College of Charleston Welcomes New Staff

Introducing the College of Charleston’s newest staff members! These new Cougars bring a lot of experience, talent and enthusiasm to the community, and they are excited to share their skills with the CofC community and contribute to the success of the College!

Find out a little about these new colleagues below – and be sure to welcome them when you see them out and about!

Peyton Baxley ’23
Assistant Director of Student and Young Alumni Giving, Division of Institutional Advancement

Background: I was born in Charleston, South Carolina, and am a proud CofC alum! After graduating, I earned my master’s degree in human rights studies from Columbia University. I then worked for University of Georgia for a year and am now very excited to be back in Charleston.

Interests: I’m a big reader – I love Victorian literature and any sort of Gothic novel. I also like to paint, make jewelry and go to the beach as much as possible.

Looking Forward: I’m looking forward to being back in the community! I have missed the uniquely kind and brilliant people that seem to be drawn to CofC. I know that this role will allow me to meet many great people.

Caroline Berg ’25
Neighborhood Relations Coordinator, Office of the Dean of Students

Background: I grew up Northville, Michigan, but my family now calls Beaufort, South Carolina, home. I am a recent alumna of the College, where I majored in political science and international studies and was in the Honors College. I was a student athlete on the College’s NCAA D1 equestrian team throughout my undergraduate career. I was chairperson of the Honors Board for two years and co-secretary general of the CofC Model UN Club for three.

Interests: I still love to ride horses, and I can’t imagine life without it! I also enjoy keeping up with developments in international relations with aspirations to eventually enter the field of international security or development. I also love to visit museums and all of the cool places around Charleston!

Looking Forward: I am looking forward to working in a support role here on campus, both for our students and for our neighboring communities. As the College is so interwoven with the city, it is incredibly important that members of the campus community are being considerate neighbors and valuable members of the greater Charleston community.

Robert Howe
Programmer/Analyst III for Enterprise Systems, Division of Information Technology

Background: I am a native of Charleston, South Carolina, and a graduate of The Citadel. I have worked in a variety of fields, but have specialized and focused in information technology. Prior to my new role, I worked at Medical University of South Carolina, servicing and supporting their software which collects and stores information for their research studies.

Interests: Family and friends are most important to me. As far as hobbies, I love exercising, reading, playing strategy games and tennis.

Looking Forward: I’m looking forward to meeting everyone at CofC, providing great service, learning new things and taking on new challenges!

Christine Mahoney
Director of Public Information, Office of Marketing and Communications

Background: I’m a longtime communicator, connector and collaborator. I am excited to be moving to Charleston from Boulder, Colorado, where I worked as a director of communications at the University of Colorado Boulder. In my years at CU Boulder, I also taught journalism and managed a media internship program, all while continuing my freelance voiceover and video production work. Before that, I was a broadcast journalist, so I’ve lived and worked in a variety of locations, including Denver, Sacramento, Las Vegas and Flint, Michigan.

Interests: I’m an avid reader and huge fan of libraries. I like to run and swim, and am looking forward to doing both on the beaches here. I’m a mother of two young adults and love watching them launch their lives and pursue their passions.

Looking Forward: I’m really looking forward to exploring this beautiful campus and getting to know the dedicated people who work hard to further the College’s mission. In addition, I love horses and would like to become involved in the College’s equestrian team in some way, shape or form.

Kelly Newton ’24
Alumni Engagement Coordinator, Office of Alumni Affairs

Background: I am originally from Anderson, South Carolina. I was brought to Charleston to attend the College of Charleston. I graduated in May 2024 and started working as the membership coordinator at the Charleston Library Society. Additionally, I served as the community outreach coordinator for James Island Outreach, a locally based nonprofit.

Interests: In my spare time, I enjoy all the simple things, such as reading, baking, doing puzzles and taking long walks.

Looking Forward: I’m looking forward to transitioning from a student to an employee role at the College of Charleston. I’ve always appreciated the campus, not only for its beauty but also for its rich history and unique character. I’m also excited to support an institution that has played such a meaningful role in my personal and professional growth.

Sarah Nicksa ’04
Academic Advisor, Academic Advising and Planning Center

Background: I’m from Charleston and am a proud alum of the CofC sociology and anthropology department. I lived and taught sociology in Boston, receiving my master’s and Ph.D. in sociology at Northeastern University. I was a tenured professor of criminal justice at Widener University before moving home to Charleston during the COVID pandemic.

Interests: I like to read, go the the beach, explore parks with my family, volunteer, and I’ve recently gotten into sewing clothes.

Looking Forward: I’m thrilled to be in a new position that lets me connect with students – my favorite part when I was a professor. I’m excited to be part of what makes College of Charleston great – the people and the relationships we make, intertwined with all the fascinating things there are to learn and see on a college campus!

Nora Polanski ’25
Cashier/Customer Service Representative, Treasurer’s Office

Background: I grew up in Reston, Virginia, came to Charleston for college in 2021, and I’m excited to make Charleston home after graduating in May.

Interests: In my spare time, I love going for walks around this beautiful city, binge-watching period pieces on Netflix and baking sweet treats.

Looking Forward: I’m especially looking forward to being part of a community that embraces knowledge and creativity, and I can’t wait to support students on their educational journeys!

Juan Porres
Admissions Counselor, Office of Admissions

Background: I’m from Rhode Island and recently graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a master of science in college student personnel, which mainly focused on the administrative side of higher education, preparing me to support students and contribute meaningfully to a college campus as best as possible!

Interests: I enjoy exploring new places and finding new favorite spots around town. I’m also really into tech! Building computers and playing video games are big hobbies of mine. Lately, my girlfriend and I have been hooked on the card game Balatro (haha)! In my downtime, I like catching up on shows I’ve missed, like One Piece and Abbott Elementary.

Looking Forward: I’m excited to meet everyone – from the team to the students I’ll be working with, both prospective and current. I’m especially looking forward to getting to know campus better and seeing which spots are local favorites. I can’t wait to take in the city’s beautiful views!!

Benita Washington
Administrative Coordinator to the Director of Facilities, Facilities Management

Background: I am a Charleston native.

Interests: I enjoy dancing and being out in nature.

Looking Forward: I look forward to meeting and working with faculty, staff and students.