MEET THE STAFF / CONTACT YOUR ADMISSIONS COUNSELOR

Kristie Vance / 828-689-1353

Director of Admissions

I look forward to working with all students interested in attending Mars Hill! I enjoy helping students realize the endless opportunities and advantages that Mars Hill has to offer. As a recent graduate, I enjoy sharing my Mars Hill experience and how I benefited from the opportunities and advantages found here. The very best way to learn more about the Mars Hill experience is to visit campus. Our staff will show you around our beautiful campus, you can meet our faculty, current students, and staff, and you can even sit in on a class! Contact us to schedule a visit – we look forward to seeing you soon!

Carolyn Kuzell / 828-689-1589

Associate Director of Admissions
International Admissions Counselor
Adult & Graduate Studies Admissions Counselor

I’m a 2009 graduate of Allegheny College and a world traveler. During my four years as a student at Allegheny, I double majored in Political Science and French. Having spent my junior year in France, I am very passionate about encouraging students to study languages and spend a semester or year abroad. As a member of the Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority, Phi Sigma Iota Honor Society, Allegheny Swimming and Diving Team, and Phonathon Team, I feel strongly about students getting involved in campus activities and exploring their passions and interests. Having grown up in Europe, attended college in Pennsylvania, and now working in North Carolina, I believe in students trying new experiences, discovering new places and gaining friends from wherever they go.

Travis Wilson / 828-689-1142

Senior Admissions Counselor Assisting new and transfer students in Western NC, well as Gaston and Mecklenburg NC counties

I’m a 2011 graduate of Liberty University where I majored in Sport Management. During my time at Liberty, I played three years of intramural basketball. I really enjoy traveling, watching movies, playing basketball, going out to eat, and attending sporting events. My goal everyday is to make an positive impact in this next generation of student’s lives for God’s glory. I’m extremely happy to be a part of the Mars Hill family and I look forward to meeting you and helping you through the admissions process. GO LIONS!

Denise DeVatt / 828-689-1356

Admissions Counselor Assisting new and transfer students in NC Piedmont and Coast, and Returning Students.

I am a 2019 graduate of Mars Hill University. During my time at the Hill I double majored in Political Science and International Studies and completed an internship in Israel. As a first-generation college student I have learned how important it is to find a sense of community in the school you will be spending your next 4 years. Mars Hill helped me discover myself and my passions through organizations such as Pi Sigma Alpha Honor Society, FORGE, Delta Zeta and Mars Hill campus elections. This is a place where you will laugh, cry, and stay up all night; this is a place to call home. I’m a Slytherin, lover of pasta, dogs, and all things blue-and-gold. Go Hill!

Spencer McCoy / 828-689-1357

Admissions Counselor Assisting new and transfer students in all out of state areas (outside of NC)

I graduated from Mars Hill University in May of 2019 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, and I will graduate in December of 2020 with a MBA from Western Carolina University. While attending Mars Hill, I was a Student-Athlete, playing Middle Linebacker for the football team. If you have any questions about what it’s like to balance a busy schedule while in college, I’m your guy! Being from the area, I know all the best food, hiking, and fishing around. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask. I am eager to help, and I am excited for you to begin your journey as a Lion!

Samantha Wyatt / 828-689-1392

Campus Guest Experience Coordinator
Admissions Counselor Assisting Performing & Visual Arts Students

I graduated from Mars Hill in May of 2018 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre. If you really want an inside look at student perspective, I have the scoop. While participating heavily in the arts at Mars Hill, I was also involved on campus as a Student Ambassador and First Year Mentor. The kinds of connections and opportunities I was afforded at Mars Hill are tremendous. I look forward to sharing these experiences with potential students. At Mars Hill, I found a community of professors, classmates and even staff that have been dedicated to my success. This community was so important to me, I just couldn’t bear to leave it. I hope to help you start your journey to joining this Mars Hill family.

Amanda Proffitt / 828-689-1202

Information & Applications Manager

Tips for students from the staff:

• Start early. Take the SAT and ACT multiple times, research schools, schedule a visit, apply to schools, apply for scholarships, ask questions and keep in contact with your admissions counselors! (We like to hear from you!)
• Visit campus. There is no better way to get a feel for the school and determine if it’s the “right fit.”
• Talk to current students, parents, teachers, mentors and coaches about their college experiences and try and determine where you may best excel.
• Don’t be afraid to choose a major that you love.
• Enjoy college! It is an extraordinary time in your young adult life when you get to try new things, make new connections and dedicate yourself to what you are passionate about.