Connection Newsletter July-August 2025

College Celebrates Milestone with Topping Out Ceremony for Pickens Hall Expansion

Tri-County Technical College faculty and staff, Harper Construction and DP3 celebrated a milestone in the ongoing expansion and renovation project for Pickens Hall with a topping out ceremony on August 14 to commemorate the last piece of structural steel being put into place.

Pickens Hall was the first building on site when Tri-County Technical Education Center opened its doors September 10, 1963. Since then, it has been the predominant home for the Business and Public Services Division, its classrooms and labs.

As the oldest facility on campus, the 42,000-square-foot structure was identified for substantial upgrades. However, its block masonry walls, low ceiling heights, and narrow corridors presented significant limitations.

“Unfortunately, we couldn’t cost effectively gut and remodel this building like the recent Oconee Hall renovation. Instead, the plan became to demolish it and construct a 52,000-square-foot, twostory building in its place. It is a good use of the resources we have. Going vertical optimizes land use, accommodates programmatic needs within a reduced footprint, and offers cost efficiencies. It also enables us to create an outdoor green space. It will be energy efficient and meet accessibility standards,” said Richard Macbeth, director of project management at TCTC.

The Pickens Hall replacement, which began in January 2025 and will conclude November 2026, is part of a multi-year facility improvement plan that includes investments in buildings and exterior elements on TCTC’s main campus. “This investment will help us continue to deliver on our mission of providing students an exceptional and affordable learning experience that improves their quality of life while advancing economic development in the region by preparing a highly skilled workforce,” said TCTC President Galen DeHay.

Connection

is published six times each year by the Office of the President and the Public Relations Department.

Mailing Address (All Campuses)

P. O. Box 587

Pendleton, SC 29670

Pendleton Campus 7900 Highway 76 Pendleton, SC

Anderson Campus 511 Michelin Blvd. Anderson, SC

Easley Campus 1774 Powdersville Rd. Easley, SC

Oconee Campus

552 Education Way Westminster, SC

Main Number (864) 646-TCTC (8282)

Toll-free

1-866-269-5677

tctc.edu

Tri-County Technical College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees. TriCounty Technical College also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Tri-County Technical College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

Tri-County Technical College does not discriminate in admission or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, qualifying disability, veteran’s status, or national origin.

Tri-County Technical College’s nondiscrimination policy and grievance procedures can be located at tctc.edu/TitleIX. To report information about conduct that may constitute sex discrimination or make a complaint of sex discrimination under Title IX, please refer to tctc.edu/TitleIX.

Connecting

Fall Semester Kicks Off

There’s something uniquely energizing about the start of a new academic year, marked by the sense of possibility, the return of students to our campuses, and the shared anticipation of what we’ll accomplish together. Fall 2025 is no exception. With new faces joining our community and familiar ones returning with renewed purpose, this semester promises to be one of growth, innovation, and continued transformation.

Speaking of growth, this fall we are celebrating strong momentum in enrollment. Our credit enrollment headcount increased by 4.46% compared to last year, with 6161 students enrolled. This growth reflects the collective efforts of our faculty and staff who work tirelessly to ensure students feel supported and empowered to pursue their educational goals. Our Corporate and Community Education programs also continue to thrive. These numbers represent lives being changed and futures being built.

As we look ahead, our strategic planning process for 2025–2030 is well underway. This work is guided by a powerful question: In our rapidly evolving environment, how can TCTC employees strengthen our capacity to detect and respond to changes, and then take quick, independent actions within an established framework to further our mission? Through practical vision workshops and collaborative dialogue, we’ve identified key priorities: positioning students for high-quality careers, reimagining the employee experience, and elevating operational readiness and response. These strategic directions will shape our path forward and ensure we remain agile, innovative and learning centered.

I’m especially excited about our Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP), “Building Bridges: General Education to Career,” which will illuminate the real-world relevance of general education through course design, skills recognition and co-curricular programming. This initiative is a testament to our commitment to student success and workforce readiness.

As we launch into the new academic year, there’s a lot to look forward to, including new initiatives, fresh ideas and continued momentum across our campuses. I’m excited to see how our collective efforts will continue to move Tri-County forward.

