MEET THE STAFF / CONTACT YOUR ADMISSIONS COUNSELOR

Kristie Vance / 828-689-1353

Director of Admissions

As a 2007 graduate of Mars Hill, I enjoy sharing my Mars Hill experience and how I benefited from the growth opportunities I found here. My time spent here shaped my future in so many ways I never imagined. I think the very best way for a prospective student to learn more about the Mars Hill experience is to visit campus. We’ll l take you on a student-guided campus tour, you can meet our faculty, current students, and staff, and you can even sit in on a class. I look forward to seeing you soon and introducing you to the Mars Hill family!

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.

Sarah Burnette / 828-689-1356

Admissions Counselor assisting adult undergraduate students and returning undergraduate students

I am a 2011 graduate of East Tennessee State University with a Bachelor of Arts in History with a minor in Appalachian studies. I moved to the Mars Hill/Asheville area after getting married in 2013. I am passionate about the history and people of this region. I grew up in East Tennessee and have always loved the people and area I lived in. I love the MHU community and spirit of MHU and I am honored to work here. I get the amazing opportunity to work with our adult student population here at MHU! I am passionate about helping adults start or continue their journey in higher education. I look forward to working with you!

Andrew Nicholson / 828-689-1357

Admissions Counselor assisting new and transfer students in Western NC

I am a 2010 graduate from Appalachian State University, where I received my bachelor’s degree in psychology. During my time at App State, I worked with several inspiring professors, made many friends, and had the opportunity to expand both my personal and educational horizons. I joined the Mars Hill family in 2022 as a member of the Admissions team, and I am very excited to help students begin or continue their journey into higher education here at MHU. As someone who was born and raised in Western North Carolina, I am also thrilled to be working specifically with students from the WNC area, including our Local Lions! If you would like to know more about MHU, please reach out to me anytime.

Amanda Proffitt / 828-689-1202

Information & Applications Manager

Having deep family roots in Mars Hill made attending school here a no-brainer for me. My time at Mars Hill allowed me to have all kinds of exciting experiences while staying close to home. These days I enjoy doing craft projects and exploring all that Western North Carolina and the surrounding area offers.

Thomas Farman / 828-689-1142

Admissions Counselor assisting out-of-state undergraduate new and transfer students

Being an international graduate of Mars Hill University, I can relate to all out-of-state students. I know what it is like to be away from home. I came from across the pond in England to study at Mars Hill and play tennis in 2017. Attending MHU is easily the best decision I have ever made. Being that we are a small university, I have made connections from all across the US, and the world, that I will keep forever, and I promise if you attend, you will do the same. The best thing I can encourage, is for you to come and visit our campus. We offer individual tours and hold visit day events throughout the year. Come and try us out! I look forward to seeing you!

Abby Wilkerson / 828-689-1392

Admissions Counselor assisting undergraduate new and transfer students in NC Piedmont and Coast

In the fall of 2018 I began my journey as a student at Mars Hill University. From the moment I stepped on campus I felt that this is the place where I would experience many wonderful opportunities, grow as a person and meet great people. As a student I was a part of many organizations that helped me learn skills that I still use today. I am proud to be an MHU alum which is why I joined the Admissions team in the fall of 2022 to help students also graduate, grow, and find their purpose here on the Hill.