Winthrop University Presidential Ambassadors

Serve. Lead. Represent.

The Winthrop Presidential Ambassadors (WPA) is a student leadership organization and the official student ambassador corps of Winthrop University. Carefully chosen through a competitive process, Presidential Ambassadors represent the institution with professionalism, warmth, and pride—serving as trusted partners to campus leadership and proud champions of the Winthrop experience.

Mission

Presidential Ambassadors embody Winthrop University's commitment to service, excellence, community, and leadership by serving as informed, professional, and enthusiastic representatives of the institution.

About the Program

The epitome of student-centered engagement on the Winthrop campus, the Presidential Ambassadors program is housed within the Office of the President and operates in close collaboration with undergraduate Admissions, Advancement, and Alumni Relations professionals. The program seeks to build a cohort of 40–50 ambassadors, to become one of Winthrop's largest and most visible student leadership programs.

Ambassadors are assigned to support four key areas of university life:

  • Admissions & Recruitment: Welcoming and engaging prospective students and their families at campus tours, open houses, yield events, and special visit programs.
  • Advancement: Supporting donor events, stewardship activities, development functions, and gift recognition events.
  • Office of the President: Assisting with presidential receptions, Board of Trustees meetings, official campus ceremonies, and hosting dignitaries and special guests.
  • Alumni Relations: Connecting with Winthrop alumni at on- and off-campus events, Homecoming, signature traditions, and student-alumni engagement initiatives.

    As a Presidential Ambassador, you will:

    • Build meaningful relationships with university leadership, donors, alumni, and community partners
    • Learn best practices and develop professional skills in communication, hospitality, and public speaking
    • Access exclusive leadership development training and professional development sessions
    • Represent Winthrop at its highest level and serve as a visible steward of its mission and values
    • Earn hourly compensation ranging from $15–$20 per hour, based on the nature and scope of each event
    • Receive official university attire and/or professional dress as appropriate
      Be recognized through awards, certificates, leadership distinctions, and/or graduation cords

    To be considered for membership, applicants must:

    • Be enrolled full time at Winthrop University
    • Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
    • Be in good academic and conduct standing
    • Demonstrate strong communication skills, professionalism, and institutional pride

    Membership is a one-year appointment, and ambassadors in good standing are welcome to reapply annually.

    Membership is competitive. The selection process includes:

    1. Submission of a written application
    2. Interview with a selection committee
    3. Review of academic standing 

    Selection decisions are made by the Program Director in collaboration with key campus partners.

    Presidential Ambassadors are expected to:

    • Serve as official representatives of Winthrop at designated events across all four program areas
    • Uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and confidentiality
    • Be knowledgeable about Winthrop's history, academic programs, traditions, and strategic priorities
    • Arrive prepared, punctual, and appropriately dressed for all assigned events
    • Complete required onboarding, training, and ongoing professional development sessions
    • Follow all university policies and demonstrate respectful, inclusive behavior at all times

    Recruitment for this program occurs once a year in the spring semester.

    Apply Now

    Questions about the program? E-mail PresidentialAmbassadors@winthrop.edu  

     

    Application timeline

    Application Opens: March 11
    Application Closes: March 27
    Application Review: March 30 – April 1
    Invitations for Interviews: April 3
    Interviews (group and individual with various times available): April 13-16
    Selection and Announcement: April 20
    2-Day Training: August 2026

    Know a student who would make an outstanding Presidential Ambassador? Faculty and staff nominations are a valued part of the selection process. If you have a student in mind who exemplifies Winthrop's values and would thrive in a high-profile leadership role, please take a moment to submit their information.

    Nominate a Student


Presidential Ambassadors Committee:

Kevin Hughes, Vice President for University Advancement
Dr. Amanda James, Vice President for Enrollment Management & Marketing
Lori Tuttle, Executive Director for Alumni Relations
Heather Carter, Director of University Events
Megan Rolf, Director of Recruitment, Admissions
Amanda Stewart, Director of Stewardship and Communications, University Advancement
Brooke Teague, Event Coordinator, University Events