2019 nclca lifetime achievement award

Elaine Richardson

Elaine Richardson earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology at Memphis State University.  She then went on to earn a Master of Science in Dairy Science and later a PhD in Animal Physiology at Clemson University. Elaine began her career in higher education as a Research Technologist at Clemson University in 1972. She soon transitioned to an instructional role, becoming a professor of Animal and Veterinary Science. In 1998, Elaine entered the field of learning support, when she accepted the Coordinator position for Clemson University’s CU 101 (University Success Skills). Then, in 2002 she became the Director of Clemson’s Academic Success Center, where she served until 2014. Elaine’s love for students and for the learning support community led her to NCLCA where she continues to serve. Her contributions to NCLCA include serving as Vice-President, President, and Immediate Past President from 2009-2012; Chair of the committee to develop the Learning Center of Excellence Program from 2010-2014; Co-chair of the NCLCA Webinar program from 2014-2016; Chair of the Learning Center of Excellence Program from 2015-2018; Certification Chair on the NCLCA Board from 2015-2018; and Learning Center of Excellence Review Committee from 2015 to the present. Under Elaine’s direction, two of her tutors won the ATP Tutor of the Year Award and one student won the 2006 International Outstanding SI Leader award. Additionally, her learning center has won the International Outstanding Supplemental Instruction Program Award, the NCLCA/LSCHE Website Excellence Award, and the Frank L. Christ Outstanding Learning Center Award. Elaine co-organized and drafted the bylaws for the South Carolina College Learning Center Association. She has devoted her life to serving her students, colleagues, and profession.