Empowered Women

Empowered Women

March is Women’s History Month

In celebration of national Women’s History Month, OCC employees and students reflect on the women of OCC who empower and inspire others. Together, we celebrate these – and the many women of OCC – whose contributions positively impact our culture and community each day. They are “excellence EMPOWERED!”

2023

Sheila Acker
Director of Marketing
Sheila goes about her job quietly and consistently empowering others because "that's what you do." Never one to seek the spotlight for herself, Shelia readily recognizes and celebrates a team member's success. The whole team feels uplifted by her positive and joyful appreciation. 
Karen Barr
Learning Resources Technician
Our RO Library Techs treat students with respect and truly want to help them succeed. This disposition extends beyond library services.  I have seen students arrive angry because they couldn’t connect to the wifi or find a department leave with a smile after being patiently assisted by one of these welcoming  women. They are the backbone of the library, a friendly face of the college, and we are fortunate to have them!  
Melissa Beadia
Library Technician
Our RO Library Techs treat students with respect and truly want to help them succeed. This disposition extends beyond library services.  I have seen students arrive angry because they couldn’t connect to the wifi or find a department leave with a smile after being patiently assisted by one of these welcoming  women. They are the backbone of the library, a friendly face of the college, and we are fortunate to have them!  
Kristin Carey Li
Director of College Strategy
Kristin is a phenomenal asset to OCC, both as a woman and a leader. She is always willing to lend support and is wonderful at supporting others and offering encouragement. It has been a joy to work beside her. 
Michelle Fether-Samtouni
Sociology Faculty
Michelle is so passionate about her work and sharing with others.  I love hearing her perspective and learning from her. I look forward to seeing her in meetings that I attend!
Maddy Graziadei
Communications, Arts, and Humanities Secretary
Maddy supports so many people at the college.  Yes faculty in her department - but also faculty from other departments along with the other faculty secretaries at AH. She always helps when she can and wants to learn and take on more challenges.  She is the best.
Anna Hansard
Director of Web Services
Anna inspires others to be even and fair-minded. She is slow to judge and open to all points of view, which empowers those around her to be themselves and contribute their ideas. All boats rise because of Anna. 
Bridget Kavanaugh
Director of Communications
Bridget's superpower is empowering others. She looks at the whole person and, rather than expecting the other to change, she adapts her style to best suit that individual's personality. Her goal is to ensure a meaningful partnership and successful outcome. (with some fun along the way!) The world needs more Bridgets. 
Michele Kuzila
Criminal Justice Faculty
Michele is a wonderful leader at OCC. She supports gently but with integrity and is always willing to do the right thing and honor her commitments. It has been a pleasure working with her over the last few years.
Rachel Lathrop
Director of Assessment, Accreditation, and Quality
Rachel is a leader, change agent and inspiration all rolled into one amazing colleague. She always goes the extra mile for employees and keeps her focus on what benefits students. Rachel empowers others to do their best. 
Dr. Rosalind Reaves
Academic Support Center Faculty
Dr. Rosalind Reaves is a dedicated advocate for all OCC students, and she continually innovates within her discipline in order to make positive, progressive, and relevant changes to the field of academic support at OCC. In the midst of adversity, she works to establish and maintain what is necessary for students and staff to thrive. Dr. Reaves is an invaluable member of the faculty because she practices what she preaches in empowering everyone she encounters.   
Julie Seiler
Economics Faculty
Julie Seiler has been a pillar in the OCC community and is the first professor I have had who I can say without a doubt, cultivated one if the best classroom environments I have had the chance to participate in. She is truly focused on her students' success and deserves recognition for it.

Mary Thomas
Faculty Counselor 

Mary is an amazing leader who empathetically listens and hears her colleagues. She is so motiving, understand and inspiring. She gives of her time, talents and even treasures to the AH Counseling Department. Her understanding and caring nature have brought back the feeling of "work family" to a campus that has experienced a turnover in leadership the past few years.  Mary makes me look forward to coming to work! Couldn't ask for a better leader!
Zheng Wang
Director of Analytical Studies
Zheng is such a kind, supportive colleague. She always find the silver-lining and is ready to offer support when needed. I've really enjoyed working alongside Zheng. 
Hollie Wong
Learning Resources Technician
Our RO Library Techs treat students with respect and truly want to help them succeed. This disposition extends beyond library services.  I have seen students arrive angry because they couldn’t connect to the wifi or find a department leave with a smile after being patiently assisted by one of these welcoming  women. They are the backbone of the library, a friendly face of the college, and we are fortunate to have them!  
Avery Wright
Student
Avery is a strong, kind and intelligent young woman. She doesn't hesitate to help out, whether it be assisting a fellow student or setting up the room before class. I am so proud to see the progress she has made throughout her time here at OCC through EMT, the fire academy, and now paramedic. She will make an excellent fire fighter and paramedic, and any department will be very lucky to have her!