Matthew Hamilton
Director of Admission
Office: Welcome Center
Office Phone: 803.947.2110
Email: Matthew.Hamilton@newberry.edu
Degrees:
MBA | Bluefield University (In Progress)
B.S. | Concord University (2013)
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Director of Admission
Office: Welcome Center
Office Phone: 803.947.2110
Email: Matthew.Hamilton@newberry.edu
Degrees:
MBA | Bluefield University (In Progress)
B.S. | Concord University (2013)
Interim Head Men's Soccer Coach
Office: Soccer Office-Bauchman Street
Email: justin.cook@newberry.edu
Assistant Registrar
Office: Holland Hall 108
Office Phone: 803.321.5172
Email: Jessica.Morton@newberry.edu
Department: Office of the Registrar
Degrees:
Certification in Instructional Rounds: Education | Harvard University (2018)
M.Ed. | Lesley University (2014)
B.S. | College of Charleston (2004)
Bio:
Morton came to Newberry College in October 2021 after 16 years with Greenville County Schools in Greenville, South Carolina. She held various roles there, including elementary classroom teacher, virtual science lab instructor, and most recently, she wrote elementary curriculum as an academic specialist.
Disability & Accommodations Coordinator | Academic Success Coach
Office: Center for Student Success
Office Phone: 803.321.5277
Email: LaToya.Abney@newberry.edu
Department: Office of Educational Services
Degrees:
M.A | Management, Webster University (2015)
M.A | Counseling, Webster University (2013)
B.A. | Psychology, Newberry College (2005)
Student Financial Services Coordinator
Office: Holland Hall | Accounting Office
Office Phone: 803.947.2126
Email: Dana.Barbour@newberry.edu
Department: Office of Administrative Affairs
Instructor of Psychology
Office: McClurg
Email: April.Dewalt@newberry.edu
Degrees:
M.S. | Southern New Hampshire University (2017)
B.A. | Newberry College (2014)
ROTC Senior Military Instructor
Office: McClurg 311A
Office Phone: 864.833.8494
Email: Phillip.Enoch@newberry.edu
Online & Graduate Partnership Manager
Office: Welcome Center
Office Phone: 803.947.2063
Email: Josh.Reffey@newberry.edu
Department: Office of Enrollment Management
Residence Hall Director | Brokaw Hall
Office: Derrick Hall
Office Phone: 803.321.3321
Email: Brenna.Dickerson@newberry.edu
Department: Office of Student Affairs
Degrees:
M.S. | Western Governors University (2021)
B. A. | University of South Carolina - Beaufort (2020)
Director of Career Services
Office: Center for Student Success
Office Phone: 803.321.5362
Email: Casey.Cline@newberry.edu
Degrees:
M.S. | Nazareth College (2015)
M.S. | Nazareth College (2003)
B.A. | Mercyhurst College (2001)
Assistant Professor of Religion
Office: Keller Hall, Room 103
Office Phone: 803.321.3322
Email: Lerone.Wilder@newberry.edu
Degrees:
Ph.D. | Union Institute & University (2019)
M.Div. | Interdenominational Theological Center (2010)
B.A. | University of South Carolina (2005)
Bio:
Dr. Wilder received his B.A. from the University of South Carolina in Political Science with a minor in Spanish, his M.Div. from the Interdenominational Theological Center, and his Ph.D. from Union Institute & University in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Ethical and Creative Leadership and a specialization in Martin Luther King, Jr. Studies. While at Union, he completed a certificate in Educational Leadership and has been a recipient of the institution’s Doctoral Scholarship Award for successful academic achievement and the Christine R. Day Scholarship Award for his devoted research to the field of ethics. His dissertation investigated the influence of seminary education on social activism by African American Baptist clergy in Greenville, SC. He is also a licensed and ordained minister in the National Baptist tradition, currently serving as Stated Supply Pastor of the historic Mattoon Presbyterian Church (PCUSA) in Greenville, SC.
Prior to joining the Newberry College faculty, he has taught courses in Ethics, Professional Development, Political Science, Philosophy, Leadership and Spirituality, World Religions, and African American Studies as an adjunct faculty for several colleges and universities.
In addition to his academic and pastoral responsibilities, Dr. Wilder is a writer and a speaker who contributes and speaks to numerous publications and audiences (locally, nationally, and globally) regarding the topics of spirituality, the role of the church in the public arena, social justice, the life and ministry of Dr. King and more. He serves as Co-Chair of the Foothills Presbytery’s Anti-Racism Ministry Team and holds memberships in the American Academy of Religion, the Black Doctoral Network, Inc., the International Leadership Association, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History and the Martin Luther King, Jr. College of Ministers and Laity Board of Preachers at Morehouse College.
Dr. Wilder is a husband to his wife, Kelli, and a father to their two sons, Douglass and Asher.
