SPARTANBURG, S.C. – The Southern Conference named its All-Southern Conference Faculty and Staff Team on Tuesday, distinguishing Dr. Len Annetta and Erin Leonard as the faculty and staff representatives, respectively, hailing from The Citadel.

While the selections were left up to each institution's discretion, the recipients all shared the common characteristics of demonstrated service to the institution and contributions to campus life and the local community. Faculty members selected have demonstrated strong contributions to teaching, research and/or service, while staff members are being recognized for bringing out the best in others and creating conditions for success.
 
"These outstanding faculty and staff members exemplify the excellence and commitment that define the Southern Conference. Their dedication to mentorship, teaching, leadership and service, their contributions to their institutions, and their positive impact on students and communities make them truly deserving of this recognition," SoCon Commissioner Michael Cross said. "We are proud to celebrate each of these dedicated individuals who go above and beyond in their roles and help make each SoCon campus a special and exceptional place."
 
Annetta and Leonard will be recognized during The Citadel-VMI home men's basketball game on Thursday, Jan. 29 at McAlister Field House.


2025-26 All-Southern Conference Faculty & Staff Honorees -- The Citadel
 
Dr. Len Annetta, The Citadel (faculty)
Dr. Len Annetta is the Dean of the Zucker Family School of Education and also serves as the Zucker Chair of Entrepreneurial Educational Leadership at The Citadel.  Dr. Annetta focused on the untapped analyses of learning science through various distance delivery strategies. In 2008, Dr. Annetta was honored with three awards for his extension work teaching K-12 teachers and students video game design for science and mathematics learning. The awards were progressive; starting with the College of Education Outstanding Extension Service Award to the induction into the NC State University Academy of Outstanding Faculty Engaged in Extension and finally, the Distinguished Alumni Engaged in Extension and Outreach Award. In 2022, Dr. Annetta was the recipient of the Association of Science Teacher Education National Mentor of the Year Award.  He is a strong supporter of Citadel Athletics and our student athletes. Dr. Annetta can often be seen at practices and games, engaging with students, supporters, and coaches alike. His consistent presence demonstrates his genuine investment in the student-athletes' experiences both on and off the field. He makes himself accessible to students outside typical working hours, fostering strong relationships and providing mentorship beyond the classroom environment.
 
Erin Leonard, The Citadel (staff)
Coach Erin Leonard has been an integral part of the Commandant's Office in her role as the Director of Physical Readiness, working closely with our Strength and Conditioning Coaches as well as the dining facility staff to ensure our student-athletes receive adequate calories and proper nutrition.  She coordinates alternate PT tests, height/weight measurements, and consistently accommodates NCAA athletes around their practice schedules—always putting the needs of our cadets first.  She leads a group of Athletic Officers and mentors them to improve our Physical Training to all cadets and has improved our physical fitness scores.  She also played a major role in planning and implementing PT during athletic and regular cadre.  Coach Leonard exemplifies the core values we strive to instill in our cadets here at The Citadel. She not only sets the standard but also actively mentors and guides our cadets—molding them into not only better students but also better citizens.  We are proud to recognize her outstanding service and dedication.