Mitchell College recently welcomed Dr. Kelly L. Hart as chief of staff. A key member of President Tracy Y. Espy’s senior team, Hart will support the president on a wide range of strategic issues and provide leadership and operational oversight to the college.

“We are thrilled to have Dr. Hart on our team at this time in our college’s history. With 35 years of experience in higher education, including over two decades of executive leadership, she has honed skills as a results-oriented leader, strategic thinker, resourceful problem-solver, and excellent communicator. Dr. Hart has a sincere passion for Mitchell College’s mission, and her many talents will assist in moving forward the strategic priorities of Mitchell College in service to our amazing students,” Espy said.

Hart’s expertise in higher education encompasses strategic planning and execution, higher education enrollment optimization, and student affairs operations. Most recently, she served as VP of enrollment management at Shepherd University in Shepherdstown, W. Va. Prior to that, she directed admissions at Westfield State University in Westfield, Mass., and served as associate director of athletics at Springfield College in Springfield, Mass. Other tenure includes serving as an academic professional and head field hockey and lacrosse coach at Dickinson College in Carlisle, Penn.

Hart holds a doctorate in physical education from The Florida State University, a master’s degree in physical education from The College of New Jersey, and a bachelor’s degree in secondary education, English, from Villanova University.

Hart said, “It is a tremendous honor to join the team at Mitchell College under President Espy’s tenure. I am moved by the level of dedication and commitment that our faculty and staff have towards our students, am inspired by the accessibility and inclusivity of the college, and eager to play a role in enhancing the college experience for the success of our students.”