College Welcomes New Staff

Meet 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!

Nykeria Foster
Assistant Director for Fraternity and Sorority Life, Office of Student Life

Background: I’m originally from Ninety Six, South Carolina, but I’ve been living in the Charlotte, North Carolina, area for the past two years. I earned my bachelor’s degree in educational studies from Winthrop University and my master’s degree in higher education administration from Louisiana State University. I’m currently pursuing my doctor of education in higher education leadership at North Greenville University. Before joining the College of Charleston, I worked as a freshman admissions counselor at Winthrop University, where I supported students through the admissions process and their transition to college life.

Interests: Outside of work, I enjoy playing pickleball, watching sports and spending time with friends. Sundays are my favorite because I get to go to church and then head to brunch – it’s my weekly tradition. I’m always up for good food, fellowship and a little friendly competition on the pickleball court.

Looking Forward: I’m so excited to work with current students and really get to know them. I look forward to cheering them on through both challenges and successes and being part of their journey at the College of Charleston. There’s nothing better than watching students grow and thrive.

Tracy Garnar
Life Design Coordinator, Life Design Center

Background: I am originally from Cleveland, Ohio, but consider Hilton Head home. After getting my Ph.D. in sociology from the University of Arizona in spring 2024, I worked as an education coordinator in the Office of Institutional Diversity before coming on board with the Life Design Center.

Interests: In my spare time, I love to travel, bake, watch gymnastics and go to art museums. If I’m not at home or work, I can usually be found at the beach.

Looking Forward: I’m looking forward to helping students reach their potential and design lives that are right for them!

Kylie Lombardi ’25
Customer Service/Administrative Assistant, Controller’s Office

Background: I am originally from Connecticut and recently graduated from the College in May 2025 with a degree in psychology.

Interests: In my free time, I love taking walks around the Charleston area and hanging out with my dog.

Looking Forward: I am looking forward to learning new skills as well as continuing to be a part of the College of Charleston community.

Marianee Pichardo-Luna
Student Success Programs Specialist, Academic Success and Retention Office

Background: I am from Birmingham, Alabama. Before coming to the College of Charleston, I earned my B.S. in secondary education with a concentration in English language arts at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). During my time at UAB, I worked at the University Writing Center for two years, where I supported students throughout every stage of the writing process – from the blank page to the final draft.

Interests: In my free time, I enjoy writing, watching Korean dramas and spending time with my siblings.

Looking Forward: I’m looking forward to building meaningful connections with students and helping them access the resources they need to succeed! I really want to be a cheerleader for students because I know how much it means to have someone in your corner who believes in you, especially throughout the ups and downs of college life.

Anne Reid
Student Employment Specialist, Career Center

Background: I am from Mt. Pleasant! Before coming to the College of Charleston, I worked in bridal retail, wholesale and alterations. I also own a local photography service called Principal Photography.

Interests: In my spare time, I like to cook my grandmother’s elaborate New Orleans creole recipes, learn languages, exercise outdoors, discover Celtic musicians and spend time with exotic animals.

Looking Forward: Working for CofC is a long-held dream. I am most looking forward to being a part of the warm community of academics and seeing students shine their brightest!