For STEM Work As CMS Principal, Alumna Earns Top Honors

College of Liberal Arts & Sciences alumna Tisha Greene, principal of the Oakhurst STEAM Academy, has received the 2017 Outstanding Administrator Award from the North Carolina Science, Mathematics, and Technology Education Center.

The award recognizes outstanding contributions by an administrator in advancing Science, Technology, Engineering and Math, or STEM, education in North Carolina.

“Dr. Greene’s dedication to her students and her vision for STEM education goes above and beyond,” said Sam Houston, CEO and president of the SMT Center. “We’re proud to recognize her accomplishments.”

Greene received a bachelor’s degree in English and a master’s degree in English education from UNC Charlotte, before earning her doctoral degree in educational leadership at Wingate University. With the master’s degree program at UNC Charlotte, faculty in the College of Education and in the English Department in the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences focus on research methods and advanced study in English and professional education, including teacher leadership.

“Our English Department has a long and distinguished history of preparing future public school teachers and administrators,” said Mark West, chair of the UNC Charlotte English Department. “We congratulate Dr. Greene on her well-deserved recognition for the work she does to support students, teachers and others at her school.”

When the Oakhurst STEAM Academy opened for the 2015-16 school year, Greene worked to integrate STEAM concepts – signifying science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics. She and the school team have incorporated the concepts throughout students’ entire school day and in their extracurricular activities. She also has aligned professional development opportunities to ensure that the academy team stays equipped to implement the initiative and to respond to student needs.

The SMT Center is focused on improving education as a means of providing all students in North Carolina with the knowledge and skills to have successful careers, be good citizens, and advance the economy of the state. Promoting innovation and change in education, the SMT Center celebrates educational excellence in North Carolina by supporting educators, engaging students, and advancing the growing importance of having a STEM-educated workforce.

Image and Video: Courtesy of the SMT Center.