In your service,

Galen DeHay, Ph.D. President

Travis Durham Receives Presidential Medallion For Staff Excellence

Travis Durham, director of student engagement and accountability at Tri-County Technical College, was honored August 14 with the Presidential Medallion for Staff Excellence, the highest award given for staff excellence at the College.

TCTC President Galen DeHay presented Durham with the award at the College’s fall convocation. The medallion, along with a cash award made possible by the Tri-County Technical College Foundation, goes to a person who best exemplifies the College philosophy and has contributed the most during the academic year to the development of the College and its students.

Durham joined the College in 2019. In his role, he is responsible for the oversight and management of student development programs and services supporting student engagement that include student accountability and advocacy.

Colleagues say Durham is committed to TCTC’s vision of transforming lives and building strong communities, one student at a time.

Knowing that not all students come to TCTC college ready, Durham believes it’s important to meet them where they are in life and help them find the tools and resources to meet all of their needs—which can be educational, social, emotional and/or financial.

Durham approaches every student as an individual, always advocating for them in the context of their different identities by creating and refining student organizations as safe spaces that focus on individual and group growth and development. His work is never centered on himself but about using his skills to maximize the potential for others, whether in training sessions with faculty and staff learning more about underrepresented and under-resourced students or advocating for students as an advisor for various club organizations which represent Men of Purpose, Women of Purpose, veterans and LGBTQ+ students.

“In my role at the College, we are front-facing, working with students directly,” said Timothy Branyon, student engagement coordinator at TCTC. “During my meetings with students, I hear at least on a weekly basis how Travis has supported them through recent troubles, connected them with campus resources, or helped them be aware of their capacity and ability to be successful at Tri-County. Each time, these moments remind me of our College’s vision, ‘Passionate people transforming lives and building strong communities one student at a time.’ Travis is a star example of someone who not only follows but exemplifies Tri-County’s vision, mission and values.”

“Travis consistently demonstrates a willingness to support anyone in need—whether student, staff or faculty—with a caring, approachable and uplifting demeanor,” said Tracey Hotham, an instructor for the Comprehensive Studies department. “During my first semester of teaching, I experienced a challenging behavioral

incident in the classroom and was uncertain about how to proceed. I stopped by Travis’s office without an appointment, and he immediately made time to speak with me. He not only provided clear guidance and relevant policy documentation but also walked me through the rights and responsibilities of everyone involved. I entered his office feeling overwhelmed and anxious, but I left with a renewed sense of confidence in both my ability to manage the situation and to navigate similar ones in the future. Travis exemplifies the spirit of collaboration and support—his door is truly always open.”

Raeneeva Davis, program coordinator in TCTC’s Learning Commons, works with Durham in supporting the Men of Purpose and Women of Purpose student organizations. The student organizations aim to empower students through mentoring, coaching, education and training and to create a supportive community that addresses the needs of students relative to the challenges they face in their educational pursuits and subsequent lives after their academic careers.

Davis said, “Travis plays a key role in organizing an annual College event that brings together Tri-County students and area high school students to hear powerful, motivational stories from adults who have overcome significant challenges to build successful and meaningful lives. This event not only inspires students but also fosters a sense of purpose and possibility within the broader community.”

As the first in his immediate family to finish college, Durham also has been instrumental in mentoring many first-generation college students to help them to see that success is achievable and has guided them through to a degree.

Davis said one student, in particular, comes to mind. “He’s an older student who works full time and has carried a large courseload each semester with hopes of transferring to a four-year institution. This student has had to deal with financial and family struggles, in addition to navigating the college environment with online platforms and various setbacks. He credits Travis for checking on and encouraging him on a regular basis to persist and reminding him of what’s possible.”

“Travis consistently demonstrates genuine kindness and respect toward every individual he encounters,” said Hotham. “Travis is also deeply attuned to the importance of inclusion, making a conscious effort to ensure that everyone feels heard, valued and part of the community. His positive influence and thoughtfulness have made and continue to make a lasting impact among fellow employees.”

