New Face in the Dean’s Office

For many years, the most visible face of the Office of the Dean of Students has been Mrs. Cathi Lykins. That changed on March 17, when Kelly Mitchell (’87) took over as the administrative assistant to Dr. Doug Barlar. (Mrs. Lykins now serves as administrative assistant to Advising Office director Dr. Stephen S. Walker.)

In a position with a broad spectrum of responsibilities related to student services, Ms. Mitchell was presented with a daunting task.

“I must admit I was very hesitant when [Dr. Barlar] first mentioned it to me,” Ms. Mitchell said. “I wasn’t sure if I was up for the challenge.”

Still, even with much to learn and the shoes of a longtime veteran to fill, Ms. Mitchell was encouraged by the dean and several friends to take the job. She credits Mrs. Lykins for helping smooth the transition, and the entire staff for making her feel welcome.

“I am very thankful that I made the decision to return to Florida College,” she said.

Ms. Mitchell graduated from Florida College with an A.A. degree, and went on to receive a B.S. degree in elementary education from the University of South Florida. She has taught elementary school, worked as a billing manager and an office manager for several doctors, and served as the athletic secretary at Florida College.

Asked what the most rewarding part of her new job is, she replied that it has been “having the opportunity to interact with so many young people, and also working with so many wonderful Christians.”