Meet Statesman Scholar Amber Ange
Ever since her days at Thomas Dale High School, aspiring lawyer and Chester native Amber Ange has had an interest in politics. It wasn’t until she enrolled at Richard Bland College of William & Mary, however, that her fascination blossomed into a love affair that she hopes will lead to a career in the field.
The second-year honors student fills her days on campus steeped in a governmental and civic-minded curriculum and extra circular activities. A pre-Law and Government major at Richard Bland College, Ange is Vice President of the Student Assembly, an Academic Coach specializing in statistics and government, and a dedicated member of the College’s prestigious Honors Program.
Those resume building endeavors notwithstanding, Ange “caught” the political bug after Richard Bland College afforded her the opportunity to become involved with Virginia 21, a generational advocacy organization that provides non-partisan information and support to young voters ages 18 to 26.
Ange lobbied at the General Assembly last February working on behalf of college affordability and sexual assault on college campuses. She was invited to the Virginia 21 Spring Conference, where she met Governor Terry McAuliffe and was featured on NBC29 in Charlottesville. That experience led to attending the Virginia 21 Summer Leadership Institute at Christopher Newport University during the summer.
“I love politics, and Richard Bland College has provided me with the opportunity to pursue my career goal both in and outside the classroom,” Ange said.
When Ange receives her Associates Degree from Richard Bland College in May 2017, she will become a first generation college graduate with an impressive portfolio of accomplishments. She is a straight A student and a member of the President’s List.
Ange plans to continue her education at William & Mary next fall, but through a dual enrollment honors partnership, Ange will take two classes, Philosophy and International Politics, on the William & Mary campus this spring.
While graduation looms in a mere five months, Ange remains focused on her academics and outside interests. “I’m working with a team to develop more on campus events during the day when more students can participate,” said Ange, who commutes daily, arriving early and remaining late with her studies and tutoring. “The Student Government has to show both residential and commuter students there are a lot of great reasons to get involved on campus. We want everyone involved in the vibrant RBC experience.”
As a member of the honors program, Ange has participated in community work and volunteering. Her interactions with “students who are in different stages of their academic life” have introduced her to the diverse Richard Bland College student population, creating lasting and meaningful impressions.
“My fondest college memories have come from my involvement with the Student Assembly as it relates to helping with clubs and planning events. I’ve loved my time here. I’ve made good friends and been afforded amazing opportunities to further my education and pursue my passions. It was a smart choice to attend Richard Bland College of William & Mary.”
