After retiring from a 30-plus-year career with State Farm Insurance, the newest member of the Central Methodist University enrollment management team is excited to start on a new chapter of life. Teresa Barnes began that chapter this week as the admissions staff’s new event coordinator and office manager.
Barnes, who grew up and went to school in Pilot Grove, now lives in Boonville with her husband. Together they raised three children, all of whom have since graduated from college, which has contributed to her desire to work at Central now.
“I’ve taken my three kids to many different colleges,” Barnes said. “One thing I came away with is that you know the school is right when you walk away and you feel that they really care about your child and that your kid will be well taken care of and it’s going to be a school that fits them. I want to be a part of that, so I was thrilled when this opportunity came up.”
In the admissions office, Barnes will undoubtedly be part of that experience for many future Central Methodist students. Working with Dr. Joe Parisi, vice president of enrollment management, she will be responsible for coordinating a number of admissions events for the University throughout the year.
Outside of work, Barnes enjoys spending time on her family’s new farm outside Boonville. She says she is looking forward to building a house there and working with their animals.