CarolAnn Barker
Dean of Women CarolAnn Barker isn't much of a gambler any more.
As a student at Hillsdale College, Barker lost a bet with a friend and, as part of the deal, had to work on a dude ranch in Wyoming for a summer.
Yet, out of this bet, she discovered a passion for writing and journalism.
It was during her time at the dude ranch that Barker became close with a family and gained a pivotal connection in the journalism field. The father of the family was head of the Washington, D.C., bureau of Time, Inc. Because of her connection, Barker was able to attain a job working in advertising and copy at Life magazine the summer after her graduation.
Her major experience led her to obtain her first teaching job in Dearborn, Mich. She was named head of the journalism department—all due to her little gamble and stint on the ranch.
Barker, who attended Hillsdale as an undergrad, has served as the dean of women at Hillsdale College for 26 years and has been the vice president of student affairs for 10.
“I came back to Hillsdale and have never regretted it,” she said. “There's always something new going on. It's fun to get up and come to work.”
Barker was approached about possibly taking over the dean of women position around 1980 when the current dean was thinking of retiring in two or three years. Three months later, Barker was called about taking over the position after that dean got married.
Barker, who joked that she wanted to teach as long as federal law allowed, turned down the offer at first. The college came back and offered to let Barker teach advanced and beginning journalism at the college in addition to her other responsibilities. It was this compromise that brought Barker back to her alma mater.
“Dean Barker has been a teacher and mentor of mine since I first met her as my high school English teacher,” Director of Special Projects Diane Philipp said. “She was one of those great teachers you never forget because everyone learned so much and you knew she loved teaching.
“Throughout the time I've worked with her at Hillsdale, I realize more than ever how much she continues to care deeply about the education and future of young people,” Philipp added. “She is a remarkable lady.”
Barker credits her coworkers for creating such a friendly atmosphere on the third floor of Central Hall.
“I have wonderful people in all of these offices,” Barker said. “I don't need to be a micro-manager because there's no reason to be with all of the people I work with. They're all fine people and don't need to be heavily looked over, which is good because you want people who are self-starters and motivated.”
As the dean of women and vice president of students affairs, Barker holds many responsibilities. She essentially looks after the career planning and placement office, as well as being in charge of counseling and student organizations. As dean of women, Barker is accountable for retention rates, housing, Greek life, women's council and house mothers. Her most important role, however, is making sure Hillsdale's retention rates are high. Barker is responsible for meeting with all freshmen women within their first year on campus. She works closely to make sure students are succeeding academically and making sure they enjoy their time at Hillsdale.
Beyond her dedication to the college, Barker also enjoys her life outside of work. She has dedicated much of her free time to restoring a Victorian house in Hillsdale with her husband.
“It's a wonderful place to live,” she said. “But now that we're older, we're moving into a condo in Hillsdale.”
Barker also enjoys reading, and has involved herself in two local book clubs. Cooking, knitting and writing are also enjoyable for Barker.
But most importantly, Barker loves her job.
“I really love working with the faculty. They're the most cooperative I could wish for,” Barker said. “That goes for the students, too.”