Assistant Director of Admission
Office: Welcome Center
Office Phone: 803.321.5122
Email: Shakedra.Godfrey@newberry.edu
Department: Office of Enrollment Management
Degrees:
MPA | Kennesaw State University (2020)
B.A. | Kennesaw State University (2017)
Assistant Professor of History
Office: McClurg Center 110
Office Phone: 803.321.5220
Email: Ramon.Jackson@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Humanities
Degrees:
Ph.D. | University of South Carolina (2019)
M.A. | College of Charleston (2007)
B.A. | College of Charleston (2004)
Bio:
Dr. Ramon M. Jackson earned his B.A. and M.A. in History at The College of Charleston and completed the doctoral program in History at the University of South Carolina in 2019. While completing his dissertation on the Long Black Student Movement in South Carolina, Dr. Jackson served as co-historian of Columbia SC 63: Our Story Matters, a landmark public history initiative that commemorated the 50th anniversary of the national Civil Rights Movement by reexamining the Black freedom struggle in Columbia and other sections of the Palmetto State. Dr. Jackson and other project leaders organized lectures, exhibits, wayside tours, and other public programs that conveyed the deeper, multifaceted story of the struggle for freedom and justice in South Carolina and its dramatic impact on our nation.
Over the past two years, Dr. Jackson served as the African American Heritage Coordinator at the South Carolina Department of Archives and History, where he assisted the Agency and the South Carolina African American Heritage Commission with lectures, exhibits, genealogical workshops, and historic preservation initiatives.
Dr. Jackson’s scholarly interests include the intersections of race, higher education, and student activism in the American South during the 20th century. He also studies sport history and how race shapes American perceptions of childhood. Dr. Jackson joined the Humanities Department faculty in the fall of 2021. He currently teaches the introductory U.S. History survey and special topics courses on America during the World Wars, the Civil Rights Movement, and the Post-World War Two era.
Dr. Jackson lives in Columbia with his wife, UofSC Nursing professor Dr. Joynelle Jackson, and their energetic, brilliant 3-year-old daughter, Leiana.
Director of Athletic Communications
Office: O.L. Casey Center
Office Phone: 803.321.5667
Email: Mike.Sanders@newberry.edu
Department: Office of the Director of Athletics
Degrees:
M.S. | Western Governors University (2019)
B.S. | Limestone College (2015)
Bio:
Sanders began as director of athletic communications at Newberry College in October 2021 after a six-year stint at his alma mater, Limestone University. While director of social and digital media at Limestone, he was responsible for Limestone Athletics social and digital media content, and he was the primary statistician for football and basketball.
Sanders started his career in the media relations department at Limestone as a public address announcer for soccer and swimming. He also provided live statistics and results for all Limestone swim meets. He then expanded his responsibilities to become the voice of in-game promotions at Saints basketball games.
Prior to Limestone, Sanders was an assistant, and later head coach, for the Hedingham Sharks swim team. While with the Sharks, he coached multiple city league champions and helped move the team up two divisions within the league. He was also an assistant coach for the New Wave Swim Team in Raleigh, North Carolina, for three years. During his tenure with the Wave, Sanders was in charge of teaching technique to swimmers of all ages, as well as programming the annual spring clinic.
Assistant Dean of Students
Office: Derrick Hall
Office Phone: 803.321.5205
Email: Quintavis.Cureton@newberry.edu
Degrees:
M.Ed. | University of Arkansas (2016)
B.S. | Benedict College (2014)
Visiting Assistant Professor of Business
Office: McClurg 311B
Email: timothy.dupont@newberry.edu
Degrees:
Ph.D. | Educational Leadership, Clemson University (2018)
M.B.A. | Clemson University (2003)
B.S. | Business Administration, Lander University (2001)
Bio:
Prior to joining the Newberry College team, Dr. DuPont served as an instructor of business administration and adjunct professor at Lander University teaching courses in economics, business administration, and management information systems. He has served on several advisory boards and boards of directors. Dr. DuPont’s research interests include economic literacy and its measurement, 2/4 transfer programs, and organizational leadership.
Assistant Professor of Music | Music Recruitment Coordinator
Office: Alumni Music Center
Office Phone: 803.321.5276
Email: Alyssa.Anstey@newberry.edu
Degrees:
M.M. | University of South Carolina (2019)
B.A. | Newberry College (2016)
Admission Counselor
Office: Welcome Center
Office Phone: 803.321.5258
Email: Emanuel.Jones@newberry.edu
Department: Office of Enrollment Management
Degrees:
B.S. | Newberry College (2021)
Assistant Professor of English
Office: McClurg 112
Office Phone: 803.321.5251
Email: Len.Lawson@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Humanities
Degrees:
Ph.D. | Indiana University of Pennsylvania (2021)
M.A. | National University (2007)
B.S. | Winthrop University (2002)
Head Coach & Coordinator of Esports
Office: Wright Hall | Apex Arena
Email: Ruben.Benitez@newberry.edu
Department: Office of Student Affairs
Degrees:
B.A. | Georgia Southern University (2019)
Assistant Professor of Nursing
Office: SCM, Room 116
Office Phone: 803.321.5219
Email: tajuane.dockery@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Nursing
Degrees:
D.N.P. | Liberty University (2020)
M.S.N. | University of North Carolina (2013)
A.S. | Midlands Technical College (2008)
Assistant Volleyball Coach
Office: PHE Complex 211
Email: justin.bass@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Athletics
Head Women's Golf Coach
Office: PHE Complex 203
Office Phone: 803.947.2051
Email: charles.vanhorn@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Athletics
Associate Athletic Director for External Relations
Office: O.L.Casey
Office Phone: 803.947.2127
Email: hunter.perry@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Athletics
Mental Health Counselor
Office: Wellness Center
Office Phone: 803.321.5271
Email: a.williams@newberry.edu
Department: Office of Student Affairs
Degrees:
M.A. | Clinical Mental Health Counseling, LPC, South University (2019)
B.A. | Psychology, Newberry College (2011)
Certifications: Licensed Professional Counselor
Assistant Professor of Sociology
Office: McClurg 204
Office Phone: 803.321.5209
Email: Melissa.Ochoa@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences
Degrees:
Ph.D. | Texas A&M University (2019)
B.A. (Psychology) | Purdue University (2009)
B.A. (Public Relations) | Purdue University (2009)
Muller Center | Program Coordinator
Office: Keller Hall | Room 203
Office Phone: 803.321.5615
Email: Carlton.Kinard@newberry.edu
Department: The Muller Center at Newberry College
Degrees:
B.M.E. | Newberry College (2016)
Bio:
As a student, Carlton Kinard led the student body as president of the Student Government Association and a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. In August 2021, he returned to his alma mater to serve as program coordinator for the Muller Center. He previously served as parenting coordinator at Newberry Elementary School.
