Kyle Grubbs, senior assistant director of admissions, has been named the 2023 Christopher W. Garber Staff Member of the Year at Manchester University.
Kyle Grubbs, senior assistant director of admissions, has been named the 2023 Christopher W. Garber Staff Member of the Year at Manchester University.
Garber was assistant vice president for operations at the University at the time of his death in 2015. The award recognizes an employee who demonstrates steadfast commitment to Manchester University and is a leader and collaborator who keeps the best interests of the University at heart.
Grubbs earned her bachelor's degree in Spanish from Manchester in 2012. She returned the next year to join the admissions team as a counselor. As time progressed, she grew to eventually hold her current position as senior assistant director. Over her 10-year career at Manchester, she has recruited hundreds of students and provides continued support during their time as Spartans. 
“Admissions work is hard, and the schedule can be grueling,” said President Stacy Young, when announcing the recipient Thursday, Aug. 31. “It involves travel that begins before sunrise, and long evenings and weekends recruiting students, answering their questions and hosting them on campus. In admissions, we recruit students and build relationships by, among other things, sharing our love for Manchester. As many of you know, Kyle loves Manchester.”
In addition to her work recruiting students, Grubbs manages all social media channels for the undergraduate admissions team and briefly served as interim social media coordinator for the University. She was also instrumental in the launching of the Spartan Family Portal – a website dedicated to enhancing communication with the families of prospective and current Manchester students.
“Kyle immerses herself in Manchester happenings, and that, along with her experience, makes her extremely knowledgeable about the University,” said Director of Marketing Dan Chudzynski. “She's always helpful with a positive attitude. She's often my go-to to learn about students when we need to recruit for marketing stories. I never hesitate to reach out to her because I know our interaction will be positive and productive.”
Grubbs is known for her unwavering dedication to her alma mater and the students she supports. Her friendly, inviting personality has made her a beloved colleague and admissions counselor for the past decade.
Jill Biehl, administrative assistant of admissions, said of her colleague, “Kyle completely embodies MU. She promotes Manchester every chance she gets, through one-on-one contact as well as all avenues of social media. She bleeds black and gold!”
Manchester University, in North Manchester and Fort Wayne, Ind., provides vibrant and transformative student experiences. Learn more at www.manchester.edu/about-manchester.
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