Katie Flanagan Mobley '97
Dean of Enrollment and Community Relations at Community College of Vermont
Sociology/Anthropology major, Women’s Studies minor
Dean of Enrollment and Community Relations at Community College of Vermont
“Sociology provided me with a framework to examine the structures and systems by which our world is organized and to consider the impact that I want to have as an individual and in the work that I have chosen to pursue.”
Tell us what you do.
I oversee the departments that act as the front door to CCV including Admissions, Financial Aid, Development, Marketing and Secondary Education Initiatives (high school and tech center partnerships including dual enrollment and our early college program). All of these departments focus on building partnerships and ensuring that Vermonters are able to easily access the degrees and certificates that CCV offers and understand how to pay for their education.
What have you done since Middlebury?
Initially following my graduation, I worked in the Admissions office for two years as an Admissions Counselor. This role grew out of my work study experience in that office. I then participated in the Jesuit Volunteer Corp in Portland, Oregon serving the homeless population of the city at a non-profit called Sisters of the Road Cafe. I returned to VT to enroll in graduate school at UVM and was hired at CCV in 2002 as an Academic Coordinator. I have been at CCV ever since, although I am currently in my 6th different role at the college.
How has your major influenced your life after graduation?
Sociology provided me with a framework to examine the structures and systems by which our world is organized and to consider the impact that I want to have as an individual and in the work that I have chosen to pursue. Being able to work each day at an institution that seeks to expand access to education and learning reflects my core values. These values were influenced by my family and were further solidified by my learning at Midd. The emphasis on communication, examination of data and the ability to unpack structures have served me well throughout my entire professional career.
When did you know which major you were going to choose?
I had not been aware of Sociology as a major before coming to Midd and it took me awhile to find it as my focus, but once I took Intro to Sociology my Sophomore year, I knew I had found the right major for me.
How did you decide what career path you wanted to pursue after graduating?
My work-study experience was influential in my first job after college and I really enjoyed being in a higher education environment, but it was also important to me to try a job that had a more direct social services component, which is why I participated in the JVC. Ultimately, working at CCV has allowed me to combine my passion for higher education and its potential transformative impact within an educational environment that lives a mission connected to social justice.
Finally, what advice or suggestions do you have for current students as they consider their post-Middlebury futures?
I would encourage you to talk to lots of different people about their jobs and to think about what are your core values in terms of a workplace environment. There are so many options out there and like choosing a college, a lot of it comes down to fit. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, shadow people and to stretch yourself.
Connect with Katie on LinkedIn.