(continued on page 10)

Fall Semester Began August 18

We kicked off the fall semester on August 18. As of August 25, fall enrollment totals 6,161 students taking classes at the Pendleton, Easley, Anderson and Oconee campuses and the Industrial Technology Center.

Media Arts Production Named Advisory Committee of the Year

Tri-County Technical College’s Media Arts Production (MAP) advisory committee was recognized as the Advisory Committee of the Year in honor of its exemplary collaboration with faculty to ensure the program’s curriculum remains both competitive and aligned with industry standards.

Advisory committee members joined Program Directors Amy Roberts and Stacey Schiff in accepting the plaque at the College’s fall convocation. The committee also received the award in 2014.

Since its existence, the program has relied on the advice and guidance of committee members, most of whom are working media professionals, for major decisions on curriculum, equipment and policy.

The committee collaborated with faculty to assess program strengths, identify outdated practices or tools, and recommend additions based on current and emerging industry trends. “Their insights have been instrumental in shaping a relevant and competitive curriculum,” said Schiff.

Since 2012, the department has hosted Media Mash-Up, a media festival and exhibition of student projects including audio, video editing, animation and photography. Student entries are judged by advisory committee members and community leaders who often are looking for potential hires.

“Committee members actively participated in this annual event by

reviewing student work, providing valuable feedback, and attending the awards show to engage with and encourage students. Their presence and support made a lasting impact on student confidence and growth,” said Schiff.

Members also played a key role in the department’s Portfolio Showcase where they offered critiques, shared industry expectations, and guided students on how to improve their portfolios to meet professional standards, said Schiff.

The committee also worked directly with the senior class by serving as panelists to prepare them for job interviews. “They asked professional-level questions, provided constructive feedback, and offered assessments to help students refine their presentation and interviewing skills,” said Schiff.

“The advisory committee exceeded our expectations this year by demonstrating an exceptional level of commitment and support. They were enthusiastic and willing to assist with new initiatives and take time from their busy schedules to participate in various events. This year, students benefited greatly from multiple opportunities to engage with advisory board members and gain insight into real-world industry experiences,” said Schiff.

The College’s MAP program remains one of the few two-year broadcasting/media production programs in the nation.

Advisory committee members joined Program Directors Amy Roberts and Stacey Schiff in accepting the plaque at the College’s fall convocation. Pictured from left are Aaron Bauer, publishing coordinator at Bigger Brains; Kayla Chase, COO/ photographer at Weaver Films and Photography; Jen Weaver, CEO/filmmaker at Weaver Films and Photography; TCTC MAP Program Directors Stacey Schiff and Amy Roberts; Cheryl Hopkins, director of Torque Imaging; MAP instructor Jonathan Warmington; and Dr. Mandy Elmore, vice president of academic affairs and workforce development at TCTC.

Who

You

Become

Is What Matters Most, Naomi Lett Tells TCTC Graduates

“The most important part of this milestone isn’t just what you’ve accomplished, but who you’ve become in the process,” Naomi Lett, chief executive officer for the South Carolina Technical College System Foundation, told Tri-County Technical College’s Class of 2025 in her keynote address at summer commencement. The ceremony was held August 4 at Clemson University’s Littlejohn Coliseum.

“Who you become is what matters most,” said Lett, who, as CEO, works closely with the Foundation’s board of trustees to steer the growth of the organization and expand its strategic programs which address critical workforce and higher education needs in South Carolina.

She added: “No matter the goal you achieve in life, your place there is temporary. Who you become through your experiences— someone who persists, someone who believes, someone who seeks higher ground and does whatever it takes to get there—that’s what stays with you for the rest of your life,” said Lett, an accomplished

policy and innovation professional with more than 20 years of experience at the local, state and national levels. A passionate advocate for workforce development and innovation, Lett has dedicated her career to advancing policies and initiatives that improve lives and strengthen communities.

Erecka Robinson: A Journey of Challenges and Celebrations

Thirteen years after beginning her education at Tri-County Technical College, Erecka Robinson walked the stage August 4 to receive her Administrative Office Technology degree and fulfill a personal goal she set back in 2012.

It’s been a journey of challenges and celebrations, said Robinson, a kidney transplant recipient, who will turn 50 in December.

