Spring Graduation Spotlight: Marissa Mixon

Marissa Mixon will graduate from Hardin-Simmons University on Friday, May 10, 2024, with a bachelor’s degree in accounting and an honors minor. After graduating, she will move to Knoxville, Tennessee, to work as a tax associate with a local CPA firm and further her education. 

Throughout her time on campus, Marissa was a bright, attentive student. For example, Dr. Robert Tucker, Dean of Kelley College of Business and Professional Studies, shared, “Marissa Mixon is one of our star students in the Kelley College of Business and Professional Studies. Throughout her time at HSU, she exemplified excellence, curiosity, and scholarship in all her classes.” His praises were not alone, as the Texas Society of CPAs recognized Marissa with the Accounting Excellence Award for 2022-2023. 

Marissa with faculty member Jared Reynolds.

Two other faculty members who helped Marissa through her college experience were Jared Reynolds and Shaylee Piland. “Both have been incredible at showing grace where I’ve needed it,” she praised, “and they are great at keeping up with their students when they are in times of need as well.”

As for college life, Marissa spent her time participating in clubs and other events on campus. Her advice to students is to do the same. “If I could go back and start from my freshman year, I would be less shy and really go after making connections and friendships sooner than later,” she recollected. “I have gotten so much from my time here, but I wonder how much I would have been able to accomplish had I not held myself back during the first year or so when I was scared of putting myself out there.” 

Congratulations, Marissa!