A native of Newberry, Kinard was elected to the Newberry City Council in a 2020 special election. He also serves as a member and trustee of New Enoree Baptist Church, president of the Newberry County branch of the NAACP. His other involvements include the Newberry Rotary Club, Family YMCA, Newberry Downtown Development Association, Newberry County Chamber of Commerce, Newberry County Young Professionals, and the GLEAMNS Human Resources Commission.
Director of Choral Activities
Office: Alumni Music Center 108
Email: Molly.Getsinger@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Music
Degrees:
D.M.A. | University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (2020)
M.A. | Rider University Westminster Choir College (2017)
B.M.E. | Shepherd University (2012)
Director of Development for Athletics
Office: Holland Hall | Second Floor
Office Phone: 803.321.5676
Email: William.Tiller@newberry.edu
Department: Office of Advancement
Degrees:
B.A. (Political Science) | Clemson University | 1988
B.A. (History) | Clemson University | 1988
Enrollment Management Coordinator
Office: Welcome Center
Office Phone: 80.321.5127
Email: lynn.livingston@newberry.edu
Department: Office of Enrollment Management
Database Specialist- Report Writer
Office: Holland Hall - West Wing
Office Phone: 803.947.5288
Email: Dallas.Williams@newberry.edu
Degrees:
B.S. | South Carolina State University (2004)
Student Success Support Specialist
Office: Center for Student Success
Office Phone: 803.321.5148
Email: Greely.Saddler@newberry.edu
Department: Office of Educational Services
Degrees:
B.S. | Newberry College (2017)
Help Desk Technician - N3
Office: Darrow House
Office Phone: 803.321.5555
Email: Timothy.Collins@newberry.edu
Degrees:
A.S. | Piedmont Technical College (2019)
Assistant Professor of Chemistry
Office: Science & Mathematics Building
Email: peter.foster@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Sciences and Mathematics
Degrees:
Ph.D. | University of Colorado (2019)
B.S. | Grove City College (2013)
Applications System Coordinator - Net3
Office: Darrow House
Office Phone: 803.321.5231
Email: debra.demidow@newberry.edu
Network Administrator - N3
Office: Darrow House
Office Phone: 803.321.3313
Email: cindy.strange@newberry.edu
Director of Human Resources
Office: Welcome Center
Office Phone: 803.321.5117
Email: Nikki.Brooks@newberry.edu
Department: Office of Administrative Affairs
Degrees:
MBA | Strayer University (2014)
B.S. | Limestone College (2002)
Residence Hall Director
Office: Derrick Hall
Email: Jakqulyn.Williams@newberry.edu
Department: Office of Student Affairs
Degrees:
Ed.S. | University of South Carolina (2014)
B.A. | University of South Carolina (2012)
Assistant Professor of Exercise Science and Human Performance
Office: Center for Teacher Education, 106C
Office Phone: 803.321.5167
Email: Aslynn.Halvorson@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Sport Professions
Degrees:
M.S. | University of Tennessee (2014)
B.S. | University of Tennessee (2012)
Assistant Director for Alumni Engagement and Communication
Office: Holland Hall, Second Floor
Office Phone: 803.321.5651
Email: LauraBeth.Shealy@newberry.edu
Department: Office of Advancement
Degrees:
B.A. | Newberry College (2016)
Dean of Online and Graduate Programs
Office: Holland Hall - West Wing
Office Phone: 803.321.5685
Email: kelli.fellows@newberry.edu
Degrees:
Ph.D., University of Georgia (2006)
M.S., The University of Southern Mississippi (2002)
B.S., The University of Southern Mississippi (1993)
Bio:
Dr. Fellows is an experienced higher education executive who comes to Newberry from Pfeiffer University in North Carolina. In this newly created office, the New Orleans native takes the helm of the College’s rapidly growing online division, as well as oversee the implementation of new master’s degree programs.
