For Tiffin University alumna Rachel Wamsley ‘09, each chapter of her career has been connected by a desire to serve others and make a meaningful difference. Today, she is a neuroscience specialty representative with Alkermes, partnering with psychiatrists and other healthcare professionals across West Virginia, Ohio and Virginia to support evidence-based treatment for people living with serious mental illness.
“As a neuroscience specialty representative with Alkermes, I have the opportunity to combine science, education and relationship building to help healthcare providers improve the lives of people living with serious mental illness,” Wamsley said. “My career has always been centered on helping others, and I enjoy serving as a trusted resource while bringing the latest clinical information to providers. Knowing my work can ultimately benefit patients and their families is what makes this career so rewarding.”
The foundation for that career began at Tiffin University, where Wamsley earned a Bachelor of Criminal Justice with a major in forensic psychology and a minor in addictions counseling. She competed in cross-country and track and field and played trumpet in the marching band during her freshman year. Although her athletic experiences were an important part of her time at TU, Wamsley said the relationships she formed are what made the University feel like home.
“It’s difficult to choose just one favorite memory because what I treasure most is the collection of everyday moments that made Tiffin feel like home,” she said. “Whether it was early morning runs with my cross-country teammates through Hedges-Boyer Park, celebrating after races or simply spending time with friends talking about everything and nothing at the same time, those are the memories that have stayed with me. The lifelong friendships I built at Tiffin remain one of the greatest gifts of my college experience.”
Wamsley also found mentors who shaped her understanding of mental health, leadership and service. She credits Dr. Jonathan Appel with influencing the compassionate approach she continues to bring to her work. “His passion for mental health and his belief that recovery requires a comprehensive, compassionate approach continue to shape how I view patient care today,” she said. “Looking back, it’s incredible how those lessons have come full circle.”
Coach Jeremy Croy also left a lasting impression by challenging Wamsley and her teammates to push beyond their perceived limitations. “He had a way of pushing us beyond what we believed we were capable of while always expecting us to give our very best,” she said. “The lessons I learned from him reached far beyond the track and cross-country course. He taught me that success is built through consistency, discipline, resilience and the choices we make every day. Looking back, I realize those principles have guided me through every stage of my life.”
After graduating, Wamsley began working as a substance abuse therapist, helping individuals navigate mental health and addiction challenges. She later transitioned to Enterprise Rent-A-Car, where she developed skills in coaching, operational management and business leadership. Her background in counseling and leadership eventually led her to the pharmaceutical industry, where she held positions with Sanofi and AbbVie before joining Alkermes. Her commitment to service also led her to the West Virginia Army National Guard.
Wamsley said balancing academics and athletics at TU prepared her to perform under pressure, respond to challenges and work alongside people pursuing a shared goal. “Being a student-athlete taught me discipline, resilience, accountability and the value of consistent hard work,” she said. “Those experiences became the foundation for how I approach leadership and my professional career. The lessons I learned at Tiffin carried with me throughout my service and continue to guide me today.”
Rachel is now the mother of two boys who inspire her each day. Outside of work, she enjoys running, gardening and spending time outdoors. As she reflects on her journey, she remains grateful for the education, friendships and mentors that helped prepare her for a life centered on serving others. Wamsley said,
“Earning my degree from Tiffin University was one of the most important investments I ever made in myself. Beyond the education, I am especially grateful for the lifelong friendships, mentors and opportunities that helped shape the person I am today. As always, every day is a great day to be a Dragon!”