2024 Bender of Twigs

Phoebe’s impact on the Wichita State University Foundation and Alumni Engagement is immense and heartfelt. Her passion for all things WSU is marked by years of support and an embodiment of the mission of the WSUFAE and WSU. Both past and present development staff have benefitted from her dedication to the roles she has played.

From the beginning, Phoebe has dedicated her career to assisting others and to make the WSUFAE successful in its mission to “Elevate, celebrate and advance Wichita State University through engagement and philanthropy.” Starting as an administrative assistant for two members of the development team, she quickly became someone that could be called on for support and dependability. As time progressed, she moved into more responsibilities through her promotion as the administrative assistant for the Vice President of Development. In 2013, Phoebe served as the administrative assistant for the Vice President of Planned Giving and Annual Fund. Most recently, she continues her role as administrative assistant to the Executive Director of Planned Giving and supports several development team members.

Phoebe has never been one to toot her own horn, but without a doubt, she works quietly behind the scenes to make sure those she supports and the entire WSUFAE team is successful in providing the service of integrity that is critical to its donors and the university. Another area in which Phoebe excels is sharing her vast knowledge gathered over the past twenty-five years. In this line of work, donor relationships are at the top of all we do. Having Phoebe there to pull the stories and historical facts from memory makes those around her perform their roles at the highest levels. All to say, the impact Phoebe has made on our organization is immeasurable.

On a side note, you won’t find a more loyal Shocker Athletics fan than Phoebe Garcia. If you don’t see her at Shocker games, you can bet she is watching from home. Her team spirit on game days can be seen and heard around the office.

Phoebe has a passion for the importance of the role higher education has on our society. She simply understands that the work provided by the WSUFAE truly transforms the lives of current and future Shockers.

It has been my privilege to work with and know Phoebe as a friend for seventeen of the past twenty-five years she has served the WSUFAE.

On behalf of the entire Wichita State University Foundation and Alumni Engagement staff and the Board of Directors, congratulations, Phoebe, on your induction to the Bender of Twigs.