Assistant Professor of Chemistry
Office: Sciences & Mathematics Building 315
Office Phone: 803.321.5281
Email: Daisy.Dowd@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Sciences and Mathematics
Degrees:
Ph.D. | Georgia Institute of Technology (2016)
B.S. | Simmons College (2010)
Bio:
Dr. Daisy Bourassa-Dowd joined the Newberry College faculty in February 2021.
As an undergraduate at Simmons College, Dr. Bourassa-Dowd worked on the solid state, asymmetric reduction of ketones using a chiral borate ester. In graduate school, she used novel zinc and copper fluorescent probes to investigate metal distribution during cell division and development of zebrafish embryos. After Georgia Tech, she taught organic chemistry, biochemistry, and gender equity in STEM courses at Agnes Scott College in Decatur, Georgia. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Dr. Bourassa-Dowd was also the Associate Director of Residential Education at Agnes Scott, where she oversaw several living-learning communities.
In her spare time, she enjoys practicing yoga and hiking with her partner, Matt, and their three dogs, Maggie, Moxley and Bayley.
Assistant Field Hockey Coach
Office: PHE 209
Email: Kelly.Klapcuniak@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Athletics
Degrees:
B.S. | Slippery Rock University (2013)
Assistant Professor of Economics and Data Sciences
Office: McClurg 311B
Email: Matthew.Kidder@newberry.edu
Department: Business Administration
Degrees:
Ph.D. | University of California - Irvine (2016)
B.S. | American University (2003)
Bio:
Dr. Kidder received his Ph.D. in Economics from the University of California Irvine with a focus in applied international trade. He joined the University of International Business and Economics in Beijing as a tenure track Assistant Professor. There he taught applied statistical methods to Ph.D. students in the Business School and conducted original research on global value chains. Dr. Kidder’s research work is published by the World Bank and he has other academic papers under review.
Dr. Kidder was the last US Academic trade economist, to leave Beijing during the height of the US-China trade war, where he lived for half a decade. His research work in China discovered that traditional trade theories overemphasize the benefits of industrial specialization since he discovered that there are gains to diversification in production. This discovery is highly relevant to understand the implications of hollowing out US Manufacturing and flagging US comparative advantages in the World Economy. Dr. Kidder suggests that Chinese subsidization of zombie companies has contributed to China’s rise as a global power, which is a heterodox view in economics.
Dr. Kidder is also a data scientist practitioner, where he has developed algorithms in Artificial Intelligence that are unique in the world. This work is proprietary and not currently in the public domain. As an applied statistician, he is most concerned with understanding how individuals are impacted differently by a given stimulus. His work statistically teases these individual level effects out of large and messy data sets.
Dr. Kidder is passionate about efficiency and automation. His is constantly creating little tools that automate his job and he loves to share these tools with others. He is also passionate about the communities in which he lives and is always searching for opportunities to make an impact at all levels.
Prior to becoming an economist, Dr. Kidder was an entrepreneur, a semi-professional football player, an extreme sports athlete.
Assistant Professor of Nursing
Office: SCM-119G
Office Phone: 803.321.5186
Email: Tabetha.Quina@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Nursing
Degrees:
M.S. | Saint Xavier University (2020)
B.A. | Florida State University (2002)
Bio:
Tabetha F. Quina received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Florida State University in 2002 and her Master of Science in Nursing degree with a focus in Nursing Education from Saint Xavier University in Chicago, IL in 2020. In January 2021, Tabetha obtained her certification in nursing education from the National League for Nursing. She started her nursing career as an operating room nurse in both Tallahassee, FL and Columbia, MD before settling in Lexington County, SC in 2004. Quina has worked for Lexington Medical Center (LMC) since 2004 with nursing experience in the operating room, information services, and discharge planning/utilization review. She continues to work at LMC as needed during semester breaks to stay current on nursing practice issues and concerns. Professional interests include women's health issues, community and rural health concerns, and the advancement of nursing education.
Benefits Coordinator
Office: Holland Hall | Room 107
Office Phone: 803.321.5119
Email: Sara.Perry@newberry.edu
Department: Office of Administrative Affairs
Degrees:
B.S. | University of Phoenix (2015)
Senior Admissions Counselor | Guest Experience Coordinator.
Office: Welcome Center
Office Phone: 803.321.5132
Email: kenley.longshore@newberry.edu
Department: Office of Enrollment Management
Degrees:
B.A., Newberry College, 2019
Assistant Women's Soccer Coach
Email: Nicole.Borowinski@newberry.edu
Degrees:
B.A. | Kansas Wesleyan University (2011)
A.A. | Grossmont College (2008)
Assistant Football Coach - Defensive Line
Office: P.E. Complex
Office Phone: 803.321.5654
Email: mich.hall@newberry.edu
Head Men's and Women's Track and Field/Cross Country Coach
Office Phone: 803.947.2115
Email: Jimmy.Stephens@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Athletics
Degrees:
B.S. | University of South Carolina (1991)
Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach
Office Phone: 803.321.5188
Email: rebecca.reeves@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Athletics
Associate Athletic Trainer
Office Phone: 803.321.5170
Email: Breanna.Malebranche@prismahealth.org
Department: Department of Athletics
Assistant AD for Sports Medicine/Head Athletic Trainer
Office Phone: 803.321.5184
Head Women’s Triathlon Coach
Office: O.L.Casey
Office Phone: 803.321.5142
Email: harley.nunan@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Athletics
Degrees:
M.S., Sports Science & Health
Bio:
Harley Nunan brings over eight years of coaching experience to Newberry. For the last two and a half years, she has served as the head cross country and track and field coach at Falcon High School in Peyton, Colorado. Before that, Nunan was the head cross country and track and field coach and Mendocino High School in Mendocino, California. Harley is also a former triathlete for 1900 Triathlon, where she started up a youth division.
