Written by: Tyler Selvig
After eleven years at Wharton Arts, Pippa Raaijamkers, a junior from Governor Livingston High School, continues to share her time and passion with others. Now a seasoned performer, she began going to theater classes at Wharton Performing Arts School when she was only five-years old and has always wanted to sing. Her vocal studies began with Timothy Cole, someone who inspired Pippa to perform and “just be yourself.” This is a message she now uses to inspire the younger generation.
It was clear over the summer how connected Pippa is to her love of art and education. Working with the summer campers, she created an aura of creativity and exploration. Students would gravitate to her for advice, games, and conversations. They were always met with a confident smile and pleasant wit.
As a natural leader, Pippa loved helping the kids prepare for their performances each week and did an incredible job of managing them during their daily camp activities. She says, “Having a say is very important to me. Always make an impact, I think, or hope, I do make an impact.” She is too humble to recognize her presence really resonated with the summer campers. The talented junior was patient and kind, always providing constructive feedback and allowing kids to explore their own imaginations. She spent so much of her summer guiding students; whether working on crafts, cleaning up after lunch, or instructing in the theater. When asked how she finds time to balance everything she simply said, “I don’t take it too seriously,” explaining how she channels stress to get things done.
Throughout her time here at Wharton Arts, she has performed in countless recitals, including the honors recital, the 2020 Gala, musicals, Winter Walk, and more. She has enjoyed the family environment of Wharton Arts and always felt comfortable trying new things in a supportive community. Pippa has accumulated over 135 hours of community service over the years and continues to give her time at school by participating in the National Honor Society and balancing three sports (in addition to her artistic commitments). As a beacon of positivity, Pippa influences so many throughout the Performing Arts School in Berkeley Heights. “It makes me happy to see them enjoying themselves, that’s all that matters,” she exclaimed as she talked about the campers opening up and growing. The joy of giving certainly resonates with this kind, generous and talented individual. Pippa is someone who gives her time, talents, and kindness so naturally. We are beyond lucky to have her as a part of our Wharton Family.
