Choosing the right college is a big decision, and social media, websites and brochures can only tell you so much about a place. That’s why our Admission Counselors and staff members are here to help you every step of the way as you explore your options.
Feel free to contact us with questions anytime. We look forward to helping you find out if UNC Asheville is the right place for you!
Admission Counselors
Kate Brizzolara
Admission Counselor
Email: kbrizzol@unca.edu
Phone: 828.250.2305
Office: 229 Brown Hall
Territories
North Carolina Counties:
- Beaufort
- Bertie
- Bladen
- Brunswick
- Camden
- Carteret
- Chowan
- Columbus
- Craven
- Cumberland
- Currituck
- Dare
- Duplin
- Edgecombe
- Gates
- Greene
- Halifax
- Harnett
- Hertford
- Hoke
- Hyde
- Jones
- Lee
- Lenoir
- Martin
- Nash
- New Hanover
- Northampton
- Onslow
- Pamlico
- Pasquotank
- Pender
- Perquimans
- Pitt
- Richmond
- Robeson
- Sampson
- Scotland
- Tyrrell
- Washington
- Wayne
- Wilson
States:
- Connecticut
- Maine
- Massachusetts
- New Hampshire
- Rhode Island
- Vermont
Samuel B. C. Craig
Admission Counselor
Email: scraig1@unca.edu
Phone: 828.251.6104
Office: 246 Brown Hall
Howdy! My name is Samuel Craig. I am a Western North Carolina native and a proud alumnus of the UNC Asheville Classics department, now known as Ancient Mediterranean Studies. I completed my masters in Roman History and Archaeology at the University of Kent, and began work as an admission counselor in the summer of 2022. During my time at UNCA my favorite class was Italian Art and Archaeology, and I loved spending time in the ancient gardens on the roof of Whitesides Hall. I love learning new things and genuinely believe in the ability of education to improve and change lives. Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my partner and friends playing tabletop games.
- Master’s Degree Roman History and Archaeology, University of Kent
- Bachelor of Arts Classics, UNC Asheville
Territories
North Carolina Counties:
- Alamance
- Alexander
- Caldwell
- Catawba
- Davidson
- Davie
- Forsyth
- Guilford
- Montogomery
- Moore
- Randolph
- Rockingham
- Stokes
- Surry
- Yadkin
States:
- Indiana
- Kentucky
- Michigan
- Ohio
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- West Virginia
Zach D. Friesen
Admission Counselor
Email: zfriesen@unca.edu
Phone: 828.250.2365
Office: 226 Brown Hall
I have served as an admission counselor for students in Charlotte and the surrounding areas since 2021 and as a Charlotte native myself, I am incredibly thankful for the opportunity to work with students in my own hometown. In addition to my role as an admission counselor, I am the supervisor of the University Ambassadors. I am also a proud UNCA alum and graduated in 2020 with a B.A. in History.
My favorite aspects of my education were the opportunity for undergraduate research and a wonderful connection with faculty. I initially chose UNCA because of its proximity to both the mountains and downtown Asheville, but quickly found an incredible community both in and out of the classroom. In my free time, I enjoy watching basketball, playing D&D, making music, and exploring Asheville with my wife and two cats.
- Master of Arts Higher Education, in-progress, Appalachian State University
- Bachelor of Arts History, UNC Asheville
Territories
States:
- Florida
- Illinois
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Maryland
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- Virginia
- Washington D.C.
- Wisconsin
Populations
In-State Transfer Applicants,
excluding the NC Community College System
Lucas Granade
Admission Counselor
Email: lgranade@unca.edu
Phone: 828.250.2329
Office: 227 Brown Hall
I graduated from UNC Asheville in 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and multiple years of experience with student work in admissions, orientation, and peer tutoring. Prior to returning to my alma mater, I spent several semesters working with students in the Writing Center at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College.
The main factor in my decision to attend UNC Asheville was the genuine engagement of the faculty and staff in their desire to connect with students. Now, as a staff member, I love to participate in that same level of intentional relationship-building with prospective students! My favorite place on campus is the University Writing Center, where students of any discipline can find collaboration and community – both personal and academic. Outside of work, I enjoy caring for my plants and aquarium, playing tabletop role-playing games, and being outside in cold weather.
