Jackson Adult Studies Campus Staff

Shemekka Anderson, Senior Enrollment Counselor

B.A. - Jackson State University
M.A. - Liberty University

What if we dared to believe in the unfolding of our lives and that everything conspires to guide us exactly where we are supposed to be? What if every experience is preparing us for what's to come? What if the lives we are meant to change are waiting for us to believe in ourselves and take a leap of faith?

Every day that I get to encourage potential students to take that leap is an honor. My greatest joy comes from inspiring others to dream, take risk, and enjoy every moment because the door will open for those who are brave enough to knock.

1 Peter 1:8-9 - Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory.

Rick Barker, Enrollment and Recruitment Officer

B.S. – Central State University
B.S. – Austin Peay University

Service to others is intertwined into the fabric of who I am and what God has ordained me to be. Serving others is what I feel God has made my purpose in this world. The majority of my professional career (22 years) has been dedicated to serving our country as an enlisted officer in the United States Army. I am so extremely blessed and excited to bring my passion of serving others to Belhaven University. This glorious institution embodies the spirit of service, promotion of the Christian Worldview and the love of our glorious Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It is my desire and goal to reach every prospective student assisting them in making their dream of starting, continuing or furthering their education a reality.

Favorite Verse: Galatians 5:22-26
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

Renea Brandon, Director of Graduate Education Enrollment

M.S. - University of West Alabama
B.A.- Mississippi University for Women

I am excited to be a part of the Belhaven family to continue my passion of navigating students towards their career goals.  I have worked in higher education for over 10 years and it has been the most rewarding experience. It is humbling and a blessing to be able to provide support and encouragement to our students. 

Our Adult and Graduate programs reflect a Christian world-view with supportive faculty and staff, and flexible with life-demands.  It is my desire to support you in discovering your passion and to enhance your opportunities for professional, spiritual, and personal growth.    

Proverbs 3:5-6 - Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

Lisa Britt, Senior Enrollment Counselor

B.S. - Mississippi State University

Having the opportunity to encourage and inspire potential students in their academic journey is both rewarding and humbling.  I am thrilled to be a part of Belhaven University and have the chance to live out its mission by serving and supporting you in your educational and spiritual journey, as you allow God to lead in His perfect plan for you.

It is my desire, as you take this next step, to assist you as you explore options and possibilities that will enhance not only your educational and professional goals, but enrich your spiritual walk with God, as well. 

Colossians 3:23-24 - Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.  (NIV)

Sheila Horne, Director of Admission

B.G.S - University of Mississippi
Master of Ministry Leadership - Belhaven University

It is a tremendous blessing and honor to assist students as they make critical decisions on their journey to reach their educational goals. My desire is to make each student feel comfortable and confident that their decision to attend Belhaven University is indeed the best choice. It is my pleasure to encourage each student to strive to reach their desired objectives in an effort to expand opportunities in their professional, spiritual and educational aspirations.

Philippians 4:13 - I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

Carlisa Jenkins, Enrollment Counselor

B.S. - Alcorn State University

Helping, supporting, and motivating others to become their best version of self brings joy to my heart. When one becomes their best version of self, they are able to do the work that God has instructed them to do.  We all have different assignments from God. Some of those assignments require obtaining a college degree. For many this can be an exciting yet challenging step to take. My goal is to be that safe place and resource for students preparing to take that next step in life. It is such a honor to be able to help students reach their goals. Growing up I was blessed to have family, friends, and mentors pour into me. I am thrilled to be able to pour into others. It is a blessing to be a blessing.  

Psalm 116:2 - Because he inclined his ear to me, therefore I will call on him as long as I live. 

Brooklyn Patrick, Graduate Education Enrollment Counselor

I am so thankful to be a part of an incredible team passionate about seeing students achieve their hopes and dreams with a Christian worldview perspective. I worked as a student worker for the enrollment department throughout undergrad, and I am so thankful to be an Enrollment Counselor. My goal is to motivate, guide, and support students to achieve their educational goals throughout their journey at Belhaven University.