From January of 2019 to June of 2020, she worked for USA Triathlon as the Coaching Education Manager. In this position, Nunan was responsible for coordinating and managing coaching education clinics across the country and developed educational curriculums, manuals, and all continuing education units for coaches. Harley has a Master of Science degree in Sports Science & Health and is a USA Triathlon Level II certified coach, a USA Weightlifting Level I coach, USA Swim 201 coach, USA Track and Field Level I coach, and a USA Cycling Level III coach.
Assistant Men &Women's Tennis Coach
Office: City Tennis Complex.
Email: elias.fernandez@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Athletics
Assistant Men's Soccer Coach
Office: Soccer House
Office Phone: 803.321.5265
Email: zach.watson@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Athletics
Degrees:
M.S.| College Athletic Administration, Coker University, 2019
B.S. | Criminal Justice, Sacred Heart University, 2017
Bio:
Originally from Bridgewater, Mass., Zach Watson was an assistant coach at Curry College in Boston for the past two years. There, he worked with the goalkeepers, who led the conference in saves in 2019. He also assisted in all aspects of the program. While at Curry, Watson also coached teams with Steel United and ran the goalkeeper program for the Boston region. In addition, he has worked with the New England Revolution of MLS as an academy staff coach.
Watson played collegiately as a goalkeeper at Sacred Heart University from 2014-17 and at nearby Coker in 2018. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice in 2018 and a master's degree in College Athletic Administration in 2019. He currently holds his USSF D License, a USC Advanced National Diploma, and a Level 1 GK diploma. He is also a Regional level referee and has done numerous high level events including the UPSL National Quarterfinal in 2019.
Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice
Office: McClurg Center 303
Office Phone: 803.321.5216
Email: Christopher.Sharp@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Humanities
Degrees:
Ph.D. | University of Central Florida (2006)
M.S. | University of Central Florida (1999)
B.S. | Florida State University (1997)
Senior Accountant
Office: Holland Hall
Office Phone: 803.321.5199
Email: Chris.Dominick@newberry.edu
Department: Business Administration
Degrees:
B.S. | University of South Carolina (1994)
Accounts Receivable Coordinator
Office: Holland Hall
Office Phone: 803.321.5116
Email: melody.boyd@newberry.edu
Department: Business Administration
Alumni Board of Managers
Registered Nurse
Office: Health Services
Office Phone: 803. 321.3316
Email: renee.arnold@newberry.edu
Department: Office of Student Affairs
Director of Housing and Residence Life
Office: Derrick Hall
Office Phone: 803.321.5328
Email: Sherrigan.Feaster-Johnson@newberry.edu
Degrees:
M.A., College Counseling and Human Development, Radford University,
B.A., Criminal Justice, University of South Carolina.
ELCA South Carolina Synod Representative
Men and Women Track & Field Assistant Coach
Office: CTE, 122C
Office Phone: 803.321.5114
Email: mashario.morton@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Athletics
Degrees:
B.A., Theatre Performance, Winthrop University, 2016
Director of Student Engagement and Greek Life
Office: Derrick Hall, room 9
Office Phone: 803.321.3311
Email: kenntrail.grooms@newberry.edu
Department: Office of Student Affairs
Degrees:
M.A., Counseling (Mental Health), Webster University, 2009
B.A., Psychology, Newberry College, 2007
Bio:
Kenntrail Grooms returned to his alma mater in spring 2020 to head the College's student engagement and Greek life programs. He previously served Benedict College in student activities and leadership development roles from 2011 until his arrival at Newberry.
Grooms was heavily involved during his time as a Newberry College student. He was a member of the marching band, Metoka Galeda Gospel Choir, the Newberry College Singers, and he remains a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. He also served as a new student orientation leader and a resident advisor.
In his community, he has volunteered with the Alston Wilkes Society Columbia Youth Home, the C.A. Johnson High School Family Literacy Initiative, and the South Carolina 4-H Program. He is an active member of Grace Christian Church in Columbia.
Vice President for Institutional Advancement
Office: Holland Hall - Second Floor
Office Phone: 803.321.5363
Email: LoriAnn.Summers@newberry.edu
Degrees:
M.Ed. | University of South Carolina (2014)
B.A. | University of South Carolina (1988)
Bio:
Lori Ann assumed the role of Vice President for Institutional Advancement in November 2019.
The Union native is an established and versatile fundraiser with over two decades' experience in higher education, having most recently led advancement efforts at the University of South Carolina's six health science schools and colleges.
Before that, she was Senior Director of Development for the university's College of Engineering and Computing. Over her extensive career, she has also served Auburn University, Colorado College and the University of Minnesota. She has been a member of the American Cancer Society leadership board in Columbia, and of the Council for the Advancement and Support of Education.
