Meet the Undergraduate Admission Staff
Our Admission Staff is a friendly team of people who are eager to help you find out if Belhaven University, is the right place for you. From your first campus visit to the day you enroll, we are here to serve you! Look below to find out which admission counselor is yours (based upon the first letter of your last name), and feel free to contact us with any questions -we love hearing from prospective students!
Office of Admission I 1500 Peachtree St. Box 153 I Jackson, MS 39202
601-968-5940 I Toll free: 1-800-960-5940 I Fax: 601-968-8946 I admission@belhaven.edu
Serving freshmen students whose last name start with: A-M (excluding students involved in arts or athletics)Andrew Bakarich Admission Counselor abakarich@belhaven.edu Hometown: LaGrange, GA Degree: Bachelor of Arts in English Hobbies: I love reading and watching movies. Film is something I’ve always been interested in, especially the writing side of it. I also enjoy spending time with friends and I enjoy meeting new people. What do you do in the Office of Admission? I help guide students as they make one of the most important decisions of their life. I want to be more than an admission counselor to the students. I want to be a friend they can rely on throughout the entire process of choosing what college to attend. What is your perception of academic quality at Belhaven University? The quality of our academia here at Belhaven University definitely comes from our professors. The faculty go far and beyond for the students, and the small class sizes means they have more time to show each student the individual attention they need. What do you like most about Belhaven? I love the people here. Everyone is so kind and accepting of others and you don’t find that a lot of places anymore. I have made some of the best friends I will ever have here at Belhaven. What is your favorite place on campus? Why? The Student Center. I love to walk through and see all the different people and talk with friends heading to class. It is also a great place to meet up with people and hangout after classes. What advice would you give to your incoming students? Savor the time you have here, because it will go by quickly. Try hard, don’t take your classes for granted. Enjoy yourself, Belhaven provides students with so many different activities and events where you can socialize and meet people. |
Caitlin Dunn Admission Counselor cdunn@belhaven.edu Hometown: La Veta, CO Degrees: BFA in Creative Writing, Global Studies Minor Hobbies: I love to read, travel, play the mandolin, sing, and act. What do you do in the Office of Admission? I’m able to help students through the process of finding their own niche at Belhaven, and I walk them through the steps they need to take to complete admission. What is your perception of academic quality at Belhaven University? When I attended Belhaven, I was always encouraged to academically perform to my highest potential. I believe that students at Belhaven are provided with the unique opportunity to spend quality time with their professors, which gives them the chance to find clarity and receive genuine help when it comes to their studies. Belhaven also offers numerous internship opportunities, so many students are able to apply what they’ve learned in a professional, practical context. What do you like most about Belhaven? The atmosphere of genuine caring and community at Belhaven is something that I noticed and loved from the moment I began schooling here. When you take classes here, you are a student, but more importantly, you are seen. The faculty, staff, and students care about each other and want each other to succeed. What is your favorite place on campus? Why? I’ve always loved the ‘Loungeatory,’ which is the Creative Writing department’s personal lounge in Preston. I spent some wonderful hours writing, laughing, studying, and spending quality time with other students there. What advice would you give to your incoming students? Take your time, and make as many friends as you can! Your time at college is a rare opportunity to spend time each day with people from all over the country and all over the world—and you just might have something in common! |
Serving freshmen students whose last name start with: L-Z (excluding students involved in arts or athletics)Michaela Lin Admission Counselor mlin@belhaven.edu Hometown: Tyler, TX until my family moved to Cynthiana, KY Degree: B.F.A. in Musical Theatre Hobbies: I love singing, dancing, acting, coffee, tea, and Netflix. What do you do in the Office of Admission? I have the opportunity of working with students and their parents in deciding to pursue higher education here at Belhaven. I want to be a vessel to help them know and feel confident in the university that they choose. Since choosing a college can sometimes be overwhelming, I want to come alongside students to make the process as easy as possible. What is your perception of academic quality at Belhaven University? Every professor here is extremely qualified and passionate about their work. This transfers into their teaching showing their love for both their class and students. It offers a small student to professor ratio making it easy for students to get personal help and attention from professors whenever they need it. What do you like most about Belhaven? My favorite thing about Belhaven is the relationships that are built here. I have made some of my closest friends at this school and have had the deepest talks and revelations about art, humanity, mental health, joy, our place in the world and so much more. It is always a joy to see the genuine relationships built with other students, faculty, and staff. What is your favorite place on campus? Why? I think my favorite place on campus is the Shoebird Café. Other than the awesome fact that the local coffee roaster and pastor moved in this past year, it offers less expensive and quality coffee. Whether running late to class or sitting in the student center and meeting a friend, it offers coffee and sandwiches or sweet treats that have definitely helped my need for caffeine and joy many times. What advice would you give to your incoming students? The best advice I could give is come, be involved, and be proactive. There are so many opportunities to get involved on campus and enjoy your time here. The people that work here love you and are here to help you in anyway they can! |
