Brenda J. Thames, Ed.D., Associate Dean for Institutional Culture and Inclusivity, joined Prisma Health–Upstate, formerly Greenville Health System, in 2007. In her current role at the UofSC School of Medicine Greenville, Dr. Thames is responsible for the strategic direction and communication surrounding the optimization of an institutional climate of inclusivity and diversity. She works with Prisma Health–Upstate and our academic partners to ensure that our medical students receive expansive access to an optimum clinical learning environment. She also maintains direct communication with the University of South Carolina chief diversity officer.

Prior to joining the UofSC School of Medicine Greenville, Dr. Thames served as associate dean for research and graduate studies in the College of Health, Education and Human Development at Clemson University.

Dr. Thames serves on numerous boards and committees representing the voice of health care, particularly from education and workforce perspectives. She earned a bachelor's degree in home economics from Mississippi State University as well as a master's degree in guidance and counseling and a doctorate in vocational and technical education from Clemson University.