Dr. Tess Harden, Assistant Professor of Earth & Environmental Science, is known for her sense of humor, engaging classes, and commitment to Thomas College.
Tess, an employee of the College for two years, is being recognized as this month’s Terrier STAR for providing an inspiring environment, and care and community.
“When I sat on the search committee that ultimately hired Dr. Tess Harden, I knew Thomas College had acquired a dynamic and highly skilled scientist. Tess is a special kind of professor. She uses humor and fun to engage with our students. She meets them where they are, and they obviously feel very comfortable with her. When I pass by her office, more often than not, she has a student or two chatting with her. Her classes involve a lot of hands-on work, and it is common to see her students using special equipment to take environmental samples for analysis. Tess is very deserving of the Terrier STAR award,” said a colleague.
Beyond her role as professor, Tess is also the Faculty Athletics Representative, and she sits on the Faculty Enrollment and Library Committees.
“Tess gives her all to help others when she can, whether it be faculty and staff or students. She is warm, kind, and generous. Tess puts everyone at ease with her presence, you can’t help but smile when she is around. But don’t be fooled by her humble personality! She is a brilliant academic and a bold advocate for standing up for what is right,” said another colleague.
“Tess is a great collaborator with faculty and staff. She has a lot of great ideas, a wonderful sense of humor, and is not afraid to pull up her sleeves and get to work serving our students!” said a coworker.
“Tess is extremely student-centered. She makes science accessible to her students and ties the classroom to their experience in the real world. Students tell us she is ‘awesome,’” said a senior colleague.
“Tess is the best to work with! Not only is she hilarious, but also very willing to help whenever we need her,” said a coworker.
Congrats, Tess!