SPARTANBURG, S.C. – The Southern Conference named its All-Southern Conference Faculty and Staff Team on Tuesday, with Dr. Scott Jenkinson of the ETSU faculty and Chuck Patton of the ETSU staff being recognized by the league.
While the selections were left up to each institution's discretion, the recipients all shared the common characteristics of demonstrated service to the institution and contributions to campus life and the local community. Faculty members selected have demonstrated strong contributions to teaching, research and/or service, while staff members are being recognized for bringing out the best in others and creating conditions for success.
"These outstanding faculty and staff members exemplify the excellence and commitment that define the Southern Conference. Their dedication to mentorship, teaching, leadership and service, their contributions to their institutions, and their positive impact on students and communities make them truly deserving of this recognition," said SoCon Commissioner Michael Cross. "We are proud to celebrate each of these dedicated individuals who go above and beyond in their roles and help make each SoCon campus a special and exceptional place."
Dr. Scott Jenkinson, ETSU (faculty)
Dr. Jenkinson is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Special Education and Educational Foundations in Clemmer College of Education and Human Development. He also serves as a Faculty Fellow for Community-Engaged Learning with the Center for Teaching Excellence and the Office for Community Engagement. Dr. Jenkinson has been featured on the Provost's "Why I teach" podcast, served as a faculty mentor on alternative break trips, and directed an autoethnography project for the ETSU Global Year: Scotland leadership team and faculty seminar participants. He has published in the field of teaching and has presented locally, regionally, and nationally on best practices for instruction. He has been described as the 'czar' of the Foundations for the Profession of Teaching course, where he is dedicated to creating an inclusive, supportive, and engaging class setting. His students, aspiring teachers, note his ability to motivate them and to help prepare them for what they will encounter in the classroom. Dr. Jenkinson's passion is excellence in teaching and sharing what he knows with the broader community; he has this passion because he cares deeply about the learning success of our students.
Chuck Patton, ETSU (staff)
Mr. Patton, the Executive Aide in the Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety Sciences, has made a lasting and measurable impact on the lives of ETSU students while serving the institution with exceptional dedication and leadership. Under his leadership, Bucky's Food Pantry has addressed food insecurity, and he has expanded the pantry's reach to include coat drives, menstrual product distribution, and referrals to community resources for housing, transportation, and financial counseling. Within his department, he has played an instrumental role in accreditation processes, site visits, and major administrative initiatives. As a veteran and member of the Veterans Affairs Standing Committee, he has helped coordinate the university's Veterans Day Ceremony. After the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, Chuck organized the collection and delivery of supplies to affected communities. Students describe him as "the most selfless person I know" and someone who "goes above and beyond to ensure we have the resources we need to succeed." International students, in particular, note how his guidance during their application and transition made ETSU a welcoming place to learn and grow.
These honorees will be honored at the Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026 men's basketball game versus Chattanooga inside Freedom Hall. Tip off is set for 7 p.m.
