Faculty and Staff Profile

Stephanie Garst

Educational Background

M.S. Counseling and Human Development
Radford University

BBA Finance
The University of Texas at Austin

Courses Taught

NPL 3000 - Foundations in Nonprofit Leadership
PRTM 2220 - Program & Event Planning
PRTM 3910 - Issues & Trends in Event Management
PRTM 3920 - Special Event Management
PRTM 3490 - Survey of Tourism Sites
PRTM 4440 - Tour Planning and Operations
PRTM 4450 - Conference & Convention Planning and Management

Profile

After a decade at the helm, I now serve as Executive Director Emeritus of the US Play Coalition—an international partnership that champions the value of play across the lifespan. The Coalition brings together individuals, businesses, and organizations that recognize play as essential to a healthy and productive life. In my emeritus role, I support and advise the team at our new headquarters: the Eppley Center for Parks and Public Lands at Indiana University.

With more than 25 years of professional experience, I currently lecture in Nonprofit Leadership (NPL) and Tourism & Event Management (TEM) at Clemson University. Since 2015, I've also advised the Clemson Event Planners Association, a vibrant student organization I helped establish and continue to mentor

In my previous position at Roanoke College, I served as the Director of Community Programs and Special Events for 13 years, where I managed a broad portfolio of programs and events for both internal and external audiences. Not only have I worked closely with faculty, staff, administration and students to develop and implement a wide range of educational programs and events, but I have also collaborated with the broader local community to design and deliver signature programs of excellence for business, civic and community leaders.

Early in my career, I worked in museum settings and for a variety of nonprofits...and I was a summer camp counselor for many, many, many years! Truly, I have planned everything from kids birthday parties and friends' weddings to Diamond Anniversary Galas and festivals for more than 10,000 - and everything in between.

Honors and Awards

2016-present - Board of Directors, South Carolina Festival & Event Association

2017 - "Maroon Spotlight Mentor" by Roanoke College - The Maroon Spotlight was part of the College's 175th anniversary celebration to recognize and honor members of the College community who have made a significant impact in a variety of areas.

2017-2020 - Appointee to the Clemson University Commission on Women

2017 - Clemson Community Hero - Clemson University Athletics in partnership with ScanSource, Inc.

2016-17 - Faculty Friend, Clemson University Housing and Dining

2015-2020 - Appointee to the Clemson University Women's Leadership Steering Committee

2012-2015 - Regional Director, Association of Collegiate Conference and Events Directors - International

2011 - Outstanding Individual Achievement Award - Association of Collegiate Conference and Events Directors - International

2010 - Outstanding Contribution to Greek Life Award - Panhellenic Council, Roanoke College

2010 - Kenneth R. Garren Award: Outstanding Staff Member for Promoting and Encouraging Diversity - Office of Multicultural Affairs, Roanoke College

2008-2014 - Institutional Representative, Virginia Network for Women in Higher Education, American Council on Education

2006-2013 - Board of Directors, Salem-Roanoke County Chamber of Commerce (Salem, VA)