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 3910 - Issues & Trends in Event Mgmt
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

Since 2014, I have been the executive director of the US Play Coalition, a partnership to promote the value of play throughout life. We are an international network of individuals, businesses and organizations that recognize play as a valuable and necessary part of a healthy and productive life.

With over 20 years of experience, I serve as lecturer for the Nonprofit Leadership and Tourism & Event Management majors at Clemson University. I have also advised the Clemson Event Planners Association since its founding in 2015.

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)

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