Kelly Mitchell

I am the Student Success Coordinator for the College of Education, Health, and Human Services.  I have over 20 years of experience working in various counseling, advising, and student support roles.  I started my career in Higher Education at The University of Akron as a student worker using Federal Work Study as part of my financial aid package.  The experience I gained as a student worker opened the door to a full-time position here at Kent State University.  I worked in the International Student and Scholar Services office for three years until life took me to Connecticut.  There, I worked as an Academic Advisor at the University of Saint Joseph. I also completed my Master’s degree in Professional Counseling at Central Connecticut State University.  I spent some time working in community mental health as a licensed professional counselor in the Greater Hartford area but always longed to return to my native state of Ohio.  I returned home in 2019 and worked at the Wooster Campus of The Ohio State University on a Student Support Services TRIO Grant serving first-generation college students, students with economic challenges, and students with disabilities. 

In 2023, my professional journey led me back home to Kent State.   I’m thrilled to be serving and supporting students in EHHS.  Looking back on my own experience as a first-generation college student, I remember feeling lost and overwhelmed trying to balance academics, work, and college life.  Now in my current role, I can help my students feel connected and find their success in the classroom and beyond.  I love coming to work every day and experiencing the grit, determination, and energy that Kent State students, staff, and faculty bring to campus!

Fun fact about me—my husband and I love sports and had a football-themed wedding.  Outside of the office, I enjoy spending time with my family and mini-poodle, Archie.