Get to Know the Grace College Admissions Counselors

You’ve heard about Grace College, but you need more information on what we have to offer. As you consider your college options, your list of questions to ask an admissions counselor could rival a CVS receipt. But there’s no need to worry, your admissions counselor is here to help you with everything you need to know — from comparing your college options to navigating the admissions process to applying for financial aid! But who are these college admissions counselors, and what are they like? 

You just might find that you have more in common with them than you realized! As you look into Grace and our campus, learn some fun facts about our team of college admissions counselors. 

Jesse Harmeyer

Associate Director of Admissions

B.S. in Management of Information Systems, Grace College (2020), M.B.A., Grace College (2020)

What is one thing you own that may seem insignificant to someone else but is important to you?

I have a collection of rubber ducks and each duck holds a special meaning to me; gifts from family, friends, or just finding one! 

 What is an embarrassing childhood memory?

I used to play the drums in the church’s worship band.  During rehearsal one Sunday morning, I accidentally let go of one of my drumsticks  and just missed one of the volunteers in the front row!  Ever since then, I have not hit anyone with my drum sticks.  

 If you could join any past or current music group, which one would you choose?

If I had the opportunity to join any music group, I would have to say the Jonas Brothers! 

What is the best joke you have ever heard?

You know that rain brings May flowers but do you know what May flowers bring? Pilgrims.  

Mischelle Hill

B.A. in Facility and Event Management, Grace College (2018)

What was your favorite movie when you were a kid?

High School Musical (I love Zac Effron)! 

What is an unwritten rule you think everyone should know?

“If you use up all of the toilet paper, you go refill it.”  

“Be kind to people that are working. Food staff, medical staff, etc. Don’t take your bad day out on someone else.”

What song best describes your life?

Dancing Queen by ABBA 

If you could take an all expenses paid vacation for one week anywhere in the world, where would you go?

All I want is to have blue waters, white beaches, lots of food, and my husband with me!! 

Drew Lyons

B.S. in Marketing, Grace College (2021)

What Grace professor would you most want with you if you were stranded on a deserted island?

Dr. Rata, that guy would keep me entertained 24/7 whether we are playing table tennis or him teaching me about the Old Testament.

What is one professional skill you are working on improving?

I am working on being more adaptable to different situations.

What is one thing that can instantly make your day better?

Getting Qdoba. Whether it is 5PM or 5AM, Qdoba is the best food on Earth.

What is at the top of your bucket list?

I want to see the Northern Lights sometime in Alaska.

Courtney Thompson

BA in Biblical Studies, Grace College (2022), MS in Higher Education, Grace College (2022)

What is one fun fact about you? One time I did 1,000 jumps in a row on a pogo-stick.

What is your favorite thing about your job? I love connecting with students and introducing them to the place that changed my own life – Grace College! 

What most stands out to you about your time at Grace? My relationship with the Lord grew stronger because of the leaders I met at Grace. Through that, my career path changed completely because those leaders helped me see strengths I had that I didn’t see in myself. I am so grateful for my time at Grace and the people I got to meet during my time as a student there!

How do you like to spend your free time? I love going for walks in the Winona trails, taking care of plants, and spending time with friends and family.

Cody Jones

BS in Health Science, Grace College (2022)

What do you spend your time doing when you’re not getting to know new students? You can find me fishing or golfing. Regardless of whether it is regular golf, disc golf or campus golf, I’m there! 

What is your favorite part of working in admissions at Grace? Connecting first-year students with the various life-changing opportunities here on campus that impacted me so greatly when I was a student. I love helping people prepare for their future. 

What is one random, little-known fact you? I used to own a pair of stilts and got pretty good at going up and down steps and maneuvering all throughout the house. 

What is your preferred means of transportation? Nowadays, I definitely prefer getting around on my longboard.

Trey Stoll

B.S. in Marketing and Sport Management, Grace College (2013)

If your life were a movie, what genre would it be?

It would be an action. Wild, Wild, West type.

Would you rather be able to talk to any animal or be fluent in every human language?

Talk to any animal and the decision is not even close!

What are you most looking forward to for this year?

A. On a personal note. My family is growing, my daughter is getting older and my wife is pregnant with number 2. I’m excited to spend some quality time with them.

B. On a professional note. I’m excited to start recruiting for the class of 22. With the class of 21 being the largest in Grace College history, I’m excited to try and break that record. 

What is your favorite comfort food from your childhood?

Spaghetti….with a delicious sauce that is a family secret!

Ben Miles

B.S. in Information Systems, Grace College (2015), M.S. in Nonprofit Management, Grace College (2016)

If you could only watch one movie for the rest of your life, what would it be?

The LOTR trilogy. Definitely.

What is your favorite memory of a family vacation?

Traveling to a beach on the shores of Egypt.

What do you like best about your job as a college admissions counselor?

Getting to connect with students and help through the admissions process!

What is the best gift you have ever received?

My wife. :)

While the college selection process can be overwhelming, these college admissions counselors are here to help you handle whatever comes your way. Do you have questions to ask admissions counselors? 

Find out who your college admissions counselor is here and get started on your journey with Grace College!