Chemistry professor honored by SCICU

Associate Professor of Chemistry and Physics Dr. Tiffany Hayden was one of 20 professors from member colleges honored at the South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (SCICU) 11th Annual Excellence in Teaching Awards Dinner April 12.

Each year SCICU recognizes outstanding faculty members from each of its 20 member schools. Recipients are honored at an annual award dinner and each is given a $3,000 professional development grant.

Hayden joined the Erskine College faculty in 2009 and holds a Ph.D. in organic chemistry from Baylor University, a master’s degree in organic chemistry from the University of Pittsburgh, and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Austin.

At Erskine, she conducts research in collaboration with colleagues as well as with undergraduate students. Some of her recent research projects have included work on “Synthesis and Use of Ionic Liquids as Greener Solvents” as part of Erskine’s Center for Environmental Stewardship, as well as “Hypervalent Iodine Ionic Liquids,” funded through SCICU grants.

Hayden’s biography on the SCICU website, submitted by Administrative Dean of the College Dan Corsi, calls her “a committed, passionate educator and researcher who demonstrates a high level of care for each of her students.”

SCICU supports and promotes the values of independent higher education in South Carolina. SCICU seeks to advance higher education through fundraising, scholarships, and research, as well as by facilitating collaborative activities among the member institutions. SCICU also enhances a positive public image and encourages government policies that support independent higher education.