December 6, 2024 | Erin Bluvas, bluvase@sc.edu

“Things have really evolved over the years and there are changes, for the better, constantly being made here,” says Human Resources Coordinator Theresa Ashley, who has worked at the University of South Carolina for nearly two decades.

Born and raised in Columbia, Ashley first joined the university as a temp in the Office of Development in 2005. Immediately seeing her value as a dedicated staff member, USC hired her into a full-time position in the Division of Human Resources.

As an administrative specialist, she worked at 1600 Hampton Street for the next six years. Working with the university’s human resources team, she helped facilitate the USC’s ranking as one of the top 100 best employers in the U.S., according to Forbes Magazine.

Ashley’s next move took her to the College of Arts and Sciences, where she spent 10 years as an administrative coordinator. She also spent a brief period with the South Carolina Honors College.

By 2023, she was ready to return to roots. Knowing that she wanted to stay with the university, Ashley applied for an administrative assistant role at the Arnold School after a colleague recommended it.

In her day-to-day work, she assists the school’s director of human resources, April Davis. Together they create, update and review position descriptions and job postings. They also prepare and implement new hire actions. Ashley is responsible for hiring temporary employees within the Office of the Dean and works with faculty and staff to answer general human resources and payroll-related questions.

"We have been extremely fortunate to have Theresa come to the Arnold School and add such valuable assistance in such a short amount of time," Davis says. "She has assisted Arnold School Human Resources with streamlining practices and providing a decreased turnaround time. Theresa’s efforts continue to assist in the hiring and development of our employees here within the school." 

“I have always enjoyed the culture and the interactions with the students, faculty and staff,” Ashley says of her favorite parts of the job.

Outside of work, she enjoys designing events, making treats and taking on DIY projects. Her best times are spent with her two kids (ages 17 and 20) and her husband of 21 years.

The Staff Spotlight Series is sponsored by the Arnold School's Office of Access and Collective Engagement.