Student Spotlight: Richermy “Richy” Batista

Richermy “Richy” Batista is a proud first-generation student and first-year candidate in Villanova University’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program. She is is exploring interests in public leadership, equity in government, and diversity & inclusion policy, while also pursuing a City Management Certificate. She currently serves as a Graduate Assistant for the Public Administration Department, supporting academic programming and managing student-centered communications and social media initiatives.

Born in the Dominican Republic and raised in Hazleton, Pennsylvania, Richy grew up in a vibrant immigrant community that shaped her values of belonging, advocacy, and opportunity. Villanova’s commitment to ethical leadership, community-centered governance, and real-world learning experiences drew her to the program. She sought a graduate environment that aligned with her passion for public service, social impact, and leadership rooted in equity.

Richy’s commitment to public service grew from her youth volunteer and undergraduate experiences, where she built student organizations and advocated for student belonging. These leadership roles helped her recognize the power of policy and community organizing in expanding opportunities for marginalized groups.

Her favorite part of the Villanova MPA program is the people. From professors to peers, she feels supported by a community that genuinely cares about driving meaningful change. For her, the perfect blend of academic rigor and mentorship is what makes Villanova special.

Before beginning the MPA program, Richy gained valuable public sector experience through internships with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Public Affairs Office, Capitol Hill under Congressman Greg Casar (Progressive Caucus Chair), and the Hazleton Integration Project. She also served as a Resident Advisor and student-leader—experiences that strengthened her skills in communication, inclusive leadership, and partnership-building.

Richy hopes to pursue a career in federal public service—potentially working at the White House or within a federal agency focused on equity, civil rights, or public affairs. Long term, she plans to pursue a Ph.D. and continue shaping more equitable and accessible public systems and also has hopes of some day becoming a professor.

If given the chance to drive one major policy change, Richy would work to strengthen public trust and accessibility in government—especially for immigrant and historically marginalized communities. She believes government should be transparent, welcoming, and representative of the communities it serves.

Richy encourages incoming MPA students to show up fully as themselves and embrace their voices as leaders. “You belong in every room you walk into,” she says. “Ask questions, build relationships, and stay curious. The MPA isn’t just about policy—it’s about leading with integrity.”

She draws inspiration from powerful women of color in public leadership, including Michelle Obama, Rep. Jasmine Crockett, and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who champion justice, uplift communities, and redefine what public service looks like.

"The MPA isn’t just about policy—it’s about leading with integrity.”