Transcript View our 2016 Heroes - Student Affairs and Academic Support

th
7
Annual
Welcome from
Dr. Gene Luna
Associate Vice President for Student Affairs
Overview of Stand Up
Carolina from
Shannon Nix
Associate Director of Sexual Assault and Violence
Intervention & Prevention
Foster a campus-wide cultural shift towards bystander accountability
through education, empowerment, and advocacy
Encourages the entire Carolina community to be active bystanders
who step in and speak up
Embed a sense of comfort and responsibility to intervene in the
campus culture
Keynote from Tim
Bryson
Senior Athletic Training Major
Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.
Intramural Sports Supervisor
Carolina Leadership Initiative Scholar
Fraternity Council
Future Student Affairs Professional
“Change will not come if we
wait for some other person or
some other time. We are the
ones we’ve been waiting for.
We are the change that we
seek.”
Wikipedia
“A person who is in the face of danger
who combats adversity through
impressive feats of ingenuity, bravery, or
strength, often times sacrificing his or her
own personal concerns for some greater
good”
“I believe the unarmed truth
and unconditional love will have
the final say in reality. This is why
right, temporarily defeated is
stronger than evil triumphant.”
42
42
Brian
Brian
Financial
Insecurity
Disordered Eating
Academic
Probation
Unstable
Functioning
Alcoholic
Depression
Anxiety
Suicidal Thoughts
“When you do the common
things in life in an uncommon
way, you will command the
attention of the world.”
Presentation of
2016 Stand Up Carolina
Heroes
Denise Wellman
Director, Visitor Services
Following my boyfriend's tragic and unexpected passing in the late fall of
2015, Dr. Wellman consistently served as my confidant and advocate
not only from a faculty member and director's perspective but also that
of a friend. Her assistance directing me to resources across campus that
would help me successfully conclude my fall courses allowed me to
properly cope with a devastating loss while also learning how to
effectively overcome obstacles. Dr. Wellman's guidance contributed
immensely to my successful completion of my fall coursework. I am
honest when I say I do not know where my academics would currently
stand if it were not for the loving and caring direction of Dr. Denise
Wellman during what was up to this point the most trying time of my life.
Shelbie Patterson
Sophomore
Shelbie went on my service-learning medical mission trip to Nicaragua during Spring Break. I want to recognize
Shelbie for extending herself to help a sick and dying patient. During a house-to-house health care campaign
in the rural community of La Curva, Shelbie joined other students in notifying rural inhabitants of our intent to
render much needed health care in a clinic setting. While doing so on the first day of our trip, Shelbie
encountered a patient in dire distress. The 58 yr. old female patient that Shelbie encountered had sustained a
hip fracture and had surgical correction performed. However, she fell again and re-fractured her hip. The
follow-up surgery to repair her bone and prosthesis was successful, but the surgical wound didn’t heal and the
patient has been bed-ridden the past 10 months. Much needed medications were too expensive, the patient
was diabetic, and the home conditions for healing wounds was less than desirable with no running water or
electricity. The patient couldn’t come to our clinic, so Shelbie brought Dr. Carlos Conrado, our local MD from
our clinic to this woman’s home. Dr. Conrado determined that for the open wound to heal, she would need a
special medication; however, it was too expensive and not available to the patient. Without hesitation,
Shelbie immediately gave Dr. Conrado $40 US and asked that he purchase the medication. This wasn’t
required of Shelbie, nor was it expected! When I approached her regarding her efforts she simply stated that
she wanted to help this patient and that $40 in the scheme of things was the least she could do to make a
difference in the life of a patient. Dr. Conrado told me he was impressed that a student would do this for a
perfect stranger! The next day Dr. Conrado brought the medication which now would be used to facilitate
wound healing.
