Executive Committee

Jill E.M. HaLevi, President
John A. Massalon, Vice President
Richard S. Dukes, Treasurer

Directors

Carolyn Bone
Tyla N. Bowman
Keisha Kirkland
Greg Perry
Ben R. Pogue, III
Paul Rahn
Michael Samuel
Nina N. Sperling
Catherine M. Wilhoit

Staff
Diane Seigel, Mediation Director
Lyndsi Holst, Mediation Facilitator

Directors

Jill E.M. HaLevi

President

(843) 819-0557
president@mediationcentercharleston.org

Jill received her law degree from the University of Michigan, and she has been a member of the South Carolina Bar since 1995. She spent the first 10 years of her legal career as a county and then federal public defender, during which time she was active in the creation of the Charleston County Drug and Mental Health Courts. Jill spent two years working on legal issues relating to Israel, first at an organization dedicated to advocating and mediating on behalf of workers in employment disputes, and then as an attorney representing victims of terrorist attacks. In 2009, she established a solo private practice in downtown Charleston, now focused primarily on mediation and cooperative law in family court. Jill has been trained in civil, criminal, and family court mediation. She was also trained and worked as a Guardian ad Litem and in Collaborative law. Jill is a co-founder of the MMCC as well as the Charleston Cooperative Family Law Association.

John A. Massalon

Vice President

Richard S. Dukes

Treasurer

843-576-2810
treasurer@mediationcentercharleston.org

Rich Dukes is an experienced litigator and trial lawyer who has served as lead counsel in a wide variety of substantive areas of law, including defense of medical device manufacturers in products liability and regulatory matters; professional liability matters; corporate and business litigation; securities litigation; and employment matters. Rich also has extensive experience representing clients in admiralty and maritime claims including representation of vessel manufacturers in products liability actions, and owners and operators of watercraft of all sizes. Rich has also handled Jones Act claims and cargo damage claims over the years. Rich has represented many clients in “bet the company” cases that have involved enormous challenges and have required creative approaches to novel legal and factual problems. With that in mind, Rich works with the client and general counsel to determine the most efficient and effective litigation strategy that suits both the immediate and long-term business needs of the client. Rich also became a certified circuit court mediator in 2016.

Rich is a leader in innovative uses of technology to streamline information management in complex business litigation. He has successfully implemented strategies to employ advanced technology to maximize efficiency and to facilitate collaboration and effective division of labor with counsel in multiple states who are working on multiple related matters. In developing strategies to coordinate parallel litigation across several states, Rich has found that by embracing technological advances, the litigation team can work together to achieve favorable results.

Carolyn Bone

Director

843-261-7025
carolyn@carolynbonelaw.com

Family Law litigator and mediator Carolyn Bone has been a member of the South Carolina Bar since 2008, after receiving her J.D. from the University of South Carolina School of Law. Carolyn practiced family law in Columbia, SC before opening her own firm, The Law Office of Carolyn M. Bone, LLC in 2014. Ms. Bone served as the President of the Dorchester County Bar Association (2018), Chair of the Continuing Legal Education Committee (2015), and Secretary of the association (2016 and 2017). She is an active member of the Charleston County Bar Association, as well as the Family Court Section of the South Carolina Bar. In 2018, she was elected as a General Council Member of the South Carolina Bar Family Law Section, which monitors and drafts Family Court legislation, conducts continuing legal education seminars, and publishes materials for Family Court attorneys in South Carolina. In 2022, Ms. Bone was invited to join the South Carolina Family Law American Inn of Court, a national association of lawyers, judges, and other legal professionals from all levels and backgrounds who share a passion for professional excellence and a dedication to mentoring new attorneys. Ms. Bone has also been a guest lecturer at Charleston School of Law in the student mediation clinic run by the Mediation and Meeting Center of Charleston, and a trained Guardian ad Litem and Collaborative Lawyer.

Tyla N. Bowman

Director

tyla@bowman-law.net

Tyla N. Bowman is the daughter of the late Alonzo Eurie and Barbara Elbert. She is a native of James Island, SC and graduated from James Island High School in 1994. In 1995 she began her enlistment in the United States Army as an Administrative Specialist for 8 years.

In 2004, Tyla graduated from the University of South Carolina with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminology & Criminal Justice. Desiring to further her studies and fulfill her childhood dream, she enrolled in the Charleston School of Law in 2006 and graduated with a Juris Doctor degree in 2010.

Prior to practicing law, Tyla worked as a paralegal and law clerk for nine years alongside some of South Carolina’s most prestigious attorneys. She gained a wealth of knowledge in Divorce and Family Law and in 2016 she founded The Bowman Law Firm in North Charleston, South Carolina. Tyla’s legal education coupled with her work experience and dedication to protecting her clients’ best interest ensures that client’s of her firm receive thorough, well-considered and competent service.

