Throughout her time at IUP, Abigail Hancox has made contributions all across campus, now she is taking her involvement statewide.

Hancox, a 2024 IUP graduate and current IUP master’s student pursuing degrees in both public affairs and student affairs in higher education, has been chosen to serve on the PASSHE Foundation Board of Directors.

As a member of the PASSHE Foundation Board of Directors, Hancox will help oversee and contribute to the board’s mission of providing a high-quality, affordable education to students in the state of Pennsylvania.

She is one of only two students in the PASSHE system chosen for the board and one of three representatives from the United States selected for the newest cohort of Women Emerging, a nonprofit global leadership initiative that prepares and connects young women and supports the next generation of woman leaders.

IUP President Michael Driscoll spoke Hancox’s selection and representation of IUP throughout the State System.

“Abby exemplifies the best qualities of leadership and service,” said Driscoll. “She continues to be an incredible role model and mentor to students on the IUP campus and within the State System.”

Hancox first began service for the PASSHE Board of Governors while she was obtaining her undergraduate degree in June of 2022.  

She was officially reappointed to the Board in October of 2024 and will remain in her position until her PASSHE Foundation term concludes in June of 2028.

“It has been an honor to participate in the Woman Emerging program; I have found it has provided me a really unique opportunity to network with woman my age,” said Hancox.

“It is really an enriching experience to get to learn and work with women who are also in leadership roles in higher education and are pursuing many different things in life but have the common goal of wanting to become leaders.”

Alongside participating in the PASSHE Foundation and pursuing her masters, Hancox works as an IUP Academic Success Graduate Assistant at IUP’s University College.

As an undergraduate, Hancox was a member of the Cooks Honors College, where she served as an invited presenter for the National Collegiate Honors Council Association.

She maintained a 4.0 grade point average, while majoring in political science and minoring in homeland security.  

Her leadership skills began to flourish on campus as she served as President of IUP’s Student Government Association (SGA), held a position as senator in the IUP University Senate, served as vice chair and conference chair of the Pennsylvania State System Board of Student Government Presidents (BSGP) and volunteered as a group leader for the Indiana Grace Church After School program.

“When I came here to IUP, I didn’t come here with a purpose that I knew I wanted to pursue, it wasn’t till I joined the student government association at IUP, that I think it  really saved me in a way because it gave me purpose and something to dedicate my time towards.” said Hancox.

Vice President of Student Affairs Thomas Segar, talked about his experience working with Hancox during her undergraduate studies and what it has been like to see her grow as a professional.

“I have known Abby since her first year at IUP and had the opportunity to work with her during her service as both a senator and a member of the Executive Board of the Student Government Association,” said Segar.

“Abby is a passionate advocate for students and for IUP, and she consistently demonstrates strong, thoughtful leadership.”

Hancox highlighted the importance of finding mentorship and listening to the guidance of campus leaders, both in her undergraduate studies and present-day life.

She attributes her success to the support and guidance provided by several campus departments including the political science department, the Student Affairs in Higher Education (SAHE) department as well as University College.

Vice Provost of Academic Success Amber Racchini has worked with Hancox throughout her time at IUP.

“From the moment she stepped on campus, Abigail Hancox has been involved at IUP, and I have had the privilege of knowing her since she was a first-year student, active in the Student Government Association,” said Racchini. “Since that time, her leadership has continued to grow in ways that closely align with the mission of the PASSHE foundation. I am excited to see what Abigail accomplishes next!”

Hancox further extended her special appreciation to her own personal support system for their significant role in her success.

“My mom from the start of my life was my mentor in leadership in a way, not only does she teach leadership and communication, but she installed that interest in service in me and the importance of helping those around you and giving back to your community,” said Hancox. 

Hancox encourages students who are interested in pursuing a career in leadership or government to believe in themselves in addition to seeking out mentors and experiences that will help them grow confidence.