At USC Upstate, we are proud to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our December 2024 graduates. This milestone marks the culmination of hard work, determination, and resilience, showcasing the strength of Spartan pride. As they prepare to step into new chapters of their lives, we honor their diverse journeys, from overcoming challenges to making lasting contributions on campus and beyond. Join us in recognizing their success and the bright futures they have ahead. Congratulations, Spartans!
Helen White
Helen White is an English major from Piedmont, South Carolina. Helen came to Upstate to experience campus life in full through making new friends and attending in-person classes. She also found resources here to support her in her journey to become an author, particularly classes taught by professors who are published writers. Those teachers “furthered my education as a writer and in general,” she says. “That’s what I’ll miss the most: the awesome professors and staff who guided and helped me as I learned, and my peers who are friendly and bright and enhanced my college experience.” After graduation, Helen will be looking for jobs at editing companies and seeking a publisher for her novels.
Sofia Allen
Sofia Allen is an experimental psychology major from Covington, Kentucky. Sofia came to USC Upstate for the athletics program but discovered much more. “I have continued to stay at the school for the faculty and staff, who have made it a priority to help me achieve my academic goals and prepare me for life outside of college,” she says. The supportive community on and off campus helped her feel a sense of belonging as a transfer student far from home. Sofia served as a Chancellor Ambassador, and enjoyed networking, connecting with industry leaders, and developing her leadership and communication skills. She also was a research assistant for Professor Susan Ruppel, who was a mentor and advisor. “She has been able to prepare me for each semester, ensuring my success on the academic side,” Sofia says. After graduation, Sofia plans to attend graduate school for applied behavioral analysis therapy, with the goal of becoming a board-certified behavior analyst and working with young people diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
Regina Brackett
Regina Brackett is an exercise science major with a focus on pre-occupational therapy and psychology. Regina is from Rock Hill, and says Upstate was “a place that felt like home away from home. I felt like there were a lot of ways to get involved on campus.” Her friends especially became family to her. She is proud of the personal growth she experienced while a student, and appreciates the professors who made a special effort to ensure she succeeded. Regina plans to attend graduate school before entering the workforce.
Kiana Murdaugh
Kiana Murdaugh is a nursing major from Camden, South Carolina. Kiana will be working as an ER nurse in a Level I trauma center and taking the NCLEX. When she first toured the campus as a high school senior, she loved the diversity and representation she saw. She treasures the community she built on campus with her friends and cohort. “They recognized my potential when I struggled to see it in myself and consistently reminded me of how far I had come and all that I had accomplished during my time in school,” she says. Kiana was captain of the cheerleading team, president of IMPACT, and a member of the gospel choir, among other activities. She is especially proud to have been involved in the “Beautify the Campus” chalk event, which puts messages of encouragement and inspiration on walkways during midterms and finals week. Kiana hopes to eventually pursue an MSN and focus on midwifery and women’s health.
Cierra Feaster
Cierra Feaster is a nursing major from Fort Mill, South Carolina. Cierra came to Upstate for its strong nursing program. Her favorite memories include late-night study sessions in the library and conversations with her favorite professors. “Whether it was about school or not, they were all so welcoming and helpful throughout my nursing school experience,” she says. She enjoyed being able to speak to nursing students in the class below hers to give them tips on how to succeed in their Med Surg 2 course. She even created study guides for them. Many faculty members inspired Cierra during her time at Upstate, and she hopes to be like them one day. After graduation, she will be working as medical surgical registered nurse in the Upstate.