- Bachelor of Arts Psychology, UNC Asheville
Territories
North Carolina Counties:
- Caswell
- Chatham
- Durham
- Franklin
- Granville
- Johnston
- Orange
- Person
- Vance
- Wake
- Warren
States:
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- Hawaii
- Nevada
- New Mexico
- Utah
Sarah Mohr
Associate Director of Admission
Email: smohr@unca.edu
Phone: 828.250.2320
Office: 246 Brown Hall
I graduated from Furman University with a Bachelor’s in Communication Studies and started my career with AmeriCorps and the College Advising Corps. The passion I developed for expanding access to postsecondary opportunity is what led me to UNC Asheville. I stay busy outside of work with graduate school courses, but I enjoy live music and exploring Asheville with friends and family in my spare time. My favorite spot in Asheville is French Broad Chocolate and my favorite spot on campus is the observatory.
- Master’s in Public Administration candidate, UNC Wilmington
- Bachelor of Arts Communication Studies, Furman University
Territories
North Carolina Counties:
- Alleghany
- Ashe
- Avery
- Buncombe
- Burke
- Cherokee
- Clay
- Graham
- Haywood
- Henderson
- Jackson
- Macon
- Madison
- McDowell
- Mitchell
- Polk
- Rutherford
- Swain
- Transylvania
- Watauga
- Wilkes
- Yancey
States:
- Alabama
- Arkansas
- Georgia
- Louisiana
- Mississippi
- Oklahoma
- Texas
Kari Myrtle-Posey
Director of Admission for Recruitment & Outreach
Email: kmyrtlep@unca.edu
Phone: 828.255.7056
Office: 245 Brown Hall
Hi all, I have worked in education for over a decade; starting out as a high school English teacher, progressing to assisting with dual enrollment opportunities for high schoolers, to joining the admissions team at Brunswick Community College. Recently, I traded in the beaches for the mountains and moved to Asheville to join the team as the Associate Director of Admission for Recruitment & Outreach. UNCA’s campus culture is one of the most welcoming and inclusive I have ever had the privilege of being a part of, and it is evident from the displays around campus to the faculty, staff, and students that make up the community.
As a first-generation college student, I wish I had someone to demystify the higher education process when I first started applying to college, and I have found that championing the student experience from application to graduation is what sparks my enthusiasm in working with students of all ages. I am truly a traveler at heart, but not in pocket, so it is lucky for me that Asheville is home to a lively downtown, as well as the picturesque Blue Ridge mountains that I enjoy exploring with my family.
- Master of Arts Liberal Studies, UNC Wilmington
- Bachelor of Arts English, UNC Wilmington
Territories
States:
- Delaware
- New Jersey
- New York
- Pennsylvania
Populations
- Post-Baccalaureate Applicants
- Teacher Licensure Applicants
Lindsey Prather
Assistant Director of Admission
Email: laprathe@unca.edu
Lindsey is the office’s dedicated transfer counselor who works with all transfer students looking to attend UNC Asheville. She is a UNC Asheville alumna from the class of 2010 when she graduated alongside her brother and twin sister. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from UNC Asheville, a master’s degree in Public Affairs from Western Carolina University, and a North Carolina teaching license. After spending a wonderful six years teaching high school locally in Buncombe County, Lindsey is excited to return to her alma mater and help pave the way for future Bulldogs! When she’s not working, Lindsey spends time with her own boxer/bulldog at home, and enjoys hiking, cooking, and cheering on the Asheville Tourists.
- MPA, Western Carolina University
- BA in Sociology, UNC Asheville
Populations
Out-of-state Transfer Applicants
Alex Smith
Admission Counselor
Email: asmith51@unca.edu
Phone: 828.250.2307
Office: 226 Brown Hall
Territories
North Carolina Counties:
- Anson
- Cabarrus
- Cleveland
- Gaston
- Iredell
- Lincoln
- Mecklenburg
- Rowan
- Stanly
- Union
States:
- Alaska
- Idaho
- Montana
- Nebraska
- North Dakota
- Oregon
- South Dakota
- Washington
- Wyoming
Elsa Taylor-Cless
Associate Director of Admission Analytics
Email: etaylorc@unca.edu
Phone Number: 828.251.6260
Office: 233 Brown Hall
I found my love of public higher education while working for my alma mater, Chadron State College in Nebraska. I have been with Admission & Financial Aid at UNC Asheville since 2021 and have greatly enjoyed getting to know the campus community here. I find joy in getting to know students and helping them find their best path forward. UNC Asheville appealed to me because of the amazing academic opportunities available to undergraduate students, as well as a real focus on providing students with individual attention and support. The most surprising element of my introduction to UNC Asheville has been the range of wildlife and plant life to be found here on campus: everything from pawpaw and fig trees to bears! (To be clear, the bears are incredibly cute but best left alone). In my spare time, I enjoy exploring Asheville’s music and art scene or simply cuddling up with a movie and my senior dog, Tuna.