July 21, 2025, marked her eighth ‘kidney versary,’ the day she received the call in 2017 that changed her life and sent her on a mission to help others who are living with PKD, or Polycystic Kidney Disease, a genetic disease characterized by the growth of numerous cysts in the kidneys, which can lead to kidney damage and eventual kidney failure and the need for a kidney transplant.

Eight years post-transplant, she works as a PKD patient advocate for NxStage, helping individuals navigate the complexities of kidney disease, particularly after a diagnosis or when considering treatment options.

She participates in lobby days at dialysis centers and serves on the Patient Advisory board. The week before graduation Robinson traveled to Boston to attend an NxStage in-person Lobby Day.

“We only have one life,” she said. “The transplant changed my life in every way. This job is my passion—I would do it for free. I want to give back in any way I can.”

Erecka Robinson at graduation stands with other graduates.

Our College

Family

excellence through service

Bridge Students Double Success Rates in CHM 110

Over the past three years, Bridge students at Tri-County Technical College have more than doubled their success rates in CHM 110—one of the most rigorous courses students face on their path to transfer. Second-attempt success rates? Up by over 70%.

These gains aren’t just impressive—they’re transformative, said Jennifer Hulehan, dean of the Arts and Sciences Division.

And they matter. “Success in CHM 110 is a strong predictor of whether a student will transfer to Clemson and persist in their degree. When students succeed in chemistry, they’re far more likely to stay on track—and finish strong,” said Hulehan.

These results are the outcome of intentional, student-centered work by our incredible chemistry faculty. Together, they:

• Developed diagnostic tools aligned with the lab and lecture curriculum to identify students who would benefit from targeted workshops.

• Launched and sustained co-curricular chemistry workshops to provide just-in-time support.

• Streamlined lecture quizzes across all sections, giving students weekly, lower-stakes feedback to support their learning and reduce reliance on high-stakes exams.

• Enhanced lab instruction by bringing both new and returning adjunct faculty together for paid training and orientation with the course director—ensuring consistency and quality across sections.

“This is what happens when dedicated educators combine expertise with innovation, collaboration and care. So proud of the team making this happen,” said Hulehan.

Mark Franks Named SCACTE Postsecondary Teacher Of the Year

Mark Franks, TCTC instructor who teaches Mechatronics at the Anderson Career and Technology Center, was named the South Carolina Association for Career and Technical Education’s (SCACTE) Postsecondary Teacher of the Year.

“Mark’s dedication to Mechatronics and his students sets the standard in our area. Mark consistently goes above and beyond to not only prep his students for industry, but he also makes sure they carry valuable life skills with them after they graduate from high school,” said Michael Oates, TCTC Mechatronics department head.

Franks is a 2009 graduate of TCTC’s Industrial Electronics Technology program and has been teaching Mechatronics for a total of 17 years.

Dr. Jackie Blakley Recognized by United Way of Anderson

Congratulations to Dr. Jackie Blakley, dean of the Business and Public Services Division, who was recognized at the United Way of Anderson’s annual meeting on August 6 for her service as board chair in 2024-2025. Pictured with Jackie are United Way of Anderson CEO Kevin Cappell, left, and Luis Martinez of South State Bank and incoming chair, right.

Veterinary Technology Program Reports 100% Pass Rate on Veterinary Technician National Examination

Tri-County Technical College’s Veterinary Technology program reports a 100% pass rate on the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE).

All 10 of the 2025 Veterinary Technology graduates passed this national credentialing exam. This is a first for the department.

After earning an associate degree in Veterinary Technology from an American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)-accredited program like Tri-County’s, graduates must pass the national credentialing exam before they are eligible to take the computerized state licensure exam to become licensed veterinary technicians.

The national average pass rate for the VTNE is 70%, said Stephanie Brown, licensed veterinary technician, director for TCTC’s Veterinary Technology program, an alumna of the program and veteran educator of 22 years.

