Ohio State employee pays it forward through Bucks for Charity donation to the Down Syndrome Association

Buckeyes have a reputation of paying forward, and that’s what Gabrielle Bockelman is doing through her Bucks for Charity donation to the Down Syndrome Association of Central Ohio (DSACO), one of the more than 250 nonprofit organizations supported through Bucks for Charity.

Every year, when staff, faculty and retirees donate to local nonprofits though Bucks for Charity, they support work that helps our family, neighbors, colleagues, students and friends.

When Ohio State Assistant Director of Housing Services Gabrielle Bockelman’s daughter Ava was born with Down syndrome, she and her family turned to DSACO. DSACO supports families who have children living with Down syndrome and creates opportunities for individuals to be independent and celebrate their achievements. Gabrielle and her family have enjoyed the many activities and community events DSACO has provided.

“It is our goal to continue to participate in these great DSACO programs, but we also want to make sure they continue for others who will join this great DSACO family in the future,” Gabrielle said. “The money DSACO raises helps to support families like mine and dozens of new families each year.”

HR Focus News

Ohio State honors 752 faculty and staff for milestone service

The Ohio State University celebrated long-serving employees at the annual Faculty and Staff Service Recognition Luncheon on Wednesday, Dec. 10. A total of 752 faculty and staff were honored this year for reaching milestone anniversaries, ranging from 25 to 55 years of service.

Important 2026 Benefits Reminders

Here are a few important reminders about your 2026 benefits, key deadlines, and wellness actions you may need to consider. Review the information to help you understand what to expect and actions you may need to take.

Academic Winter Recess to Begin in 2025

Ohio State is instituting an annual Academic Winter Recess from December 26–31 each year starting in 2025, as announced by President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. during the State of the University address on Wednesday, Sept. 17. Specific dates for the 2025 Academic Winter Recess are Dec. 26 and Dec. 29-31.

In Case You Missed It: HR Workday Summer Recap

Over the past few months, Human Resources has implemented several key updates in Workday to improve efficiency and user experience for both employees and people leaders.

Total Rewards Survey Results and Tuition Assistance Update

Results from Ohio State’s Total Rewards Survey are now available. This important feedback provides insight into the preferences and value faculty and staff place on various offerings as employees of Ohio State. This feedback is one part of the holistic process used to plan future investments in benefits and compensation over time.

Recent HR News

Learn about the newly redesigned YP4H

Ohio State has launched a new Your Plan for Health (YP4H) wellness portal that offers more ways to explore wellness resources and earn rewards for the activities that matter most to you.

Nominations open for the Distinguished Staff Awards

The annual Distinguished Staff Awards exist to shine a light on these individuals, and nominations are now open.

Review your 2026 benefits summary by Dec. 5

Your 2026 benefits summary is now available in Workday. Take a few minutes to review your elections and make sure everything looks right before the final change window closes.

From Student to Mentor: How Brenna Truax is Shaping Student Success

Brenna Truax knows firsthand how meaningful student support can be – she’s led the very team that once shaped her as an Ohio State student. At Ohio State Mansfield, her job drew on her passion of helping students grow as leaders, learners and educators. Rooted in her own experience, she has advanced her career and is now a student support specialist with Ohio State Online.

Policy Reminder: Drug-Free Workplace

The Ohio State University maintains a drug-free work and living environment to ensure the health and safety of all students, employees and visitors. The unlawful use, possession or distribution of drugs and alcohol on university property or in university vehicles on or off campus is prohibited.