COLUMBIA, KY. (08/26/2026) Maria Hill has long been an admirer of Lindsey Wilson University. Now she has an opportunity to promote the school's graduates as its director of career services.
Hill said she was drawn to Lindsey Wilson because of the university's focus on preparing students for rewarding careers.
"I am truly excited about this opportunity to serve Lindsey Wilson students and alumni," said Hill, who is a Russell Springs, Kentucky, native. "I am impressed that Lindsey Wilson does not only help students attain their education goals, but it also looks out for their careers as well."
Lindsey Wilson Dean of Students Chris Schmidt said that Hill is a strong addition to the university's Student Services.
"Our students will benefit from her work experience, as well as her undergraduate and graduate education," said Schmidt. "Maria is a great addition to the Student Services team and Lindsey Wilson University."
Hill said that Career Services can help Lindsey Wilson students answer one of their big questions they will face as Blue Raiders: what are you going to do after college?
"For a lot of students, the question, 'What do I do after I graduate?' can be the hardest part of college," said Hill. "The university's Office of Career Services can help students answer that question through the services we offer."
In addition to offering students tips and workshops on interviewing techniques, landing internships and bolstering a resume, Hill said she plans to initiate efforts that will connect students with Lindsey Wilson alumni and area business leaders.
"What I am most excited about is being that source and hub that students can come to and learn interview skills, how to build their resume and how to be prepared to go out in the world and land that career they have worked so hard for," she said. "I also want to hear from area business leaders and alumni about their needs, as well as what they want to see in prospective employees and interns."
Hill said she's been impressed by Lindsey Wilson's international draw, which includes a student body of about 150 international students from more than three dozen countries.
"I think it's great that people from all over the world come to Lindsey WIlson to study and live in our area," said Hill.
The university's Bonner Scholars Program, which is housed in the same building on Lindsey Wilson Street as Career Services, has also stood out to Hill.
"Their commitment to service in our region is very impressive," she said.
Hill comes to Lindsey Wilson from Russell County, Kentucky, where she served at the Somerset Community College Russell Center and with the Russell County Cooperative Extension Office. She holds two degrees from Somerset Community College, a bachelor's degree in human services from the University of the Cumberlands (Kentucky), and a master's degree in adult education and higher education from Morehead (Kentucky) State University.
While enrolled at Somerset Community College, Hill was a work-study student, which she said "really helped me fall in love with working in higher education."