"What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?" – Romans 8:31

Vicki Pitts, Associate Director of Admissions

B.S. in Marketing/Advertising, University of Southern Mississippi

There are so many aspects of our program at Belhaven which creates an environment that will make it possible for you to reach your educational goals and take care of all your other responsibilities as an adult student. I look forward to assisting you through the enrollment process and cheering for you as you walk across the stage to be awarded your degree!

Psalm 18:2 - The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

Mallory Robertson, Admission Advisor

B.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders and Psychology, Oklahoma State University

Our goal at Belhaven is to encourage and provide guidance as you transition to student and beyond! I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time working with students to help them reach their goals. It is so rewarding to be a part of the admissions team and to cheer our students on, from orientation to graduation. In my free time, I enjoy reading, baking and spending time with my husband and family.

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” Hebrews 12:1

Bill Rogers, Enrollment Counselor

B.S. - University of Mississippi
M.Ed. - Mississippi College

I consider it a privilege to be in a position to work with education professionals who aspire to grow and further their careers. Having pursued a career in education myself, I know full well the benefits and challenges of completing an advanced degree while balancing work and home life. I look forward to assisting candidates in their journey to further their careers and become more dynamic teachers and leaders for those they serve.

“For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” - Jeremiah 29:11

Kathleen Sloan,  Manager of Operations

B.S., Mississippi State University

As native of Jackson, I have always admired Belhaven University and its place in our community. I take great joy in seeing adult students reach their goal of an undergraduate or graduate college education. I understand the challenges adults face while going to school and handling all of the responsibilities that life presents them. I am honored to be able to offer encouragement and support for our students. I look forward to celebrating with you at your graduation!

Colossians 3:23 - Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as though you were working for the Lord and not for men.

Lacey VanDevender, Coordinator of Adult and Graduate Enrollment

B.S. - University of Phoenix
A.A. - Brevard Community College, Melbourne, FL

Born and raised in Jackson, MS., I am married and have 6 children. I enjoy working with Belhaven students and watching them graduate. It is very exciting seeing students reach their goals after years of their hard work! I look forward to watching many more succeed as well.

Jennifer White, Enrollment Counselor

B.S.- Tougaloo College
MPH- Jackson State University

 I am a firm believer that educational success is accessible and attainable to everyone, no matter their reality.

As I serve as an enrollment counselor at Belhaven University, I desire to inform students that with God all things are possible and with much faith and perseverance they shall accomplish the goal set at hand, where their career and calling collide.

2 Corinthians 5:20- Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.

Lisa Woods, Assistant Director of Enrollment - DeSoto Campus

B.S.B.A., University of Hartford

I have been working in higher education for the past twelve years. My passion is to help you make your dreams and goals into a reality, one step at a time. It is an honor to work with our students, faculty, and staff as we all work diligently to achieve continuing education goals. Belhaven provides a wonderful way for you to grow academically and spiritually.


Luke 1:37 - For with God nothing shall be impossible.

LaKeshia Alexander, Senior Student Service Advisor

M.S. - Counselor Education and College Student Development- The University of North Carolina, Greensboro
B.S. - Psychology- The University of Southern Mississippi

I have worked in higher education for over 13 years. Every day has been exciting and rewarding. I have a heart and passion for reaching students where they are and helping them to set and achieve their goals. I had a desire to join the staff of Belhaven University because of the school’s emphasis on service and leadership and its focus on the integration of faith and learning. I knew that working here would not only give me the opportunity to do what I love to do, but it would also help me to grow spiritually. I am passionate about lifelong learning in any form, and investing in others by helping them to develop holistically.

Romans 12:12 - Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continually instant in prayer.

Samantha Gray, Senior Student Services Advisor

B.B.A. – Mississippi State University

I am very passionate about encouraging and assisting students achieve their educational goals. I humbly serve and contribute in the Mission of Belhaven University, as I aim to guide and motivate students throughout the duration of their program. It is an honor for students to trust Belhaven with their education, and we strive to make their educational journey a success.

“Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established.” Proverbs 16:3

Michael Jordan, Senior Student Services Counselor

B.B.A – Belhaven University
M.B.A. – William Carey University

I remember my time as an undergraduate business major fondly, but one of the most important reasons for returning to serve as a student services counselor is that the tenets of Belhaven align with those I value in my own life: faith, family, and service. Iam blessed to be part of the student services team and to be surrounded by others who have servants’ hearts.

By nature, I am an optimistic person. Each time I interact with the students—whether in the office or in the classroom— I leave the encounter with even more optimism! I have been given the opportunity to assist Christ-like people in both their educational and spiritual journeys and believe they will make a difference in the future of the world.

Matthew 6:33 - But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

Erica Lorelli, Student Services Advisor

B.B.A. - Iona College

What a joy it is to be part of a team that encourages students to achieve their educational goals. Listening with heart to each student, responding in love to their needs, and moving with humility alongside of them upholds the Belhaven University motto, "To serve, not to be served." Every day it is an honor to serve each student in this Holy capacity.

Psalm 119:66 - Teach me good judgement and knowledge: for I have believed thy commandments.

David Moss, Senior Student Services Advisor

B.A.  – Tulane University

Serving, helping, and encouraging are passions of mine. What better place to exhibit these attributes, than Belhaven University. The Belhaven motto “Serve not to be served” is the way I strive to live my life. God opened the door for me to come to Belhaven and He has blessed me by putting me in a position where I can use these attributes to serve, help, and encourage our students with their educational journey.

Matthew 23:11 - The greatest among you will be your servant.

Jordan Parchman, Senior Student Services Advisor

M.Ed., Belhaven University
B.S., University of Southern Mississippi

I understand that balancing work, life, and school can be challenging through experience. Observing the mantra “do your best and God will do the rest” has armed me with faith and determination necessary not only to survive, but to thrive through it all. My hope is to provide teachers pursuing their educational goals the guidance, support, and encouragement with which they so generously serve their own students and others.

“So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.” 1 Corinthians 15:58

Deidra Stewart, Student Services Representative

B.S. – Jackson State University
M.S. – Capella University
Ed.S – Mississippi College

I am thankful for the opportunity that God has given me to encourage students to be the best version of themselves. Encouragement is defined as an act of giving someone support, confidence and hope. In the times that we are living, encouragement is vital. My ability to help build confidence and provide support to students who are increasing their knowledge and advancing their education brings me great joy and reward.  God equips us with many tools for helping and serving one another and I am happy to be a servant.

It is my aspiration to assist you with your educational journey and help to build your spiritual connection with God.

“For nothing will be impossible with God.” Luke 1:37

Catina Tate, Director of Student Services

B.S.B.A – Mississippi College
M.S. – Mississippi College

Lisa Thompson, Assistant Director of Student Services, Desoto Campus

BSBA-Arkansas State University

Working with adult students is an honor and a privilege for me. God has a plan for your life and we look forward to the opportunity of being a part of your journey as you pursue your educational goals. One of my favorite events at Belhaven is our graduation ceremony. It is so rewarding to see our students through the process from the initial application to the day we get to celebrate their accomplishments at graduation

Jeremiah 29:11-For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Deloris White, Senior Student Services Advisor

B.A. - Tougaloo College
MBA - Belhaven University
MHA - Belhaven University

Belhaven prepares students both academically and spiritually, and being called to serve at Belhaven University as a Student Services Advisor was the best decision I ever made. I am dedicated to utilizing my passion for helping others achieve their educational goals. I strive daily to go above and beyond for all of my students because I believe that your education is something that no one will ever be able to take away from you.

Romans 15:13 - May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Suzanne Sullivan, Associate Vice President for Enrollment

B.A. – Mississippi State University
M.B.A – Belhaven University

Suzanne works with adult, graduate and online admission.

We know that family, career, and church can take up much of your time, but Belhaven Online allows you the freedom to take class whenever and wherever is convenient for you. Our classes will challenge you and help you complete your educational goals. We've made the process to enroll easy, so apply online today and our admission team will help you with the rest!