Accessibility Navigation:

Meet the Area Team


Mr. Michael J. Berger

Residence Coordinator

Reception Desk: 704‑687‑1792
Direct Line: 704‑687‑1780

Michael is the Residence Coordinator for the Greek Village. Originally from Columbia, SC, he attended University of South Carolina and received his Bachelor of Arts in History in 2001.  In 2008 he received his Master of Arts in College Student Development from Appalachian State University.  Currently Michael is completing an advanced degree in University Leadership in Higher Education Administration and will receive his Education Specialist in 2012.

Michael has extensive experience in Fraternity and Sorority Life, student leadership and organizations and student development. After graduate school he served the Providence campus of Johnson & Wales University as the Assistant Director of Student Activities and Advisor to Student Media.  Michael returned to the High Country to work as the Interim Coordinator of Greek Life at Appalachian State University and later served the campus of Lees-McRae College as an AmeriCorps VISTA. 

While in graduate school at ASU, he served as the Graduate Assistant for Leadership Education in the Center for Student Involvement and Leadership, then moved on to serve as a Graduate Intern for Greek Life. Michael also spent a full summer interning with Appalachian’s community service office developing service-learning programs for incoming students.

Michael enjoys working for Housing and Residence Life at UNC Charlotte because of the constant interaction with his residents and overall  student leadership and morale.  “My true passion is with Fraternity and Sorority Life however in my current role I am able to witness student development at its finest and serve all my students holistically.  I strive to watch them achieve their goals as I did while in college… and that feeling is truly special and unexplainable.”





Ms. Laura Cosenzo

Residence Coordinator

Reception Desk: 704‑687‑5561
Direct Line: 704‑687‑5562

Laura is the Residence Coordinator for Scott Hall.  Growing up in Orlando, Florida, she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Florida State University in 2008.  Following graduation, Laura taught third grade for one year in Orlando before returning to graduate school.  In May 2012 Laura earned her Masters of Arts in Educational Leadership from the University of Central Florida. 

At FSU, Laura’s interest in student affairs began with her roles as an Orientation Leader and Resident Assistant.  During her graduate work at UCF Laura was a graduate assistant with Fraternity and Sorority Life, as well as an academic advisor with First Year Experience, and intern in Explorations at Rollins College.

After having been away from housing and residence life for a number of years, Laura is very excited to be involved again and build relationships with her RAs and residents.  Laura says, “I am so thankful this is my job, not only do I get to watch my RAs and residents grow, but they play a part in my growth as well.”

Being new to Charlotte and North Carolina, Laura is looking forward to all of the outdoor activities, sporting events, and other opportunities the city has to offer.  In her spare time she likes spending time with friends, watching college football, reading, running, painting, and anything to stay busy.




Mr. Omar Crenshaw

Mr. Omar Crenshaw

Residence Coordinator

Reception Desk: 704‑687‑3839
Direct Line: 704‑687‑3840

Omar is the Residence Coordinator of Wallis Hall. Omar earned his B.A. in Psychology from UNC Charlotte in 2009, and his M.A. in Marriage & Family Therapy from Appalachian State University in 2011.

Omar is originally from Charlotte, NC.

As an undergraduate student, Omar was a Resident Advisor, and active member of the Campus Activities Board. While in graduate school, Omar was a Graduate Assistant for the office of Multicultural Student Development at Appalachian State University. Omar also served as a Summer Conference Director at Appalachian State.

Omar is very connected to Charlotte and happy to be a part of the Housing &Residence Life team at UNC Charlotte. Omar says that he was attracted to the Residence Coordinator position at UNC Charlotte because it gives him the opportunity to work with college students and support them in their college experience. Omar also says that he is honored to have the opportunity to give back to the institution that granted him his first degree.
Omar enjoys playing sports, listening to all kinds of music, and being creative in many forms.




Kevin Gaughenbaugh

Mr. Kevin Gaughenbaugh

Residence Coordinator

Reception Desk: 704‑687‑3797
Direct Line: 704-687-3798

Kevin is the Residence Coordinator of Lynch Hall. Kevin's B.A. degree in Philosophy was awarded by the University of Scranton, and he received his M.A. from UNC Charlotte. Before becoming an RC at UNC Charlotte, Kevin worked for four years in the Campus Ministry division of Student Affairs at US and for two years as a Graduate Assistant here at UNC Charlotte.

Kevin's hometown is Scranton, Pennsylvania.

Professional connections that Kevin has include Catholic Campus Ministry Association; the American Counseling Association; Mu Tau Beta, UNC Charlotte Counseling Honors Society; and Chi Sigma Iota, the National Counseling Honors Society.

Kevin finds the Charlotte area rich in opportunities, and he enjoys movies, reading and writing, and eating out at Dolce Restaurant.

Kevin says, "I like working in Housing and Residence Life because it gives me the opportunity to directly make a positive difference in someone's life. I am in a position to help people grow, develop and become responsible, healthy contributors to society, [people] who will, in turn, make a positive difference in the lives of others."




Sarah M. Holder

Ms. Sarah M. Holder

Residence Coordinator

Reception Desk: 704‑687‑2195
Direct Line: 704‑687‑2391

Sarah is the Residence Coordinator for Holshouser Hall and Hunt Village.  She is originally from Richmond, Virginia, and received her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Virginia Commonwealth University.  After graduation, Sarah spent several years in the field of residential children’s summer camping, specializing in staff training and management.  She decided to transition to the field of higher education, and received her Master of Science from Illinois State University in Normal, Illinois.  During her time in Illinois, Sarah held graduate assistantships in student wellness and residential education. 

Since coming to UNC Charlotte, Sarah has truly enjoyed working with many motivated and driven residential students, and is excited about the growth that the university is currently experiencing.  Her passions in the field of student affairs include diversity and social justice education, staff development and training, and educational student conduct opportunities.   She is also looking forward to contributing to the UNC Charlotte community by getting involved in regional and national professional development opportunities and associations.  As a new resident of Charlotte, Sarah is excited to try the many things this energetic city has to offer, including the multitude of culinary adventures, museums, and community service opportunities.   In her free time, she loves to travel, read, and catch up with her friends who are scattered across the country




Ms. Chelsey Jones

Ms. Chelsey Jones

Residence Coordinator

Reception Desk: 704‑687‑2192
Direct Line: 704‑687‑3536

Chelsey is the Residence Coordinator for Sanford Hall.  A proud Cavalier, Chelsey graduated from the University of Virginia in 2007 with a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies.  Immediately following she joined the National College Advising Corps, an AmeriCorps program, to work in Pittsylvania County, Virginia.  In this role she served at Dan River High School and Tunstall High School,  advising students on the "hows" and "whys" of going to college.  In 2009 Chelsey returned to college herself as a Masters student at Indiana University studying Higher Education and Student Affairs.  She completed her degree in 2011 and is excited to join the Housing and Residence Life team here at UNC Charlotte.

Though her path towards residence life is nebulous at best, Chelsey’s experiences in student affairs are vast and diverse.  During her time at UVA, she served as an orientation leader, residence hall president, and class reunions intern.  While at IU, Chelsey was a graduate supervisor in Read Residence Center and an intern for the Office of First Year Experience Programs.

Chelsey is known for her expansive scarf collection, outstanding music trivia knowledge, and terrible driving.  She enjoys watching movies she's seen before, taking pictures, and doing step aerobics.  Chelsey hopes to continue these activities and soak in all the adventure Charlotte has to of




Ms. Shenika Jones

Ms. Shenika Jones

Graduate Assistant

Reception Desk: 704‑687‑2175
Direct Line: 704‑687‑2594

Shenika is the Graduate Assistant for The Gardens. She received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Physical Education from Winthrop University where she served as a Resident Advisor for three years.  She then completed her Masters Degree in School Counseling from Winthrop University while also serving as a Residence Director (also known as a Residence Coordinator) for two years.

She enjoys spending time with family and friends as well as reading, writing, and playing Scrabble.

Shenika is grateful to be a Graduate Assistant and believes it's by far the greatest assistantship on campus.  “My transition back to college would not include as much excitement, involvement and diversity if I did not have this opportunity to connect with wonderful people who share an interest in Housing and Residence Life and the residents we serve."

She was born and raised in Dillon, SC and lived in Rock Hill, SC for 8 years before relocating to Charlotte, NC.  In her spare time, Shenika likes to try different restaurants and visit other area attractions.

Shenika is currently working toward her Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision.  She hopes to eventually work for the U.S. Department of Education and/or as a Counselor Educator.





Ms. Kaela Lindquist

Residence Coordinator

Reception Desk: 704‑687‑4927
Direct Line: 704‑687‑4928

Kaela is the Residence Coordinator for Hawthorn Hall. Originally from Pardeeville, WI, she attended the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh and received her Bachelors of Science in Education in 2008.   Prior to working at UNC Charlotte, Kaela worked as an Assistant Complex Director at the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater. She received her Masters of Science in Counseling from UW-Whitewater in 2012.

