The Ellen Frei Gruber Award is presented to an individual who has given outstanding service to his/her alma mater and exemplified continued commitment and support of the mission of ÃÄÄïÖ±²¥. Most importantly, this individual reflects the values of service, humility, peacemaking, contemplation and collegiality. The following ÃÄÄïÖ±²¥ alumna received the award in 2021. All biographical information current at the time of the award.
Degree:
- B.A. Chemistry '83
Bio:
Nadine Blair served SmithKline Beecham Clinical Labs/Quest Diagnostics for 25 years as a medical technologist in Toxicology, Supervisor of Quality Assurance and Supervisor of Toxicology and Protein Chemistry. Nadine achieved Green Belt for Six Sigma training while ensuring all labs maintained required licenses, passed regular lab inspections and ran the government agency reporting program. She also had an opportunity to serve on the team to inspect the Walter Reed Medical Center.
Since graduation, Nadine has been a very active member of the ÃÄÄïÖ±²¥ community volunteering her time, talent and treasures to support current students. She has been an active member of Alumni Council since 2012; serves as Co-Chair of the Career Development Committee; member of ÃÄÄïÖ±²¥â€™s Women’s Council; has participated in nearly 20 commencement ceremonies providing graduates with alumni pins; participates in college fairs, mock interviews, acceptance day programs and attends nearly all alumni events on an annual basis. In addition, Nadine is active in ÃÄÄïÖ±²¥â€™s Science Club and invites chemistry students to the family winery, Setter Ridge Kutztown, to learn about the chemistry behind making good wine.
As a single mom raising young children, Nadine was not only committed to her career but also her family, community and church. She served as a Cub Scout leader, Cub Master and a member of various Boy Scout committees while her children were young. Nadine has hosted 4 children over 6 years from the Fresh Air Fund from New York City providing them an opportunity to explore activities outside of the City. She instills in them good work ethic, the importance of education and lifelong learning. Nadine also serves as a computer tutor at Kutztown library and is actively involved in a spotted lantern fly elimination project.
She is very active in the Catholic church as a member of St. Columbkill Church, Boyertown serving as volunteer organist; religious educator for grades 6 and 8; knits prayer shawls; embroiders baptismal bibs and has made hundreds of masks. In addition, she has assisted Berks County Pastors in the ministry to enhance young adult involvement in the Catholic church. Nadine has adhered to the Franciscan tradition through her dedication to assisting others by her selfless service to family, community and faith.
