Kelly Woodbridge
From Campus to Career: Kelly Woodbridge’s Path of Advocacy
From the moment she first stepped on campus, Kelly Woodbridge knew Marywood University was where she belonged. Drawn by the proximity to home, the welcoming atmosphere, and the values that aligned with her own, she quickly found a place where she could grow both personally and professionally. Marywood offered not only her chosen degree in Art Therapy but also the studio spaces she had always envisioned herself working in, along with countless opportunities to develop her passions.
During her time at Marywood, Kelly embraced experiences that shaped her in lasting ways. Studying abroad in Florence, Italy during her sophomore year was a dream turned reality, offering incredible personal growth and perspective. She also treasured the lighter moments of campus life—like the unforgettable excitement of BINGO nights, which she still remembers as one of the best student activities.
Kelly describes success as being proud of what you do and who you are. For her, success is found in authenticity—doing meaningful work you enjoy while being surrounded by people who support you. That mindset was fostered at Marywood, where she became a member of Zeta Phi Delta, a social service sorority that achieved the highest GPA rating of any student organization. Though she never planned on joining a sorority, it became a transformative part of her journey and gifted her lifelong friendships.
Her advice to current students is simple: don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. She encourages students to take advantage of every opportunity, ask questions, and build relationships, while never losing sight of who they are at their core. These, she says, are some of the best years of your life, filled with friendships and experiences that will stay with you long after graduation.
Marywood prepared Kelly to advocate for herself and others, to grow more confident, and to push beyond her limits. The experiences she had on campus helped her overcome her fear of public speaking, strengthened her curiosity, and gave her the tools to discover what truly made her feel whole.
After graduating, Kelly pursued her M.Ed. in Counseling and Human Services at Lehigh University and began her career as a psychotherapist. She later specialized in supporting individuals with chronic illness, a passion that deepened when she herself was diagnosed with a rare neurological condition. That experience gave her a new perspective—one that would shape her professional calling.
Today, Kelly serves as an Accommodations Specialist at Lehigh University, where she helps individuals with disabilities access reasonable accommodations that allow them to thrive in their work. It’s a role that connects directly back to the foundation she built at Marywood—her confidence, her advocacy skills, and her commitment to helping others.
Looking back, Kelly is deeply grateful for the education, opportunities, and support she received at Marywood. It was the place where her story began, and the lessons she learned continue to guide her as her journey unfolds.