Greenville County Schools Announces Employees of the Year
2025 marks the 22nd year of the Employee Recognition Program that honors all categories of Greenville County Schools’ employees, sponsored by Greenville Federal Credit Union.
Greenville County Schools announced Employee of the Year Awards in six categories at the Salute to Education Banquet held Thursday, May 8, 2025. Greenville Federal Credit Union provided each winner with $500 and a special award. Each winner’s school or department also received $500 so their peers can share in the honor.
Congratulations to these outstanding employees!
District Support Employee of the Year – Vonnie Brownlee – Service Center Representative – Communications
For more than ten years, Vonnie has exemplified professionalism, dedication, and unwavering commitment to service. The first face many see when visiting the Central Office, Vonnie is known for her calm and patient demeanor when interacting with the public, parents, and staff, always taking the time to carefully assess needs and direct people to the proper personnel for the fastest service possible. Vonnie consistently demonstrates her commitment to going the extra mile, always following up to ensure every need is addressed.
Assistant School Administrator of the Year – Kate Canterbury – Administrative Assistant – Chandler Creek Elementary
Kate’s dedication, instructional leadership, creativity and empathy make her invaluable to the Chandler Creek Elementary community. No matter the challenge, she brings unwavering positivity and enthusiasm to every aspect of school life. Her ability to find the good in every situation makes her a role model for the entire school community. Her positivity and enthusiasm create an environment where students feel encouraged to take on challenges with confidence, develop resilience, and cultivate a genuine love for learning.
District Professional Employee of the Year – Sammy Dixon – Intervention Specialist – Student Services
As a 27 year employee of Greenville County Schools, Sammy is the definition of a servant leader. His approach is always centered on what is best for the student while ensuring that all parties feel heard and supported. His ability to bring a sense of calm, fairness, and resolution to challenging situations is unmatched. He is not only a problem solver but also a motivator, always seeking to uplift those around him. Because of Sammy’s dedication, students receive the intervention and guidance they need to succeed and schools and families receive a listening ear, and ideas and strategies to support.
School Support Employee of the Year – Lonie Graham – Secretary – J. Harley Bonds Career Center
Whether she’s streamlining daily operations at Bonds Career Center or anticipating issues before they arise, Lonie is always one step ahead, consistently providing thoughtful and effective solutions. Students are always at the heart of what she does. Lonie ensures their needs are met with care and compassion, fostering an environment that supports their growth and success. Her follow-through and reliability make her a trusted go-to for so many. Lonie's work ethic, integrity, and servant-hearted leadership inspire those around her.
School Administrator of the Year – Jeff Jenkins – Principal – Ralph Chandler Middle
With transparency in decision-making, an openness to authentic communication, and a focus on shared leadership, Jeff exemplifies the highest standards of outstanding leadership. As a principal he has focused on having a culture in which staff feel heard, valued, and united in purpose. A true champion of the arts, the whole child, and organizational best practices, he supports his team tirelessly while fostering a joyful, student-centered environment.
Operations Employee of the Year – Shane Windham – Director – Maintenance Operations
Shane has served the district since 2007 and has served as the Director of Maintenance Operations since 2021. Shane is an exceptional leader, seen especially during challenging times as a district. In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, Shane’s leadership and hard work of his department ensured our staff and student were ready to return safely. His vast knowledge of how things work serves the district well. It has been said the district as a whole could not run as efficiently as it does without the seen and unseen hard work done by Shane and the people he supervises.