Kelly Rubin named new SAVES director

Kelly Rubin is the new director of Radford University's Substance Abuse and Violence Education Support (SAVES) services.

Rubin has an extensive background working with individuals struggling and recovering from substance abuse. One of her long-term goals at Radford is to build a collegiate recovery community, a concept she said is growing popular on college campuses nationwide.

"Many students leave rehab early to go to college," Rubin explained. "While they are away from their homes, they need a support system – a place they feel secure."

Rubin will also work with Assistant Director of SAVES Julie Dill to expand support services to victims and survivors of sexual violence as well as promote the LiveWell Campaign, a grant-funded initiative dedicated to fostering healthy campus communities.

A more immediate goal, Rubin said, is to make the SAVES office more visible on campus.

"I want to make our office more accessible," she said. "We are a great support service for students."

Located on the second floor of Heth Hall, the SAVES office is dedicated to reducing negative consequences related to substance abuse and/or violence through campus-wide initiatives that address these issues and promote student success.

Rubin received her Bachelor of Science in Sociology from Southeast Missouri State University and her Master of Art in Counseling Psychology from Immaculata University.