Cortnee Bunch is a full-time lecturer for the Business Communications course and upper-division Marketing courses. She attended King University in Bristol, Tenn. on a golf scholarship and obtained her Bachelors in Marketing and Communication. She continued her education at King and earned a Master in Business Administration with a focus in Marketing. Outside of her work at Dalton State, Cortnee works part-time for Social Joey doing social media advertising on Facebook and Instagram for small and franchise businesses. In addition, Cortnee is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Marketing at the University of South Alabama.
What academic areas do you specialize in and/or what school are you a part of at Dalton State?
I am part of the C. Lamar and Ann Wright School of Business and specialize in marketing, specifically social media.
How long have you been a faculty member at Dalton State?
I started at Dalton State in January of 2019, so three full years.
Why did you choose to join Dalton State as a faculty member, and what does it mean to be a part of Roadrunner Nation?
The feeling of community at Dalton State was noticeable since the interview for my position. I love the relationships I’m able to make with colleagues and students. I truly never feel alone and appreciate that everyone builds each other up and wants to see each other succeed. The sense of belonging that Dalton State provided to everyone who visits campus is what makes it special.
What do you enjoy most about teaching at Dalton State?
The students. They work so hard, and I can tell they truly want to succeed. It’s a blessing being able to work with students that are so authentic with their desire for success.
What has been the most memorable part of your experiences at Dalton State?
So far, I think the Fall 2021 and Spring 2022 semester have been the most memorable for me. These past two semesters I’ve had the pleasure of teaching a common group of marketing students for more than one course. There is something about having familiar faces in more than one class that creates a connection and makes teaching more fun. Watching these students grow in intelligence and maturity, as they prepare to graduate, was amazing.
You were recently recognized as Advisor of the Year at the Twelfth Annual Leadership Awards Ceremony. How has the experience of advising the group been for you?
I am truly blown away by this award. I was not expecting it at all and was at the ceremony to support the group of girls that I advise, Alpha Sigma Tau (AST). These girls are strong, intelligent and beautiful (inside and out). I love being a part of what they support and accomplish together.
Are you involved in any on campus activities or groups and how have they affected you in your career?
In addition to advising AST, I advise marketing students through their internships, manage a small group of students that work on the school of business social media pages, advise with student activities within the school of business and assist with orientation or any other campus activity that I have time for. I really wish I had time to do more and hope to be more involved once I get myself through school.
Have there been any students that have made a lasting impact on you?
Yes! Beyond measure. So far, I have a small group of students who will also be close to my heart. Most of them graduated this past spring semester and I can’t wait to watch their success.
Is there anything you would like to see more of at Dalton State (e.g., campus activities, programs, groups)?
I think Dalton State does a fantastic job of offering activities, programs, clubs, etc. that appeal to a wide range of student diversity. I can’t think of anything else they could do better.
What would you tell prospective students that are interested in attending Dalton State for their education?
Get involved! Dalton State has SO much to offer students, but it’s up to the student to make the most of it. Since a lot of students are local, it’s easy to fall into the trap of only coming to campus for class. I urge students to stick around on campus or venture out of their dorms for the activities being hosted. In addition, when it comes to academic work – don’t be afraid to ask for help. Be proactive when you’re unclear about a subject or assignment and work with your professors or the wonderful folks in the tutoring center. None of us will turn you away. All we want for students is success!
Do you have anything about Dalton State you want to highlight?
I would just like to thank my Dean, Marilyn Helms, and my colleagues for making my time at Dalton State great so far. The faculty and staff around campus make coming to work exciting and fun. I appreciate everyone who has lifted me up so far and I hope I can do the same for the rest of you!