Meet the Columbia team

Greg Balaam is originally from Corvallis, Oregon and moved to SC in 2000 and earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Economics. His diverse professional background includes four years in caregiving, two years of tutoring experience, and five years working in medical coding. Greg enjoys spending his free time swimming, bowling, reading, and solving puzzles. His love of learning and helping others makes him a wonderful addition to the Sylvan team!

Dorothy is originally from Boston, Massachusetts, and brings an incredible 40 years of teaching experience to the Sylvan team. She earned her Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from Furman University and has dedicated her career to helping students learn, grow, and reach their full potential. Outside of education, Dorothy enjoys crocheting and spending time creating something special by hand. Her years of experience, passion for teaching, and love of learning make her a wonderful addition to the Sylvan family!

Jean Mulkins is from Anderson, SC, and earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Winthrop University. She brings an incredible 37 years of experience as an educator, including many years teaching 5th grade. Jean’s passion for education and helping students learn makes her a wonderful addition to the Sylvan team. She especially enjoys reading in her free time, continuing her love of learning both inside and outside the classroom.

Eleanor Barber is originally from Denmark, SC, and later moved to Columbia, SC. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics and Statistics from Benedict College, as well as a degree in Accounting and Payroll from Midlands Technical College. She also earned a Master’s Degree in Educational Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Phoenix. With an impressive 23 years of experience as a middle school math teacher, Eleanor brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for helping students succeed in mathematics. Outside of the classroom, Eleanor loves to travel, sew, and make jewelry.

Kathleen Whisenhunt was born and raised in Utah and recently made the move to South Carolina in July 2026. She currently lives in Lugoff with her husband, three children, and in-laws. Kathleen holds Bachelor’s Degrees in Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education, with a minor in Linguistics. She is also LETRS certified. Her extensive teaching experience includes 1st and 2nd grade, 1st–3rd grade Phonics and Writing, and she currently teaches 4th grade. She has also privately tutored students in grades 1–6 and has seven years of experience teaching piano to students ages 4 and up. Outside of the classroom, Kathleen loves getting lost in epic fantasy and romantasy books, watching comedy, drama, and reality TV, and crocheting. She also enjoys spending time with her husband and family, playing with her kids, and having fun with board games, card games, and Jackbox games. We’re excited to welcome Kathleen to the Sylvan family! Her diverse teaching experience, passion

Melissa Deloach joined the Sylvan team in May 2019. By day she’s the Director of the Scholar’s Academy for Spartanburg County, but in the evenings and on Sundays, she manages our college prep program, including SAT/ACT prep and College Reading Strategies. Melissa holds degrees from Clemson University and Converse College. When she isn’t helping teens prepare for college either here or at the Scholar’s Academy, she enjoys reading and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

Dr. Jeff, as his Sylvan students call him, graduated from Furman University in 1995. He then held a variety of college-level roles as graduate student, program coordinator, and instructor for the University of South Carolina and Midlands Technical College while also serving as a zookeeper at the Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia. With a focus on genetics and ecology, Dr. French finished his graduate work in biology and currently serves as Chair of Biology and Assistant Dean of Science and Math at North Greenville University. In his “free time”, he enjoys preparing students for the SAT and ACT as a LIVE, online instructor for Sylvan. Give us a call at (803) 818-2363 or fill out the form to discuss your child’s learning goals. * Indicates required field Loading testimonials… Call us today: (888) 338-2283 Find a Location Call us today: {{phone}} Your Center: {{marketing_name}} Change Location Your Center: {{marketing_name}} Discover, book, and track classes, camps, and parties; keep the whole family’s schedule in one place; and celebrate every milestone along the way. Download the app to get started: Tutoring by Topic Home Office (888) 338-2283