Members of the South Carolina community gathered, Thursday, October 21, 2021 at Wardlaw College for the launch of the College of Education Dean’s Advisory Board (DAB). The Dean’s Advisory Board will work with the leadership team on providing input on enhancing the college’s recruitment and retention efforts for traditionally underrepresented and underserved students, assist with philanthropic support, and provide feedback on current programs and initiatives. The current members include:
- Kathryn Gibson Carter, Chair, Executive Secretary, South Carolina State Organization of Delta Kappa Gamma Society International
- Sherry Whatley, Vice Chair, Sole Proprieter, 360-Degree Feedback Assessment Center
- Mike Brenan, Regional President, Truist Financial Corporation
- Baron Davis, Superintendent, Richland School District Two
- Catherin Coleman Knox. Retired Educator
- Tricia McClam, Retired Professor Emerita, University of Tennessee, Knoxville
- Georgia Mjartan, Executive Director, South Carolina First Steps
- Beth Phibbs, Executive Director, South Carolina Association of School Administrators
- Kathy B. Schwalbe, Coach Lead, Carolina Collaborative for Alternative Preparation
- Craig Witherspoon, Superintendent, Richland County School District One
At their initial meeting, the DAB discussed the state of the College of Education and Interim Dean Thomas Hodges shared the college’s current priorities. His presentation included updates on the college’s:
- current research
- support for its alumni post-graduation
- expansion of pathways to the classroom
- professional development opportunities for South Carolina’s educators
- legislative engagement, and
- internal budgetary, organizational and programmatic priorities.
Chelsea Stinnett, Director of the CarolinaLIFE program, shared some program outcomes from the program. CarolinaLIFE is an individualized, non-degree program for students with identified, diverse learning needs. The program curriculum focuses on academic instruction, career education and training, independent living, social and community engagement and personal development. She shared opportunities for highlighting this program in the community including the upcoming impact day on October 29.
The Dean's Advisory Board members committed to an annual gift throughout their four-year term to establish the Dean's Advisory Board endowed scholarship, as well as annual scholarships to support students. Future meetings will continue to highlight the college’s progress in advancing the field of education and the various programs and initiatives that exist within the school.