- Graduate Certificate in Project Management, in-progress, Western Carolina University
- Master of Public Administration, University of Nebraska Omaha
- Bachelor of Arts Psychological Sciences, Chadron State College
Populations
International First-Year and Transfer Applicants
Jen Tobias
Transfer Admission Specialist
Email: jtobias@unca.edu
Phone: 828.250.2324
I am passionate about education and was drawn to being an education major because of my drive to support students. I am thrilled to be able to support transfer students throughout the application process at UNC Asheville. The connection and support that exists between faculty and students really stands out to me at UNC Asheville. I have seen this first hand as it translates into meaningful undergraduate research opportunities for students in their fields.
I have worked in various educational roles from a classroom teacher to a school district leader. Prior to my position at UNC Asheville, I served as an instructional coach, professional development facilitator, and district strategic planner. Originally from Buffalo, NY I am an avid Bills fan. I love spending time with my family (husband, daughter, and Goldendoodle) exploring all the great restaurants and outdoor activities in Asheville.
- Certification in Educational Leadership, Appalachian State University
- Master’s Degree of Curriculum Specialist, Appalachian State University
- Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education, SUNY Cortland
Population
North Carolina Community College System
Admission Staff
Jane Anderson
Administrative Assistant
Email: jander10@unca.edu
Phone: 828.251.6481
Office: 240 Brown Hall
I have lived and worked in the Asheville area for 25+ years. Most recently prior to UNCA I assisted a local non-profit, Community Action Opportunities, in their Weatherization Program for low income families.
During my employment at UNCA I have enjoyed taking a Painting I class, and then followed it up the next semester with an Independent Study under the same Professor. The opportunity for me to attend classes on campus has been an amazing gift. Although not personally an Alum, my husband graduated from UNCA, and is pursuing his degree in Chemistry at a local laboratory.
My position of support to the incoming UNCA student population, and their families, has been a great experience for me as I work to encourage their efforts to improve their skills and futures. It won’t be long until my grandchildren will be encouraged to apply!
The beautiful UNCA campus supports my love of the outdoors and nature as I enjoy golfing, swimming and walking, along with personal gym time opportunities.
Nate Corbitt
Campus Visit Manager
Email: ncorbitt@unca.edu
Phone: 828.350.4553
Office: 223 Brown Hall
My name is Nate Corbitt, and I am the Campus Visit Manager for the UNC Asheville Office of Admission & Financial Aid. Having been in the Admission Office since 2008, and at UNC Asheville since 2007, I look forward to helping you plan your visit to campus. It is my goal that each student who visits will find an experience that compels him or her to learn more about our excellent University.
Working in higher education, specifically with prospective students and their families, has been rewarding in ways other jobs just cannot compare.Over the course of my time at UNC Asheville, I’ve come to realize what a special place it is, and consider it a second home. The students, faculty, and overall campus community come together in a unique blend that makes it unlike many other college campuses.
In my spare time, aside from spending time with my family, I am probably the biggest Chicago Cubs fan on our campus, if not the entire city of Asheville. I hope to see you on campus soon!
- Collegiate Information & Visitor Service Association, Member 2015-Present
- Education Policy Fellowship Program, 2021-2022 North Carolina Cohort Fellow
- Bachelor of Science, Appalachian State University
June Cross
Information Processor
Email: jcross@unca.edu
Phone: 828.251.6493
Office: 224 Brown Hall
I am an Information Processor in the Office of Financial Aid and Admissions-Data Services. I have been employed with UNC Asheville since 2010. I enjoy helping my colleagues with their data needs. I graduated from North Buncombe High School in Weaverville N.C. and attended Asheville-Buncombe Technical College. I enjoy spending most of my time off with my grown children and two granddaughters. I also loves road tripping, little hikes, and life group with my friends.
Sondra Hall
Junior Bulldogs Program Coordinator
Email: shall5@unca.edu
Phone: 828.251.6563
Office: 247 Brown Hall
I’m a long-time educator, writer and lover of language with a BA in Art History and a MA in Expressive Arts Therapy. Both of my degrees have given me a deep appreciation for the power of the arts to make change.
My passion for words inspired me to start an after-school creative writing program for kids called “Take My Word For It!” which sparked young writers’ imaginations for thirteen years in the San Francisco Bay area, Boston, and just outside of D.C. I also designed a creative writing program for adults called, Escape to the Page which I teach online and in the community college setting. I’m thrilled to bring my experience designing and orchestrating programs for young people to the Junior Bulldogs Program on campus—an immersive campus adventure created specifically for middle school students and aimed at promoting college awareness.
