Spartanburg Methodist College announces Courtney Shelton as the college’s first vice president for professional development and design, effective April 1, 2016.

Shelton brings to SMC 10 years of experience in developing programming for higher education. Most recently, she directed the Impact and Launch Programs in The Space at Wofford College, where she mentored, instructed and advised students in the creation of over 100 businesses, nonprofits and community impact projects. During her tenure, she also guided student consulting groups through business engagements with local, regional and national companies. Under her direction, Wofford College rebranded and relaunched its Center for Professional Excellence as The Space in 2013.

Prior to her work in The Space, Shelton served Wofford as the Director of Student Activities and Greek Life before transitioning into an Assistant Dean of Students position.

In her role as vice president for professional development and design, Shelton will create and lead Spartanburg Methodist College’s new professional development program. She has extensive experience in design thinking – a structured, empathetic approach to problem-solving that leads to innovation – and will also work with all areas of the college to improve programs and program delivery.

“Courtney was instrumental in building professional development programs for students at The Space at Wofford over the last five years and has extensive experience in designing co-curricular programs that combine active learning, instruction, coaching and applied experience,” said Scott Cochran, president of Spartanburg Methodist College. “She’s passionate about finding ways to help everyone she encounters become more successful, and we’re excited to have her creative energy here at SMC.”

Shelton holds a B.A. in Religion from Presbyterian College and a M.A. in Higher Education from the University of South Carolina.