CofC Staff Recognized at 'Salute to Student Affairs'
Staff in the Division of Student Affairs were celebrated at the 16th annual Salute to Student Affairs awards program.
Photos by Catie Cleveland
The hardworking and dedicated staff members of the College of Charleston Division of Student Affairs were celebrated and recognized at the 16th annual Salute to Student Affairs division awards program on Aug. 1, 2025.
“Salute to Student Affairs is a celebration of everything that makes this division excellent,” says Alicia Caudill, executive vice president of student affairs. “We recognize hard work and dedication to students and their experiences and we remember all that we build together.”
In addition to Everett McInnis, associate vice president of budgeting and payroll services, who received the Outstanding Campus Partner Award, the bellow were recognized at the 2025 Salute to Student Affairs division awards program.
Denny Ciganovic Putting Happiness to Work Award
Nicole Lenez, Director of Residence Life
Named in honor of the late Denny Ciganovic, who served as the director of the Career Center for 23 years, this award recognizes those who exemplify Ciganovic’s qualities of infectious joy and genuine connection; empathy and making others feel seen and valued; supportive and enthusiastic mentoring; and commitment to inclusion, good governance and leading by example.
Victor K. Wilson Service to Students Award
Ann Almasi-Bush, Dean of Students
This award is given to an individual who demonstrates a student-centered approach of advocacy and empowerment to provide exemplary service to College of Charleston students. This award may also be given to someone who consistently inspires individuals or student organizations to go beyond normal expectations to accomplish goals, institute change or make a difference.
Jeri O. Cabot Award for Challenge and Support Award
Molly Jean Callahan, Student Support Coordinator/Office Manager
The award – named in honor of longtime Dean of Students Jeri Cabot – is presented to an employee who engages with students through programs and/or individual interactions which show deep respect for students, an ability to navigate difficult conversations and a deep commitment to matching challenge with support needed for student learning and development.
Executive Vice President for Student Affairs Award
Rochelle Johnson, Director of Life Design Coaching Programs
This recognition is presented to a higher performer who consistently goes above and beyond both in the division and in the greater campus community.
Unsung Hero Award
Erin Benson, Therapist
Jessica Dettwiller, Assistant Director of Fitness
This award recognizes behind-the-scenes individuals who consistently and effectively perform their duties in a manner that enhances the work environment for others. They go above and beyond their job responsibilities to support the mission of their department and the division, yet they seem to never openly seek recognition or credit.
Silver Pillar Award
Carolina Chaves, Residence Hall Director
Annie Grimes, Residence Hall Director
Ruben Joseph, Residence Hall Director
This award recognizes an individual who has been with the division for less than three years and has given exemplary service to the division and to the students, making a positive impact on their department, the division and/or the College of Charleston community.
Gold Pillar Award
Clarissia Collins, Area Residence Hall Director
Maura Woods, Associate Director of Experiential Learning
This award is given to an individual who has been with the Division of Student Affairs for three to six years and has exceeded the responsibilities of their position and excelled in service to the division, the College and/or the student affairs profession.
Outstanding Campus Collaboration Award
Center for Civic Engagement
This award is given to an individual or department that has worked collaboratively with other departments on campus within or outside the Division. This individual or department is constantly finding new and innovative ways to work with others outside their department with the goals of providing students with quality service and fostering positive relationships on campus.
