Meet The Team

Hello! My name is Elisabeth Whitmore. I am from Columbia sc. I have been working for STEMU for 3 years and I am currently the STEM teacher at Felton Laboratory Charter School in Orangeburg SC. In my free time I enjoy reading , crocheting, and going to the gym!

Ms. Deja Warnock is a STEAM Educator for STEM U, located at Killian Elementary School. She is currently enrolled at Allen University for Education/Public Relations. Deja has 4 years of experience with site coordinating, tutoring, and teacher aiding. She previously worked for Richland One as a permanent substitute and teacher’s aid. During that time, she discovered her love for mentorship and developed a passion for helping every child within her reach to achieve their best. Since joining STEM U in January, she has enjoyed every moment, utilizing the tools provided to educate scholars on the engineering design process and fostering innovation. Deja aspires to connect education to STEM and be a part of positive change in the world. 

My name is Hali Shaw and I was born and raised in Lake City, South Carolina. I graduated from Lake City High School in 2017. In 2022, I graduated from the illustrious Claflin University with a bachelor’s degree in Human Performance and Recreation. I have a strong passion for impacting and challenging children of all ages. Their energy and enthusiasm is contagious, and working with them truly brings me joy. In my free time, I love to read, cook, and spend time with my family and friends. 

Since 2007, I thoroughly enjoyed the adventure of molding the minds of today’s youth. I deliberately chose to stay at one school for over 10 years because I felt as though I positively impacted the lives of my students. Without a doubt, it was a rewarding experience! In fact, I received the prestigious honor of being chosen as Teacher of the Year for the 2016-2017 school year at Huie Elementary.

In my current role as the Middle School Assistant Principal, I have enjoyed supporting teachers with implementing effective teaching strategies in the virtual and brick & mortar environment by means of the coaching cycle, organizing professional learning communities (PLCs), analyzing data in order to inform our teacher’s instructional practices, and collaborating alongside school, district, and state instructional leadership teams to impact student achievement and build teacher efficacy.

Now, I’m thrilled to have an opportunity to work with STEM U as a consultant in order to partner with school districts to bring an exceptional STEAM experience to their scholars!

Hello! My name is JeVon Fickling. I was born and raised in Columbia, South Carolina, and I am deeply connected to this city. As the youngest sibling, I grew up surrounded by a supportive family, and both of my parents attended college here many years ago, so continuing my Education at Columbia feels like a natural path. As a Music Major with a Minor in Music Entrepreneurship at UofSC, my passion for music has always been a driving force in my life. I’m excited to delve into the entrepreneurial side of the industry. Despite initially being an Education Major, I found my way back to my true passion, showing that life often has unexpected twists.

In addition to my academic pursuits, I’m actively involved in campus life. I’m a proud member of the Theta Nu Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. My involvement extends to various organizations, including the Association of African American Studies, Student Christian Fellowship, and MOST. Being part of these communities has enriched my university experience, providing leadership and personal growth opportunities. When I’m not engrossed in my studies or campus activities, I cherish my free time by catching up on sleep, spending quality time with friends, and enjoying moments with my family. Whether it’s a fun night out with friends or a hectic family gathering, these moments are what keep me grounded and energized.