Assistant Vice President for Institutional Advancement
Office: Holland Hall, 2nd Floor
Office Phone: 803.321.5694
Email: whitney.metz@newberry.edu
Department: Office of Advancement
Degrees:
M.Ed., Higher Education Business Administration, University of South Carolina, 2014
B.A., Newberry College, 2009
Assistant Coach, Cross Country and Track and Field
Director of Special Events/Reservations
Office: Dufford House
Office Phone: 803.321.3302
Email: carol.west@newberry.edu
Department: Office of Administrative Affairs
Director of Marketing and Communications
Office: Holland Hall - Upper East Wing
Office Phone: 803.947.2053
Email: russell.rivers@newberry.edu
Department: Office of Advancement
Degrees:
B.A., Advertising and Graphic Design, University of South Carolina, 1985
Associate Director of Advancement Services
Office: Holland Hall 2nd Floor
Office Phone: 803-321-5147
Email: sarah.dougherty@newberry.edu
Athletic Club Associate Director
Office: O.L. Casey
Office Phone: 803-321-5152
Email: Sharon.Bryant@Newberry.edu
Degrees:
B.A., Newberry College, 2011 Summa Cum Laude
A.S., Piedmont Technical College, 1996
Assistant Professor, Respiratory Therapy
Office: Keller Hall
Office Phone: 803.321.5220
Email: allan.dunphy@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Sciences and Mathematics
Associate Development Officer
Office: Holland Hall Second Floor
Office Phone: 803.321.5141
Email: Jim.Hale@newberry.edu
Degrees:
J.D. | University of South Carolina (1970)
B.A. | Newberry College (1963)
Assistant Men's Lacrosse Coach
Office Phone: 803.321.5301
Email: jeff.handman@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Athletics
Degrees:
B.A., Lincoln Memorial University
Bio:
Handman, a former Lacrosse player at Lincoln Memorial, is set to bring new coaching experience to the program. His primary focus is defense and working specifically with goalkeepers although he is skilled in coaching both sides of the ball.
As former assistant coach at West Florida, Handman helped lead the team to an impressive 26-1 record. He specialized with the goalies and defense, helping his team win four championships. Handman went on to coach for Team 91 club team, which has allowed him to gain familiarity with players across the country who have interests in playing at the next level. This allowed for him to build a strong recruiting network in both Florida and North Carolina.
Handman was also assistant coach at Barton College. In which he was responsible for recruiting, player development, scouting, film breakdown and many other tools which he plans on bringing to the program. At Barton he helped lead the team to conference playoffs as a first year program.
Institutional Advancement Administrative Coordinator
Office: Holland Hall, Upper Central Wing
Office Phone: 803.321.5363
Email: ivy.rice@newberry.edu
Department: Office of Advancement
Degrees:
A.A.S. | Piedmont Technical College (2020)
Registrar
Office: Holland Hall
Office Phone: 803.321.5125
Email: Whitney.Merinar@newberry.edu
Degrees:
Ed.S. | The George Washington University (2008)
M.A. | University of Phoenix (2000)
B.S. | Georgia Southern University (1996)
Assistant Professor of Psychology
Office: LMC 317
Office Phone: 803.321.5221
Email: jody.thompson@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences
Degrees:
Ph.D., Applied Experimental Psychology, Central Michigan University, 2017
MS, Experimental Psychology, Jacksonville State University, 2010
BA, Psychology, University of Alabama, 2008
Bio:
Dr. Thompson is received his Bachelor of Arts in psychology at the University of Alabama in 2008. He received his Masters of Science in 2010 from Jacksonville State University with a concentration in experimental psychology. He also studied applied behavior analysis while there. Dr. Thompson then received his Ph.D. in applied experimental psychology with an emphasis in social psychology from Central Michigan University in 2017. His dissertation focused on brand priming and the effects of a short mindfulness meditation on brand priming. He also conducted research on cooperative behavior, relational aggression from reality television compared to physical aggression in scripted television, and risky behavior.
Before coming to Newberry, Dr. Thompson taught at the University of South Carolina Beaufort, Ferris State University, and University of North Alabama. His current research interests involve cognitive dissonance, kin selection theory, and mindfulness.
Assistant Professor of Mathematics
Office: SCM - Room 119C
Office Phone: 803.321.5109
Email: Sarah.Frederickson@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Sciences and Mathematics
Degrees:
Ph.D. | University of Arkansas (2019)
M.S. | Arkansas State University (2013)
B.S. | University of the Ozarks (2010)
Assistant Football Coach
Email: cole.watson@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Athletics
Assistant Baseball Coach
Email: fredrick.kondla@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Athletics
Bio:
Fico Kondla came to Newberry prior to the 2019 season, in which he helped the Wolves win their first-ever regular season South Atlantic Conference championship. The Wolves went 41-16 (21-3 SAC), had winning streaks of 12 and 13 games, and spent eight weeks ranked inside the top 10 on their way to hosting an NCAA Regional.
Kondla helped 2019 SAC Player of the Year Danton Hyman to first team All-Region and Honorable Mention All-American honors. Hyman is one of three Wolves to ever be named a unanimous first team All-Region selection.