Jackson “LUke” allison
Jackson “Luke” Allison is an information management and systems major from Spartanburg, South Carolina. Jackson transferred to USC Upstate after completing an associate degree, and appreciates the benefits Upstate offers students who are active duty service members. He was involved with the campus ministry group Cru while at Upstate, and will continue working with them after graduation. “I feel like I shepherded my time with other students wisely and in a God-honoring way,” Jackson says. He cites his IMS professors Dr. Grover Walters and Dr. Ron Fulbright and Grayson Gettys of Cru as important influences. Jackson is also engaged to be married.
hannah dantzler
Hannah Dantzler is a nursing major from Orangeburg, South Carolina. Hannah learned about USC Upstate’s nursing program through a magazine feature that she read while a senior in high school. She was fascinated by the simulation lab and the manikins that mimic different symptoms and vital signs for students to respond to. She cherishes the lifelong friendships she made in nursing school and the kindness and guidance of Cindy Bryant (“the IV queen”), who helped her understand essential skills and succeed in med-surg II and III clinicals. Hannah was also active in TRiO, and credits director John Montemayor with always being there for her as an advisor. “Through his mentorship, I’ve come to understand the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity, and this mindset has empowered me to navigate through the ups and downs of my academic journey with confidence and fortitude,” Hannah says. She was proud to receive the E.A.G.L.E. Award from TRiO in recognition of her achievements. After graduation, Hannah will be working at Spartanburg Regional as a float pool nurse.
madison earle
Madison Earle is a nursing major from Spartanburg, South Carolina. Madison transferred to USC Upstate after hearing good things about the nursing program. While a student, she worked full time at a hospital, but still managed to graduate with a GPA above 3.5. She says she will particularly miss her nursing instructors, who had a big impact on her. “I learned so much through my instructors, and am so grateful to have been their student,” she says. After graduation, Madison will be working in the cardiovascular recovery unit at Spartanburg Regional.
ruihong xu
Ruihong Xu is a master’s candidate in business analytics from the Jilin province in China. Ruihong chose USC Upstate because he liked the environment and atmosphere, and felt the business analytics program was a good fit for his interests. He appreciates the friendly alumni, the mentors who have been there to provide guidance and life advice, and all those who have helped him. That especially includes his advisor, Dr. Uma Gupta. “She can be said to be a benefactor in my MSBA career,” Ruihong says. “She has provided direction and support for my life and studies!” With Dr. Gupta’s encouragement, he submitted a paper to the 60th SEINFORMS Symposium in Myrtle Beach, and was selected to speak. Ruihong enjoyed interacting with people who were experts in their field, and increasing his knowledge and understanding through his exchanges with them. After graduation, he plans to find a job to grow his experience.
jordan mcdonald
Jordan McDonald is an experimental psychology major from Easley, South Carolina. Jordan transferred to Upstate after completing an associate degree. The professors here were very supportive during the process, and Jordan values the relationships she’s built with them during her program. They have been role models and mentors to her, and she appreciates the encouragement they have offered. She has particularly enjoyed contributing to the growth of the neuroscience lab, where she worked with Dr. Scott Meek and her fellow students. Jordan also took part in the Er(UP)t summer research program in 2023, and received a Magellan Scholar grant that allowed her to further develop her skills as a researcher this semester. “It has been the result of a lot of work, plenty of trial and error, and a fair share of doubts, but working through it all to create what I have now is something I have a lot of pride in,” she says. Jordan is applying to graduate school, with the goal of getting her doctorate in cognitive neuroscience and becoming a psychology professor one day.
fahad bin-jabbar
Fahad Bin-Jabbar is a logistics and supply chain management major from Spartanburg, South Carolina. Fahad chose Upstate because of the close-knit community of people here. He values the friends he made and the professors he studied with while he was a student. Among his biggest influences were Dr. Chung-Yean Chiang and Dr. Sirajul Shibly, and Georgia McClintock in Career Management. “My proudest achievement during my college years was being able to live up to the expectations I had for myself,” Fahad says. He plans to work after graduation, then pursue a master’s.
