Contact the UTeach South Team
Erika Cheek, M.Ed.
Master Teacher and Program Coordinator
echeek@southalabama.edu
(251) 461-4943
Erika Cheek, M.Ed., serves as a mathematics master teacher for UTeach South. She earned a bachelor's degree in Secondary Education and Mathematics and a masters degree in Secondary Math Education from the University of South Alabama. Prior to joining UTeach South, she taught in a local school district teaching middle and high school math. Her main focus in teaching students math was to develop inquiry and excitement around math lessons. As a mentor to many students in the past, she developed a love for working with future teachers and became a teacher educator. Erika enjoys spending time with her family, including her husband, two little boys, and two dogs.
Dr. Megan McCall
Master Teacher
mccall@southalabama.edu
(251) 341-4944
Dr. Megan McCall joins the UTeach South team from 23 years of teaching secondary science. She received her bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science from the School of Engineering at Auburn University, a master’s degree of Secondary Science Education as well as a doctoral degree of Instructional Design and Development from USA! During her teaching career, she received many awards including a Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching (PAEMST), a Fulbright Distinguished Award in Teaching (New Zealand) and attained National Board Certification. She is passionate about teaching science and helping promote the profession!
Dr. Christopher Parrish
UTeach South Co-Director
parrish@southalabama.edu
Dr. Christopher Parrish is the UTeach South Co-Director and an associate professor of mathematics education. He is a former middle- and high-school mathematics teacher and has been a faculty member in the College of Education and Professional Studies for 7 years. Dr. Parrish’s passion is helping pre-service teachers learn to support their students in thinking and reasoning about STEM disciplines.
Dr. Kelly Major
UTeach South Co-Director
kmajor@southalabama.edu
Dr. Kelly Major is a Co-Director of UTeach South and Professor of Biology. She is a 23-year veteran of the USA Biology Department with expertise in algal and aquatic plant physiological ecology and secondary education. Dr. Major is committed to the mentorship of students in STEM disciplines with a passion for fostering critical thinking and innovation in the classroom.
Mr. Ricky Richter
UTeach South Recruitment Specialist
rrichter@southalabama.edu
Ricky Richter serves as the UTeach South Recruitment Specialist. He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of South Alabama and is currently pursuing a masters of education in higher education administration. Ricky's passion for higher ed began during his undergraduate career where he worked closely with prospective students and families. This inspired him to help guests see the power of investing in a college education. After graduation, Ricky has worked with the Enrollment Services team to implement strong marketing materials, develop engaging content, and provide visitors a warm Jaguar welcome. Outside of campus, Ricky enjoys hiking in the mountains, collecting cassettes, and being with his animals.