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!

Sabine Horne
Administrative Coordinator, Department of Religious Studies/School of Humanities and Social Sciences Dean’s Office

Background: I am originally from Laurel, Mississippi, but got my start in higher ed at Utah State University in Logan, Utah. I moved to Charleston last year and feel so lucky to live and work in such a beautiful place!

Interests: When not at work, you can usually find me on the couch with my cat Fran or in front of the stove – my family and I love to cook. I’m a retired bartender so I love checking out new cocktail bars and restaurants. I am also trying to work my way through Charleston’s many art museums.

Looking Forward: I am most looking forward to all the history and culture I get to soak in from this beautiful 250+ year old campus! I work with very well-read and knowledgeable faculty, so there is always something to learn.

Trish Priest
Dean of Undergraduate Admissions, Office of Admissions

Background: I am a Midwesterner by birth (Ohio) and a Southerner at heart (spent some years living in Arkansas and North Carolina). I have spent over 25 years working in higher education/adjacent positions, most recently as director of admissions at Queens University of Charlotte (N.C.). Prior to Queens, I served as director of college counseling at Columbus School for Girls (Columbus, Ohio) and as senior dean of admissions at Kenyon College (Gambier, Ohio). The child of two educators, I feel deeply connected to the work we all do to provide access to the life-changing experience that is college.

Interests: My family is very important to me. Just ask me about my kids (Jake, 25; Mitch, 22; and Carly, 20), and I am happy to tell you about them! They are spread across the country, so I love any chance we get to be together. My husband Dan and I love to run/bike/hike/swim, etc. I am an avid reader and usually have at least two books going at a time. Cooking is my love language, and I still cook for five, even though it is just two of us at home now. Heads up that I am a Bengals and Ohio State football fan! 🙂

Looking Forward: I love making connections and working together in partnership. I am looking forward to meeting colleagues who are as passionate about this work as I am!

Reneé Shackleton
Admissions and Administrative Coordinator, Graduate School

Background: I grew up in Mooresville, North Carolina, and, before joining the College of Charleston, I earned both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees at East Carolina University. While studying there, I discovered a passion for making a meaningful impact in higher education, which brought me great fulfillment. After completing my degree in industrial-organizational psychology, I interned in the human resources department of a renewable energy company. Ultimately, I realized that my true calling still remained in higher education, which led me to the beautiful campus of CofC!

Interests: I love spending time outdoors, whether at the beach or in the mountains. I also enjoy exploring new interests and the learning process that comes with trying new things, regardless of my skill level. Since moving to Charleston, my 6-year-old nephew has become a major influence on my hobbies – he’s determined that I become a professional fort and LEGO builder!

Looking Forward: I’m looking forward to engaging with students and supporting their growth and success. I’m eager to work on initiatives that enhance the student experience alongside colleagues who share the same mission!

Elizabeth (Ellie) Tanko
Administrative Coordinator, Center for Academic Performance and Persistence

Background: What a packed question for me! I grew up a military brat, so I have actually lived in 13 states and territories. Before coming to the College of Charleston, I moved down from the great state of Iowa. I have just graduated from Iowa State University after earning my degree and working in student services for a long time there.

Interests: Anything outdoors! I guide in my free time for a local company and a nonprofit. I love to run, bike, hike, swim, do yoga, kayak, rock climb and lift.

Looking Forward: Being able to work with ambitious students who will aspire to do fantastic things!

Rachel Woods ’14
Data Integrity Specialist, Division of Institutional Advancement

Background: I have a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the College of Charleston, and my previous professional background has been administrative, specializing in processing payroll and human resources data.

Interests: I love spending time with my husband and two dogs, Poppy and Cinnamon! I also love going to the beach, exploring all the fun events in town and going to kickboxing workouts in my free time.

Looking Forward: I am looking forward to being a part of this world-class community as a staff member and building positive working relationships with the amazing staff at the College.

Dylan Yau (Rutmann)
Administrative Coordinator, Center for Student Learning

Background: I am originally from Dayton, Ohio. Prior to moving to Charleston, I was in Colorado Springs, where I was an administrative coordinator for public health.

Interests: Family is super important to me! I love spending time with my husband and four-legged fur baby, Freddy. Outside of family time, I love to spend time on the water and watch all the sporting events. #GoGators

Looking Forward: I am looking forward to meeting new people, reaching more of my career goals and helping students in any way I can.