If you don’t already know who Shirley Manchester is, it’s time to remedy that. As part of the administrative backbone that enables the School of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) to thrive, Manchester works both behind the scenes and in front of them. Between her role as an academic advisor and serving as the career liaison for MSE students, she is integral to their success.

Her primary job is advising undergraduates. “It’s all about supporting and guiding our students,” Manchester said. For students new to the academic world, navigating degree expectations can be daunting. Manchester dedicates herself to helping them feel confident and capable as they work toward their goals.

Part of that includes maintaining a monthly undergraduate newsletter to keep students informed and connected. This regular communication ensures students know someone is on their side. “[At MSE] we walk our talk,” she said, noting that the school prioritizes compassion and seeing students as people, not statistics.

Nowhere is this more evident than in her work with transfer students. Manchester strives to make Georgia Tech feel welcoming beyond campus boundaries. “Sometimes transfer students can feel as if they fall through the cracks,” she explained. Her newest initiative partners with admissions to ease the transition for MSE transfers, ensuring they feel supported from day one.

Her dedication doesn’t stop once students register for classes. Manchester also focuses on career preparedness. While MSE boasts strong placement rates, she works to “enhance our career preparedness” by organizing career fairs and connecting students with alumni for mock interviews. These efforts help students enter job interviews confident and ready.

Manchester’s own story reflects the confidence she encourages in others. Recently, she served as a Group Leader for the GT Oxford Study Abroad Program, something she had wanted to do for 17 years but delayed out of fear. “I was scared,” she admitted, citing challenges like international travel and managing a large, diverse group. Yet she refused to let fear win. “I let Shirley be Shirley,” she said, boldly flying 10 hours (with food poisoning!) and collaborating with international faculty to lead 52 students through a transformative experience. “It filled me up every day,” she said.

Her study abroad experience informs her approach to advising. Earning a degree, finding a job—these steps can feel intimidating. But, as Manchester demonstrates, doing the scary things leads to boundless rewards. Perhaps this is why she excels at uplifting students, making transfers feel seen, and ensuring graduates leave prepared for their dream careers: she leads by example.

Shirley Manchester is a cornerstone of MSE, serving our undergraduate population and keeping the heart of the school beating. Join us in celebrating and thanking her for all she does.