“I cannot say enough about how fortunate I am to be part of the Big Orange family—I wouldn’t want to work anywhere else! I truly feel honored to work alongside such kind and generous people.”
Teresa Volkodav-Crabtree
Assistant to the Executive Dean
College of Arts and Sciences
What do I love about working for the college? What do I do for the college?
While my job has changed in many ways over the years, I wouldn’t want to work anywhere else! It has been satisfying to have been part of the evolution of the divisional structure and to see firsthand that—while each division is different—they work beautifully and strategically together for the good of the students, faculty, and staff.
I began my career as the assistant to the dean in February 2013 when I was hired by then-dean Theresa Lee. Although I was born and raised in east Tennessee, I moved to Georgia soon after graduating from Maryville College in 1984. I have always been drawn to the field of education and spent much of my adult life working in the Paulding County, Georgia, public school system prior to moving back to Tennessee in the fall of 2012 and then joining the College of Arts and Sciences.
Although I cannot say enough about how fortunate I am to be part of the Big Orange family, my greatest joy comes from my three daughters and ten grandchildren. Most weekends, you will find my husband and me surrounded by laughter and lots of energy from our crew! When I have a spare moment, I enjoy reading, traveling, riding my bike, and hiking. I also enjoy volunteering at Second Harvest and Nourish Food Bank.
Big Orange Family Campaign and Top Team Certificate
Early on, I was asked to lead the Campus Chest campaign for our college. I found this to be one of the most rewarding campaigns as every dollar helps support those in our community. It is an opportunity to be a true Volunteer.
I have a heart for giving and in addition to supporting Campus Chest I was asked to lead our team in the Big Orange Family Campaign. What an honor it was to receive word that I would be receiving a Top Team Certificate. A huge thanks goes to the Division of Arts and Humanities who made this honor possible! I truly feel honored to work alongside such kind and generous people.