Kondla came to Newberry from the Morehead City in the Coastal Plain League, where he served as Marlins' top assistant coach.
Prior to that, Kondla was the head baseball coach/athletic director for SLAM! North Charter School and an assistant baseball coach for Northside Christian Academy, the Florence Red Wolves, and the South Florida Rebels.
Kondla graduated from Coker College in 2014. As a member of the baseball team, he was all-conference and all-region during his time with the team, as well as a two-time team captain.
Assistant Baseball - Pitching Coach
Email: ryan.west@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Athletics
Bio:
Ryan West came to Newberry prior to the 2019 season, one of Newberry's best in school history. West was part of a staff that helped Newberry to a 41-16 (21-3 SAC) record, winning streaks of 12 and 13 games, the school's first-ever South Atlantic Conference championship, and an NCAA Regional hosting bid for the first time. The team was also ranked in the top 10 nationally for eight weeks during the season.
West helped relief pitcher Quinton Driggers to first team All-Region and Second Team All-American honors. Driggers is one of three Wolves to ever be voted as a unanimous All-Region selection
Head Cheerleading Coach
Office Phone: 803.947.2113
Email: justina.teale@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Athletics
Degrees:
B.S., Mass Communications, Lander University, 2017
Bio:
Teale attended Lander University in Greenwood, where she was a part of the Cheerleading team for four years and obtained several leadership positions across her campus. Prior to Lander, she attended Barnwell High School where she received All-American honors at the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and London's New Year's Day Parade.
Teale has extensive leadership skills. She served as an instructor for over 200 high school and middle school athletes for the Universal Cheerleaders Association, where she focused on mentoring and enhancing the skills of young athletes across the Southeast. Her positive attitude towards guiding young athletes has shaped her ability to lead a team. She also has experience in coaching as head JV Coach for AC Flora High School, where she was in charge of organizing and implementing training strategies to further enhance the skills of the competitors.
Head Men's Basketball Coach
Office Phone: 803.321.5153
Email: jason.taylor@newberry.edu
Director of Strength, Conditioning, and Sports Performance
Office: PHE
Office Phone: 803.321.5188
Email: tony.bixler@newberry.edu
Degrees:
Tony Bixler joined the Newberry Strength and Conditioning staff in February 2019.
Before coming to Newberry, Bixler worked with the Chinese Olympic Committee in Beijing China, as the head performance coach for the 2018 World Champion Men's Rifle Team. the World Champion rifle athletes. He prepared the athletes by designing and implementing both in-season & off-season strength and conditioning programs. Prior to that, he worked as an assistant football coach at Westwood High School in Blythewood, S.C. from 2016-2017. While there he assisted with strength and conditioning while also coaching wide receivers, and tight ends. In 2015, he worked with the football team at AC Flora High School in Columbia, S.C. He assisted with strength and conditioning program while coaching quarterbacks.
Bixler interned with the University of South Carolina's strength and conditioning staff, working primarily with women's basketball during the 2014-15 season. His job entailed managing in-season workouts and teaching proper technique. During the spring, summer and fall of 2014, he worked at Richland Northeast High School in Columbia, S.C. as an assistant football coach. While there, he coached the wide receivers and assisted with strength and conditioning. From 2010-2013, he was an assistant football coach at Heathwood Hall Episcopal School in Columbia, S.C.. During his tenure, he co-authored the team's strength and conditioning program, also working with the quarterbacks and running backs.
Bixler also gained experience in sports performance while owning and operating Bixler Fitness. He implemented various strength and conditioning programs that helped athletes achieve their goals. Bixler is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association. He is also a Level 1 Sports Performance Coach through USA Weightlifting.
Bixler earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of South Carolina in 2004. He worked for the Richland County Sheriff's Department from 2004-2010, initially as a Uniform Deputy and later as a Criminal Investigator. In 2017, he earned his Master of
Admission Counselor
Office: Welcome Center
Email: Cassie.Babb@newberry.edu
Department: Office of Enrollment Management
Degrees:
B.A. | Newberry College (2018)
Bio:
Ammons returned to her alma mater in 2019 as a coach for the Newberry College Dance Team. During her undergraduate years, she was a Student Ambassador from 2015-18, earning Rookie of the Year in 2015 and being named Student Ambassador of the Year in 2017. She was a member of Sigma Sigma Sigma sorority and Sigma Alpha Pi, served as president of the Social Justice Club and as an ally for the Campus Alliance for Respect and Diversity. She is a native of Greenwood, South Carolina.
Head Dance Coach
Office Phone: 803.321.3324
Email: lauren.alston@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Athletics
Bio:
Lauren Alston has was hired as the head coach for Newberry's Dance program in August 2019. Alston, a Columbia native, has learned from choreographers that include two Emmy Award winners, a backup dancer for Whitney Houston and Chris Brown, a principle dancer for the New York City Ballet, a choreographer for the Academy Awards, Golden Globes, Emmys, and Grammys, and a So You Think You Can Dance winner.
