Remarkable staff members are making an impact and inspiring others

Rachel Sanabria is known as one of the most dedicated people leaders in the Department of Spanish and Portuguese, and she is applauded for her commitment to the growth and development of students. Rachel has contributed to the department’s curricular process, course development, staff management and innovative programs. She created the Graduate Advising Associate (GAA) program, teaching PhD students how to advise undergraduate students. She also established a new class for current undergrads that focuses on Careers in Spanish and engages with a large community of professionals to help educate students on future opportunities. Rachel continuously demonstrates compassion while focusing on creating new pathways for students to excel.

Angela Bennett is recognized for her passion and commitment to the success of the Department Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. She demonstrates extended knowledge, creativity, responsibility, and mature judgment in her work. Angela has assisted with graduate applications – onboarding first-year graduate students, addressing a myriad of questions and concerns that graduate students encounter and ensuring that the final defense and graduation go smoothly. Her colleagues say that Angela’s dedication to graduate students and the graduate program is unsurpassed. Through her efforts, the percentage of domestic students in the graduate program has increased, and the graduate student population has become more diverse.

Charlene Brenner has been central in the growth of the STEAM Factory network, and she has had an immense impact in creating an inclusive, collaborative space at Ohio State where all members feel a sense of belonging. Charlene has engaged in interdisciplinary research, institutional relationship-building and community engagement. She is instrumental in creating an environment that fosters creative and engaged work with an element of fun that keeps the team motivated to develop new ideas. She has played a critical role in connecting scholars across disciplines, colleges and units, and she helps maintain a positive culture at STEAM by being attentive to the needs of all members.

Selena Browning epitomizes purpose-driven leadership, creating meaningful change in her community and empowering others to do the same. She has raised more than $85,000 for cancer research through her work with Pelotonia. While serving as the diversity, equity and inclusion liaison of The Ohio State University Alumni Association (OSUAA) Board of Directors for three years, Selena supported the alignment of inclusive and equitable practices with university priorities and created the OSUAA Inclusive Event Guide. Selena received the 2022 Association of Staff and Faculty Women’s Dr. Patricia Cunningham II Commitment to Service Award for her work to support cancer research. Selena wholeheartedly dedicates herself to causes and in doing so, builds communities that grow into family.

Jennifer has been an indispensable asset to the success of the chemistry graduate program by modernizing the program and creating a supportive, positive atmosphere. Jennifer’s organizational skills, attention to detail and friendly, outgoing demeanor help students feel supported and welcome. Her colleagues recognize Jennifer for her selfless dedication to students, as well as her kindness and interpersonal skills.

Sarah Holt is an inspiring collaborator with a continuous focus on equity, respect and inclusion. Her work in educational development and curriculum design consistently reflects her deep understanding and commitment to Ohio State’s core values. She played a leading role in the development and design behind the general education Bookend courses – now delivered to more than 10,000 students each year – through the implementation of inclusive practices, diverse perspectives and authentic experiences. Sarah’s work as a faculty developer, instructional designer and instructor has evolved and fostered connection and community amongst academic support units, instructors, learners and staff across all campuses.

Caitlyn Hull excels in her clinical role, while also going above and beyond to make a lasting impact on the workplace, community and education of the Columbus Free Clinic (CFC). Caitlyn played a pivotal role in developing a women’s health-focused branch of CFC, the first known women’s health student-led free clinic in Ohio. Her leadership has contributed to process improvements, operational changes and the overall effectiveness of the department. Throughout her professional journey, Caitlyn consistently embodies the university’s values and has made a lasting impact on her students.

Trish Jefferson has focused her professional life to paving the way for prospective Buckeyes and fostering a collaborative, supportive environment within the Undergraduate Programs office in the Fisher College of Business. She advocates for scholarship support, academic success resources and opportunities for underrepresented student identities and has also significantly contributed to positive experiences for prospective students and their families. Fisher’s undergraduate enrollment has grown by 30 percent in the last 10 years, which is a testament to the extraordinary job Trish and her team have done. She embraces exploring new opportunities for students and teammates and striving to help people be the best version of themselves.

Bryan Kessler is a creative, high-spirited, key member of the veterinary anatomic pathology service of the Department of Veterinary Biosciences in the College of Veterinary Medicine. Beyond operating with efficiency to make sure the department runs smoothly, Bryan is constantly developing new ideas to improve the experience of customers and students and create a pleasant atmosphere that keeps people engaged. Bryan has developed and implemented a complete safety program that ensures students of all backgrounds have a safe experience in the college’s laboratory. Bryan is an integral aspect of the department, and he continues to spend time working to improve the efficiency of service through creative and innovative ideas.

Nabil Shehata is admired for his leadership style , which is characterized by compassion, empathy and a genuine concern for the personal and professional development of his team members. His ability to create a supportive and inclusive work culture that results in a high-performing team that delivers first-rate custodial services in support of the Recreational Sports program sets him apart as a people leader at Ohio State. He fosters an environment where individuals feel valued, supported and encouraged to excel.

Janet is known for her professionalism and respect as she brings vision, energy, and commitment to the East Asian Studies Center. Janet advanced the center’s goals of teaching and learning of East Asian languages and cultures in K-12 classrooms, hosted workshops funded by the National Consortium for Teaching about Asia and led an effort to organize Columbus’ first Cherry Blossom Festival to honor United States-Japan connections. Her ability to connect Ohio State to the East Asian community globally and locally epitomizes the university’s shared values of inclusion and equity, as well as those of diversity and innovation.

Brenna Truax has a reputation as a prompt, professional and organized staff member in the Conard Learning Center (CLC) at Mansfield. Her colleagues say she is a strong, consistent presence, and she brings a wide array of skills to her position with creativity and flexibility. Brenna is a collaborative problem solver and has developed and implemented innovative programs to help students improve their study skills, writing and access to online tutoring resources. She is most known for her work in the Writing Center where she developed a thorough professional development and ongoing support system for the Writing Center tutors. Brenna is a thoughtful, engaged approach in supporting students, faculty, and staff.

Amanda Yusko is a creative, diligent people leader who demonstrates a profound understanding and passion for everything she undertakes. Amanda oversees a team of professionals who work tirelessly to provide excellent care of international students. She also represents Ohio State as a leader in international education and received the prestigious honor of participating in the Fulbright International Education Administrators Program in South Korea. Her outstanding dedication to inspire curiosity and ensuring the warm welcome of new international students has led her to be an invaluable contributor and leader.