My musician husband and I recently moved to Asheville from the San Francisco Bay area so I’m new to the UNCA campus. So far my favorite spot is a wooden swing I discovered nestled in a quiet spot in the trees!
- Master of Arts Expressive Arts Therapy, Lesley University
- Bachelor of Arts Art History, Tufts University
Lisa House
Operations Manager
Email: lhouse@unca.edu
Phone: 828.250.2331
Office: 228 Brown Hall
I am the Business Services Coordinator for the Office of Admission & Financial Aid, and have been working at the university since 2005. My favorite part about working at UNC Asheville is supporting my colleagues in Admission & Financial Aid and being part of a fantastic team. When I’m not in my office, most days you can find me at my most treasured spot on campus, in a rocking chair between Willow and Beech, having lunch. When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my husband taking walks around the Biltmore Estate, going on day trips, and being active in my church.
Eric Klein
Associate Director of Outreach & Success
Email: eklein@unca.edu
Phone: 828.251.6334
Office: 247 Brown Hall
Eric Klein has supported the college readiness and success of traditionally underrepresented students for over two decades. His work has run the gamut from educational enrichment to organizational development to direct support for students and families both in school districts and at higher education institutions. He’s also been active in college access professional development and advocacy work through state, regional and national organizations.
At UNC Asheville, Eric connects the university to our neighboring communities through their education systems. He develops and facilitates partnerships between university staff and teachers, schools and districts in Western North Carolina. A large portion of his work is through the Appalachian GEAR UP grant that serves under-resourced, predominately rural districts in WNC.Eric grew up in rural Appalachian North Carolina and loves being out in the mountains whenever he can. He also enjoys writing and is publishing a forthcoming book on the intersection of public education and global food systems.
Jason Mogen
Director of Admission & Financial Aid Communication
Email: jmogen@unca.edu
Phone: 828.250.2355
Office: 240 Brown Hall
Hello from the Blue Ridge Mountains! I joined the UNCA Admission and Financial Aid team in January 2023, and I’m excited to help students discover how UNCA can make their education more affordable through our many scholarship offerings. I was drawn to UNCA’s incredibly inclusive campus culture, its one-of-a-kind Humanities Program, and its emphasis on creative thinking across all disciplines.
Prior to joining UNCA, I served as a high school college counselor and a university admissions officer. Before entering education, I worked for non-profit arts organizations in fundraising and ran the Columbia Summer Winds, a 90-musician wind ensemble that performs free concerts in New York City public parks. Out of the office, you can find me taking advantage of Asheville’s thriving visual and performing arts community, searching for the next cool place to grab a bite to eat, playing board and card games with my husband, or hanging out with my gray cat Stanley.
- MA in Higher and Postsecondary Education, Teachers College at Columbia University
- BA in Religion, Columbia University
Ryan Walsh
Director of Admission & Financial Aid Systems & Analytics
Email: rwalsh@unca.edu
Phone: 828.251.6494
Office: 232 Brown Hall
I joined the UNCA team in August 2021 with nearly a decade working in higher education, specifically at liberal arts and sciences institutions. I grew up in Rochester, NY though started my career as a student employee in the Office of Admission at St. Lawrence University, where I also took my first admission counselor role upon my graduation. Following St. Lawrence, I spent six years working in the Office of Admission at Colorado College.
I was compelled to join the UNC Asheville community given the University’s strong commitment to provide access to higher education for all students – both traditionally-aged and non-traditionally-aged. Additionally, UNCA’s commitment to small classes, engaged faculty, and meaningful community were all huge for me to find in a public institution. One of my favorite examples of how our close-knit community benefits students is that nearly 70% of UNCA students complete independently-designed research projects before they graduate. It is this type of opportunity for students to collaborate directly with their professors on research which is what makes a smaller community like UNCA such a great place to learn.
When not at work, I am a lover of the outdoors and especially enjoy hiking in the Blue Ridge mountains with my husband and our dog Charlee. I would recommend Craggy Pinnacle on the Blue Ridge parkway as a short hike with great views nearby! Asheville is also a foodie and music lover’s dream, so we’re often out exploring all this small quirky mountain city has to offer on both fronts.
- Master’s in Educational Leadership, University of Colorado – Colorado Springs
- Bachelor’s Degree in History, St. Lawrence University
Take the Next Step
Have Questions? Contact the Admission Team!
Ask questions and get advice from the University of North Carolina Asheville if you need assistance with submitting your application.
| Phone: 828.251.6481 |
| Email: admissions@unca.edu |
| Address: UNC Asheville Brown Hall, CPO #1320 One University Heights Asheville, NC 28804 |
| Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. |
