The South Carolina Technical Education Association (SCTEA) has recognized three employees from Greenville Technical College as Educators of the Year in recognition of their outstanding service and achievement.
Jan Bishop was recognized in the faculty category. A professor since 2004, Bishop focuses specifically on the needs of students who are still preparing for college-level work. She drove innovative curriculum, faculty development, student recognition, and advising and acceleration initiatives during her long tenure as head of the Transitional Studies department.
Dr. Thomas Takayama was recognized in the administrator category. Dean for the School of Arts and Sciences since 2019, he leads Greenville Technical College’s largest academic school. In nearly two decades in higher education, Takayama has served in both educator and administrator roles at some of the country’s leading community colleges. At Greenville Technical College, Takayama has navigated the pandemic with a leadership style that puts both student learning and the safety of all front and center.
Gina Marie Thomas was recognized in the staff category. Thomas is a 36-year employee of the college who serves as coordinator responsible for the Perkins Grant and programmatic accreditations. She is described as analytical, thoughtful, dependable, dedicated, and loyal with a welcoming demeanor that adds to her strength as a collaborator.
SCTEA encourages professional development and promotes the interests of the South Carolina Technical College System. Membership in SCTEA is open to anyone who supports technical education.