Tyla is married to Reverend Tremayne Bowman, Sr. of Greenwood, SC and is the mother of four children. When she isn’t fighting for her clients’ rights, Tyla enjoys spending time with her family and friends and serving the members of her church – Adam’s African Methodist Episcopal Church and the local community.

Tyla’s motto: Keep God in everything you do, and he will direct you and crown your efforts with success.

Keisha Kirkland

Director

keisha.kirkland@gmail.com

Keisha Kirkland is a skilled social engineer, collaborator, and connector, leveraging strategic communications and event planning to build meaningful relationships and drive impact.

Originally from South Carolina, Keisha has established herself as a trusted expert in public affairs, media relations, and community engagement.

Currently serving as the Director of Communications for the Center for Heirs’ Property Preservation in Charleston, SC, Keisha manages the communications while developing impactful strategies that have boosted awareness.

Before this, Keisha was the Public and Community Relations Manager at the International African American Museum, where she spearheaded media campaigns, increased community engagement, and enhanced brand awareness. Her work with local, regional, and global media resulted in widespread visibility and national media coverage.

Keisha’s public service background includes a six-year tenure as a Public Affairs Officer with the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs in Washington, DC. There, she collaborated with city officials, implemented digital outreach strategies, and managed high-stakes communications, strengthening community relationships.

Keisha holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of the District of Columbia and a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communications from Norfolk State University. She also earned a Certificate in Mandarin from Nanjing Normal University, China. Known for her ability to foster lasting relationships with stakeholders and media, Keisha is committed to leveraging her expertise to create meaningful connections and drive social impact.

She is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., the Public Relations Society of America, and has served as a marketing board member for the Atlantic Beach Gullah Geechee Festival. Keisha is the founding president of the Black Girls Social Club in Montgomery County, MD, and is actively involved with the Black Marketers of America and the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ).

A proud mother of three beautiful boys who attend Dorchester County Two Public Schools. She enjoys “shouting” at her children’s games, reading, karaoke, traveling, and being amongst elders. Keisha lives by Dr. Maya Angelou’s powerful quote: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said; people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

Greg Perry

Director

gregperryglobal@gmail.com

Greg Perry, a native of North Charleston, has dedicated his life to serving others and making a positive impact on his community. Recognizing the importance of support and assistance, Greg founded a nonprofit in 2009 aimed at helping single moms with their everyday needs. Greg has spent his life seeking to be for others what he wishes someone would be for him if he found himself in that same circumstance. 

Greg has been actively involved in various roles within his community. He has served as a mentor, youth basketball coach, and even an adopted father figure at schools for young boys. Furthermore, Greg selflessly served as a volunteer Chaplain at the detention center in North Charleston, offering guidance and support to those in need. 

In terms of education, Greg holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, a Master of Science degree in Higher Education, and has pursued graduate studies towards an MBA from The Citadel. His educational background has equipped him with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of community development and engagement. Greg’s professional experience includes working as an educator in a middle school. Currently, he serves as a program manager for an entrepreneurial program and holds the position of adjunct professor, teaching a marketing course. Through these roles, he has empowered individuals with knowledge and skills to thrive in the business world. 

Benjamin R. Pogue, III

Director

Michael Samuel

Director

michael.samuel@southstatebank.com

Michael Samuel is a Commercial Relationship Manager with SouthState Bank where he works with commercial and middle market businesses in South Carolina to facilitate mergers and acquisitions, industrial and retail real estate acquisition/construction, and equipment financing.

When not working, Michael is committed to serving his community through various volunteer positions. Michael is the 2024-2025 Campaign Cabinet Chair and is on the Executive Committee of Trident United Way’s Board of Directors. He is also a leading voice in Trident United Way’s Young Leaders United group, organizing volunteer and professional development opportunities.

Michael is also a board member at the Charleston Habitat for Humanity, where he chairs the Finance Committee. Additionally, Michael serves on the Finance Committee for the Coastal Community Foundation and is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated. Michael holds two Bachelor’s Degrees from Georgia State University in Business Economics and Risk Management and Insurance.

Paul Rahn

Director

prr@roblaw.ne

Paul Rahn is a partner at Robertson Hollingsworth Manos & Rahn where he has practiced law continuously since 1998. He focuses in the areas of commercial, construction, real estate litigation and arbitration and community association law as well as counseling clients in contract negotiation and other transactions. Mr.  Rahn’s clients include owners, contractors, subcontractors, design professionals, sureties, homeowners associations, cooperatives and condominiums, and other businesses as well as individuals.  He is also South Carolina Board Certified Circuit Court Mediator and Arbitrator.

In 2022 Paul successfully negotiated over $400 million dollars in construction contracts.