She began her professional career at age 16, touring various cities in China over the course of a month and performing over 40 shows. She has performed in several commercials and music videos and has worked extensively in choreography, directing dance studios, and judging dance competitions and conventions at the national and regional level. Collegiately, she performed as a member of the Carolina Girls while attending the University of South Carolina. Alston will lead the rebranded Dance program, which was formerly known as Scarlet Poms.
Assistant Professor of Mathematics
Office: SCM 119F
Office Phone: 803.321.5245
Email: jessica.otis@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Sciences and Mathematics
Degrees:
M.S., Mathematics, University of South Carolina, 2019
B.S., Mathematics, University of South Carolina, 2016
Assistant Professor of Teacher Education
Office: CTE 106D
Office Phone: 803.321.5603
Email: annette.hunter@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Teacher Education
Degrees:
Ph.D., Postsecondary and Adult Education, Capella University
M.Ed., Gifted Education, Widener University
M.Ed., Special Education, Widener University
B.S. in Elementary Education, Temple University
Bio:
Dr. Annette Hunter has been in the state of South Carolina for 29 years, and she is so blessed to have joined Newberry College as a Visiting Assistant Professor in the Department of Teacher Education. Hunter received a B.S. in elementary education from Temple University, a M.Ed. in both gifted and special education from Widener University, and a Ph.D. in postsecondary and adult education from Capella University.
Hunter's doctrine of education is not about why her students are in her classroom, but about why each subject she will teach them will play a significant part in the learning process. This follows through with getting her students involved and letting them experience what they are learning. She believes that through class experiments, class discussions, or any other activity that stimulates and promotes students’ cognitive ability and awareness, learning will progress.
VP Administrative Affairs / CFO
Office: Holland Hall
Office Phone: 803.321.3353
Email: david.sayers@newberry.edu
Department: Office of the Vice President for Administrative Affairs
Assistant Professor of Nursing
Office: SCM 118
Office Phone: 803.321.5671
Email: jennifer.bickley@newberry.edu
Degrees:
MSN, specialization in Nursing Education, South University, 2017
BSN, Newberry College, 2014
Bio:
Jennifer Bickley obtained her BSN from Newberry College in 2014 and her MSN from South University in 2017. She earned her graduate degree from South University with a specialization in nursing education. Though not currently enrolled, she would like to continue her knowledge in nursing education in an accredited doctoral program within the next 2 years. Before becoming a full-time faculty member at Newberry College in the spring of 2019, Jennifer served as an adjunct instructor for the Fundamentals course at Newberry College in the fall of 2018. Jennifer also taught clinicals for Fundamentals and Medical-Surgical courses at Newberry College and the University of South Carolina from the years 2016-2018. Jennifer has worked as a Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse at Lexington Medical Center since 2014 and has served as a unit preceptor while employed in this role. She holds Medical-Surgical certification through the Medical-Surgical Nursing Certification Board and Basic Life Support Certification through the American Heart Association. Jennifer’s professional goal is to serve as a nurse educator who positively influences the nursing profession by holistically stimulating nursing students and nursing education.
Chair, Department of Nursing
Office: SCM | Room 125
Office Phone: 803.321.5104
Email: susan.ludwick@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Nursing
Degrees:
DNP | The University of Kansas (2017)
M.S.N. | The University of Wyoming (1994)
B.S.N. | Wichita State University (1991)
Bio:
Dr. Susan Ludwick, DNP, MSN, RN (Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Nursing) is originally from Kansas City, MO and grew up in Overland Park, KS. She obtained her BSN from Wichita State University in Wichita, KS; she obtained her MSN from The University of Wyoming and she received her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree (emphasizing Leadership & Public Health Nursing) from The University of Kansas in May 2017.
Dr. Ludwick has been a Registered Nurse since 1992 and has been a Nursing Educator since 1996. Her clinical background includes working in Medical Surgical areas, Obstetrics, Pediatrics, and Community Health. She feels that nursing education is where her heart is and has been a nursing educator in several areas including Maternal Child Health, Community Health, Fundamentals, Leadership, Nursing History, and Pharmacology.
Dr. Ludwick’s research interests emphasize vulnerable populations especially women and children living with homelessness, postpartum depression, and the emotional needs of nursing students. She has participated in podium presentations at regional and national nursing conferences. She is a member of Nurse’s Christian Fellowship, Sigma Theta Tau International, and serves as the Sub-editor of Nurse’s Christian Fellowship International on-line journal. She and her husband have three children.
Assistant Professor of Nursing
Office: SCM 119G
Office Phone: 803.321.5630
Email: jenny.lindler@newberry.edu
Department: Department of Nursing
Degrees:
DNP, American Sentinel University (2020)
MSN, South University (2016)
BSN, Newberry College (2011)
Bio:
Dr. Jenny Lindler's professional goal has always been to become a nurse educator who empowers students to become the best nurse they can be, contribute to nursing research and help in shaping the future of nursing.
Lindler has served as a clinical instructor and adjunct faculty for Newberry College since 2016, joining the College's full-time faculty in 2017. She also previously worked as a nurse educator at Richland Memorial Hospital in Columbia, South Carolina.
Lindler is a practicing Registered Nurse with experience in several areas, including cardiac telemetry, medical-surgical, oncology, geriatrics, and family practice. She is nationally certified as a medical-surgical nurse. She is a member of the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.
