“Andy’s departure from Guilford is even more devastating to the community than to me personally,” said sophomore Mara Stern. “He has brought so much to the campus, and his presence will be missed. Andy is so passionate about his job, and that is evident in his relationships with students.”

Dean of Admission and Financial Aid Administration Andy Strickler is nearing his last semester at Guilford College. Stickler is leaving for Connecticut College, where he will take on the position of dean of admissions and financial aid.

“I’m going to miss the students, faculty and staff and the admissions team,” said Strickler.

Since September 2011, Strickler has enrolled some of the most diverse classes Guilford has seen. As he finishes off his remainder of the semester, he will remain to bring in the class of 2019.

“It has been an honor to know Andy,” said sophomore and President of Community Senate José Oliva. “I have had the opportunity to work with him as a colleague, as well as a friend. His passion for students is something to admire.”

During Strickler’s tenure at Guilford College, he has provided a strong budget management and reputable budget procedures. In 2013, he enrolled the largest freshman class at Guilford since 2009.

According to Guilford College’s website, 97 percent of all students receive financial aid.

With Strickler’s success, Guilford is listed in the top ranks of its class in diversity according to the U.S News College Compass. Not only is Guilford ethnically and geographically diverse, but students also range in age  and come from a vast array of backgrounds globally.

“I thank Andy for his dedication to our students and look forward to completing the spring semester enrollment events with him,” said Jane Fernandes in an email to faculty and staff.

Director of Admission Erin Kelly, a previous colleague of Strickler’s in Northeastern Ohio, remarked that Strickler is a dependable person to go to for anything.

“Andy in general is a very positive human, and he is so caring — its all for the students, families and Guilford community,” said Kelly. “He has been a really influential member of the community. People know it is a good opportunity for Andy to move on, but to say that he hasn’t done great things for the institution, for his students, for athletic events, will leave an Andy Strickler-sized gap.”

“There is a cohort of students that I wanted to make sure get through this place (Guilford),” said Strickler.

“Andy’s departure from Guilford College leaves a significant disadvantage in the admissions office,” said sophomore Cristy Samaniego.

Roger Kieffer will be serving as interim vice president of enrollment.

Strickler shared ideal characteristics for the future dean of admission.

“I want someone go who understands the Quaker values,” said Strickler. “Someone who is going to buy into our diversity … the manner in which we approach diversity.”