The latest addition to our series of Stover Alumni Spotlights features Anna (Rape) Robertson, a 2024 graduate.
Q: What initially drew you to the Stover Center for Constitutional Studies and Moral Leadership?
A: I was interested in the program because of my love for history and politics. At the time, I didn’t really know what I was getting into, but I am so glad I was given the scholarship. It has been a tremendous blessing in my life.
Q: How did the Stover Program help prepare you for success? What skills or knowledge gained through the Stover Program have proven most valuable in your career?
A: In the Stover Program, I had the opportunity to read court cases and complicated articles, which prepared me to comprehend difficult writing and to grow as a skilled writer. Both reading and writing are valuable in any career. In my role, I do a lot of writing for lessons, so those skills have been especially helpful.
The program also allowed us to meet many different professionals, which helped me develop relational skills, make connections and grow in public speaking. In my career, I work closely with volunteers and interns, so building relationships is vital. I also teach Sunday school, so public speaking continues to be important.
Most of all, the Stover Program taught me how to think, not what to think. That is the most valuable lesson of all. Whether in career, life or citizenship, it’s essential that we know how to think for ourselves rather than simply being told what to think by others.
Q: Were there any specific courses, mentors or opportunities that stood out to you?
A: Dr. Stratton was a mentor who greatly impacted my time at Waynesburg. He made everyone feel welcome and important. He led our summer book discussions, which became one of my favorite parts of the program. I love to read, and it was fascinating to learn about the men who founded our government, their struggles and the ideas that shaped the Constitution.
From Dr. Stratton, I gained not only knowledge about how the world and society work, but also a picture of what it looks like to follow God and point others to Him. He is a humble leader who reflects Christ’s character in the way he acts and leads.
Q: Do you have a favorite memory from your time in the Stover Program?
A: One of my favorite memories was Stover orientation, where we went kayaking, hiking and horseback riding—all while also reading court cases and discussing political issues. It was such a fun mix of learning and friendship.
Q: How did being part of this program shape your college experience as a whole?
A: The Stover Program gave me an immediate community on campus, as well as meaningful events to look forward to and important lessons to learn. The D.C. trip is honestly something not many people get the chance to do. It really shaped my college experience. On the trip, we got to see D.C., which is beautiful in itself, but we also got to meet so many wonderful speakers! Just to name a few of my personal favorites: Judge Naomi Rao, Justice Samuel Alito, Ambassador Jacques Pitteloud and so many more. Not many college students can say that they have met a Supreme Court justice.
Q: What advice would you give students currently in the program or considering applying?
A: If you are considering applying, just do it! It has been one of the most valuable things that I have ever done.
If you are currently in the program or hope to be in it, then take time to invest in it. Invest your time and energy. Take time to do the readings and go above and beyond in your research. In whatever you are doing in college or life, you get out what you put in, so take the time to put a lot in.
Q: What are you doing now?
A: I am currently the Elementary Coordinator at North Way Christian Community in Wexford. I grew up attending North Way, and this job has been a wonderful blessing. I get to write curriculum for Bible studies, work with volunteers and interns and—best of all—lead children to know Christ. I love my job and look forward to continuing in this ministry for years to come.
Q: Would you like to share anything about your personal life?
A: In June 2024, I married Seth Robertson, a fellow alumnus. We bought our first home in Washington, PA, though we still love visiting Waynesburg. I enjoy reading, hiking and spending time with my family.
About the Stover Center for Constitutional Studies and Moral Leadership
Waynesburg University's Stover Center for Constitutional Studies and Moral Leadership is an interdisciplinary scholarly center dedicated to bringing insights from the U.S. Constitution's Founding Era and from Christianity to bear in the contemporary public square, with the ultimate goal of creatively transforming the ethical state of the polis.
About Waynesburg University
Consistently ranked a best value school, Waynesburg University’s Strategy for the 21st Century affirms its commitment to developing an entrepreneurial mindset and ethical leadership skills for all students. Rooted in its mission of faith, learning and service, the private, Christian university is located on a traditional campus in the hills of southwestern Pennsylvania.
