CU Grow announces 2025 cohort as program marks five-year milestone

Since its inception in 2020, CU Grow has served as Clemson's premier staff development program. Now in its fifth year, CU Grow has shaped the professional journeys of 98 total graduates to date. The 2025 cohort marks the largest class yet, boasting 33 members representing a broad selection of University departments and roles, from student health services to athletics and facilities.

"I am thrilled to welcome the fifth cohort of the CU Grow! Five years ago, my vision was to create a platform that would empower staff members to grow personally and professionally," said program founder Jaz Hamilton-Allen. "Seeing its lasting impact on lives and careers across the state reaffirms the importance of investing in people. I am immensely proud of how far we've come and excited for the continued journey of development and excellence."

CU Grow includes more than 150 hours of experiential learning, workshops, skill development and volunteer service. Participants work on innovative projects aimed at solving real challenges and enhancing Clemson's operations. Graduates often cite the program as a transformative experience, helping them refine their leadership abilities, expand professional networks, and bring fresh ideas to their roles.

"Over the years, CU Grow has empowered Clemson employees to innovate, lead, and thrive, leaving a lasting impact on our community," said Kristen Finley, talent and organizational development specialist. "As we celebrate this milestone, we honor Jaz's vision in developing the program and look forward to continuing to create meaningful opportunities for Clemson staff."

For more information about the program, visit the CU Grow webpage.

2025 Cohort Members

Kelly Bardusk, Director of External Relations - Campus Recreation

Zachary Benjamin, Director of Ticket Operations & Systems - Athletic Department Ticket Office

Carla Brewer, Registration Coordinator (Student Services Coordinator II) - Department of Biological Sciences

Abby Buck, Administrative Coordinator - School of Nursing

Allison Chipman, Program Operations Coordinator - Office of Global Engagement

Ashlee Conrad, Business System Analyst III - TigerOne Card Services

Sara Dawson, Staff Counselor and Co-coordinator of the CU Cares Program at Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) - Redfern Health Center

Shaun Fine, IRB Analyst - Office of Research Compliance

Casey Ford, Interim Director of Student Transitions - Center for Student Leadership & Engagement, Division of Student Affairs

Sabine Gibson, Education Abroad Operations Specialist - Pam Hendrix Center for Education Abroad, Office of Global Engagement

Sarah Greene, Information Systems Business Analyst II - Libraries

Erica Harper, Director of Engagement & Student Transitions - College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences

Sharea Heriot, Facilities Custodial Supervisor - Custodial & Recycling Services, University Facilities

Allison Honea, Nurse Practitioner II - Student Health Services

Taylor Hutchens, Program Coordinator - FRESH

Mark Joseph, Program Coordinator - College of Education

Cindy Landrum, Science Writer & Editor (Public Info Director I) - Division of Marketing and Communications

Dallas Lenderman Sr., Video Production Specialist - Clemson Online

Anuj Mehta, Operations Manager - Medicaid IT Services

Robin Metler, Lead Student Services Program Coordinator & Clinical Clearance Coordinator (Student Services Program Coordinator II) - School of Nursing

Mary Montgomery, Associate Director of Residential Community Standards - Office of Community and Ethical Standards

Jarvis Pitts, Police Officer - Clemson University Police Department

Paula Powers, Communications Strategist - Strategic Communications, Division of Marketing and Communications

Emily Priest, Horticulturist/Greenhouse Manager - Facilities / Landscape Services

Jason Przybyla, Manager of Real Estate Operations - Advancement - Finance & Admin.

LeAndrea Robinson, Pathways Initiative Coordinator - Graduate School

William Ruark, Investment Operations Analyst - Clemson University Foundation

Dwayne Skelnik, Landscape Services Supervisor - Landscape Services

Paige Thomsen, Office Coordinator - Office of Faculty ADVANCEment

Jenna Tucker Grogan, Associate Director, UPIC Program - Center for Career and Professional Development

John Vitalis, Assistant Director for Residential Living - Clemson Home - Residential Living

Courtney Wald, Facilities Support Center Supervisor - University Facilities

Tori White, Manager of Outreach and Promotion - Academic Success Center

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