Amanda Knapp, Ph.D.
Amanda is a first-generation college graduate from rural West Virginia who holds a Ph.D. in Education Policy from the University of Maryland. Amanda has blended a career in higher education with off-road motorcycle racing, a sport she is passionate about, to help students “stay on track.”
By day, she serves as Associate Vice Provost and Assistant Dean at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, where she provides leadership and vision in the areas of student retention, progression, academic success, and graduation. At the heart of Amanda’s work is a deep commitment to removing barriers to academic achievement and implementing policy strategies and interventions that support institutional goals and student outcomes. She is especially passionate about bridging the equity divide—a mission that has led to national speaking engagements and a feature in U.S. News & World Report.
As a weekend warrior, Amanda has raced competitively across the country earning a Women’s Class Championship in both the AMA East Hare Scrambles and Sprint Cross Country Series. Her unique journey—blending a career in higher education with a love for motorsports—has been featured on the cover of American Motorcyclist Magazine and in several other issues highlighting her commitment to “Riding as a Family.” Her story, driven by work-life balance and her love of riding, has also been featured in The Baltimore Sun – Howard Magazine, UMBC Magazine, Terp Magazine, Endeavors Magazine, Maryland Today, Learn Magazine, Buffalo Business Magazine, University at Buffalo Magazine, At Buffalo Magazine, and more. She was named a Toyota Makeup2Mud athlete and featured on NBC Sports Network and Race Day Live during Monster Energy Supercross.
Amanda is also a contributing author to Women Who Ride: Rebel Souls, Golden Hearts, and Iron Horses, an anthology honoring women in motorcycling through stories that break stereotypes and empower riders worldwide.
Now proud and privileged to join the Ride4Mary team, Amanda rides with purpose—to inspire female ridership by “changing perceptions,” “outracing stereotypes,” and “pushing past obstacles,” honoring the legacy of Mary McGee, a true legend who fearlessly opened doors for women in the sport. After a long pause from competitive racing since 2021, Amanda will carry that legacy forward by co-leading a regional women’s ride in celebration of the nationwide Ride4Mary event to be held in Virginia on August 30, 2025, with teammate Jessica Riddle, where she’ll once again line up to catch the checkered flag —fueled by Mary’s spirit and determination.
Instagram: @SHESHALLRide
