The College of Charleston family continues to grow with the addition of these new staff members from all across campus. Whether they’re hanging out at the Olympics or hanging out in escape rooms, leading health care initiatives in Dubai or leading history tours in downtown Charleston, these new employees (listed alphabetically below) come to the College with all kinds of experience – and experiences.
Tom Burke, Information Technology
Tom Burke
Senior Business Analyst, Portfolio Management Office, Division of Information Technology
Background: Over the last three decades, I have worked at several Fortune 100 firms in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area. I have honed my technical project management and business analysis skills while establishing four BA (business analysis) centers of excellence. I served on the International Institute of Business Analysis Body of Knowledge Committee that led the multiyear design, creation and publication work for the Business Analysis Body of Knowledge (BABOK v3). Rounding out my experience, I earned degrees from Penn State (B.S. in operations management) and the University of Maryland (M.S. in accounting information systems).
Interests: Sports Enthusiast: I published a book on the exciting sport of beach volleyball and have written hundreds of articles about the Olympics and the incredible athletes through my attendance at eight summer and winter Olympic Games. Blockchain: I am an accomplished author and speaker on blockchain’s utility in the government and business sectors. I have promoted blockchain’s use and learning through membership with the IEEE [Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers] and the Government Blockchain Association, where I have constructed certification and training materials.
Looking Ahead: Team oriented by nature, I am eager to partner with dozens of departments across campus to promote improved ways of doing business – in line with President Hsu’s strategic plans and departmental goals.
Ronald Gadsden, Facilities Management
Ronald R. Gadsden Sr.
Residence Life Maintenance Technician, Facilities Management
Background: I’m from Charleston, South Carolina. I used to be active duty in the U.S. Navy, and I served in the South Carolina Army National Guard.
Interests: My children and family, and also I like fishing, exercising and traveling.
Looking Ahead: I like working with my co-workers and helping the students.
Brittany McCauley, Information Technology
Brittany McCauley
Director, Portfolio Management Office, Division of Information Technology
Background: I previously worked as a consultant for the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) where I oversaw the IT expansion efforts of three new facilities, including the Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital and Pearl Tourville Women’s Pavilion. Prior to moving to Charleston, I led various health care initiatives within the U.S. and in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Throughout my experiences, I found that my passion is in strategizing and implementing structure to reduce chaos and increase efficiency. This passion is rooted in my previous experience restructuring departments, building programs and streamlining processes to align more closely with business objectives. I am excited to continue to cultivate this passion at CofC.
Interests: In my spare time, I enjoy exploring the outdoors or traveling to new locations. Some of my favorite hobbies include kayaking, hiking, boating, reading and attending local events.
Looking Ahead: Coming from a health care background, I look forward to immersing myself in the higher education industry. I hope to learn from the incredible team here at CofC and to help continue to grow the Project Management Office’s impact and influence.
Catherine Stiers, CofC Libraries
Catherine Stiers ’17
Special Collections Research and Outreach Specialist, CofC Libraries
Background: I was born in Dayton, Ohio, but have spent over half my life living in the South. I am a CofC alumna from the class of 2017! In May of this year, I graduated with an M.A. in public history from North Carolina State University in Raleigh.
Interests: I love playing (and being bad at) escape rooms, watching Antiques Roadshow and exploring with my 9.8-pound chihuahua mix, Charlotte. I also enjoy traveling and visiting museums and historic sites everywhere I go.
Looking Ahead: I am very much looking forward to returning to my alma mater and getting to work somewhere with a rich and interesting history!
Jessica Surface, REACH Program
Jessica Surface
Support Coordinator for the Sophomore Cohort, REACH Program
Background: I have been a pediatric occupational therapist for the last 10 years, working with families in outpatient, home and school settings.
Interests: I love learning about Charleston’s history, and was fortunate enough to pass the infamous tour guide exam in order to develop and lead several tour routes downtown. I also enjoy playing tennis, exploring the local beaches and chasing my two dogs around.
Looking Ahead: I am looking forward to working with the students here at CofC, as well as collaborating and continuing to learn from a dedicated team of professionals.
