FMU Staff Members Recognized at 2025 Staff Awards Event

FMU Staff Members Recognized at 2025 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.

Jennifer L. Cason received the John J. Kispert Leadership Award, Dean W. Blackburn was awarded the Marvin Lynch Humanitarian Award, and Stephanie L. Eaddy and Jeremy L. Davis were named recipients of the two Outstanding Staff Service Awards.

Cason, the recipient of the Kispert Leadership Award, is the administrative coordinator for the School of Education. Her colleagues nominated her for the drive, determination, and initiative she demonstrates. She actively seeks ways to improve processes for both faculty and students and can often be found offering encouragement to students and assistance to faculty. 

Blackburn, the winner of the Lynch Humanitarian Award, is the director of the Smith University Center. For over three decades, he has served the university tirelessly, with incredible heart and determination. He was lauded by his colleagues for his team-first mindset and for always working to create a positive and supportive environment. Much of his work is behind the scenes, but its impact is felt throughout campus. His commitment and care were also noted as factors that elevate the experiences of everyone he serves. 

Eaddy, the recipient of the Outstanding Staff Service Award for Service Departments, is employed in Facilities Management. She was nominated by her colleagues for her attention to detail, thoroughness, and willingness to step in and assist with tasks outside of her realm of responsibility. She was also recognized for the pride she takes in ensuring that everything is always in the right place and her ability to get things done before most even realize they need doing.

Davis, who received the Outstanding Staff Service Award for Academic and Administrative Support Staff, is the laboratory specialist for the Department of Physics and Engineering. He was praised for the exceptional service he provides to faculty and students, his proactive efforts to develop new and improved equipment for lab spaces, and his ability to quickly find helpful solutions to any problem.

FMU President Fred Carter praised the award recipients.

“It is a privilege to recognize four of our most outstanding staff members,” said Carter. “Each of them is fully committed to the university and serving our students, faculty, and staff. Their dedication, character, and service make them truly deserving of these honors, as they play an essential role in shaping the collaborative community that exists here at Francis Marion.”

Other employees were recognized for their years of state service at the event. Hannah R. Amerson, Jennifer D. Hutson, Steven L. Jackson, Patricia J. Morris, Erick J. Polite, Jeri W. Porter, Carla M. Rogers, Russell Rogers, Vicky L. Schaffer, and Elizabeth S. Shefton were recognized for ten years of state service. Celebrating twenty years of state service were LaTasha D. Brand, Leon C. Campbell, James M. Huggins, and Stacey D. J. Vallee. Eric L. Garris, Murray G. Hartzler, C. Ann Kelly, and Benjamin A. Strickland were recognized for thirty years of service to the state. Nick McKithen was honored for forty years of state service.

Seven retirees from the past year were also honored at the luncheon: Brenda B. Calcutt, Jerry A. Clapper, Kim M. Ellisor, Donald L. Jackson, Kelly Morgan, Jane M. Snowden, and Derrick E. Young.