Serving transfer students whose last name start with: A-O (excluding students involved in arts or athletics) Michelle Gestes Admission Counselor mgestes@belhaven.edu Hometown: Grenada, MS Degrees: M.S. in Mental Health Counseling, B.S. in Psychology-Minor in Communications Hobbies: I enjoy cooking, baking, reading, and playing board games! What do you do in the Office of Admission? I have the privilege of assisting transfer students with the process of applying and enrolling into the Belhaven family. I walk through this life-changing process with students and their families, in order to provide peace to all involved in the transition process. What is your perception of academic quality at Belhaven University? Belhaven University is a college of excellence and experience. Each professor is highly skilled and knowledgeable about his or her respective field and is eager to train each student with urgency. Just as well, students at Belhaven University are given ample amounts of one-on-one time with professors, colleagues, and professionals in the Jackson community, in order to experience a taste of future careers. What do you like most about Belhaven? There is a unique presence of acceptance at this university. My co-workers have welcomed my family and I with open arms. Because of the diverse population on campus, there is an abundance of understanding and support. Belhaven easily feels like home. What is your favorite place on campus? Why? I love the fountain between Preston Hall and Fitzhugh Hall! It’s beautiful and serene. What advice would you give to your incoming students? Although it’s easier said than done, I would advise incoming students to expect, and accept, the unexpected. Plans often change. It can be so easy to fall back in fear when you are afraid or unsure of your next steps. I’ve found the faculty, staff, and students of Belhaven University to be strong and supportive during seasons for uncertainty and change. |
Serving all students with an academic interest in ArtsStefanie Grayson Admission Counselor sgrayson@belhaven.edu Hometown: West Palm Beach, FL Degree: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance, Sociology Minor Hobbies: Baking, sewing, traveling, and dancing in my free time! What do you do in the Office of Admission? My job is to work with students who are interested in attending Belhaven and to answer any questions they may have about Belhaven or the admission process. What is your perception of academic quality at Belhaven University? Belhaven University is a place where students will be challenged academically as well as spiritually. Our faculty and staff are dedicated to investing in students’ lives inside and outside of the classroom. The University is concerned with educating the spirit as well as the mind and their love for Christ is evident in their love and care for others. If someone is looking for a place that will prepare them in all ways to make a difference in the community, Belhaven is the place to choose. What do you like most about Belhaven? What I like most about Belhaven is that you aren’t just a number, but a part of the family. You have students and faculty who genuinely care about you and want to invest in you daily. What is your favorite place on campus? Why? My favorite place on campus would have to be under the trees next to Caldwell Hall overlooking the soccer bowl. This is a great place to watch all the activities on campus, study for a big test, hang out with friends, or just enjoy the weather! What advice would you give to your incoming students? Get connected! Belhaven offers so many awesome organizations and activities for students to connect and build friendships. Use these opportunities to make memories that will last you a lifetime! And always remember to...BU (be you)!! |
Serving transfer students whose last name start with: P-Z (excluding students involved in arts or athletics)Michael Hawkins Assistant Director of Admission mhawkins@belhaven.edu Hometown: All over the U.S. but now currently Jackson, MS Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics, Biblical Studies Minor Hobbies: I most enjoy hanging out with my wife, friends and family. I also enjoy the outdoors, whether that be back-packing camping or taking a walk down the street. Another favorite hobby is playing any kind of sport, but I especially like basketball and soccer. What do you do in the Office of Admission? I talk to students and parents and help them with the process of admission to Belhaven. I am here to help with any questions or concerns they may have and to relieve as much stress as possible through the important decision of choosing a college. What is your perception of academic quality at Belhaven University? I attended Belhaven all four years of my college career and it has been the best place I could have been. Belhaven does such a great job teaching students relevant information. Since many of the professors have experience in the field for their subject, as a student, you get a practical way of understanding the material. You get to see the big picture and you end up actually retaining the information long term, opposed to just for the test. What do you like most about Belhaven? I love the community and the life-long friends you make with students, faculty and staff. What is your favorite place on campus and Why? The soccer bowl. I have so many memories of playing Ultimate Frisbee, soccer, snow ball fights and sledding, when it snows. It's the best place to hang out with friends and have a good relaxing time as well. What advice would you give to your incoming students? As a former Belhaven student my best advice is to get involved in campus life. You will be living here for the next four years and making friends that will last a lifetime, so take advantage of this awesome time where you get to live and learn together. Be a part of organizations and the events that happen every week. |