Susan Alexander
Director of Service Learning & Undergraduate Research
and Academic Advisor
Late on a Friday afternoon in the dark days of December, Susan took the time to walk a student over to the
counseling center because she was concerned for their safety, and rightly so. Many of our staff and campus
partners take the time to do this, but Susan went above and beyond. After spending over an hour with the
student, I stepped out of the office to consult, and Susan was still waiting. "I told him I would wait for him", she
explained with a smile when I questioned why she was still there, given it was after 5:00 at this point. After
making plans with the student's father for another family member to come get them, the student talked with
her, told her the plan, and thanked her for her support. They told her they would let her know how things went,
and said his goodbye.
We waited another hour and a half for the family member to come get them, and decided to go down to
the lobby of the building to keep waiting. When we got there, Susan Alexander met us with a smile. "I wanted
to make sure your [family member] made it, and that you were ok". In that moment I was touched, so I can
only imagine how that student felt. She told me that she would wait with them as she wouldn't be leaving until
they did, and encouraged me to go back to my office and finish my work for the day.
More than anything, her presence sent the clear and powerful message that she cared. Not just about
their grades, or their credit hours, but for them as a person. A true hero is someone who understands that
being present is sometimes the best gift.
Kassandra Alia
Graduate Student/Faculty Member, Psychology
Department
Mrs. Alia lost her husband in the line of duty. While coping with such a tragic time
of her life and taking care of her toddler all by herself, the flood took over homes
of several people in Columbia. Despite her personal conflicts, she put everyone
else's needs before her own and volunteered several hours to serving the
community. The University gave her the semester off so she could take time to
herself and focus on her son. But instead, she made the best out of a bad situation
and gave people who were struggling her all. Kassy is the strongest woman I have
ever met in my entire life and she truly deserves this award because she has a
heart of pure gold and has helped save the lives of many.
Catherine Andrews
Assistant Residence Life Coordinator for University Housing
Catherine serves as an Assistant Residence Life Coordinator for University Housing
and has provided the best support for students in crisis this year. During the fall
semester she received information about a student that had been sexually
assaulted. Catherine really stepped up and gave support and resources to the
student in need. She went above and beyond in her support for the student both
during and after the crisis situation. In a time where the student felt depressed,
Catherine gave her encouragement to utilize resources and took personal time
out with the student whenever they had questions or was just feeling down. During
the entire situation, Catherine made a steadfast devotion to help the student get
back on track and continue being a successful student. Catherine's commitment
to being a student affairs professional that is student-centered, not only was
evident in this situation, but through her daily interactions with residents in the
community.
Jax Boucher
Sophomore
It was a typical Thursday night and I was walking home from the basketball game
when I saw an ambulance in front of one of the houses in the Greek Village. As a
House Director, I stopped to offer a hand when I saw one of my students, Jax
Boucher helping her fellow students. As two students were transported, I learned
that Jax was walking home from her shift at the Strom when she saw a group of
students in trouble in front of another chapter house. Jax offered to help as she has
been CPR and First-Aid certified. While the other students were overwhelmed by
the crisis, Jax remained calm and level-headed, contacted 911, and then was
able to get the two fellow students into correct positions to avoid complicating the
issue. These were all students that Jax did not know, but she saw a need and
helped her fellow students.
Lieutenant Lisa Branham
& Investigator Candace
Collins
USC Division of Law Enforcement and Safety
Lisa Branham and Candace Collins are Investigators and Officers for USC's Division
of Law Enforcement and Safety. In their work, Lisa and Candace go above and
beyond to ensure that survivors of interpersonal violence who are working with law
enforcement feel safe, respected, and empowered throughout the investigation
process. They do so much to keep our campus community safe and provide such
strong care and concern for all students, faculty, and staff.
Becca Bryant
Senior
Ever since I have known Becca, she has been the happiest person on earth. A
member of Alpha Delta Pi, you will always see Becca smiling, ALWAYS. In addition
to her leadership roles within her chapter, Becca is also a strong advocate for
interpersonal violence prevention. However, it is through her every day actions that
I write this nomination. Becca is literally the most-selfless person I know. She is
always looking to give, yet never asks for anything. She ensures no one drives
under the influence after a night out. Oh, and she has also talked multiple people
out of suicide and directed them to get the help they need to get better. She has
even helped counsel friends - men and women - who experienced domestic
violence. Becca is a strong advocate for preventing eating disorders and
disordered eating, as she will spend her last dollar making sure you have
something to eat. I know, because she has done it for me. She is hands down, one
of the nicest, most selfless human you will ever meet.
