The annual awards ceremony held by the College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences (CBSHS) at Clemson University has once again brought attention to the exceptional achievements of its faculty and staff members. Celebrated on May 1st, the event highlighted a tradition of excellence that CBSHS has maintained since its establishment in 2016. This year’s ceremony emphasized the multidisciplinary approach of the college, integrating seven academic disciplines: communication, nursing, parks, recreation, and tourism management, political science, psychology, public health sciences, and sociology, anthropology, and criminal justice. The core mission of building people and communities is not just a statement but an active endeavor within South Carolina and beyond, showcasing an academic community deeply rooted in fostering impactful change.
Under the leadership of Dean Leslie Hossfeld, the awards served as a testament to the dedication of those who excel in teaching, research innovation, and community service. This ceremony is not merely a recognition event but a reflection of CBSHS’s commitment to upholding standards of educational and societal contributions. Faculty members across various disciplines were celebrated for their outstanding teaching efforts, spanning different tenure tracks. Among the standout achievements were Casey Hopkins from the School of Nursing and Heidi Zinzow from the Department of Psychology, who were recognized for their pioneering contributions. Lucia Gonzales’s dedication to service within the School of Nursing was also notably acknowledged, demonstrating the college’s emphasis on both academic and community-engaged excellence.
Celebrating Faculty and Research Excellence
The faculty awards highlighted more than just exceptional teaching; they celebrated research endeavors that have marked CBSHS as a leader in innovation and scholarly activity. The college’s research landscape is enriched by its faculty’s ability to secure significant funding, leading to groundbreaking discoveries and applications. The prestigious $1 Million Club accolade was a focal point of the ceremony, awarded to faculty members whose research expenditures exceeded $1 million over three years. This year, notable recipients included Kathleen Cartmell, Xia Jing, and Shirley Timmons. Their accomplishments underscore the college’s prowess in acquiring substantial research support, enabling further advancements in their fields. Such achievements are not merely individual milestones but reflect a collective elevation of CBSHS’s research portfolio, reinforcing its status within the academic community.
Beyond financial achievements, the awards also celebrated academic innovations and research contributions that have far-reaching implications. Faculty members like these are recognized as both emerging and seasoned research scholars, whose work contributes profoundly to advancing knowledge and addressing real-world issues. These recognitions highlight CBSHS’s ongoing commitment to fostering an environment where innovation thrives, encouraging faculty to pursue ambitious research goals and supporting them in transforming theoretical insights into tangible societal benefits. The college’s faculty awards serve as a beacon of its dedication to excellence in scholarship and teaching, motivating the academic community to continue pushing the boundaries of knowledge and application.
Acknowledging Staff Contributions and Longevity
In addition to honoring faculty members, the CBSHS awards ceremony placed a spotlight on the critical contributions made by its staff, emphasizing exceptional performance and teamwork. While faculty achievements are often highlighted, staff equally play a vital role in supporting the college’s mission. Shea Mazique, noted for her outstanding service, was among those recognized for her significant impact on student services. The awards underscored how staff contributions are integral to the college’s operation, providing vital support for faculty and facilitating a seamless educational experience for students. Recognizing these individuals reflects an appreciation for their unswerving dedication and collaborative spirit that fuels CBSHS’s success.
Teamwork was another essential aspect celebrated during the awards. Michelle Cater and Rob Atkinson received accolades as team players for their cohesive efforts in HR and administrative operations, ensuring the smooth functioning of college processes. Meanwhile, Rylee Bowman was acknowledged for her exemplary support in student advising, demonstrating the critical role staff play in enhancing student experiences. The awards collectively highlighted not just individual achievements but the spirit of collaboration that permeates CBSHS, fostering an environment where staff and faculty work in concert to achieve collective goals.
The ceremony also celebrated long-term contributions through the length of service awards. These recognitions were given to faculty and staff who have dedicated their careers to CBSHS for periods ranging from ten to forty years. Individuals like Sue Limber and Bill Lasser were honored for their longevity and profound impact on their respective fields and the CBSHS community at large. Such acknowledgments serve as reminders of the enduring legacy created by long-serving members of the college, who have shaped its development and contributed to its standing as a leading institution.
A Culture of Innovation and Impact
The College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences at Clemson University hosted its annual awards ceremony on May 1st, once again spotlighting the remarkable achievements of its faculty and staff. This tradition has been a pillar since the college’s founding in 2016, highlighting a commitment to academic excellence across seven diverse disciplines, including communication, nursing, political science, psychology, and sociology. The ceremony is emblematic of CBSHS’s core mission: building strong communities through multidisciplinary collaboration, both within South Carolina and beyond. Led by Dean Leslie Hossfeld, the event underscored the dedication to excellence in teaching, research innovation, and community service. Honorees included Casey Hopkins from the School of Nursing and Heidi Zinzow from Psychology, whose contributions were notably pioneering. Lucia Gonzales was also recognized for her outstanding service. These accolades reflect CBSHS’s unwavering commitment to advancing educational standards and societal impact.