Lori Kimes Manager of Admission Operations lkimes@belhaven.edu Hometown: Manchester, CT Degree: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from University of NH and Master of Arts in Teaching from Missouri Baptist University Hobbies: I love reading, exploring new towns, going for walks and spending time with family and friends. What do you do in the Office of Admission? I work on the operation side of our admission department. Gathering the official documents for each applicant and verifying that the criteria is met so that an applicant can become a Blazer. I work alongside the admission team from the stage of the application to the last stage of final acceptance. What is your perception of academic quality at Belhaven University? Having been an educator, I know the value of a low teacher to student ratio. Belhaven is able to provide an environment that allows for a personal and meaningful learning experience. I love walking along the Legacy of Learning, it shows the years of commitment to quality academics at Belhaven. What do you like most about Belhaven? It’s small town community ‘feel’ but yet, it is right in the middle of our capital. The staff and faculty are welcoming and genuine which also makes it feel like a small town. What is your favorite place on campus? Why? The tree outside the student center that canopies over Belhaven’s outside bistro tables. It is a great place to meet with friends or eat lunch alone, while at the same time enjoying the beauty of campus. What advice would you give to your incoming students? Get involved. Ask for help early on. Make the most of your college years! |
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Serving freshmen students whose last name start with: L-Z (excluding students involved in arts or athletics) Michaela Lin Admission Counselor mlin@belhaven.edu Hometown: Tyler, TX until my family moved to Cynthiana, KY Degree: B.F.A. in Musical Theatre Hobbies: I love singing, dancing, acting, coffee, tea, and Netflix. What do you do in the Office of Admission? I have the opportunity of working with students and their parents in deciding to pursue higher education here at Belhaven. I want to be a vessel to help them know and feel confident in the university that they choose. Since choosing a college can sometimes be overwhelming, I want to come alongside students to make the process as easy as possible. What is your perception of academic quality at Belhaven University? Every professor here is extremely qualified and passionate about their work. This transfers into their teaching showing their love for both their class and students. It offers a small student to professor ratio making it easy for students to get personal help and attention from professors whenever they need it. What do you like most about Belhaven? My favorite thing about Belhaven is the relationships that are built here. I have made some of my closest friends at this school and have had the deepest talks and revelations about art, humanity, mental health, joy, our place in the world and so much more. It is always a joy to see the genuine relationships built with other students, faculty, and staff. What is your favorite place on campus? Why? I think my favorite place on campus is the Shoebird Café. Other than the awesome fact that the local coffee roaster and pastor moved in this past year, it offers less expensive and quality coffee. Whether running late to class or sitting in the student center and meeting a friend, it offers coffee and sandwiches or sweet treats that have definitely helped my need for caffeine and joy many times. What advice would you give to your incoming students? The best advice I could give is come, be involved, and be proactive. There are so many opportunities to get involved on campus and enjoy your time here. The people that work here love you and are here to help you in anyway they can! |
Erica Lorelli Admission Coordinator elorelli@belhaven.edu Hometown: Queens, NY Degree: Bachelor of Business Administration from Iona College in New Rochelle, NY Hobbies: I love adventure through travel with my husband and two daughters. Our homeschooling journey has afforded us the experience of different cultures through food, museums, and historical sights opening our hearts to all God’s creation. What do you do in the Office of Admission? My primary responsibility is directing incoming phone calls appropriately. Additionally, I have the pleasure of welcoming students and families for campus visits and assisting the staff as needed. What do you like most about Belhaven? My favorite aspect of Belhaven is the campus; I especially love prayer walking during the cool weather. What is your favorite place on campus? Why? I enjoy studying student’s artwork in Bitsy Irby which gives me that museum feel as I meander through the lobby. What advice would you give to your incoming students? This time at College is going to go by fast for you so enjoy every moment. Get involved in campus groups and activities and ask for help when you need it; you aren’t expected to go it alone. The faculty and staff at Belhaven are amazing because they care about you and want to be a part of your journey. Sleeping in is something we all want to do, but what God has to say to you in Chapel and/or Church is far too important to miss. |
