Welcome to the College of Education Alumni Group, where the legacy of excellence in
teaching and learning continues beyond the classroom. Our purpose is to build a supportive
network that fosters meaningful connections and provides vital resources to both alumni
and current students through mentorship, innovation, and collaborative support.
How You Can Make a Difference
When you support our alumni group, you’re directly investing in the future of education.
Your donations help us organize events that facilitate networking, professional growth,
and mutual support. These initiatives are essential for providing the tools and opportunities
that future teachers need to excel in their careers.
Be a Part of Our Community
Your involvement helps us build a strong network, offer crucial support to alumni,
and invest in the next generation of educators. For more information on how to get
involved contact us at coedevents@mailbox.sc.edu.
Our Leadership
Maggie Frick: President
Maggie is a two-time graduate of USC-Columbia's College of Education. She is currently
an assistant principal at an elementary school in Lexington, SC. Prior to working
as a school administrator, Maggie worked in the College of Education's Gamecock EdQuarters
as the Associate Director of Clinical Placements. Additionally, Maggie has experience
as an elementary school teacher and taught several undergraduate classes while working
at USC. Maggie is passionate about supporting new and aspiring teachers and teacher
recruitment.
In her spare time, Maggie and her husband, Roy, can be found at different sports fields
to support their two boys, Will and Brody. Maggie also enjoys singing in her church
praise band, traveling with her family, and shopping.
Mary Katheryn Coker: Vice-President
Mary Katheryn is a two-time graduate from USC-Columbia’s College of Education, with
a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education and a Master’s in Language and Literacy. She
is currently a Fourth Grade Math and Science teacher in Lexington School District
One. Prior to working in Lexington One, Mary Katheryn was a graduate assistant with
the Student Success Center on USC’s campus for two years. Mary Katheryn enjoys getting
to know new people and finding ways to connect and support educators.
Outside of teaching, Mary Katheryn and her husband, Bobby, enjoy spending time with
their son, Rory. Mary Katheryn loves hanging out with friends and getting a good workout
in at RockBox.
Brian Chatman: Treasurer
Brian is a 2003 and 2007 USC-Columbia College of Education graduate. He is currently
the Director of Student Support Services and Programs for Lexington County School
District Two. In his 26-year career, Brian has been a teacher, assistant principal,
adjunct instructor, and chief officer. Brian is a lifelong educator and leader who
believes in fighting for those who otherwise cannot fight for themselves.
When he is not working to help students and families, Brian enjoys working out with
his sons, watching movies, and spending time with his wife.
Ruth Bollinger: Secretary/ Historian
Ruth Bollinger graduated from COE’s CarolinaLIFE program in May 2020. Ruth serves
as a representative of CarolinaLIFE to various stakeholders both in the community
and across campus. Ruth supports students in the development of advocacy skills and
works with AbleSC as a disability advocate. During her time at USC and CarolinaLIFE,
she served as a secretary in Student Government and was the first CarolinaLIFE student
to be initiated into a sorority as a fully pledged member of Gamma Phi Beta.
When Ruth isn’t working, she enjoys attending Gamecock sporting events, visiting the
Soda City Market on Saturdays, going to Disney, watching Pittsburgh sports, and she
loves to travel.
Support the Network
You can make a donation to the CoE Columbia Alumni Network .
