Glass Breakers 2016 | The Ohio State University

The President and Provost’s Council on Women has recognized five Ohio State Glass Breakers. Glass Breakers are faculty and staff members of extraordinary achievement, whose work has improved workplace culture for women at the university.

President Michael V. Drake's 2020 Vision for Ohio State includes a charge for greater diversity and inclusion. In their daily work, the five women recognized as Glass Breakers live that mission.

“These five trailblazers have worked tirelessly, not only to move forward in their own careers, but also to create opportunities for women at Ohio State,” President Drake said. “They are role models, shining examples of possibility for fellow faculty and staff, and inspiring mentors to students."

The five women celebrated this month come from different backgrounds. They have different styles. They serve the university in various ways. One thing they have in common? They are women you should know.

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 lives 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 works to further the implementation of 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. Said 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.

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.

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