marquis newman
Marquis Newman is a nursing major from Rock Hill, South Carolina. Marquis was drawn to Upstate for its beautiful campus and its highly ranked nursing program. He was especially impressed by the diverse and knowledgeable educators he met who enriched the program with their wealth of perspectives and real-world experience. Marquis felt encouraged at every step by his professors, who believed in him and helped him grow personally and professionally. He also made many friends among his peers. “The people nursing school has brought into my life, the connections I’ve made, I am eternally grateful for,” he says. “It is a gratifying feeling knowing your peers want you to succeed and encourage you to be your best self.” Being accepted into nursing school validated all Marquis’ hard work and commitment and solidified his passion for health care. He was especially inspired by Dr. Shirleatha Dunlap, the dean, and Dr. Felicia Jenkins, the associate dean, for being empowering women who took the time to get to know every student. Their standard of excellence set an example for students. Marquis will be working in pediatric nurse residency after graduation.
alex clary
Alex Clary is a nursing major from Gaffney, South Carolina. Alex knew Upstate was the right school for her the moment she set foot on campus and received a warm welcome. She is a member of Delta Zeta, and after a tough semester last spring, found herself as the only initiated sister left in the chapter. The national council gave her the opportunity to rebuild the chapter, and Alex rose to the challenge. With many late nights of work, she took membership from one to eight in just three months while also juggling her last semester of studies. She has loved the community feeling of Upstate. “From Greek life members to peers in my nursing cohort, I find myself always seeing someone I know who I can sit down and share a study room or library booth with,” she says. Alex also values the support she received from Rhonda Coffey and JT Smith, who were always available to answer questions and offer encouragement. Alex will be working as a nurse in the emergency department at Cherokee Medical Center.
lilia millner
Lilia Millner is a biology major from Greenville, South Carolina. Lilia already holds one degree from USC Upstate – a BS in experimental psychology she received in 2019. Back then, Lilia was in her final semester of school when her first son was born three months early. She remembers how Dr. Yancy McDougal and the rest of the psychology department rallied around her, and offered her the support she needed to complete her coursework while she was in the NICU. That sense of community is why Lilia chose to return to Upstate for another degree. “It’s a place where everyone genuinely roots for each other’s success, and professors go above and beyond for their students,” she says. “The spirit of camaraderie extends to the student body as well. Some of my most cherished friendships and memories came from forming study groups and getting involved in on-campus research activities.” Lilia is proud to have completed two degrees while raising three children. The experience strengthened her time management and organizational skills, and taught her how to keep going even when life threw unexpected challenges her way. In addition to Dr. McDougal, Lilia cites several other professors who have been influential in her studies: Dr. Kimberly Shorter, who was a mentor and guide; Dr. Scott Tanner, who reignited her love for genetics; Dr. Ginny Webb, who made microbiology exciting and memorable; Dr. Jon Storm, whose lectures were fascinating and engaging; and Dr. Grover Walters, a dedicated professor and genuinely good person. Lilia will be applying for both medical and PA school, and hopes to specialize in pediatric nephrology.
jailine alvarado rivera
Jailine Alvarado Rivera is a business management major from Greenville, South Carolina. Jailine transferred to Upstate from Greenville Tech, and appreciated that she could pursue her degree while living at home. As a first-generation student, she assumed she would have to figure things out on her own. Instead, the Upstate faculty and staff were there to encourage her and answer all her questions, which she is forever thankful for. “My proudest achievement is not only reaching my goal, but my parents’ dream of seeing me walk across the stage,” Jailine says. “My parents sacrificed so much to give me a better future. Everything I’ve achieved is thanks to them. ¡Sí se pudo!” She credits Katherine Ordoyne, her calculus management and social science instructor, for giving her confidence that she could excel in difficult courses, and career counselor Marley Bickley for helping her find an internship and polish her resume. Jailine is starting a job with Tech24 in December.
katherine wellons
Katherine Wellons is a health information management major from Fort Mill, South Carolina. She chose Upstate for its affordability and its CAHIM-accredited bachelor’s program. “I will miss being taught by the amazing professors here at USC Upstate,” Katherine says. She was able to maintain a high GPA while also working full time. Abbott Staggs, her academic coach, and Dr. Susan Richardson, the director of Palmetto College, were especially influential during her time in the program. Katherine plans to work as an HIM technician at a local hospital.
