Q&A: SC State administrative assistant says SC State remains a vibrant place to work

Annette Russell is the SC State Staff Employee of the Year in the Division of Academic Affairs

Note: This article is part of a series of profiles of SC State University staff members who go the extra mile.

ORANGEBURG, S.C.— Annette Russell has dedicated two decades to South Carolina State University. She started her career at SC State in the Miller F. Whittaker Library as the assistant to the dean of the library, then transitioned to the School of Graduate Studies.

Russell continues to serve the university with her hard work and dedication as the administrative assistant to the director of the Educational Leadership Program. She is the 2024 Staff Employee of the Year for the SC State Division of Academic Affairs.

“South Carolina State University remains a vibrant place to work and pursue an education. The university offers a rich environment where historical events unfold, making it a special place to be a part of significant historical moments,” Russell said.

In 1989, Russell earned her associate degree in general business from Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College. She then continued at Claflin University, earning her Bachelor of Science degree in organizational management in 2008. In 2012, Russell graduated from SC State University with a Master of Arts in rehabilitation counseling.

Q: What is something interesting about you that may surprise others?

Russell: Here at SC State University, I find our students to be exceptional individuals whose talents and potential inspire me daily. Ensuring the well-being of our students and faculty in the Department of Educational Leadership is my top priority. My role is dedicated to supporting our university community — students, faculty, staff, and administrators—in successfully preparing future principals and superintendents. I have great satisfaction from my work because when you love what you do, every effort is rewarding.

Q: What is something interesting about you that may surprise others?

Russell: I have been employed here at SC State University for 27 years, having worked at two of the greatest Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the world: Claflin University for eight years, and South Carolina State University thereafter. I had the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree from Claflin University, followed by achieving my master’s degree from SC State University.

Q: Who has been a big influence on your life and why?

Russell: My family, especially my late parents, Lizzie Lee Davis Smalls and Henry Smalls, instilled in me invaluable standards that have shaped my life greatly. They taught me the importance of hard work and independence, emphasizing the responsibility to take care of yourself and your family. I am deeply grateful to them for equipping me with the tools necessary to navigate this journey we call life and sustain an enjoyable existence. They also taught me a crucial lesson about the significance of respect. They taught me that respect can open doors and create opportunities that money alone cannot. This wisdom has guided me through my personal and professional journey, reinforcing the importance of integrity, humility, and treating others with dignity. My upbringing has been the foundation of my identity and success.

Q: What made you want to take this position at SC State?

Russell: I applied for a position at SC State because I needed a better salary to assist with taking care of my family. Initially, my position at SC State University was in the Miller F. Whittaker Library as the administrative assistant for Dean Mary L. Smalls, whose leadership I deeply enjoyed. However, following a workforce reduction, I was transitioned to the School of Graduate Studies, where I worked closely with my immediate supervisor, Ms. Annette A. Hazzard-Jones. Over the years, I've had the honor of working alongside several distinguished deans in the School of Graduate Studies, including the late Dr. Howard D. Hill, Dr. Roy Isabel, Dr. Thomas Thompson, and Dr. Frederick M.G. Evans, who now serves as the provost and vice president for academic affairs. Currently, I have the privilege of being part of the Department of Educational Leadership, working under the leadership of Dr. Percy A. Mack, Jr., the acting chair. Here, I join forces with a team of accomplished former school district and high school administrators within our department, each contributing to our shared mission with expertise and dedication.

Q: What has been your most memorable moment at SC State and why?

Russell: I gratefully remember when former First Lady Michelle Obama visited our campus to campaign for her husband, former President Barack Obama. The Democratic presidential debate was hosted at South Carolina State University, further highlighting our role in historical moments. It was an exciting experience filled with anticipation and unity among everyone on campus. Being part of such a significant event was truly memorable.

Q: Do you have a motto?

Russell: Treat everyone how you want to be treated. Do your best at all times, even when there is no one looking. Pray, wait, and trust God to bring all that he has for you into full fruition.