ASSOCIATION OF STAFF AND FACULTY WOMEN AT THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY

Change is good, right?

If the year 2020 has made us realize one thing, it’s that change will happen whether we welcome it or not. I, personally, am of the “not” camp and was perfectly happy seeing my co-workers and ASFW members on a daily and monthly basis.
Then on Friday, March 13th most of us were told to work at home, shelter in place and ride out COVID-19 for a couple weeks. Little did we know the horrific toll the virus would take on our friends, family, neighbors and Ohio State community.

We're five months in and many are still working from home or combining working on-campus and home office while juggling our family and personal needs.

There has been so much change. One change I’m hoping to avoid is the loss of my ASFW family.

If there was ever a time that I need my co-workers and friends through ASFW, it’s now.

And I want you to know that ASFW is here for you, too. (We're even offering a limited-time membership discount!)

The ASFW programming chairs have been working diligently to provide a variety of wonderful guest speakers — and starting in September, we’re offering at least two monthly programs for our members to further professional development and become reengaged with our community.

We’re also kicking around the idea of having monthly Zoom happy hours where our members can pick topics and lead discussions. Stay tuned for more details as our programming gurus firm up those plans. We want opportunities to interact and connect. We hope many of you can participate in the upcoming months.

In keeping with the idea of change, every year when the new ASFW president takes the reins, they pick a new theme. I have chosen “Looking Ahead" to inspire us as we move forward and help our friends and colleagues deal with the “new normal.”

Those who know me can attest that prior to Friday, March 13, I was not a hugger. Now that we're supposed to keep our distance, I have an overwhelming need to hug everyone — to feel connected, supported and hopeful. Let’s keep looking ahead!

Stay safe until we meet again.

Wendy Karavolos, ASFW President

Ready to meet the people who will change your life? Join Ohio State’s Association of Staff and Faculty Women (ASFW) for opportunities to ignite your professional and personal development. We’re a nonprofit organization, but think of us as a community — one with a rich history of supporting, connecting and engaging individuals across campus since 1930.

Meet your 2020-21 ASFW Executive Board!