FMU Honors Staff Members at 2026 Staff Awards Event

Francis Marion University recognized four employees for their outstanding service to the university during the annual FMU Staff Awards luncheon held on campus Thursday.

Shara Moore received the John J. Kispert Leadership Award, Jennifer Hester was awarded the Marvin Lynch Humanitarian Award, and Eric Green and Melissa Dungan were named recipients of the two Outstanding Staff Service Awards.

Moore, the recipient of the Kispert Leadership Award and director of financial planning, was nominated by her colleagues for her exceptional leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to advancing the university’s mission. She consistently provides guidance and support that empowers her colleagues and strengthens the campus community. Recognized for her collaborative approach and dedication to service, Moore continually supports faculty, staff, and the continued success of the university.

Hester, who received the Lynch Humanitarian Award, is the director of purchasing. She has built a career defined by reliability, attention to detail, and steadfast dedication to supporting FMU’s financial health and daily operations. In addition to her professional responsibilities, she has served as a student organization advisor for fifteen years. Her desire to serve extends beyond campus through years of volunteer work with youth athletics, local schools, and her church, reflecting a deep commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of others.

Green, the recipient of the Outstanding Staff Service Award for Service Departments, was recognized for the exceptional contributions he makes to Grounds Maintenance. Known for his strong work ethic, positive attitude, and attention to detail, he plays a key role in maintaining welcoming grounds for students, faculty, staff, and visitors. His willingness to go above and beyond exemplifies the values of dedication, integrity, and service that strengthen the FMU community.

Dungan, who received the Outstanding Staff Service Award for Academic and Administrative Support Staff, serves as assistant coordinator for International Programs, Honors and McNair. She plays a vital role in some of the university’s most prominent student programs, providing steadfast support while helping shape the continued success of these programs. Recognized for her dependability, dedication, and innovative thinking, Dungan consistently creates meaningful opportunities for students and has contributed significantly to the growth of international exchange initiatives. 

FMU President Fred Carter praised the award recipients.

“It is an honor to recognize Shara, Eric, Melissa, and Jennifer,” said Carter. “Their commitment to the university and to serving our students, faculty, and staff is evident in every aspect of their job performance. They are extraordinary staff, who are well respected for the quality of their work. The committee chose well.”

Other employees were recognized for their years of state service at the event. Doug E. Davis, Lee E. Freeman, Darryl M. Kelly, Lauren S. LeMaster, Danagene Y. Razick, and Lauren B. Stanton were recognized for ten years of state service. Celebrating twenty years of state service were Alicia A. Campbell, Ralph U. Davis, Paul J. MacDonald, Cheri Richardson, and Donald R. Tarbell. John T. Pickett was recognized for thirty years of service to the state. Michael G. Hawkins, Shara L. Moore, and Charlene Wages were honored for forty years of state service.

Nine retirees from the past year were also honored at the luncheon: William Bessenger, John Dixon, Murray Hartzler, Michael Hawkins, Karen Herbert, Verneeda Jones, A. Maria McCormick, J. Darren Robinson, and Brenda Short.