MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — Middle Tennessee State University’s Career Development Center recently hosted its annual Career Influencer Luncheon to celebrate 10 faculty and staff members for their commitment to student career readiness. 

These individuals were awarded for their outstanding work in helping students be prepared to enter the workforce after graduation. 

“The program was started to recognize people across campus who have a commitment to making our students career ready. People are nominated by peers, students or supervisors,” said Beka Moore, director of the Career Development Center. 

The mid-April event consisted of a luncheon and awards program in the Student Union Ballroom. 

You can watch a short video about the honorees below:

Career Influencer Award recipients for the 2024-2025 academic year included:  

• Cindy Ayers, senior instructor in the Department of Human Sciences, who was recognized because “she believes that career preparedness is about more than just landing a job; it’s about developing the skills, confidence, and adaptability needed to thrive in any professional environment.” 

• Patrick Crow, a classroom tech team lead in the Information Technology Division, who has “played a crucial role in mentoring and managing student workers, ensuring they gain not only hands-on technical skills but also the professional development needed to succeed beyond the university.”  

• Carmelita Dotson, assistant professor in the Department of Social Work, who “actively connects students to meaningful practicum opportunities, takes them to professional conferences, and is deeply committed to helping those from disadvantaged backgrounds, a commitment that has earned her the Pleas Award this year.”  

• Gloria Green, associate professor in the Department of Recording Industry, who was recognized because her “emphasis on assignments that are manageable and reflect the real demands of the industry, as well as her collaborative approach to career development, make her a beloved and highly respected figure in the program.” 

• Ron Henderson, chair and professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy, who was lauded by students “for his engaging and effective teaching style. … He goes beyond simply delivering information — he visually demonstrates concepts before introducing them, making the material easier to grasp.” 

• Jane Lim, professor in the Department of Elementary and Special Education, who “fosters an environment of growth and learning. Her high expectations are paired with an ability to make complex material accessible, ensuring her students gain the knowledge and skills they need to succeed.” 

• Liz Madaris, lecturer in the Department of University Studies, who was recognized because “her dedication to student success is evident in every interaction she has, and her ability to guide students through retention-related issues such as university life, academic coursework, and career planning makes her an invaluable asset to this university.” 

• Mytecia Myles, lecturer in the School of Journalism and Strategic Media, who “ensures that students don’t just learn concepts, but applies them — whether through media, multimedia presentation, or ethical decision-making. She fosters independent, creative, and critical thought while emphasizing the importance of professionalism, integrity, and diversity in every field.” 

• Rebecca Oldham, an assistant professor in the Department of Human Sciences, who was noted as going “above and beyond by exposing students to real-world experiences and professional networks. She arranges interactive simulations, professional panels, and community service projects to connect students with the realities of their future careers.” 

• Cassie Piggott, an advisor in Pre-Professional Advising, “facilitates workshops and events to inform students about the expectations of their chosen fields, while also encouraging internships, patient observation, and shadowing opportunities to give them real-world experience.” 

The Career Development Center aims to empower all students with the tools and strategies to discover and engage in meaningful work and a purposeful life.  

The career influencers are a part of the Careers 365 initiative, which ensures the people most often interacting with students, like professors and advisors, are equipped with resources to help those students in a career.  

There are multiple ways to become a career influencer. Faculty and staff can request an assignment through the Career Development Center or be nominated as an influencer through the same online form at https://www.mtsu.edu/career/career365/. Learn more about the career influencer program and other services provided through the Career Development Center by watching the video below. 

— Jordan Reining (Jordan.Reining@mtsu.edu)