�� Southern graduate takes pride in university community

Shannon Frazee

One of the struggles faced by �� Southern student Shannon Frazee, and many others in her graduating class, was transitioning to online instruction during COVID.

“Shifting to online education was hard. I struggled with moving everything to a virtual format,” said Frazee.

She was able to overcome the obstacle with the help of professors and her learning community, and her efforts paid off. She was recognized as this year’s Associate in Science Outstanding Graduate and earned a Bachelor of Science in Middle Childhood Education, as well.

“After COVID affected my education, I was uncertain about my choice to go to college, and my motivation was low,” said Frazee. “I stuck to it and worked hard and realized that I was meant for that program, and �� Southern cared about my success.”

Once the COVID restrictions eased, Frazee was able to become more involved on campus through events and employment as a student worker, allowing her to work with students, make new friends and even help decorate parts of campus for holidays.

“I wanted to stay close to my family and not pay an arm and a leg for a quality education,” she said. “I was able to get all of this from �� Southern. Being a student worker has been so rewarding.”

And Frazee says being involved on campus is something other students should make sure not to miss.

“Go to events on campus! It’s a good way to make friends and connect with others,” she said.

Frazee’s involvement and service led to faculty nominating her for the Outstanding Graduate award. She also is this year’s Spirit of Southern awardee, which recognizes a single graduating student who has not only demonstrated academic success, but distinction in contributions to the campus and community.

After graduation, Frazee has both educational and professional plans.

“I will be job hunting and beginning my master’s degree,” she said. She also plans to continue contributing to �� Southern and the Lawrence County community, spending her summer facilitating Bobcat Academy Cooking, which is a workshop for area middle school school students interested in going on a culinary adventure that is as educational as it is fun.

“We do kid friendly recipes, teach them cooking skills, knife skills, kitchen safety and meals they can make on their own,” said Frazee.

Middle school students interested in mastering their kitchen skills and exploring the science behind cooking with Frazee can .

Tags: