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Coker delivers cheery attitude, acceptance 

by Cindy Abole
Public Relations
Don’t let the somewhat-shy, petite-framed young woman fool anyone, but Human Resources’ Caroline Coker can brighten a room or charm a smile from people wherever she goes.

Caroline Coker

It was five years ago when the Wando High School student began working in records management. Enrolled in a program through Charleston County Disabilities Board,  Coker began working a part-time job keyboarding computer data and performing other light office duties. With a little encouragement and newfound confidence, Coker has managed to share her abilities and conscientious attitude in other areas at Harborview Office Tower including grants accounting, budget office and payroll.

“It was my job to help train Caroline when she first came to this department,” said Sylvia Strickland of Human Resources records management. “As I studied and watched her work, I could easily see what she was capable of doing and what she could not do. Today, my life would not be the same without seeing her smiling face and experiencing her great attitude towards life greeting me everyday. She loves her job very much and is a very dependable person. She is loved very much and valued by all of us in Human Resources.”

Today, the 22-year-old Coker is already a favorite among her peers. She loves her work and is very dedicated to people and her ability to help others. 

“She is an excellent employee who is dedicated and gives her all everyday,” said Yohna Chambers Cone, Human Resources Service Center manager. “Her work is accurate, and she pays attention to detail. We all enjoy working with her and tremendously appreciate her contributions to the department and the Medical University.”

“She’s a hard working young lady,” said Erica Roth, Human Resources benefits administrator. “She is very kind and caring. I am lucky to be able to work with such a dedicated and beautiful person.”

Her latest accomplishment is participating as an athlete and medal winner at the Special Olympics. A life-long swimmer, Coker has competed since the late 1990s and earned medals for the freestyle and backstroke events in her age category. She was also recognized for her skills on the basketball court.

Coker is close to her family which includes dad Priestly, mom Cynthia, twin sister Rachel, brother Cooper and two dogs. Sociable and independent, she shares a home with three roommates.

“Caroline is a ray of sunshine each and everyday,” said Dana Tumbleston, Human Resources employee services coordinator. “She sees the positive in life and applies that to her work and every task she is given.”

Editor's note: At MUSC, heroes abound. They exist in the form of caregivers (both professional and volunteers), faculty, students and staff. The Catalyst’s MUSC Heroes is a  column that offers employees and staff the opportunity to recognize MUSC’s everyday heroes throughout campus. Send a brief note or e-mail about your MUSC hero along with your name and office phone number to The Catalyst, Office of Public Relations or via e-mail at catalyst@musc.edu.