The VTNE, administered by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards, is a timed, computer-adaptive test consisting of 170 questions that cover the graduates’ knowledge about the following content areas: Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Surgical Nursing, Dentistry, Laboratory Procedures, Animal Care and Nursing, Diagnostic Imaging, Anesthesia, Emergency Medicine/Critical Care and Pain Management/Analgesia, and Communication and Veterinary Professional Support Services.

Several years ago, Brown created two new courses to enhance student outcomes on the VTNE. The first-time pass rate for TCTC students on the VTNE has shown consistent improvement, thanks in part to the introduction of VET 290 Senior Integrated Learning, a capstone course implemented in fall 2020. This course has played a significant role in better preparing students for the exam by reinforcing core concepts and strengthening their test-taking skills, Brown said.

Licensed veterinary technicians, or LVTs, work closely with veterinarians and other members of the veterinary team to deliver quality animal health care. Today’s profession requires advanced knowledge and skills in the areas of animal nursing and critical care, inducing and monitoring anesthesia, assisting in surgery, postoperative care and recovery, diagnostic imaging, zoonotic

disease, client education, hospital management and laboratory duties.

Employment of veterinary technologists and technicians is projected to grow 19% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

“The need far outweighs the availability of licensed technicians,” said Brown.

“We are graduating excellent students who are receiving amazing job offers,” said Brown.

in transition

Taylor Haigler is the director of Recruitment, Admissions and Orientation. In her role, she will provide leadership, direction and oversight of all recruitment, admission and orientation responsibilities to support students in successfully navigating enrollment at TCTC. She will provide knowledge, leadership, guidance and strategic vision in the recruitment and initial transition experience of TCTC students.

Graduates may pursue careers in a variety of areas, not just private practice, said Brown. “We have graduates working in zoos around the country, including the National Zoo, Sea World, specialty and emergency medicine, and general practices, as well as with corporate industry leaders,” said Brown. “I get calls and emails from all across the country hoping to hire one of our veterinary technician graduates because they have heard how competent and well prepared our students are for the workforce.”

Tri-County’s program is accredited by the AVMA and endorsed by the South Carolina Association of Veterinarians.

Shelly Black is an enrollment counselor. She will provide proactive student outreach, recruitment and intensive enrollment counseling to prospective students through to enrollment at the College. She will serve Anderson County.

Marci Skillings is the new regional career specialist. The regional career specialist serves as a liaison between the S.C. Department of Education, Office of Career and Technology Education, and the region’s school districts to ensure coordination, accountability and delivery of career guidance. She will coordinate and present professional development workshops in career and technical education and career guidance for educators, guidance personnel, students, and parents.

Tyler Phelps is director of IT Engineering and chief information security officer. Phelps is an experienced IT professional having held roles ranging from help desk administrator and network administrator to leadership roles as IT operations manager and director of IT. He has held positions within higher ed, K-12, and industry. In his most recent role, Phelps served as the IT operations manager for MycoWorks, Inc., an international company where he was responsible for the network and systems infrastructure, cybersecurity, and the service desk across multiple facilities in the U.S. and France.

Julie Butler is the new manager of the Accessibility Resource Center (ARC) in the Office of Student Support. In her role, she will be responsible for managing ARC and the accommodation process in the multi-campus environment. Butler has several years of experience in the field of disabilities in the private and public education sector, serving in various roles and different levels of expertise.

David Bolding is a systems engineer. He will assist with the day-today operations of our IT infrastructure onsite and in the Cloud. Bolding comes to us with several years of industry experience with companies throughout the Upstate.

Evan Branyon joined the TC Central team as a one stop specialist this past fall and is transitioning to the role of student engagement coordinator in September. Branyon has several years of experience in higher education, including TCTC, Clemson University and Community College of Aurora.

Celebrating Faculty/Staff Retirements

Three Longtime Arts and Sciences Faculty Retire

Three Arts and Sciences faculty members departed the College at the end of the summer term after long and distinguished careers.

We bid farewell to Dana Griffith, Tom Hiebel and Greg Toney, who have served as instructors, mentors and friends to students and colleagues during their tenure at TCTC.