Mr. Rahn earned his Juris Doctor from University of Florida College of Law where he was the President of the Environmental Law Society .  He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with Departmental Honors from The Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina. Mr. Rahn is a member of the Bar of the State of South Carolina and a member of the Construction Law Section, and is admitted to practice before the United States District Court for the South Carolina. He is a member of the American Bar Association where he is a member of the Construction Law Forum and the Tort Trial and Insurance Practice Section.  He is also a member of the Community Association Law Panel of the South Carolina Bar as well as an arbitrator for the South Carolina Bar Fee Disputes Resolution Committee.  Paul also serves as a volunteer mediator with

Paul and his wife,  Suzanne of Summerville, South Carolina, live in Charleston and have a daughter, Bella. They are members of Grace Episcopal Church Cathedral. When not practicing law Paul may be found tinkering with classic cars, wooden boats, vintage stereo equipment or old airplanes.

EDUCATION

J.D., University of Florida College of Law, 1997

B.S., Departmental Honors, The Citadel, 1994

Nina “Nikki” Sperling

Director

Nina “Nikki” Sperling is a native of Tennessee. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Social Psychology and dual-minored in Communications and Women’s Gender Studies from the University of Louisville, receiving honors of Dean’s list, Golden Key, and Psi Chi.

She joined the Center for Heirs’ Property Preservation (CHPP) as a Staff Attorney in 2022. Nikki has been admitted to practice law in South Carolina, Montana, and federally, through SC District Courts.

Nikki graduated from The Charleston School of Law and was awarded the Honorary Charleston School of Law William Bennett Regan Award for Outstanding Leadership and Commitment to Public Service. She has served as a past Student Body President of the Federal Bar Association, a pupil of The Petigru Inn of Courts, a Justice of Phi Alpha Delta Haynesworth Chapter for The Charleston School of Law and remains a long-standing member of the International Commitment to Justice Initiative Committee.

Nikki was the 2018 Pro Bono Populi Service Award recipient, and she was also recognized for outstanding public service through her pro bono contributions at The Mediation and Meeting Center of Charleston and other nonprofit organizations in the Charleston community. Presently, Nikki serves as a Director on the Board of Mediation and Meeting Center of Charleston (MMCC). Nikki has completed certification for both family and civil mediation under the South Carolina Bar training in 2017 and 2018.

When not assisting clients for CHPP, Nikki devotes her time to assisting in pro bono mediations throughout the Charleston Area, volunteering with the SC Human Trafficking Task Force, and participates in philanthropic endeavors for the Federal Bar, Phi Alpha Delta Justice Lowcountry Chapter. She also provides volunteer services for The Mediation and and Meeting Center of Charleston to provide mediation services to individuals for reduced and no-cost mediations, Nikki is currently working towards completing her master’s in legal studies for Risk Management at Texas A&M Law School, certification as an International Arbitrator, and licensure in Tennessee this summer.

Nikki lives by the motto “We rise by lifting others.” – by Robert Ingersoll.

Catherine M. Wilhoit

Director

(410) 591-2461
cwilhoit@triallaw.com

Catherine Wilhoit is an attorney based in Charleston, South Carolina. She has experience handling aspects of a wide range of civil disputes, including personal injury matters, premises and products liability suits, medical malpractice, as well as business and securities-based litigation and arbitration.

Mrs. Wilhoit is a South Carolina Supreme Court Certified Arbitrator, Civil Mediator, and Family Mediator. In addition to the practice of law, Mrs. Wilhoit teaches ADR and Arbitration Law and Practice as an Adjunct Professor at Charleston Law, runs an alternative dispute resolution based business, and volunteers for the 9th Circuit as a Juvenile Arbitrator.

Diane Seigel

Mediation Director

843-972-3683
administrator@mediationcentercharleston.org

Diane Seigel is an attorney licensed in New York and South Carolina. A graduate from New York Law School, Cum Laude 1997, Diane relocated to South Carolina in 1998, and focused her practice on real estate law. Diane has also spent years as a volunteer advocate for children, the underserved, and environmental causes.  Additionally, she has been a certified juvenile arbitrator with the 9th Circuit Court of South Carolina since 2014. Diane resides with her family in Mount Pleasant, SC. With the goal of helping to create a better community for all, she is dedicated to directing mediations through MMCC. 

Lyndsi Holst

Mediation Facilitator

843-972-3683
facilitator@mediationcentercharleston.org

Lyndsi Holst is a Charleston native who has dedicated her career to supporting her community through nonprofit work. She holds an associate degree in Human Services from Trident Technical College, with a concentration in addiction counseling and family intervention. Lyndsi has extensive experience working with nonprofits that address essential needs and is excited to bring her skills to the Mediation and Meeting Center of Charleston. In her role, she looks forward to collaborating with attorneys, mediators, and clients to provide meaningful support to those seeking conflict resolution. Outside of work, Lyndsi enjoys spending time with her husband, two young sons, and discovering new restaurants around Charleston.