Carina Carpenter
Assistance Residence Life Coordinator for University Housing
Carina Carpenter has served students as an Assistant Residence Life Coordinator
for the past two years. Her ability to support the students in the Gamecock
Gateway Residential Bridge Program has been nothing short of amazing. Carina
has not responded to just one, but multiple situations of students in crisis in the
Roost that make her a HERO. Whether an escalated roommate conflict or sexual
assault, Carina is always able to approach the situation with the student's safety
and best interest in mind. Carina also leads with her heart and has provided a
unique level of support that goes beyond "just doing her job". She listens attentively
and works overtime to get the student to the appropriate resources, whether it's
during office hours or in the evening hours (when not on duty).
Yevgeniya (Jane)
Chernykh
Sophomore
The Career Center recently had the pleasure of partnering with Jane, Director of
the Carolina Closet, on "Career Catwalk", a fashion show to educate students on
business and casual dress. Jane approached me first about working together over
a year ago when the Carolina Closet was initially unveiled. Jane is a dynamo
student leader and was fantastic to collaborate with. Even more important, I am
humbled by her stewardship. Establishing a free resource to help students who
might not have professional dress to wear in the job search process is exactly the
kind of thing SG funds should be used for. She is to be commended for using her
talents to serve the USC student body!
Ana Cueto
Senior Instructor, Department of Languages, Literatures,
and Cultures
Professor Cueto is a very enthusiastic and hardworking Instructor in our
department. She has the gift of nudging students and staff beyond their comfort
zones to give the confidence to attain the goals they may otherwise not achieve.
She leads students on study abroad programs and takes on far more than what is
required in the classroom. Students call her "mama". She is one classy lady. She is
my hero!
Barbara Cuevas
Undergraduate Director for Exercise Science
As a student looking in I can see all of the hard work and extra miles Ms. Cuevas
goes with her students. She is always working around the clock - answering emails,
returning phone calls, answering her class GroupMe - making sure her students’
needs are being met. Not a lot of people see all of the hard work that Ms. Cuevas
does and how much she truly cares for her students. If there is ever an issue, she's
on top of it, and makes sure to take care of it right away. (And she's my mom so
she's basically a rock star anyways.)
Mike Dial
Coordinator of Early Intervention, Student Success Center
Mike continually advocates for students and their academic and social success. In his role he
comes in contact with students who may not be in the best academic circumstances
including those who are referred by instructors, are at-risk of losing scholarships, or first-year
students who have questions about navigating a large institution. He balances a unique
approach of care, candidness and humor to uplift and motivate students during rough
transitions.
One instance that stands out this academic year is when Mike met with a student who was
referred to the Student Success Center by an instructor for not attending class. In meeting with
the student, Mike discovered that they were a victim of sexual assault and the mental strain
and stress weighed upon the student so much that her academic performance was suffering.
The student needed someone to talk to and Mike was there to listen and guide them through
steps and resources that would help during their time here. After meeting with the student,
they thanked him thoroughly as he helped identify resources to help in a traumatic
experience. If I recall correctly the student said to him that, "I did not know where to go and
meeting with you helped me". Mike's sense of care and knowledge of services came at an
imperative time for this student.
Dr. Helen Doerpinghaus
Senior Vice Provost and Dean of Undergraduate Studies
Dr. Doerpinghaus has helped my family tremendously during their time of need. In July 2015,
my childhood and family home caught fire. Months prior to this event, my father became very
ill and is unable to work. Funds were very low to re-build their home. Dr. Doerpinghaus stepped
up and provided helping hands to my family. Not only did she contribute to the family's Go
Fund Me account, but she also provided funds to help build cabinets in the kitchen. In
addition, Dr. Doerpinghaus and her son delivered much needed furniture to my family's house.
