Kelly Stutler ’14, M ’22

Please describe your position and what you enjoy most about it.

As the University Relations Recruiter, I am responsible for creating and maintaining relationships with university students, faculty, and staff and make them aware of the opportunities provided through Answers in Genesis.

I enjoy establishing relationships and hearing stories of teachers and students along with how the Lord is using those stories–often through brokenness–to usher in His eternal Kingdom.

What aspects of your HLGU experience helped you prepare for your career?

Throughout my time at HLGU, I was able to pour into the basketball team as a student, graduate, and assistant coach. The responsibilities I had as a coach are transferable into almost any position you can think of, especially when it comes to leadership. Pouring into students and sharing ways that will equip them for success is woven into this position. I honestly feel like I’m doing the same thing I was as a coach, except this time I’m not putting a ball in their hands.

What have you enjoyed most about your career?

It has developed me personally, spiritually, and professionally and has helped me to understand how to connect with people of all ages on a different level.

How did HLGU shape you as a person?

HLGU was a vessel in helping me see the Lord for who He truly is and allowed me to utilize my skill sets to further His Kingdom during my season there. HLGU laid a foundation that was just the beginning for what the Lord was doing in and through my life.

Please share a specific example from your career or life when the skills you gained at HLGU helped you most.

During my time at HLGU, I had the opportunity to recruit a diverse group of people. Through that experience, my time with Answers in Genesis has been an easy transition into recruiting, as I have been privileged to use the skills gained at HLGU to communicate with people from around the world.

What professional accomplishment are you most proud of?

I would say celebrating the first win for the JV women’s basketball program during my coaching at HLGU is one of the sweetest professional moments I have experienced–not because of the win, but because of watching those girls find success and joy behind all the work they had put into it!

What HLGU professors played a part in your success? How did your relationship with faculty help you succeed?

The list is LONG! But the main influencers through my life at HLGU were Dr. Christina Brennemann, Dr. Judy Lemons, and Christy Jung! Being able to approach them, be mentored by them, and continue a relationship with them has built growth, knowledge, and relationships that will last for years to come!

Do you have any tips to share with students interested in this field?

Find confidence in the Lord and what He has called you to do…but be patient in the process. The first job might not be the ultimate goal, but it is a stepping stone to the journey laid out before you.

What are some of your favorite HLGU memories?

Daily trips to see Marilyn in the mail room have to be at the top…but most of my favorite memories revolve around the process of building relationships!

What on-campus activities were you involved in at HLGU?

Women’s basketball, Magazine and Newspaper

HLGU’s motto is “knowledge for service.” What roles have these values played in your life?

The things I learned during my time at HLGU have been transferable not only in my professional life, but in my personal life as well. They have been an instrumental tool in shaping a servant heart into all that I do.

What is one thing you know now that you wish you’d known when you started in the field?

To do just as I advised the students…be patient. The “dream job” will come, but it is a marathon, not a sprint. The journey has been much different than anticipated, and I know it isn’t over yet. But the journey is definitely worth it.

 

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