process; Staff Peer-Review Process
- Teaching (Pillar) and Academic Excellence (Value)
Faculty: Faculty Senate Development Committee
Staff: Staff Council Committee for Teaching/Academic Excellence Awards - Research (Pillar) and Discovery and Innovation (Value)
Faculty: Faculty Senate Research Committee
Staff: Staff Council Committee for Research/Discovery and Innovation Awards - Community Engagement (also known as Service) (Pillar) and Collaboration (Value)
Faculty: Faculty Senate Service Committee
Staff: Staff Council Committee for Community Engagement/Collaboration Awards
Joint Committees of Faculty/Staff
5 Committees
- Inclusive Excellence (Pillar) and Openness and Inclusiveness (Value)
Counsel Review was conducted by the President’s Diversity Advisory Counsel. - Operational EE&S (Pillar) and Sustainability (Value)
Committee Review was conducted under the direction of the AVP for Planning and Analysis in conjunction with the Director of the Center for Sustainability. These leaders identified individuals that have expertise in operational efficiency, effectiveness and sustainability that can ascertain the contributions of the applicants. The committee structure was a cross-section of faculty, staff, administrators, and students. - Student Success (Pillar)
Committee Review was conducted by the Student Success Institutional Committee with representation from the Faculty Senate Student Success Committee. - Integrity (Value)
Committee Review was conducted by the University Awards of Excellence Committee. - Team Award
Committee Review was conducted by the University Strategic Planning Committee.
Eligibility
To be eligible to receive an Award of Excellence, an employee must be employed by the Georgia Southern University or the former Armstrong University for a minimum of three years at (the nomination period of August 1st) and must have received a rating of meets expectations or higher on the previous 2 performance evaluations.
All personnel up to, but not including, Directors and Chairs are eligible for nominations for Awards of Excellence. Directors in this instance does not infer to Academic Program directors, rather Directors within Divisional units.
An employee who has won a particular award in the past 3 years is not eligible to compete for that exact same award.
Certain Award Review Committees may have eligibility criteria that supersede these criteria, these are set as a minimum.