June 5, 2026 — Nate Gulledge, Associate Professor of Art at Coker University, has been named a recipient of the 2026 Excellence in Teaching Award from South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (SCICU).

“Receiving the SCICU Excellence in Teaching Award this year was a humbling experience,” said Gulledge, who earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Coker. “Many of my current and former colleagues, whom I respect and admire, have received this award, and it is meaningful to now be included among them.”

Gulledge is an award-winning designer, photographer, and visual artist who serves as the Art Program Coordinator and Faculty Senate Vice Chair at Coker University. He has taught courses across the Fine Art, Graphic Design, and Photography concentrations, as well as Art, Design, and Photography History.

“Professor Gulledge is an exceptional teacher who brings real-world creative experience into the classroom while scaffolding students to think critically about art, design, and their place in the field,” said Provost Susan Daniels Henderson, Ph.D. “He has developed new concentrations and curricula that have meaningfully expanded what Coker’s Art Program can offer students. We’re grateful for the energy and vision he brings to our community.”

Gulledge holds a Master of Fine Arts degree in Graphic Design from the Maryland Institute College of Art. His work has been recognized by national and international organizations, including the London International Creative Competition, Paris Design Awards, Communicator Awards, Design Master Prize, and Creative Communications Awards. His work has also been published in Graphic Design: The New Basics (2nd Edition), the Graphis 2023 Design Annual, Graphis 2023 & 2024 Poster Annuals, Graphis 2025 Photography Annual, and GDUS magazine (2023–2025).

SCICU recognizes outstanding faculty from each of its 20 member colleges and universities and honors them with a $3,000 professional development grant at a special awards dinner in Columbia, S.C.