Jenessa Hicks '12

Phone: 269-749-7226

Jenessa Hicks graduated from The University of Olivet in 2012 with a bachelor’s degree in special education and minors in English and physical education, following her dreams to help students reach their goals. As associate director of admissions, Coach Hicks is utilizing this passion to help high school students earn a college education in a familial environment – adding that the family atmosphere is her favorite part of Olivet.

“I have always had a passion to help students reach their goals,” Coach Hicks emphasized. “It is very rewarding to see a student grow in his or her academics and watch them develop over a period of time for the better.”

Prior to returning to The University of Olivet, Coach Hicks worked for the Target Corporation for 10 years, serving as a senior team lead. Through her roles with Target, she developed extensive sales, customer service and leadership skills. In addition, Coach Hicks spent three years coaching high school volleyball, combining her love of the sport and passion for building relationships with students. Further, Coach Hicks has experience working with students directly in the classroom through her time student teaching and teaching fourth grade.

“It’s all about the feeling you get when you visit the campus,” Coach Hicks said. “For me, I visited a lot of smaller colleges, but when I stepped on Olivet’s campus, I felt so relaxed and at home. I just knew it was right for me. It’s really important to find your individual fit at a college or university.”

Coach Hicks works with students who hail from Eaton, Calhoun and Jackson counties, as well as all out-of-state and international students. She is excited to help students discover the boundless opportunities at The University of Olivet, many of which she participated in, including the cheer and volleyball teams. Coach Hick’s outgoing, energetic personality assists her in building relationships with prospective Olivet students and guiding them through the admission process.