I first came to Brevard College after a weekend camping trip in Pisgah National Forest in August 2006. I had been looking for an opportunity to return to higher education after working a short time in corporate healthcare. As I drove through the Brevard College campus, I was struck by how beautiful it was from the mountain views to the creek running through it. I didn’t know anything about White Squirrels then, but I knew I was drawn to this place. After returning home to Nashville, I applied for a job in Campus Life. That Friday, I was again headed to Brevard for an interview. I was offered the job that afternoon. Without hesitation, I accepted. It all happened so quickly and seamlessly that I knew God had opened the right doors for me to be here.
I was hired at Brevard College initially as a Hall Director in Jones Hall with a collateral assignment as a Health Educator for the campus. In fact, I moved in the same day the football team did, when BC reintroduced football in 2006. Myself and about 100 football players moving into our new homes at Brevard College. I remember how excited we all were. From the beginning, Brevard felt special, the community, the surroundings, and the opportunities for outdoor adventure, all confirmed that I was in the right place.
After several years at BC in Housing, I transitioned to Career Services, allowing me to better use my master’s degree in Counseling and Human Growth and Development from Lindsey Willson College in Kentucky. I love helping students with their career development. There is nothing more fulfilling than seeing their joy when they get their first job or internship, or when they are accepted into a graduate school. And of course, the pride in watching students walk across the stage at graduation. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to develop lasting friendships with many of the students I’ve mentored, friendships that continue today as they’ve grown as BC alumni.
Beyond my work, I’ve been blessed to start and raise my family in Brevard. I met my husband, Ken, a 2008 alum of the BC Wilderness Leadership program. We have two daughters, Laurel and Allie, who have practically grown up on the BC campus. Together, we own On the Rise Fishing, a fly fishing business based in Brevard. It has been such a gift to not only build our careers here but also to live and enjoy the incredible community Brevard has to offer our family.
Like so many students and alumni, I was welcomed with open arms at Brevard College. From the moment I stepped onto campus, I knew I was home and almost 19 years later, it still feels that way. I am grateful to be part of the Brevard College family. Go Tornados!