Miss Judy's Legacy of Hospitality
From 1975 to 2022, Judy Riser, known to many as Miss Judy, had a smile for everyone who entered the College of Charleston dining hall. Her legacy of hospitality continues to smile at the College, even after her passing.
“Oh, Judy, there’ll never be anyone else, dear, but you.”
The words to Elvis Presley’s pop classic, “Judy,” sounds like it was written with Judy Riser in mind.
From 1975 to 2022, anyone who entered the College of Charleston dining halls was greeted by Miss Judy, a die-hard Elvis fan whose home was filled with Elvis memorabilia. She was always there for students and loved to share stories about her cats … and Elvis. Miss Judy was so beloved that alumni would return to campus to visit her.
She was also a die-hard Cougars basketball fan.
“Judy served as the ‘college mom’ for the basketball team,” says John Kresse, who coached the College’s men’s basketball team from 1979 to 2002. “She directed a healthy, nutritious meal program; kept them on track for practices, games and studies; and was always ready to listen.”
Miss Judy gave equal time to all students but gave particular care to the incoming freshmen.
“Judy was a perfect ambassador of the College,” says Sue Sommer-Kresse, former College of Charleston vice president for enrollment management, among numerous other roles. “She always had a happy hello. Incoming freshmen who felt nervous, unsure and/or alone would enter the cafeteria, and there would be Miss Judy. She would put them at ease; she showed care and empathy to all students.”
Adds Bill Carswell, administrative coordinator for the Office of Institutional Events and Riser’s longtime friend, “For Judy, work was her life, and students were her family. She treated everyone as an individual regardless of their status, and was liked by all. She was known to console students and went as far as paying for student’s meals when their meal cards were declined.”
Riser was especially passionate about helping students facing food insecurity, and became a strong advocate for the College’s Swipe Away Student Hunger initiative. Whether through her advocacy or her own quiet acts of generosity, Riser ensured that students in need were cared for and supported.
Sadly, Riser passed away in 2025. To honor her memory and dedication to the College and its students, the Miss Judy Hospitality Endowed Scholarship has been established. The scholarship is for hospitality and tourism majors in good academic standing with demonstrated financial need.
Miss Judy’s legacy is one of hospitality, compassion and selfless service. Her impact on the lives of countless students reflects the values of kindness, community and generosity that define the College of Charleston. Miss Judy serves as a testament to what makes this College great.
