WHM Spotlight: Dorothy Riley ’28

To continue our celebration of Women’s History Month and the remarkable women who help shape the Roger Williams University community, we’re introducing you to Dorothy Riley ’28, a sophomore Accounting and Management double major with minors in Economics and Theatre from Portland, Conn., and Secretary of the Student Senate.

A first-generation college student, Riley is deeply involved across campus. In addition to her role in Student Senate, she participates in the Accounting Club, Multicultural Student Union, and Stage Company, and serves on the executive board of the Student Alumni Ambassador Program – an Office of Alumni Relations initiative connecting students and alumni across generations.

Her leadership and commitment to the RWU community have already been recognized through a Class Award for the Class of 2028, honoring students who live out the university’s mission through service and engagement.

At RWU, Riley’s involvement across student leadership, advocacy, and the arts has helped her grow into a leader grounded in empathy, resilience, and a commitment to building community.

Fun Facts About Dorothy

• She performed in an Off-Broadway musical alongside Kevin McHale and has spent more than a decade involved in theatre.
• She has lived in four different states.
• She played volleyball for three years, where she developed a strong sense of teamwork and resilience that continues to shape her leadership style today.

In Her Own Words

Tell us about your Student Senate Secretary role and what leadership looks like in your work.

I was elected Student Senate Secretary at the end of the spring 2025 semester, and shortly after, I attended the Student Government Institute hosted by the National Association for Campus Activities. Being able to collaborate with student leaders from across the country helped build my confidence going into this academic year.

While some may think the role is just about taking notes, it involves much more. I manage meeting minutes, track attendance, organize reports, and help ensure our meetings run smoothly. I also help manage communication, making sure messages are directed to the right people or committees.

A large part of my role is centered on accountability and organization, but it also shapes the kind of leader I strive to be. I care deeply about the internal well-being of the Student Senate and making sure everyone feels supported and heard.

What does it mean to you to be a woman leader here at RWU?

To me, being a woman leader at RWU means creating a space of encouragement and empowerment. I strive to be someone who lifts other women up and supports their success.

I feel fortunate to be part of a community where women are encouraged to lead and where that leadership is recognized and valued.

What does “Give to Gain” mean to you, and what do you give that helps others gain opportunity?

To me, “Give to Gain” is rooted in perseverance and purpose.

Growing up in a predominantly white town as a woman of color, I often felt the need to work harder to be seen and heard. That experience shaped my mindset – I learned early on that giving more of yourself can open doors and create opportunities.

What I give now is my patience, kindness, and respect. Through my involvement in DEIA initiatives, I’ve seen how difficult it can be to create change, but I also know how meaningful that progress can be. I believe that respect is a basic human right, and creating spaces where people feel heard and valued is essential to building a stronger community.

Were there specific people who helped shape your path, and how did their influence guide you?

My high school Student Senate advisor, Michele Stotler, had a profound impact on my path. She showed me that student government could be more than planning events – it could be a space where students voice concerns, share ideas, and create change. With her support, I grew into leadership roles, eventually serving as Student Body President. Her belief in me helped me find confidence in my voice and inspired me to continue that work at RWU. She may not realize it, but her mentorship shaped the kind of leader I strive to be today.

What has been one meaningful success for you in your role so far?

One of my most meaningful experiences was helping bring a music-based program called Sonic Connections to RWU’s Organization Retreat. It was a new initiative designed to bring students together through shared musical experiences focused on leadership, well-being, and belonging. Seeing students from different organizations connect in a new way – and hearing their positive feedback – was incredibly rewarding.

It pushed me outside of my comfort zone, but it showed me the impact of taking initiative on something you believe in.

What advice would you offer to students stepping into leadership?

There is no such thing as a perfect leader, so don’t try to be one. You will make mistakes, and that’s part of the process. Leadership is about showing up as your best self to support others, not about being flawless.

It’s okay to be inspired by others, but don’t lose yourself in the process. Your individuality is what makes you a strong leader. As I see it: why mask your own strengths with someone else’s, when yours are exactly what people need to see?