Travis McDowell Named New Director of Admissions

For nearly 11 years, Travis McDowell has had a front row seat to Limestone College’s transformation into one of the finest private institutions in the Southeast.

Since 2004, McDowell has worked in Limestone’s admissions office in various roles, and earlier this month he was promoted to Director of Admissions.

“This is a great opportunity for me to continue our vision of making Limestone a top destination for high school students looking for a first-class private college,” said McDowell, a 33-year-old native of Spartanburg. “For several years now we have seen high school guidance counselors excited about what Limestone is doing. We’re also seeing students excited when they find out more about our College, and we want that to continue and to grow. It is a privilege that Vice President of Enrollment Services Chris Phenicie, President Dr. Walt Griffin, and Executive Vice President and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Karen Gainey have entrusted me with this new responsibility.”

During his tenure at Limestone, McDowell has served as an Admissions Representative, Assistant Director, and for the past four years as Associate Director. In his new role, he will manage the Strategic Plan developed by the Vice President of Enrollment Services to attract top-notch high school seniors to Limestone.

“When we meet with high school students and their parents, we tell them about the solid education that is available at Limestone,” explained McDowell, who earned his B.A. in Government from Wofford College, and his M.A. in Management & Leadership from Liberty University. “Limestone’s dedicated faculty genuinely care about their students and provide personalized attention that is difficult to find anywhere else. The Office of Admissions constantly talks about the incredible value of a Limestone College education. Limestone continues to be below the national average in costs for a private college education, offers some of the most competitive financial aid packages, has a well-qualified faculty, a premier athletics program, and provides incredible services to students.”

Prior to McDowell’s promotion, Phenicie was serving in a dual role as Vice President of Enrollment Services and as Director of Admissions. He said elevating McDowell will make his department stronger and more effective.

“Travis was a great hire, and he has grown to understand all aspects of the admissions process,” Phenicie noted. “Limestone College is fortunate to have him as part of our team.”

McDowell and his wife, Kisha, have a 6-year-old son, Andrew.