Women’s History Month Student Leader Spotlight: Meet Veronia Rateb, DrOT ’26
Veronia Rateb, DrOT ’26, reflects on what makes a great leader, her female role model at Saint Joseph’s and how she’s giving back to her community.
In honor of Women's History Month, SJU News is talking to female leaders of Saint Joseph's University's clubs and organizations to learn more about their leadership journeys and why female voices matter. This week, we're talking to Veronia Rateb, DrOT ’26, a direct-entry occupational therapy major currently in her second year in the occupational therapy doctoral program.
Positions and Organizations:
- Occupational therapy representative, president of the Council of Presidents, Student Senate
- Board advisor, Coalition of Occupational Therapy Advocates for Diversity (COATD)
- Executive board member, Student Occupational Therapy Association (SOTA)
- Former Executive board member, Hawk City Productions (HCP)
Can you explain your roles and responsibilities?
In the Senate, I am the occupational therapy representative, as well as the president and co-chair of the Council of Presidents. Formerly president, I returned this year as the board advisor for the Coalition of Occupational Therapy Advocates for Diversity (COTAD). My role as board advisor is to give advice based on my experience being president the year prior. The best part of my position is being able to provide insight on what worked in previous years and work with the team on new ideas.
What skills or qualities do you possess as a leader?
In every organization, things aren't going to go your way every time. So, I found myself being able to pivot, adapt and problem solve with last minute changes as needed. Being able to adapt, not give up and look at a different angle is important.
Who is a woman who has inspired your leadership journey at Saint Joseph’s, and why?
Victoria Myers is a huge role model, mentor and advisor who I look up to, and has been the biggest inspiration that I've had here during my time at St Joe's. She's such a girl boss, amazing role model and everything that I want to be as a leader. She really taught me to believe in myself and work hard, which I really needed at that time.
What is one quote or piece of advice that has stuck with you in your leadership journey?
Believe in yourself. You might think that you don't belong somewhere, but that's all the more reason to have representation.
Can you provide one example of a project or initiative you are proud of?
For a Thanksgiving event we made thank-you cards for veterans and gave them to the veterans at the VA hospital on UPenn's campus. It was nice to see how much you're doing and giving back to the community.
