Amanda Rappa: A Widener Story Defined by Heart, Hustle, and Human Connection

Amanda Rappa didn’t walk into President Stacey Robertson’s office expecting recognition—she thought she was helping shoot a video through her role as a student worker in University Relations.

Then Robertson surprised her and told Rappa she was the recipient of the President’s Award, which recognizes a graduating senior who has contributed the most to Chester campus life through scholarship and participation in extracurricular activities.

“I thought it was fake,” Rappa said. “I couldn’t believe it. I really couldn’t.”

That sense of humility—and surprise—perfectly captures Rappa’s Widener journey. She didn’t arrive on campus chasing accolades. In fact, she wasn’t even sure college was part of her plan.

A graduate of Springfield High School in Delaware County, Rappa initially considered pursuing a career in cosmetology. But a conversation at her kitchen table with her sister, Lauren Rappa ‘23, changed everything. 

She decided to enroll at Widener as a commuter, following in the footsteps of her mother, Maryann Rappa ’91, and Lauren, both alumnae.

That decision, while practical and financial, wasn’t always easy.

“I was sad to leave campus every day and commute home,” she said. “All the people I met got to stay.”

Rather than withdraw, Rappa did the opposite. She leaned in.

“The reason I got so involved was because I wanted to fill up my schedule so I didn’t have to leave,” she said. “There was no way I was going to get connected if I just came in, went to class and left.” 

What followed was a transformation that would define her college experience—and ultimately distinguish her as one of Widener’s most engaged and impactful students.

“Amanda represents the very best of what Widener strives to cultivate in its students. Her academic excellence, her extraordinary involvement across campus, and—most importantly—her ability to bring people together and make them feel valued set her apart,” Robertson said. “She has not only participated in the life of our Chester campus—she has shaped it, strengthened it and lifted others along the way. That is exactly what the President’s Award is meant to honor.”

A communication studies major with wide-ranging interests, Rappa immersed herself in nearly every corner of campus. 

She joined Widener Dance Company, worked for Admissions and University Relations, executive produced and moderated TEDxWidener, and became a member of Phi Sigma Sigma. 

Along the way, she also maintained her status as an honors student and balanced an off-campus job in a dance merchandise shop and a professional internship with U.S. Liability Insurance in Wayne, Pennsylvania.

She tried everything—not because she had to, but because she wanted to.

Even things that didn’t relate to me, I would try. I met people in every area of campus, and that’s why I ended up loving it so much.” — Amanda Rappa '26

That love is rooted in connection—something Rappa cultivated naturally. 

A self-described “people person,” she has a gift for making others feel seen, a quality she credits as both her biggest growth area and the defining theme of her Widener experience.

“There’s one thing I always keep in mind,” she said. “If people don’t remember anything else about you, they’ll remember how you made them feel.”

That philosophy shaped her leadership, particularly within Widener Dance Company, where she choreographed and mentored fellow dancers. Through dance, Rappa also extended her impact beyond campus. 

She worked with the CAAT Center in Chester, supporting youth performers and helping nurture a relationship between the university and the community.

Watching those students grow—from eight-year-olds to teens—became one of her most meaningful experiences.

“That’s been really great,” she said. “It’s outside of Widener, and it just reminds you how important those connections are.”

Her growth extended into student work with University Relations, where she developed skills in writing, photography, video, and social media. Under the mentorship of Director of Social Media Hilary Bentman, Rappa gained not just technical experience, but self-assuredness.

“I don’t think I would have been as confident in myself if I hadn’t worked with Hilary,” she said. “I learned to trust myself and not worry what other people think.”

Whether braving the rain for a TikTok about lousy spring weather or stepping into a mascot costume to make a lighthearted video, Rappa embraced every opportunity. 

As she prepares for commencement, Rappa is still exploring what comes next. With interests spanning media, storytelling and interpersonal work, she’s less concerned with a specific title and more focused on finding purpose.

“I just know I want something where I can work with people and feel fulfilled,” she said. 

Wherever she lands, she is taking incredible memories of the university with her. 

You’re going to get back whatever you put into it. Widener is special. The people here—they make it that way.” — Amanda Rappa '26

In Rappa’s case, she didn’t just get something out of Widener.

She gave it everything—and made it better in return.