UC Clermont's Rachel Mullis has excelled in class while serving others

Rachel Mullis originally chose UC Clermont for practical reasons — she liked the college’s commuter environment and affordable tuition. But Mullis, who graduated in May with two associate’s degrees — one in criminal justice, another in psychology — soon found herself in a place where she was not only poised for academic success, but presented with an opportunity to serve others, too.
 
While studying, Mullis started working as a student assistant in the college library in April 2014 and quickly became a crucial component to the library staff.

“Rachel became our most experienced and most trusted student assistant due to her attention to detail, calm demeanor and keen ability to master new skills,” Katie Foran-Mulcahy, UC Clermont College library director, said.

During summer 2014, Rachel evaluated existing library signage, designing a new graphic concept and replacing all of the signs on the first and second floors. She also participated in the 2014 Hilltop Hike and volunteered her time to staff the Quacks for Stacks library fundraiser booth, drawing children with her rubber duck costume and helping the library win the Favorite Booth award.
 
“Working in the college library has proven to be enjoyable and advantageous to meeting my goals as a student,” Mullis said. “Not only do I receive constant encouragement, but I have supervisors who are more than willing to work around my class schedule no matter how hectic it gets.”
 

In recognition of her efforts, Mullis was nominated for a community service award. Foran-Mulcahy says it’s a well-deserved honor.

“Rachel doesn’t seek attention and quietly leads by example, consistently lending her complete attention to library patrons who need her assistance,” Foran-Mulcahy said. “She is committed to her own academic success and to helping other students be successful library users.”
 
Mullis’ service ethic extends beyond her position at the library, too: she was also secretary of the UC Clermont American Sign Language Club and her church. In addition, she served as the sole student representative on Clermont’s Library Advisory Council, where she provided an undergraduate perspective on library initiatives over the past year, including evaluating business hours, potential renovations and building cross-campus relationships.
 
Mullis plans to attend UC Main Campus to complete her bachelor’s degree in psychology then pursue a career where she will continue to serve others, by working with individuals in adult and juvenile correction facilities and drug rehabilitation centers.

“Once I started classes, I realized that UC Clermont had so much more to offer,” Mullis said. “I had access to resources like the learning center and advisers who were always eager to help and go above and beyond my expectations. It has all made my success as a student that much more attainable.”