She also got her church involved to help with various other needs. Even though her financial
contributions were tremendous, her caring attitude and check ins with me about my family’s
well-being stands out to the most. I'm very thankful for Dr. Doerpinghaus, her family, and her
church. I appreciate everything that she has done to help my family get back into their home.
Dr. Helen Doerpinghaus is a true Stand Up Carolina Hero.
Dr. Bobby Donaldson
Faculty Principal of Preston Residential College & Associate
Professor of History
Dr. Donaldson is a unique faculty member as he is the live-in faculty principal of Preston
Residential College. The connection he has made with a wide array of students provides a
safe haven for students from all walks of life. He frequently holds 'Dr. D after Dark' which is when
he holds office hours during times when most residents are awake and in the building (typically
from 10pm-1am). Anyone is welcome to come and speak to him regarding on-campus
projects, personal aspirations, and intellectual conversation.
In my own encounters with Dr. Donaldson, I have been challenged as a leader and a student
to think deeply about my own contributions to the Carolina community and my intended
career path. He has become a mentor and a guide that has significantly impacted by
experience at USC, even serving as my second reader for my Honors College Senior Thesis. He
has helped me shape my belief systems and mature as a leader on campus through a variety
of social justice efforts and academic endeavors. He is beloved by the entirety of the Preston
community and deserves to be named a Hero on our campus.
Lauren Dunlap, Brianna Cook, &
Becca Shannon
Sophomores
This fall, I [professor] received an email from Lauren right before class that as she was walking to
class, she saw a student fall off a moped. Lauren, Brianna, and Becca stopped until an ambulance
came along and let me know they would be late to class. The students arrived late, slipped into the
back of the class, and then approached me after class to apologize for getting to class late! They
also shared their actions at the accident scene and I was impressed to hear of their actions: one
comforted and positioned the victim, one applied pressure and ice to wounds, one called the
victim’s father on her cell phone to let him know of the accident and put him at ease, and another
called EMS. They stayed and comforted the victims (I believe she was a USC student) until EMS
arrived. I complimented them on their quick response and their willingness to help a stranger in dire
need of assistance! Additionally, they had the maturity to let me know that they were going to be
late (something I impress upon the students from the beginning of the semester!). These students
brought great pride to our program as they acted like veterans as they worked together as a team
to render emergency care. As their teacher I am greatly impressed, and have a renewed faith in the
future of our healthcare system…especially if these three are working in it!
Darby Enright
Senior
Darby goes above and beyond the call of duty when it comes to student
involvement on campus. She is an Executive Member of Dance Marathon, raising
thousands of dollars for the Children's Miracle Network, and is extremely passionate
in creating a better world for others. She spent the summer of 2015 in South Africa
with a program called Global LEAD. Darby spent her first semester senior year as a
STIR Coach at the Substance Abuse Prevention and Education Office on campus.
She puts 110% into every work that she does and is an inspiration to all of us!
Alexis Free-Jenkins
Sophomore
Alexis is always on the go. She participates in so many activities on campus that her friends are
often amazed at how she is able to keep up with it all. Alexis is an active member of Student
Government and she is the Operations Director of Carolina Closet, an organization that
provides business clothing to any student who does not have access to any. In addition to
that, she works as a Legislative Page at the State House and was able to translate that political
confidence to her own campaign for Student Body Vice President. While she did not win this
race, she showed a great deal of courage and leadership and she learned a lot from the
experience. She aspires to become an Anesthesiologist and encourages others to follow their
dreams as well. Alexis also encourages me and others daily to become involved in the
community here at USC. She loves meeting new people and participating in different things.
She is almost a fluent Spanish speaker who participates in activities with the Latin American
Student Organization and promotes diversity on campus. She is a very determined and kind
person with high aspirations for the future and I believe she is a deserving candidate for the
Hero Award.
