Tammy’s passion for education and commitment to student success have been the driving forces in her career as a dedicated educator, administrator and student advocate. Her interests are focused on adjunct faculty, student success and retention, areas in which she has worked to make contribution over the years.
Tammy’s journey in academia began with a BA in English Education from Bluefield College in 1985. Her thirst for knowledge led her to pursue a MS in English and 18 hours in Communications at Radford University in 1988 and 2005 respectively. She also attained an Ed. D. in Higher Education Leadership from The University of Virginia in 2003, solidifying her expertise in educational leadership.
Her teaching voyage began at Radford University where she served as a graduate teaching fellow. She then channeled her energy into molding young minds as a high school English teacher in Tazewell County. During the 17 years in that role, she instructed courses ranging from AP English and Dual Credit Composition to developmental English courses.
Tammy’s dedication to enriching education extended beyond high school as she also served as an adjunct faculty member at Southwest Virginia Community College and Virginia Intermont College. In 2003, her journey took a pivotal turn when she joined Bluefield State College as a faculty member. Here she focused on imparting knowledge in English, Communication and Education courses and rose to pivotal administrative roles including Dean of Arts and Sciences, Retention Specialist and Interim Dean of Education, Humanities and Social Sciences.
Her contributions transcended the classroom, with Tammy being a catalyst for various grants aimed to enhance the educational experiences and holistic student development. Notable among these were the Improving Teacher Quality Grant Program, Student Empowerment Behavioral Health Program, Comprehensive Substance Abuse and HIV/AIDS Awareness and Prevention Program, and Peer-led Suicide Prevention Programs. It was her commitment to student well-being and success that earned her the esteemed Lifetime Achievement Award from Bluefield State College’s Student Government Association in 2012.
Tammy’s nurturing spirit extends to her personal life, where she, along with her three children, opened their home to more than thirty foster children. She is also the proud grandmother of five. As an avid enthusiast of animals, she finds solace in tending her boxers, French bulldogs, and small farm.
Tammy’s focuses on diverse pursuits and attempts to enrich the lives of her students. Her legacy of fostering academic growth, student success and compassionate care resonates through her journey.