‘Salute to Student Affairs’ Awards Recognize Staff for Commitment, Hard Work

Above: 2022 Salute to Student Affairs award recipients (l–r): Jabari Robinson and Calvin Joyner (representing Orientation After Dark), Robin LaRocque, LaVerne Green Cordes, Deronda Washington, Liza McGilvery, Olivia Vernon, Jen Wells, Bucky Buchanan, Joy Heinzman, Rochelle Johnson and Dee DiBona.

The hardworking and dedicate staff members of the College of Charleston Division of Student Affairs were celebrated and recognized at the 13th annual Salute to Student Affairs division awards program on Aug. 8, 2022.

“The incredible work being done in our division continues to inspire me, and I am so grateful to have this opportunity to celebrate our efforts,” says Executive Vice President for Student Affairs Alicia Caudill.

In addition to Orientation After Dark, which received the Outstanding Campus Collaboration Award, and the Department of Public Safety, which received the Important Campus Partner Award, the following individuals were recognized at the 2022 Salute to Student Affairs division awards program:

Jen Wells, Associate Director for Career Education, Career Center

Jen Wells, Associate Director for Career Education, Career Center
Silver Pillar Award
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.

Lisa McGilvery, Licensed Professional Counselor, Counseling Center, and Olivia Vernon, Assistant Director of Programming and Student Engagement, Department of Residence Life

Lisa McGilvery, Licensed Professional Counselor, Counseling Center
and Olivia Vernon, Assistant Director of Programming and Student Engagement, Department of Residence Life
Gold Pillar Award
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.

Bucky Buchanan, Assistant Director of Fitness, Campus Recreation Services

Bucky Buchanan, Assistant Director of Fitness, Campus Recreation Services
Maroon Pillar Award
This award recognizes an individual who has been with the Division of Student Affairs for more than six years and who has consistently gone beyond expectations. This person has been a role model for other staff members and their department. The recipient of this award is dedicated to service, support and collaboration.

Robin LaRocque

Robin LaRocque, Director, Office of Victim Services
Executive Vice President for Student Affairs Award
This recognition is presented to a higher performer who consistently goes above and beyond both in the division and in the greater campus community.

Dee DiBona, Medical Director, Student Health Services

Dee DiBona, Medical Director, Student Health Services
George Haborak Award for Professional Development
Named in honor of the work of the late George Haborak, former executive vice president for student affairs, this award recognizes an individual who has gone above and beyond in their own personal professional development.

Deronda Washington, Higdon Center

Deronda Washington, Interim Executive Director of Student Involvement, Higdon Center
Victor K. Wilson Service to Students Award
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.

Joy Heinzman, Associate Director, Department of Residence Life

Joy Heinzman, Associate Director, Department of Residence Life
Jeri O. Cabot Award for Challenge and Support
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.

LaVerne Green Cordes, Business Manager, Office of Student Life, and Jimmie Lynn Dove, Campus Certified Medical Assistant, Student Health Services.

LaVerne Green Cordes, Business Manager, Office of Student Life and Jimmie Lynn Dove, Campus Certified Medical Assistant, Student Health Services
Unsung Hero
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.

Rochelle Johnson, Director, Office of Multicultural Student Programs and Services

Rochelle Johnson, Director, Office of Multicultural Student Programs and Services
Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Justice Award
This award recognizes an individual who has helped to cultivate an inclusive campus environment by celebrating, supporting or enhancing diversity on campus and beyond. Their efforts directly uphold the College of Charleston’s initiatives to recruit, retain and advance the experiences of underrepresented communities on campus.