40 Under 40: Rachel DeLadesmo ’14

As a student, I was invested in the power of fashion, pop culture, and social media as communication tools, but I was embarrassed that I didn’t want to work in something more “important.” Dr. Michael Dwyer, associate professor of Media and Communication, told me not to apologize for what I love and to use those interests to my advantage. My interest in fashion helped me get a scholarship to study abroad for a semester, and my pop culture and social media expertise are parts of my career every day. I use them to talk about the realities of abuse and point survivors of sexual violence to resources that can help them heal or get justice. Professor Dwyer showed me how important it is to believe in the power of your ideas and to stay true to yourself. I’ll carry that lesson with me through my life. 

Given my educational background and the activities I gravitated towards at Arcadia, it makes a lot of sense that I became a nonprofit communications professional after graduation. My time at Arcadia was focused on service and community: discovering joy in mentoring as an orientation leader, giving back during Alternative Spring Break in Florida, and finding my place as a global citizen during semesters abroad. 

I want to grow my skill set, be a leader in my field, and continue to work with people that value my expertise, prioritize the digital space, and believe in the power of young people.