These are the words of the leaders, partners, and colleagues who have worked alongside Amanda — in their own voice, on their own terms.
“Amanda is an extremely bright woman. She’s a natural leader with an excellent work ethic and the highest level of commitment. Her attention to detail is impeccable and her ability to communicate effectively is one of her greatest assets.”Dara Burke
“Amanda has a rare combination of strategic clarity and relational intelligence that she brings to every aspect of her work. Any organization fortunate enough to work with her will benefit enormously from her expertise and her commitment to results.”Annette Naif
“Amanda’s brilliance lies in her unwavering focus. She identifies exactly what an organization needs and commits wholeheartedly, with a sharp intelligence that brings clarity and a dedication that made all the difference.”Leah Garratt
“What stands out most is how clearly Amanda communicates her vision. She comes to the table with a strong sense of purpose, a clear expected outcome, and a genuine understanding of who she is trying to reach.”Dionya Kelley
“Amanda is one of the most remarkable people I have ever met. Whether navigating complex international operations, expanding literacy programs across the Eastern Caribbean, or supporting a grieving family, she brings excellence, warmth, and dedication to everything she does.”Wally Beddoe
“I witnessed her extraordinary leadership as she revitalized our nonprofit. She not only turned it around, but expanded our impact in the schools in the Caribbean islands we served. Her passion, hands-on approach, and fundraising ensured a lasting legacy. Amanda’s efforts led us to become an honored partner with the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States. Her vision not only transformed us internally but also positioned us on a respected international platform.”Leah Garratt
“She’s trustworthy, responsive, and did an excellent job promoting Hands and its mission. She’s the kind of person you want representing your organization — engaged, reliable, and genuinely invested in the work. The impression she left was a strong one.”Helene van Beuren
In May 2020, Jake Beddoe — a Peace Corps volunteer who had worked closely with Hands Across the Sea in the Eastern Caribbean — passed away. His family reached out after receiving donations made in his honor. What followed became one of the most meaningful engagements of Amanda’s tenure as Executive Director.
Amanda personally reached out to the Beddoe family, attended Jake’s celebration of life — traveling to Connecticut — and led the creation of the Jake Beddoe Fund: the first-ever named charity fund in Hands Across the Sea’s history. A process that could have been a difficult administrative exercise became, under her leadership, a tribute that turned grief into purpose.
“Amanda flew in to our hometown to attend Jake’s celebration of life, which we held a year later due to covid. This tremendous act of commitment made such a lasting impression on my entire family and was so greatly appreciated. She remained focused and provided great direction, with care and compassion, throughout the entire process.”Niki Beddoe
“Her empathy and professionalism during that time meant the world to our family. Amanda is one of the most remarkable people I have ever met — a sweetheart with true integrity and a servant’s heart.”Wally Beddoe · Director, Volvo Cars USA
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