Assistant Professor of Education
B.S., M.Ed., University of South Carolina; Ph.D., Clemson University
Profile
Mrs. Mary Greene Thomasson serves as Assistant Professor of Education, teaching courses in special education and teacher preparation. With more than 30 years of experience in education, she brings a broad perspective that includes special education, elementary and early childhood education, and educational leadership. She is passionate about preparing future educators to meet the diverse academic, social, and emotional needs of all learners. Thomasson joined the Erskine College faculty in 2025.
Professional Experience
Thomasson has more than three decades of experience in education, with professional experience spanning special education, elementary education, early childhood education, and educational administration. Prior to joining Erskine College, she served as a school district administrator, special education teacher, and curriculum specialist.
Throughout her career, she has collaborated with school districts, families, advocacy organizations, and educational professionals to support students with diverse learning needs. These experiences inform her teaching and allow her to connect educational theory and research with the realities of today’s classrooms.
Research and Projects
Thomasson’s professional interests include special education, teacher preparation, inclusive education, student advocacy, educational leadership, and supporting students with disabilities throughout their educational journeys. She is particularly interested in examining how educators and institutions can create environments in which students feel supported, valued, and empowered to succeed. She is especially interested in exploring how student validation and institutional integration influence student persistence and success.
Professional Accomplishments
Thomasson has presented and collaborated on professional projects focused on special education, teacher preparation, and innovative educational practices. She has also successfully written and secured more than $2 million in educational grant funding to support programs and initiatives that enhance educational opportunities and outcomes for students and educators.
Personal Interests
Outside of her professional work, Thomasson enjoys spending time with her family, especially her new granddaughter, Tillie Greene! She also enjoys painting and entrepreneurship through her small business, Earth & Sunshine, Face Painting and More, which allows her to combine creativity, community involvement, and a love of working with people. She values family, faith, service, and lifelong learning and believes that some of the most meaningful opportunities for growth happen through relationships with others.
