About the CEC

The College of Charleston has formed a Community Engagement Council (CEC) for the project at 106 Coming Street. The College sought a diverse group of community members to partner with College leaders in guiding the commemoration and development of the historic property. CEC members will have the opportunity to share their experiences and perspectives and provide input; will help shape the commemoration, programs and decisions that honor the history and legacy of the site (including its ties to the former home of the YWCA of Greater Charleston and the municipal cemetery once known as the Potter’s Field); and will build relationships with neighbors, community leaders and partners who care deeply about the project and the cultural significance of the property.

Membership

Liaison

  • Dr. Courtney Howard

Facilitators

  • Joanna Gilmore
  • Clay Middleton
  • LaSheia Oubre

Advisors

  • Demetria Noisette Clemons
  • Judge Arthur McFarland
  • Omar Muhammad

Consultants

  • Michael Allen
  • Dr. Tonya Matthews

Members

  • Zoe Barber
  • Julie Bowling
  • Dr. Millicent Brown
  • Walter Brown
  • Stephen Vale Cofer-Shabica
  • Norm Dickerson
  • Jalen Evans
  • Dr. Shawn Gathers
  • Harlan Greene
  • Jerome Harris
  • Lisa Jones
  • Madison Lee
  • Eric Manning
  • Dr. Jim Newhard
  • James Njonjo
  • Patricia Ploehn
  • Sharon Ramirez
  • Luqman Rasheed
  • Daniel Schmidt
  • Joshua Shumak

Staff

Mark Berry

Paul Patrick

CEC Past Meeting Recaps

Wednesday, November 12, 2025

Thursday, December 4, 2025

Thursday, January 8, 2026 

Thursday, February 5, 2026

Thursday, February 19, 2026 – Meeting canceled

Thursday, March 5, 2026

Upcoming Meetings

Thursday, April 2, 2026 – details coming soon

Thursday, May 7, 2026 – details coming soon

Thursday, June 4, 2026 – details coming soon