Paths to Leadership
Glass Breakers 2016
The President and Provost's Council on Women has recognized five Ohio State Glass Breakers for 2016. Glass Breakers are faculty and staff members nominated for this distinction because of their extraordinary achievements and efforts that have improved workplace culture for women at the university.
The five remarkable women celebrated this month come from different backgrounds and serve the university in various ways. Learn how they achieved their leadership roles at the university and what advice they have for other women who are working to advance.
Margaret Graham
Vice Dean and Associate Professor, College of Nursing
Graham began her career as a nurse practitioner. When she turned to academia, she kept the caring nature needed in that line of work, as she achieved goals that powerfully affected people on her staff and in the community. One huge feat: She established a nurse-led clinic to care for underserved patients in east Columbus. On campus, she developed a well-defined flexible work policy for College of Nursing staff.
Jamie Mathews-Mead
Senior Director of Graduate Career Management, Fisher College of Business
Mathews-Mead is known throughout campus for her willingness to share expertise on leadership, professional development and career management. Beyond Fisher, she has served on the President and Provost's Council on Women; Association of Staff and Faculty Women; and the Critical Difference for Women Grant Committee. According to her nominator: "Jamie has inspired me by her service and involvement as an advocate for women at Ohio State."
Susan Olesik
Chair and Dow Professor, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Less than 30 years ago, Olesik was the first person in the Chemistry Department to go on maternity leave. In her career, she has worked to make sure other women are supported in very formal ways. "Susan has drastically changed the course of the Chemistry Department since becoming chair," her nominator wrote. "It is not enough to hire women. She works from day one to make sure they succeed."
Christine O'Malley
Communications Consultant, Office of Human Resources
Among peers, O'Malley is known for her energy and readiness for innovation and adventure. She began her Ohio State career in the College of Public Health, where she steadily advanced her career. A highlight: As a 2014-2015 Fulbright Specialist, she traveled to Ethiopia to train staff at the University of Gondar in digital strategy. She currently serves in the Office of Human Resources.
Yolanda Zepeda
Assistant Provost, Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Zepeda is a Latina of great achievement. Her goal is to ensure that fellow Latinas — and other underrepresented groups on campus — have an opportunity for success. At Ohio State, she has advocated for programs for women of color in scientific and technical fields. Recently, she has trained search committees as they seek to hire diverse researchers.
