picture of Amber Viola

Amber Viola


Marywood Alumna and Current Student is Making an Impact in Scranton and Beyond 

July 1, 2022

Over the course of 8 years serving in the United States Navy, Amber Viola advanced to the rank of Gunner’s Mate Second Class, in addition to becoming a Naval Military Training Instructor and a Department of Defense Victim Advocate. While serving as a Victim Advocate, Viola realized that she wanted to spend her life serving people and her community. Now one year after graduating from Marywood University with a bachelor's degree in social work, Viola is beginning a new chapter in life.

In 2022, Viola returned to Marywood, as a full-time graduate student in the Master of Social Work (MSW) program. She also became the first black female Commander of the Gouldsboro American Legion Post 274 after leaving her job as Human Resource Director for The City of Scranton. Through training, continued education and internships, Viola has continued to learn while sharpening her leadership skills. Her passion for veteran advocacy, including the work she does with female veterans and military sexual trauma survivors, is worthy of commendation. Marywood’s Mission and Core Values are reflected in everything Viola stands for in her daily pursuit of excellence. 

Marywood challenges individuals of all backgrounds to achieve their full potential and make choices based on spiritual and ethical values. Marywood University prepares students to seek sustainable solutions for the common good and educates global citizens to live responsibly in an interdependent world.

[ RELATED READ » Navy veteran impacting Scranton inside and outside city hall — by Gia Mazur | Feb 1, 2021 | Featured, NEPA People ]

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