Charlotte Galloway
Instructor and Advisor, Department of Health Promotion,
Education and Behavior
Dr. Galloway has been my mentor and adviser since freshman year. She has gone
above and beyond to make sure that I am succeeding in my classes and has
helped when I wasn't. She is truly the heart of the Public Health School.
Danielle Goodreau
Junior
At first glance, Dani Goodreau might look like your average college student as she
walks around on campus between PR classes or cheers on the Gamecocks at a
football game. However, there is much more than meets the eye. Dani is a veteran
of the US Air Force. She served for eight years doing aeromedical evacuation and
has gone on deployments to the Middle East. Due to her past experiences, Dani
now serves as President for the Student Veterans Association here at USC. Her
place in this organization has drawn more and more veterans into a group that
can help them transition to the university and meet students with similar
backgrounds. Without her bubbly personality and drive for success, the
organization would never be where it is today. Her military service as well as her
never-ending compassion for student veterans makes her the perfect candidate
for a Stand Up Carolina Hero Award.
Maegan Gudridge
Student Affairs and Academic Support Communications
Director
Maegan always goes above and beyond for her colleagues and for the students
of the university. She tirelessly works to communicate information to students that is
vital to their wellbeing and success. Maegan collaborates with all departments at
the university and ensures all of the campus community, especially within the
Division of Student Affairs & Academic Support, are informed about important
events, programs and crises, including weather-related emergencies and public
health issues. Working with Maegan on the Sexual Assault Communications
Committee, she is always pushing for positive change in the campus culture by
promoting sexual assault prevention and support for survivors. She is a true
example of a campus hero who often puts the needs of our students above her
own.
Georgia Heckel
Sophomore
Georgia informed me [professor] of a situation that occurred during the USC/Florida football
game and I felt she acted as a USC Hero. After Georgia shared with me what she had done, I
was quite impressed and asked her to share with my class.
While tailgating with some friends before the game, Georgia noticed a group of Florida fans
near them yelling for a doctor and saying that someone was having a seizure. Georgia waited
to see if any doctors or licensed care providers stepped forward, but when no one came, she
walked up to one of the adults and explained she was a nursing student and asked if she
could help. The adult agreed and ushered her over. Georgia told the adult to call EMS and
then she walked over to the individual and knelt next to them, rolled them on their side, and
waited out the seizure. It lasted a couple of minutes and Georgia tried to console the group
and explained causes and potential responses to a seizure. The individual came out of their
seizure, very disoriented, and Georgia stayed wit them until EMS arrived. Once everything
settled, Georgia reassured the Florida fans that everything would be okay.
Georgia’s professor said that, “With students like Georgia in our program, I feel quite safe
anywhere on campus!”
James Henderson
Director of Media Services, School of Visual Art and Design
Jimmy Henderson works in the Media Services department in McMaster. He's one of the most hard-working,
dedicated individuals I have ever met and he cares more about the well-being of students than almost any
other staff member that I have encountered. Jimmy is the guy that students go to when they've had a really
rough day or need help with any kind of issue in their lives. He's always there for the students and always able
to offer a kind word or encouraging advice. I decided to nominate Jimmy for this award because I know that
he deserves to be recognized for his dedication to students.
Jimmy is my mentor, my boss, and my best friend. He hired me as a work study position my freshman year at
Media Services when I needed a job and I needed to learn everything about cameras. Over the past 4 years
I've witnessed his ability to teach, grow, and inspire students in the Media Arts Dept. Without Jimmy there
would be no Media Services or Media Arts Dept. Ask any student and they will tell you Jimmy has been more
of a motivator and teacher than any professor. Jimmy fixes all problems such as cameras, technical problems,
and he's there when you need a laugh. He has really been a father figure to me growing up with no father. He
is so underappreciated and he deserves more than an award! He definitely deserves recognition! He's a hero
to me and a hero to all of Media Arts. If you don't believe me just ask any student what Jimmy means to our
department! He's the best professor we have! Seriously. I'm the most qualified to say it!
