Gerlach Award
John B. Gerlach Sr. Development Volunteer Award
The Outstanding Development Volunteer Award was created in 1996 for volunteers who demonstrate dedicated involvement and personal investment in fundraising efforts at Ohio State.
The Gerlach Award recognizes high-level leadership through development activities and personal contributions in each of the three "Ws" of volunteerism – wealth, wisdom and work.
In 1997, The Ohio State University Foundation Board of Directors unanimously voted to re-name the award to honor the late John B. "Bernie" Gerlach Sr. (1927-1997), former campaign co-chair and Foundation Board chair, whose leadership and quiet philanthropy exemplified the outstanding volunteer service this award represents. One of the most active and dedicated supporters of Ohio State throughout his lifetime, Bernie was chair of the Columbus Regional Campaign, a component of the 1985-90 University Campaign that raised $178 million from area donors.
2026 Recipient: Kara J. Trott ’91 JD
Kara Trott gives generously of her time and expertise to Ohio State's highest governing and advisory boards. She has also established endowed faculty positions in law, architecture and psychiatry, while helping advance initiatives focused on immigration advocacy, trauma resilience and mental healthcare.
“Learning about Kara’s transition from being a corporate attorney and marketing consultant to an entrepreneur and healthcare disrupter was inspiring. Beyond that, Kara’s commitment to helping patients navigate the complexities of healthcare strengthened my own focus. We share a passion for helping people.”
