Clarissa Graham

Biography

Clarissa Graham joined the Claflin community in 2020 in the role of Instructor and Coordinator of Clinical Experiences and Community Engagement.  She received a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Furman University in Greenville, SC and a Master of Science for Teachers in Adolescent Education from Pace University in New York, NY.  Clarissa worked as a program coordinator at IESE Business School in New York City where she thrived in taking ownership of the planning and execution of executive education for businesspersons from around the globe, including adult learners from across Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and the Middle East.  During her tenure, IESE experienced significant growth and was ranked 3rd in customized Executive Education Programs by the Financial Times.  

Clarissa taught sixth and eighth grade science for three years at Walter Crowley Intermediate School in Queens, NY and was awarded tenure by the district superintendent during what would be her final year there.  No stranger to trailblazing, in 2018 she became the first full time teacher of color at an esteemed Southern independent day school in its 80 year history!  There she facilitated powerful learning experiences for her students- immersing herself in the collective experience of their social and academic growth and development.

Clarissa co-teaches Professional Clinical Practice, the capstone seminar course for student teachers, and she coordinates and supervises their clinical experiences. She finds great value in engaging with others, amassing a wealth of knowledge and perspectives as she seeks to continue to grow and further create a life for herself that allows for a sense of purpose and connection to the community and the world at large.