Dr. Elbert Ray Hodges
Lead Psychiatrist, Student Health Services
Dr. Hodges is an incredible doctor and deserves to be acknowledged for the
humble services that he provides. After moving to South Carolina for Law School, I
was overwhelmed with school work and gave zero to little attention to my health
needs. The first time I went to see Dr. Hodges, I was blown away by his caring
attitude. There is no one story that I can tell to show how deserving he is -- it is his
attitude every time I have needed to go see him. I am grateful now to have a
doctor that I am not shy about calling, and it has definitely impacted my health by
making me more than comfortable to seek help rather than enduring my
conditions alone.
DeeDee Houser
Sophomore
As a sophomore, DeeDee has an incredible ability to lead. Her altruistic personality
extends beyond her job and extra curricular involvement as she is always going
out of her way to help others. This practice quickly became a habit and was most
beneficial this year. After classes one day, DeeDee went to check on her friend
who was recovering from a long night. Unexpectedly, DeeDee walked in on her
friend attempting to commit suicide. After calming her friend down and ensuring
scene safety, DeeDee called supporting resources and got her friend the help they
needed to recover and begin living a healthy life. Had it not been for DeeDee's
courageous leadership, her friend would not be alive today.
James Jeremiah
Junior
James Jeremiah helped his friend overcome his dependence of alcohol and
substance abuse. James’ friend has been sober since October and has realized
how their actions were affecting their life. The friend’s consumption of alcohol was
having negative effects on grades and relationships and they have noticed a
significant different since quitting.
Corey Johnson
Senior
Corey Johnson has been the man to go to when anything is needed not only by
me but all of my peers as well. I am the Daytime Events coordinator of Carolina
Productions (a position held by Corey 2 years ago) and Corey has always had my
back. If you ask anybody in Carolina Productions, "Who is the one person you
would say has impacted you positively the most?" every answer will be Corey
Johnson. Whenever any of us are feeling overwhelmed or underappreciated,
Corey is there to lift us up. Not only is he always willing to lend a helping hand but
he genuinely enjoys helping others. Corey Johnson is the perfect candidate for
this award.
Calli Kinsler
Junior
Calli is the epitome of an interpersonal violence prevention advocate. She is a
champion not because of what she does, but why she does it. Calli actively
participates in classroom discussions and civic engagement opportunities,
campaigning against sexual and domestic violence. I have only known Calli since
August 2015, but the impact she has had on my life has been immeasurable. She
has not allowed her personal challenges dictate where she can or cannot go. Her
courage, resiliency, and willingness to help others are attributes we should look to
emulate. Calli deserves the Hero Award because she is a hero in my book, every
day.
Conor McBride
Freshman
Conor stepped up while at an off-campus party when he noticed that a fellow
Gamecock was not feeling well and became unable to breathe due to alcohol
intoxication. Conor was able to seek help for his friend and ultimately his ability to
stand up and say something saved allowed his friend to get lifesaving medical
attention.
Joey Murad
Freshman
Joey wrote about how he helped a fellow student in his blog for our U101 class. I had asked that students
share how they have lived out the Carolinian Creed and this is what he shared.
“This Halloweekend was a little spooky. Despite being sufficiently spoked, I still did my best to uphold the creed
and care for others. A group of friends and I went down to five points to hangout and look at costumes. While
we were walking around, we found an unconscious girl with no one around her. We did our best to help her
up and asked her for her information – name, where she lived, anything. She wasn’t responsive so we moved
her into a chair and checked her pulse. She was alive and breathing but not doing well. We eventually found
her student ID and started calling her by name but she still didn’t say anything. My friends and I decided it
would be best to call 911 and get her some help. I’d hate to get anyone in trouble for having a good time,
but this girl was at a point where she definitely needed help. So my friend called an ambulance and we
waited for them to show up. When they arrived, we told them everything we knew and asked if they needed
any assistance. They said no and we watched them load her into the back of the truck and we left, still
shocked at what had happened. It’s crazy that someone can be abandoned by their friends like that. I would
hope that my friends would never do that to me (if I ever got to that point, which I hopefully never would).