As an undergraduate student, Kaela was a Resident Assistant, Program Assistant and worked with the student conduct system. While in graduate school, Kaela interned at UW-Madison in the College of Letters and Science Career Service Office. Her passion areas in the field of Student Affairs include strengths development, diversity and social justice education, and providing experiential learning opportunities for students.

Kaela is new to the Charlotte area, but looks forward to exploring the local cuisine, museums and historical sites. In her free time she enjoys traveling, reading, baking and spending time with her family and dog Knox.




Ms. Cara Lursen

Ms. Cara Lursen

Residence Coordinator

Reception Desk: 704‑687‑2193
Direct Line: 704‑687‑2383

Cara is the Residence Coordinator for Moore Hall. She has received two degrees from UNC Charlotte- a Master of Health Administration in 2011 and B.A. in Communications Studies in 2008. In past years, she has served as a Residence Coordinator for Witherspoon Hall and Greek Village.

Cara was a Resident Advisor in Moore Hall from 2006-2008, where she met her husband, Stephen. They are very excited to be returning to Moore Hall, which they consider "home".

Cara enjoys jewelry making, reading, video games and really cheesy sci-fi disaster movies.

Cara says, "I decided to become a Residence Coordinator because of the direct impact I can have on students. I love the open and inclusive environment that we strive to create in our halls. I also love finding creative ways to let students express themselves and the things they are passionate about.”




Shanna-Kay McKenzie

Ms. Shanna-Kay McKenzie

Graduate Assistant

Reception Desk: 704‑687‑2192
Direct Line: 704-687-3771

Shanna-Kay is the Administrative Graduate Assistant for Student Leadership and First Year Programs and her office is located in Miltimore Hall. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Comparative Languages and Linguistics at Earlham College in Richmond, Indiana.

During her undergrad career, Shanna-Kay was a Resident Advisor for 5 semesters and worked as a Conference Assistant and a Manager for the Summer Conferences Program. She enjoyed providing support for her residents and working with the Residence Life staff.

Shanna-Kay was born and raised in St. Catherine, Jamaica but her family now lives in the country's capital, Kingston. While at home, she enjoys going to the beach with her family, going out with her friends and eating all her favorite Jamaican food.

She will be starting her graduate program in Spanish Translation this Fall and she hopes to go into the field of Translation/Interpreting.

Shanna-Kay values the work that the Housing and Residence Life department does for residents and therefore, she is excited to do her part to help the department achieve its goals.





Mr. Ryan Mulkeen

Residence Coordinator

Direct Line: 704-687-4837

Ryan is the Residence Coordinator for Witherspoon Hall. He grew up in and around Atlanta, Georgia but has been happy to call Charlotte his home for the past 3 years. He received a B.S. in Chemistry from Georgia Tech and an M.S. in Chemistry from Georgia State University.

While at Tech, Ryan worked for admissions in multiple capacities including working with the campus tour program and large scale recruitment events. He continued his work in Student Affairs at Georgia State working in the Student Center as a graduate assistant. He is currently pursuing a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at UNC Charlotte.

After having worked in manufacturing for a few years, he is excited to be back and involved with a campus community. In his free time, he enjoys volunteering at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center in Charlotte.




Mr. Andrew Pasch

Mr. Andrew Pasch

Residence Coordinator

Reception Desk: 704-687-0828
Direct Line: 704-687-0829

Andrew is Residence Coordinator for Miltimore Hall. Prior to working at UNC Charlotte, Andrew worked as an Assistant Residence Hall Director for two years at Ball State University and was a Resident Advisor while working on his bachelor's degree.

Andrew received his Bachelor of Science (Physics) from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, and his Master of Arts degree in Student Affairs Administration in Higher Education at Ball State.

Andrew is a member of NASPA and ACUHO-I professional organizations.

Andrew calls Rochester, MN home.

Andrew likes working for UNC Charlotte because he really enjoys the people that are here and the family atmosphere that this department fosters. He really valued the quality of his undergraduate experience, and eh enjoys having the opportunity to give the students here the same opportunity for a meaningful experience that he had.




Ashley Peckham

Ms. Ashley Peckham

Graduate Assistant

Reception Desk: 704‑687‑2193
Direct Line: 704‑687‑3773

Ashley is the Graduate Assistant for Moore Hall. She earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration with a minor in Political Science from Bryant University where she served as a Resident Assistant for first year students.

Ashley is new to the Charlotte area. She was born and raised in Uxbridge, M.A. and is a huge fan of all New England sports teams. In her spare time, she enjoys being with family and friends, traveling, rock climbing and playing tennis.

