This July, Baylo Hall will welcome a new Resident Director to the dorm. Corban Admissions counselor Katy Drake will replace Balyo’s current Resident Director, Holly Schilperoort, for the 2012-13 school year.
“We are excited to have Katy as part of the residence hall staff,” said Nancy Hedburg, vice president for Student Life.
Drake, originally from Clackamas, Ore., graduated from Corban in 2010 with an education degree and worked as a substitute teacher for a year. This past year, she worked as an admissions counselor. After significant prodding from friends, she decided to apply for the open RD position at Corban.
“I’d always thought I’d love to be an RD, but just later in life,” said Drake. “Then as I thought and prayed about it, my conclusion was ‘why not now?’”
Drake said the position is a great fit for her because she loves the college lifestyle and helping students grow in an uplifting environment.
“My time as a student here was very transformational in many ways and I can’t wait to be a part of this growth-filled season in the lives of students here,” she said.
The hiring process for new RDs is an arduous one, according to current Prewitt RD Jennifer Ellison. Student Life spends a considerable amount of time looking over applications, interviewing and deciding who should be hired. But for Drake, the good news came sooner than she expected.
“I was preparing to wait until early to mid April but was happily surprised when a decision was made sooner,” she said.
Ellison was thrilled to learn about Drake’s new position and looks forward to work on the same team with Drake.
“I think she’s going to be a great fit for the RD team and Balyo is going to love her!” Ellison said.
Besides working in admissions, Drake is passionate about missions and just returned from a trip to Africa. Her sister Amy currently attends Corban, and will serve as ASB president next year.
Drake is looking forward to working in Student Life and living with students in the dorms.
As Drake rallies up her troops, she says in anticipation for next year, “And let’s be honest, I’m kind of crazy so I’m ready to have some fun! Balyo girls, get ready!!”