“As we say farewell to Dana, Greg and Tom, we celebrate not only their years of service, but the lasting impact they’ve made on our students, our colleagues, and our college community,” said Jennifer Hulehan, dean of the Arts and Sciences Division. “Each brought something unique to the classroom—whether it was Dana’s warmth and humor, Greg’s calm leadership and commitment to excellence, or Tom’s deep knowledge and steady presence. Their dedication to teaching, mentoring and building strong relationships has shaped generations of learners and left a legacy we’re proud to carry forward. We wish them all the best in this next chapter.”

Three Arts and Sciences faculty members departed the College at the end of the summer term after long and distinguished careers. From left are Tom Hiebel, Greg Toney and Dana Griffith.

Dana Griffith

• Faculty member (speech) in the English Department since 2008

• 1983 Radio and Television Broadcasting (now Media Arts Production) graduate and TCTC’s first Alumni Association president

• B. S. in Industrial Education from Clemson University; M. Ed. degree in Industrial Education (Graphic Communications)

In addition to serving as a speech instructor, Griffith was a member and former chair of the College’s Enrichment Series Committee and for many years has been a faculty chaperone for the annual Learning Beyond Campus (Boston) trip. She also served as faculty co-advisor for the Tri-County Association of Political Scientists (TAPS).

What are your retirement plans?

“Retirement? What’s that? I am still teaching adjunct which means all I must do is teach. And I love teaching. I am also traveling when time allows and enjoying my four grandchildren.”

Greg Toney

• Faculty member in the English (speech) Department since 1998

• Master’s degree, Auburn University; and bachelor’s degree in Communications, Winthrop University

He joined TCTC after six and one-half years as communications director for the Foothills United Way.

For more than 20 years, he served as a coach for the Tri-County Technical College Speech and Drama Team (other coaches were Kim Harp and Dana Griffith).

Under Toney’s leadership, students competed in the South Carolina Speech and Theatre Association (SCSTA) college festival competition, bringing home awards each year and first-place honors in 2000, 2004, 2008, 2014 and 2020. In 2016, students dominated the festival by sweeping top prizes, taking home overall college championship, and the overall individual student award.

In 2000, Toney was elected vice president of the college division of the SCSTA.

What are your retirement plans?

“Golf. Lots of golf. My wife and I also own Apple Dumplin Antique Mall. Will be dedicating a lot of time continuing to grow our business. Probably going to do some traveling as well.”

Tom Hiebel

• Bachelor’s degree, Union College

• Master’s degree, Tulane University

• Joined the College in 1997 as an adjunct humanities and philosophy instructor and in 1998 joined the Arts and Sciences Division as a full-time instructor.

After working for several years at Tulane University, the University of New Orleans and Loyola University of New Orleans, and William Carey College’s New Orleans Campus, Hiebel and his family moved to the area.

Hiebel served two terms as president of Faculty Senate and chair of the Curriculum Committee.

In 2021, Hiebel received the Student Advocate Award at spring convocation. He was chosen by the Student Government Association in recognition and appreciation of his outstanding vision, commitment to excellence, and dedication to student success.

What are your retirement plans?

“To follow Epicurius’ example and retire to my garden.”

Cathy Strasser

During Cathy Strasser’s 20 years of service at TCTC, she made a lasting difference in every area of the College that she worked.

Strasser’s last day at the College was August 8.

Over two decades, Strasser has worked in the business office, Connect to College (C2C) and I-BEST before taking the role of program assistant for Academic and Career Foundations in 2019.

“Cathy’s influence at TCTC extends far beyond her own department. Whether she was mentoring colleagues, solving budget puzzles, or supporting students, she made a lasting difference. Her retirement is well-earned, but she leaves some very big shoes to fill,” said Jennifer Hulehan, dean of the Arts and Sciences Division.

(Hulehan worked closely with Strasser when Hulehan was dean of Academic and Career Foundations.)

“I never would have dreamed that I would be here for 20 years,” said Strasser. “In my different roles, I have worked alongside many individuals who care about the students. My favorite team/position was to be part of Connect to College, along with Cindy Mobley and Tiffany Rogers. We put many extra hours in just to help the students succeed, but it was worth it. We were an amazing team! I believe in Tri-County and how it serves the students and the community. Most importantly, I am inspired by the stories of changed lives that I have heard throughout my time here. It is sad to say goodbye to a job that I love. But I am looking forward to my new chapter.”