She is currently getting her Master’s in Communication with a concentration in public relations and advertising. She hopes to eventually work as a public relations specialist for a non-profit organization.




Ms. S. Leigh Bartles

Ms. S. Leigh Prouty

Residence Coordinator

Reception Desk: 704‑687‑2457
Direct Line: 704‑687‑2175

Leigh is the Residence Coordinator for The Gardens (comprised of Martin VillageCedar, Hickory, and Sycamore). She received her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Law from Western Carolina University in 2003, and her Master of Education in College Student Personnel from Western Carolina in 2006.

While an undergrad, Leigh served as a Resident Assistant, and Orientation Leader, and the Public Defender for the Student Government Association at Western Carolina University. She has worked at Berea College in Berea, Kentucky from July 2006 to July 2008, as a Residence LIfe Collegium and Judicial Liaison.

Leigh's hometown is Morganton, North Carolina.

She belongs to SACSA, ASJA, and ACPA professional organizations.

Since moving to Charlotte, Leigh has enjoyed getting out and exploring this great city. She loves trying new restaurants and looks forward to attending the many theatrical performances to be found around the Queen City. Leigh is also excited to be close to a large concert venue, and hopes to make it out to see some of the amazing musical artists who will be featured in that venue. In her free time, she enjoys reading and spending time with family, friends, and her dog.

Leigh says, "Since being involved in several facets of Student Affairs in college, I enjoy working with students at the college level because they are in a wonderful time of growth and development. I have a passion to help students discover who they want to be."





Ms. LeAnna Rice

Administrative Graduate Assistant

Direct Line: 704-687-1892




Ms. Michelle Smith

Ms. Michelle Smith

Graduate Assistant

Reception Desk: 704‑687‑3797
Direct Line: 704.687.
3799

Michelle is the Graduate Assistant of Lynch Hall. She is a native Charlottean and is happy to be in her hometown after 6 years of being away. She received a B.A. in Communication Studies from UNC Chapel Hill in 2008.

While at Carolina, Michelle worked for Housing as both a Summer Assistant and a Resident Advisor. Following graduation, she moved to Washington, DC and accepted a position with American University Housing & Dining Programs. As the Guest & Public Relations Coordinator, she managed residence hall front desk operations and summer intern housing. She is currently pursuing a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at UNC Charlotte and is excited about being involved with the campus community.

Michelle values the many learning opportunities available within the university environment and is eager to connect with new students and staff. In her free time, she enjoys visiting art museums, browsing through bookstores, and volunteering with children.





Ms. Vinita Tandon

Residence Coordinator

 

Reception Desk: 704‑687‑2749
Direct Line: 704‑687‑2746
Loan Key Desk: 704‑687‑4924

Vinita is the Residence Coordinator for the Phase V Community which includes Pine, Oak, Elm, and Maple Halls.  Originally from New Jersey, Vinita attended New York University where she double majored in Psychology and History for her undergraduate career.  After graduating in 2010, she returned to New Jersey to earn her Masters of Education in College Student Affairs at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey.

Vinita was a Resident Assistant for two years while at NYU with significant involvement within the Department of Housing and Residence Life.  While in graduate school, she was a Hall Director for two years, and also worked in the Office of Student Conduct and Student Legal Services.

New to Charlotte and the South, Vinita is eager to get to know the city and all that it has to offer.  In her free time Vinita likes to read, cook, bake, explore museums, and try new restaurants.  

Amongst other reasons, one of her favorite parts of working as a Residence Coordinator is getting to establish close connections with students from all walks of life. Vinita says, “The relationships I get to build, and all that I get to learn from my residents, is not only fun but extremely rewarding”.





Ms. Brittnii Watts

Administrative Graduate Assistant

Direct Line: 704-687-1892

Brittnii is the Administrative Graduate Assistant for Student Conduct. She is currently enrolled in the Master of Science Information Technology program in the College of Computing and Informatics. Upon graduation, Brittnii hopes to find employment in the area of software development and training.

Brittnii earned her Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems from Lander University in Greenwood, SC in the spring of 2012.  She had emphases in Networking and Criminal Justice, as well as a minor in Sociology.

During her undergraduate studies, Brittnii served as President of Lander’s chapter of People to People International, Financial Secretary and Programming Advisor for Kappa Gamma chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc, and worked as a computer technician in Lander’s ITS department.

Brittnii’s hometown is Sumter, SC.  In her spare time, she loves to play soccer and volleyball and watch collegiate football.