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Congratulations 2021-2022 Retirees


This coming fall, Savannah State University (SSU) will celebrate 17 retired faculty and staff members with a combined 289 years of service to the University by the Sea. These individuals represent 14 departments cross-organizationally from Sponsored Research and Engineering Technology to Facilities.  

No matter where they have worked, each has played a significant role in the university and the lives of students. We thank and honor them for their commitment and the tireless hours of hard work they have demonstrated to further the mission of Savannah State University. 

We caught up with these dedicated Tigers to find out their fondest memories of working at SSU and their plans for retirement. As retirees, they are an extension of the Tiger family, and will always be a part of Tiger Nation. Congratulations to each one and best wishes on the next chapter!

  
Dr. Carla Curran

Dr. Carla Curran has dedicated 20 years of service to SSU as a full professor in the Marine Sciences department. She was one of two faculty members hired to start the Master of Science in Marine Sciences (MSMS) program in 2002 and was also honored as the recipient of the 2018 President’s Teaching and Research Excellence Award. She says her fondest memories include "working with my amazing colleagues in the Marine Sciences program and helping our undergraduate and graduate students complete their rigorous academics, laboratory research, and field work (the best part!)." During retirement, she plans to continue her efforts to bring science to a wide variety of students. "I enjoy creating K-12 science activities that include modifications for the visually impaired. I intend to apply for emerita status and may teach a few more classes at SSU."

Patricia West

Patricia West, an alumna with the Class of 1976, has dedicated 10 years of service as an assistant professor and instructor in the department of English, Languages and Cultures. As of 2019, she was one of the 26 members of the Scott-West Family that received degrees from Savannah State University. "If I had to pick a best memory, it would have to be those times when Savannah State hosted world class literary figures and celebrated African American culture, including initiating the National Freedom Day observance on campus and the day I got to chauffeur Lawrence Hill, author of the Book of Negroes, later made into an award-winning film series," she said. Upon retirement, West plans to write, research, travel, read, and plant more flowers and vegetables in her garden. "More importantly, I will have more time for family, alumni, and community service. You will see me around dropping off donations and serving on the Friends of the Library group. New South Wales, Australia, here I come!" 


Patricia Ogden

Patricia Ogden, a double Tiger with the Class of 2004 and Class of 2008, has dedicated 26 years of service to Savannah State University in the Information Technology Services department in the roles of Administrative Secretary, PC Support Specialist, Manage Support Services, Director of Technology Support Services and Executive Director. In 2022, Ogden was the recipient of the Staff Support Council Service Excellence Award. "My fondest memories working at SSU would be the students, faculty and staff I was able to assist with technology and student assistant's I helped with getting jobs after graduating." In retirement, she plans to continue adjunct teaching, and to enjoy traveling and spending time with her granddaughter, Bethany, who is the "apple of Gma's eyes."  

Susana Hernandez

Susana Hernandez has dedicated more than 10 years of service to Savannah State University in the roles of Adjunct Instructor and Assistant Professor in the department of English, Languages and Cultures. "Savannah State has been a cherished experience where colleagues have become dear friends and where my interaction with students has filled me with joy and pride for all they have achieved," she said. Hernandez counts establishing Hispanic heritage activities for the students among her fondest memories. In retirement, she plans to travel the world. "First on my bucket list is Easter Island!"

Leila Robinson

Leila Robinson has dedicated more than 28 years to Savannah State University (SSU) in the Division of Student Affairs. She has served in the roles of secretary, senior secretary, administrative assistant to the Vice President and senior administrative specialist. Her best memories of working at SSU include bonding with the students, helping them write resumes, cover letters, and network with employers. She says she enjoys the satisfaction of seeing them obtain employment and knowing that she contributed in some way to their success is a joy. "I'm proud of where they are today in their careers." She also said that every Vice President from the Office of Student Affairs she worked for was a great leader. Robinson says she loves Savannah State University and will always be a Tiger with pride. Her retirement plans include relaxing, spending time with family and traveling.

Dr. Chellu Chetty


Dr. Chellu Chetty has dedicated 28 years of service to Savannah State University in the department of Research and Sponsored Programs. He has served in the roles of professor, Dean of Graduate Studies and Research, and Associative Vice President for Research. One of his greatest accomplishments was establishing a research platform with $20 million in external funding and a structured mentoring program for faculty and students to conduct scholarly research. During retirement, Dr. Chetty plans on providing grantsmanship training to faculty at HBCUs and Hispanic Serving Institutions. He also plans to travel internationally to visit countries in Eastern Europe; Africa, South Asia, and Central America. “I enjoyed working at SSU and received excellent support from the Presidents and Provosts to teach, conduct scholarly research, and to establish structured mentoring programs which received national recognition.”







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