“Cathy always knew what needed to be done—and then just did it. No fuss, no fanfare, just results. That kind of quiet magic doesn’t come around often. We’re all better for having worked with her,” said Hulehan.

Lisa Saxon

Longtime staff member and TCTC alumna Lisa Saxon, who retired July 1, said her last day was “a mixed bag of emotions. I’m excited for what’s ahead, but I’m sad that I won’t see my TCTC friends every day.”

Saxon had been at the College for 23 years, starting out as an administrative assistant for the Institutional Advancement Division and since 2009 has worked in the Research and Evaluation department, most recently as a statistical research analyst.

Saxon is looking forward to caring for her grandchildren, ages 3 and 18 months, several days a week. But her co-workers have become like family, and she said it will be an adjustment not to see KC Bryson and Marianne Yohannan on a regular basis.

“It’s hard for me to imagine TCTC without Lisa,” said Bryson. “For more than 20 years, Lisa has been the absolute cornerstone of the Institutional Research team. From her start as an administrative assistant to her growth into a skilled research analyst, she’s consistently shown an amazing willingness to learn new tasks and take on more responsibilities. Her dedication and contributions have been key to our department’s success and to Tri-County’s success.”

“It has been a true privilege to work alongside a colleague who exemplifies care, compassion and kindness,” said Yohannan. “One of the most memorable accomplishments we shared was collaborating on the accreditation 5th Year Interim Report. Meeting that critical

deadline required long hours, attention to detail, and a commitment to excellence. Thanks to the amazing teamwork, our results were positive.”

After graduating with honors in 2001, Saxon began in 2002 as an administrative specialist in TCTC’s Institutional Advancement Division.

She became active with the alumni and spring open golf tournaments, as well as other fundraising events that provided scholarships for students, offered book/supply awards, and faculty/ staff professional development opportunities. Saxon served as secretary and president of the Alumni Association.

Saxon served on the Service Excellence Team for several years and was a member of the Staff Advisory Board since 2021. She served as co-chair for the past two years.

Summer STEM Camp

TCTC and the South Carolina Governors School for Science and Mathematics co-sponsored a summer STEM camp for rising sixth through eighth graders on the Pendleton Campus. Pictured with participants are instructors Foster Sims and Katee Fletcher.

3D Printing Workshops Held in Honea Path and Pendleton

Tri-County’s Maker Academy sponsored the popular 3D Printing workshop at the Watkins Center in Honea Path and at the Pendleton Campus in July.

Rising 10th through 12th grade high school students explored 3D printing and CAD modeling during this one-week workshop.

Travis Durham

(continued from page 3)

“Passionate people transforming lives and building strong communities one student at a time—that’s not just words on paper at TCTC.  I see it manifested every day in the interactions that faculty and staff have with each other, our students and our community partners,” said Durham. “I feel blessed and fortunate to work with a group of people who are truly passionate about transforming the lives of others and building a strong community.”

With 20 years of experience as an education administrator, Durham has extensive knowledge in developing, managing and evaluating programs and initiatives that promote student achievement. He is skilled in facilitating training workshops to educate faculty and staff to improve academic achievement for students.

Durham serves as a facilitator in a professional development venture called the Rural Educator Academy, which is designed to cultivate the competencies and skills required for Appalachian community college faculty, student services staff, and leaders to improve rural student outcomes, particularly for lower income students and students of color.

Durham holds an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Paralegal Studies from South College; a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree from Mars Hill University; a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from the University of South Carolina; and an Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis from East Tennessee State University.

College Celebrates Milestone for Pickens Hall Expansion

(continued from page 1)

The new building will house the Business and Public Services Division, I-BEST, Academic and Career Foundations, and the English department of the Arts and Sciences Division. Like the recently renovated Oconee Hall, the design is centered around the student and employee experience.

The first floor will feature a faculty neighborhood that fosters connectivity and accessibility, a conference room and a faculty lounge.

