Kayla Richards

Kayla Richards is the director of student services at Weitzman. A lively member of the Office of Student Services team, she designs and manages supportive programming seeking to resolve the academic, social, and emotional needs of students. Additionally, Kayla is the initial point of contact for student concerns and serves as the primary liaison for students to connect to relevant resources on Penn’s campus. Lastly, she is a partner in Weitzman Student Council, Weitzman student groups, Weitzman Inclusion and Belonging initiatives, Weitzman Professional Development and Career Resources, New Student Orientation, and Commencement, whilst managing a variety of communications to students. Kayla’s spirit and attentiveness to the student voice informs her work and ensures student wellness remains centered at Weitzman.  

Kayla attended Penn's School of Social Policy & Practice (SP2) and received her Master in Social Work in 2017. While completing her studies, Kayla worked in student life as a Graduate Associate in Riepe College House. Prior to Penn, Kayla was the student programming assistant at the Hasbrouck Graduate Student Community Center at Cornell University. She graduated from Cornell University Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts in English, and Minors in Inequality Studies, Policy Analysis & Management, and Law & Society. 

In her free time, you can find Kayla practicing yoga, lifting weights, singing on a stage, or trying new restaurants in and around the city. She also enjoys spending time with family and friends.