kendaija witt
Kendaija Witt is an exercise and sport science major from Greenville, South Carolina. Kendaija knew Upstate was the right choice for her the moment she saw the beautiful campus and experienced its welcoming atmosphere. “It felt like a place where I could truly grow, where I wouldn’t just be a number but a person known by name, supported by faculty and staff who genuinely care,” she says. Kendaija is a proud first-generation college student and member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, which gave her opportunities to lead, organize initiatives and have a positive impact on campus and in the community. She also gained hands-on experience in her field by interning in the acute care rehabilitation unit at Pelham Medical Center. Kendaija is grateful for all the ways Upstate has shaped her into a stronger, more resilient person. Her TRiO advisors and peers were like family to her, and the support and encouragement they provided helped her achieve her goals. She plans to attend graduate school to earn a degree in occupational therapy.
jada waters
Jada Waters is a nursing major from Union, South Carolina. Jada chose Upstate for its strong nursing program. Throughout her time as a student, she worked as a tech in the ER, mostly on days when she didn’t have classes but sometimes even when she did. “I was very fortunate to be able to find a balance that still allowed me to maintain my grades,” she says. “I’m also really proud that I never had to retake a class.” She values the input of instructors Shea Shuller and Latasha Gooden, who helped develop her patient care skills and learn what was needed to be successful. Jada will be working in the emergency department at Spartanburg Regional after graduation, but will take part in the hospital’s transition nurse resident program before she takes the NCLEX.
samantha burnette
Samantha Burnette is a community health major from Greer, South Carolina. Samantha initially planned to pursue the pre-physician assistant program at Upstate. She was inspired by the community health classes she took with assistant professor Kara Davis, who explained topics with clarity and made research easier. Davis also helped her narrow down what she wanted to do with her degree. Samantha has loved seeing the seasons change during her walks through campus, and relaxing in the hammocks during the spring. Though she’s encountered many challenges during her college years, Samantha never gave up. “My proudest accomplishment of my college career is getting to graduation after 10 years of hard work and determination,” she says. Samantha will be taking the CHES exam in April to become a health education specialist.
tamara pate
Tamara Pate is a graphic design major from Lancaster, South Carolina. Tamara was drawn to USC Upstate for its small class sizes and tight-knit community. She’s enjoyed going to the café and library with classmates and friends to do assignments together. Tamara was part of Studio Upstate, USC Upstate’s student-led design firm, and enjoyed working on projects for clients. She also appreciates the real-world experience she gained at the Studio. Tamara says her professors in the fine arts department have been a major influence on her. “Not only were they always pushing me to be the best I could be, but they were always so supportive of any artistic vision I brought their way,” she says. “Each and every one of them created a supportive and creative environment that made coming to class every day exciting!” Tamara will be doing freelance graphic design work after graduation while job searching.
ashley turner
Ashley Turner is an accounting major from Camden, South Carolina. Ashley returned to USC Upstate to complete a degree she had begun previously because she wanted to be a good example to her son of finishing all the things that you start. “My proudest achievement while at Upstate is learning to be a good leader,” she says. She was especially inspired by Maya Carter, aquatics director at the Spartan Rec Center. Ashley will be applying for a higher position at her current job after graduation.
jordan jimenez
Jordan Jimenez is a criminal justice major from Seneca, South Carolina. Jordan had visited many colleges in different cities and states, but none of the others gave her the same feeling of home and acceptance that USC Upstate did. She says she never felt out of place while here. While going through a difficult time in her life, she found support from her TRiO family, especially director John Montemayor, and associate professors Tracey Woodard and Courtney McDonald. “These individuals helped me through the darkest time in my life and encouraged me to keep going,” she says. “They knew what I was capable of and never gave up on me.” Jimenez worked hard to turn her GPA around, and is proud to have gotten it back to a 3.1. She will be working on her master’s degree after graduation, and then will apply to law school.