The new second floor is designed to support modern academic instruction and hands-on learning. It will feature two 50-seat classrooms, seven 36-seat classrooms, and four computer labs.

The central plaza will be transformed to provide full accessibility to the west side of campus, strengthening connectivity and inclusivity.

Construction funding is coming from a combination of College-accumulated capital reserves and state capital reserve appropriations. The College’s Foundation is also soliciting donations from entities or individuals interested in supporting this mission critical project.

Five Complete BASF Manufacturing Apprenticeship

In June, TCTC and BASF Environmental Catalyst and Metal Solutions recognized five apprentices who successfully completed the Seneca company’s North American Apprenticeship Development Program.

The sixth cohort of the program was recognized at TCTC’s Oconee Campus. Sarah Davis, Logan Huffman, Kevin Maldonado, Jose Martinez, and Maureen Slack joined 28 others who have successfully advanced through the program since it began in 2021.

The apprenticeship is a 12-month program delivered in partnership with Apprenticeship Carolina and TCTC.

Participants earn a range of industry-recognized credentials during the year, including OSHA 10 certification, White Belt Six Sigma and Creating Safety Involvement training for in-plant safety observations.

They also receive a certificate in process technology from TCTC and an official apprenticeship certificate from the U.S. Department of Labor.

Upon completion, each apprentice received a pay increase.

“We’re honored to celebrate another group of talented individuals graduating from the BASF North American Apprenticeship Development program,” said Bryan Manuel, dean of integrated workforce solutions at TCTC. “Since its launch in 2021, 33 apprentices have completed the program, a testament to the strength of our collaboration with BASF and our shared commitment to building a future-ready workforce.”

As part of their capstone project, the apprentices designed and assembled a functioning mini evaporative cooling tower using a fivegallon bucket and a bilge pump, according to the release.

“As a single mom of three, it was easy to assume a career in manufacturing wouldn’t be possible for someone like me,” said Sarah

Davis, apprentice. “But this program gave me a chance to learn, grow and build a better future for my family. The support from BASF ECMS and the flexibility of the program helped me juggle work, training and parenting — and I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished.”

The program has also contributed to stronger retention rates, helping BASF ECMS overcome hiring challenges in its production technician workforce and, as a result, the company has moved from hosting two cohorts per year to one.

“These apprentices represent the future of our workforce— motivated, adaptable and committed to growth,” said Elba Lizardi, site director for BASF ECMS in Seneca.

Faculty Attend ACBSP Conference, Discuss Quality Assurance Report

In 2023, the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) Associate Degree Board of Commissioners reaffirmed accreditation of the business programs at TCTC.

Faculty met on July 8 to discuss the Quality Assurance Report which is due spring 2027. Pictured from left are DeLisa Dawkins, Angel Luper, Tracy Ethridge, August Johnson, Dr. Carolyn Fleming, Shallin Williams and Dr. Greg Kelley.

The group also gave updates on information they gathered from attending the June national ACBSP conference.

In addition, faculty discussed improvement areas noted by the ACBSP Site Team.

ACBSP conference attendees for 2025 included Dr. Jackie Blakley, Dr. Carolyn Fleming, DeLisa Dawkins and August Johnson.

P.O.

Recruiters Impressed at Mechatronics Hiring Event

TCTC hosted a highly successful Mechatronics Hiring Event on June 18, thanks to the strong collaboration between the Engineering and Industrial Technology Division and the Career and Employability Resources (CER) office. “This strategic partnership resulted in an impressive turnout and meaningful engagement for all involved,” said Ellen Pate, director of CER.

The event welcomed 124 students and job seekers from the Mechatronics department, who connected with 16 companies and 32 recruiters representing a range of industries, including advanced manufacturing, engineering and public service.

“Recruiters spoke very highly of both the quantity and quality of attendees, with several employers already scheduling interviews and collecting numerous resumes during the event. The format—a small-scale, targeted hiring event developed in close collaboration with department faculty—proved to be a key factor in its success, creating a focused environment where students were well prepared, and employers were able to have meaningful conversations.

“This event serves as a powerful example of how intentional partnerships and faculty involvement can lead to impactful outcomes for students and employers alike,” said Pate.