About me
Dr. Amanda Parezo is an occupational therapist, educator, accessibility advocate, and model based in Philadelphia. With over 16 years of experience, she is an Assistant Professor in the Occupational Therapy Doctorate program at Thomas Jefferson University, preparing future clinicians to support meaningful participation in everyday life. A spinal cord injury survivor and wheelchair user, Amanda brings both professional expertise and lived experience to her work. She partners with organizations like the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau to help businesses create more welcoming, inclusive environments. As founder of Ramp Up Philly, she leads initiatives that provide practical, low-cost accessibility solutions for local businesses. Amanda also advocates for disability representation in media through modeling and commercial work with local organizations, including Jefferson Health. She serves on the Pennsylvania Governor’s Advisory Commission on Women and is a recipient of the 2024 Pennsylvania Governor’s Keystone Award, Thomas Jefferson University’s 2023 Presidential Award for Community Impact, and the United States Tennis Association’s 35x35 Presidential Impact Award for her advocacy and promotion of tennis, particularly in the wheelchair tennis sector. She challenges the hospitality industry to view accessibility not as an obligation, but as a cornerstone of exceptional service because when spaces are designed for everyone, everyone benefits.
