Debra Lykins
Debra Lykins
- Career Specialist for Business and Technology
Biography
Debra (Debbie) Lykins is a career specialist supporting business, marketing, and technology students at Carthage. The daughter of a successful entrepreneur and the founder of her own book publicity agency, she brings firsthand insight into what it takes to thrive in business and lead well. Her background spans corporate communications, publishing, and agency work, providing her with a broad perspective that she shares with students as they prepare for their careers.
Debbie began her career in marketing, corporate communications, and public relations at an accounting and technology firm in the Chicago area. After the company was acquired by a subsidiary of a Fortune 100 corporation, she helped guide the transition for employees and clients, and she spearheaded the marketing team’s B2B technology division.
A lifelong reader and lover of books, Debbie transitioned into publishing as a print media publicist and senior publicist for a major faith-based publisher, where she developed publicity campaigns across multiple genres. She later launched Side Door Communications, partnering with publishers, authors, and media outlets, including national television, radio, print, online, and podcasters. Throughout her career, she has written hundreds of press kits, pitched and booked many interviews, and managed every aspect of client acquisition and relationship development.
A Chicago-area native (and forever loyal Cubs fan), Debbie now lives in the Milwaukee area.
Education
- B.A. Communications, Media — Wheaton College
- M.A. Communications, Journalism, and Writing — Wheaton College Graduate School
Favorite thing about working at Carthage
“My favorite thing about working at Carthage is seeing how much staff and faculty really want wants best for the students. Everyone works hard to create an environment where students feel supported, cared about, and are encouraged to grow.”
Other interests?
Debbie enjoys spending time with her husband, Joel, her three young adult children, and their dog, Bandit. She also likes being involved in her church, hunting for great deals, watching baseball and football, and reading.