Serving all students involved in AthleticsGina McCorkle Assistant Director of Admission for Athletic Recruitment gmccorkle@belhaven.edu Hometown: Emmaus, PA Degrees: M.S. in Education , Bachelor of Arts in Musical Theatre Hobbies: Running, weight-training, field hockey. Enjoy any creative project or active recreation. Love baking and cleaning. Genuine connection over coffee is a favorite use of leisure time. What do you do in the Office of Admission? My job is to develop relationships with inspiring student athletes who are motivated to win in the classroom and on the playing field. What is your perception of academic quality at Belhaven University? I believe a rich academic experience is offered to all majors and diverse student interests. The commitment to sustained academic excellence is experienced upon first encounter with Belhaven faculty/staff and remains authentic to the graduation hand shake from President Dr. Parrott. What do you like most about Belhaven? I think being immersed in a campus setting that has Christ as the foundation in every aspect of the student experience is life changing and counter-cultural. Students at Belhaven experience grace, truth, and impactful mentoring. Truly they are equipped to use their unique gifting to be agents of change and success in a broken world. What is your favorite place on campus? Why? I love the American flag that stands tall over the stadium alongside the Belhaven motto “To serve not to be served”. At night there is a gentle breeze and peace that you feel when you stand on the hill under the rippling flag. It’s a profound reminder of our amazing freedom in Christ and our charge to impact the world by our humility. What advice would you give to your incoming students? Pursue. Take initiative. The college experience is about relationship. Professors, coaches, and staff members are all here to draw out the very best in you. There are lifetime friends and moments around the corner. The degree you are willing to invest in that will determine your satisfaction and commitment here. |
Missy Pierce Assistant Manager of Admission Operations and Visit Coordinator mpierce@belhaven.edu Hometown: Pittsburgh, PA Degree: Bachelor of Arts in History from Grove City College and Master of Arts in Christian Education from Reformed Theological Seminary, Jackson Hobbies: I find great joy in spending time with my four children (Abby, Nathaniel, Rachel, and Eli) and our two dogs (Jack and Cooper). I love to bake and to share baked goods with friends and family. Attending Bible Study and praying with my sisters in Christ is also very dear to me. What do you do in the Office of Admission? I am the receptionist in the Office of Admission so I have the distinct pleasure of welcoming future students and their families to our campus. I enjoy talking with them and learning about their lives and especially love when I get to see glimpses into how God is working in them and through them. I also answer the main phone for the campus so I get to help lots of people get connected to the correct department on campus. What do you like most about Belhaven? I am so thankful to God for the friendships that I have formed at Belhaven and for the “family feel” among the Admission staff and on the campus as a whole. I count it a joy to work here! What is your favorite place on campus? Why? The Office of Admission! There are great people working here and I get to meet many wonderful families and students. What advice would you give to your incoming students? My years at a small Christian college were life-changing! I grew tremendously in my relationship with God and I developed life-long friendships. Get to know the professors and staff. They want to see you grow academically and spiritually. Be kind and loving toward your fellow students. Get involved with a local church. Seek to glorify God through your studies. Praise God for the tremendous blessings that He has given you! |
Serving All International StudentsJake Donald Director of Admission jdonald@belhaven.edu Hometown: Louisville, MS Degree: Bachelor of Science in Psychology at Mississippi State University, Master of Science in Higher Education Administration at Mississippi College Hobbies: Spending as much time with my family and friends that I can, being outdoors, and enjoy traveling What do you do in the Office of Admission? I have the opportunity to work with our incredible admission team as we serve students and families throughout the admission and financial aid process. What do you like most about Belhaven? The community. As a student, faculty, or staff it's very easy to get connected to all that Belhaven has to offer. What is your favorite place on campus? Why? I enjoy walking through Gillespie Commons and glancing down at the many Legacy of Learning plaques embedded in the brick walkway as I'm reminded of the many professors who poured into their students and have built such a strong foundation of academic excellence here at Belhaven. The green lawn and beautiful arching trees make for an inviting atmosphere to read or enjoy a cup of coffee with a friend. What advice would you give to your incoming students? Don't hesitate to ask for help when you need it whether its academic related or not. There are many people at Belhaven that are here to serve and support you! |
Dr. Kevin RussellVice President for Enrollment Management and University Marketing krussell@belhaven.edu Hometown: Memphis, TN Degree: BBA in Finance from Millsaps College; MBA from The University of Texas Hobbies: Reading, Golf, Jogging...a little, pouring myself into my family, church fellowship What do you do in the Office of Admission? ? I oversee all aspects of the traditional and online enrollment, retention, career services, and communications functions. What do you like most about Belhaven? Belhaven is a perfect blend between my faith, family and work All work seamlessly together and for His glory. What is your favorite place on campus? Why? Relaxing on one of the benches on The Commons between Fitzhugh and Preston! What advice would you give to your incoming students? Realize that your college education is one of the most important decisions and investments you will ever make. Indeed, your education will become one of the biggest assets that you will use for the rest of your life. The people who you spend your next four years with should be examined closely. We always encourage prospective students to consider the faculty, staff, and students at the colleges they are considering and ask themselves, "are these people I'd want to be like?" The best way to learn the answer to this question is an individual visit that is NOT on one of the group visit days. While group visit days can give you a great overview, a personal visit to your top schools will best help you make your final decision! At Belhaven, we look forward to helping you make the best decision for your future. |