Veteran geology instructor named GTCC’s director of instructional support services and special projects

“My passion is helping students succeed in meeting their educational, personal, and professional goals,” said Jennifer Whisman.

JAMESTOWN, N.C. (Feb. 7, 2024) – Jennifer Whisman, Ph.D., who has been an instructor at Guilford Technical Community College for almost a decade, has been named the college’s director of instructional support services and special projects.

In her new position, Whisman will oversee curriculum and continuing education course scheduling, continuing education student registration, faculty workload and Affordable Care Act compliance, curriculum and catalog maintenance.

“My passion is helping students succeed in meeting their educational, personal, and professional goals,” said Whisman. “In my past assignments, my impact on students has been limited to the individuals I’ve had in class and those who have specifically sought my help.

“In my new role as director of instructional support and special projects, I will be able to encourage the success of all GTCC students through efficient curriculum development, well-organized schedules, and strongly developed faculty.”

Since arriving at GTCC in the fall of 2014, Whisman has served as a geology instructor, teaching introductory courses in traditional face-to-face, hybrid, and online formats. She has served as the department chairwoman of sciences at GTCC and was co-chairwoman of the college’s learning evidence committee.

“Jennifer has been a valued member of the GTCC community for many years. She understands our vision and mission,” said Beth Pitonzo, Ph.D., senior vice president of instruction at GTCC. “Her GTCC experience makes her a great fit for this position. With her many years in the classroom, she has a great understanding of the needs of both students and faculty.”

Whisman received a bachelor's degree in geology from Appalachian State University and followed with a master’s degree in geological sciences from San Diego State University. She earned a doctorate in paleontology from the Universität Wien in Vienna, Austria.