My name is Ethan Starbuck and I graduated from Berea in 2025. As the HR Systems Associate, it is my job to support and enhance Berea College’s human resources systems and services. Working closely with the Manager of HR Systems and Services, I help maximize the College’s workforce management platform, HRIS system, and benefits and timekeeping tools to ensure they effectively serve faculty, staff, and students.

In this developmental role, I focus on continuous improvement—refining systems such as NEOED and Banner to promote career development, improve retention, and strengthen overall employee experience. By collaborating with HR, IT, and vendor partners, I am able to help streamline processes, reduce inefficiencies, and implement solutions that align with the College’s strategic initiatives, including Berea Balance and Students First.

A key part of my work involves training and education. From assisting with the enhancement of the new employee orientation experience to designing and delivering training resources, I ensure that faculty and staff feel confident navigating HR systems and benefits platforms.

Having my Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration & Management, I was very excited to receive an opportunity to work in Human Resources at my Alma Mater. My hope is that this amazing opportunity will give me the necessary experience to one day enter into hospital administration, where my dream has always been to step into a role that will allow me to help people and improve lives.