MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—The Ohio State University Advancement Donor Experience department presented Ohio State Marion Community Relations Program Coordinator, Jodi Somerlot, with the department’s Care and Compassion Award during the campus’s all-staff meeting on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, in Maynard Hall’s Guthery Community Room.
According to the award nomination criteria, individuals recommended for the Care and Compassion Award put people at the center of all they do. They exhibit compassion, support physical and mental health, nurture a community of kindness and gratitude, foster individual growth, empower people to overcome obstacles, engage others’ perspectives, appreciate diverse backgrounds, and foster a sense of belonging.
Somerlot was nominated by her supervisor, Ohio State Marion Director of Development and Community Relations, Cathy Gerber, who presented the award in person. Gerber noted that the award is part of the Donor Experience Scarlet Spotlight Awards and that winning was a complete surprise to Somerlot. “I was notified in mid-December that she won the award,” said Gerber. “But we held off until January to present it in front of her colleagues who witness her dedication to care and compassion every day.”
Gerber praised Somerlot’s long track record of making people feel welcome, valued, and appreciated. “When coordinating and executing events, she makes guests feel at ease and ensures everything runs smoothly,” Gerber added. “She always has a smile and an encouraging word for others, and she plans events with the guest, donor, or constituent in mind, adjusting details to best suit their needs.”
Gerber highlighted Somerlot’s small acts of kindness and her creative problem-solving skills. “She welcomes new ideas and approaches to achieve the best outcomes for our constituents and the university,” Gerber shared. “Jodi is compassionate and nurturing, making people feel good and ensuring no one feels left behind. Her work is done conscientiously with a desire for excellence in all she does. She is very deserving of this award,” Gerber concluded.