March is Women’s History Month, when we recognize and celebrate the contributions of women past and present. With this series, we intend to highlight some of NPRC’s women and the impact they have made through their careers and their contributions to the College and higher education. In 2026, Women’s History Month adopted the theme “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future.”
Admissions Counselor Abby Waterman is no stranger to higher education, as she worked in the field during her time as a college student at Slippery Rock University. But last year, she made a transition to the industry full-time. “I was excited to come to NPRC to contribute to supporting students in furthering their education to achieve their goals,” shared Waterman. “Education is an important and powerful tool to have, and the more accessible it can be for students, the better our societies can be for the future.”
During her time at The Rock, Waterman worked as a Public Relations, Graphic Design, and Social Media Specialist for the President’s Commission for Disability Issues. This work continued for all four years of college When an opportunity arose at NPRC to join the Marketing and Admissions department, Waterman was excited about the thought of using her creativity to help serve students in the early stages of their academic careers. “Working in marketing has helped my ability to relate to students when communicating with them and helping them figure out what works for each student. It has also helped to market higher education and the benefits to prospective students who might be unsure or need more information.”
A native of Warren, she graduated from Warren Area High School in 2018 and went to college that fall to study Integrated Marketing Communication. She completed her degree in 2022, but there were some hurdles along the way. When the COVID-19 pandemic began in the middle of her college career, much of her learning moved online during her final two years. “My greatest achievement in higher education would be graduating college with my bachelor’s degree because there were a lot of adjustments that took place during my college career. I faced some difficult personal hurdles, but I stayed resilient to complete all that was required to earn my degree.”
From her own experience, she understands that being an approachable and encouraging professional can make a genuine difference for students. She also uses this philosophy when interacting with colleagues in the industry and co-workers at NPRC. “As a leader, I think it is important to be encouraging to your team to keep them motivated. It makes seeing the positive and celebrating your team’s success much easier. It is also important to be approachable so your team feels they can come to you with an issue and lean on you for support.”
As she began a new chapter at NPRC last fall, she leaned on her support system and advice that she’s been given from mentors and loved ones. The advice made her understand she needed to apply to NPRC and, if hired, not be afraid to learn many new things. “The best advice I have received in my career thus far is to say yes to new opportunities and experiences. Don’t hold yourself back because you don’t think you can do something. Saying yes and taking the chance on new experiences can open so many doors for yourself, and you could learn something new that you end up loving.”
We regret the chances we don’t take in life, and Waterman is thankful she does not have to think about the “what if” with applying to join the NPRC team. Her support system, including her family and close friends, encouraged her to take the chance when she was looking to make a pivot to something new in her young career, and their encouragement and love is something she does not take for granted. “My parents are role models for me because of the unconditional love they show people in their lives, and they always do whatever they can to help others. They taught me manners, right from wrong, how to care for others, and have shaped me into the person I am.”
As for Warren Players, this local non-profit, performing arts group continues to be a second family. Both on stage and behind the scenes, Waterman has become an important part of the group. “I first started doing theatre when I was five years old, and I did my first show with Warren Players when I was nine years old. Over the years within the organization, I have performed on stage, completed digital media work for them, been on the creative team/behind the scenes for shows, and volunteered for various events we attended and hosted. It’s the group I’m most heavily involved with in the Warren County community.”
As for advice she likes to share with women, it’s reflective of the best advice she has been given, which is to not be afraid to take chances and learn something new. “Don’t let anyone hold you back or tell you that you can’t do something. You can do anything you put your mind to and can do hard things. That’s the best advice I can share with anyone, including young girls.”
Waterman is still relatively new to NPRC, all things considered, but she’s been a strong addition to the group of professionals who call NPRC their employer. She is grateful for what she’s learned and everyone she’s helped already, but this only excites her about what’s still to come. “I am honored to be featured for Women’s History Month. My time at NPRC thus far has been such a great experience, and I have learned so much. Our team has been so friendly and helpful to me, and I truly can’t wait to see where my journey at NPRC continues to take me over time,” she said.
NPRC acknowledges that the information contained in this content is complete and accurate at time of publication. It is descriptive in nature and the college reserves the right to make any adjustments it deems necessary or desirable. Updates to programs, tuition, or other academic-related items will be reflected in the online College Catalog or on the respective College web pages. Questions regarding accuracy of content may be emailed to mailto:marketing@rrcnpa.org.