And if they did, I would certainly hope that someone would stop and assist me.”
Jessica Muscella
Freshman
I am nominating Jessica because even as a first year student here at the university,
she has proven to go above and beyond expectations as a friend and a servant
to the USC community. Jessica found herself in a situation that involved her friend's
safety and she had to make a very tough choice between acting as a bystander
or choosing to act in the interest of the other's well-being. I am very proud of the
mature decision Jessica made.
Anna Redwine
Director of Communications and Academic Advisor for the
Honors College
Anna Redwine is an advisor for the South Carolina Honors College, but to
the students she advises, she is much more than just that. She is also a
counselor and a friend. Every advising session I have ever had with Anna has
been a wonderful experience. Her kind heart and her joyful personality
make even the most awful schedule-making-experience seem like it will be
okay. Anna has consistently given me her full attention every time I have
visited her office, and when I see her on campus she never fails to make me
feel like I've made her day just by being alive. She is jubilant all the time, and
has turned advising from something I used to hate into something I now look
forward to doing. I know that I and many other students would feel safe
talking to Anna about anything. Thank you, Anna, for being such a
spectacular example to those around you in so many ways!
Sydney Sanders
Freshman
When I was diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) last
semester, Sydney became one of the first people to help me get over
my depression and help me get my life back on track. She helped me
feel happy again and I appreciate her for being a great friend.
She was the first person to really talk to me and take me in on campus.
She's really motivating and kind hearted. I wouldn't have had nearly as
much fun my freshman year without her always being there!
Sarah Stevens
Junior
As a freshman with an anxiety disorder, transitioning to college was
rough. I became depressed, constantly worried, and felt out of place
because I didn't have any close friends. I met Sarah one night in October
and my life was changed for the better. Her smile, positive attitude, and
happiness resonated with me and pulled me out of depression. She's
been an amazing friend and is always there for me. I'm so grateful to
have met such a kind and caring person. Sarah you really are my hero.
James Strothers
Staff
James is always there for people. When he worked in the Department of
Chemistry and Biochemistry he was always bringing in fresh produce to
share with everyone and other various foods. Even though James no
longer works in the Department, last semester when he found out that
one of the staff members was in an accident and did not have a car for
at least a month, he offered to let her use one of his cars until her car
was repaired and she had it back, without asking a penny in return.
James would give someone his shirt off his back if they needed it. We all
can learn a lesson from him.
Judy Van Horn
Senior Associate Athletics Director, Senior Woman
Administrator
Judy is the Senior Woman Administrator within the USC Athletics
Department and is one of the main points of contact for gender equity
for close to 500 student athletes. She strives to make sure the students
under her area are educated and have a direct line of communication
if ever there is a need, especially as it deals with safety or Title IX. This
past year, she demonstrated on several occasions the ability to
coordinate resources for student safety and made fair and quick
decisions to protect those in need. Weekends, nights, and even when
she is not in town, Judy is responsive to our students and puts their
physical and mental safety first. Judy is a protector, a guide and an
example to our community.
Daniqua White
Junior
Daniqua White has taken on the role as a leader on campus and the
greater City of Columbia. As a junior at the University, she serves as a
Changing Carolina Peer Leader for Student Health Services, educating
University 101 students on the importance of sexual health. In her spare
time, she volunteers with dental clinics and the Salvation Army of the
Midlands supporting individuals who use that resource. She is a student,
a friend, a leader, and most importantly a role model for her peers.
Daniqua's dedication proves that as a Gamecock, there are truly no
limits.
Student Veterans
Association
Thank you to all of our Gamecocks who are serving or have
previously served our country in addition to our Carolina
community. We greatly appreciate your dedication to keeping
us safe and well.
Closing from
Holly Lovern
Graduate Assistant for Sexual Assault and Violence
Intervention & Prevention