Connecting Buckeyes Around the Nation

With 465,000 living Ohio State alumni, it’s not surprising that there are nearly 230 Buckeye alumni clubs around the world. While these clubs have similar goals, each is unique and strives to meet the needs of members in a particular region or community. Many offer a wide range of cultural, academic, athletic, philanthropic, and recreational programming and activities.

Alumni clubs connect members with service and friendship. They may greet Ohio State athletes or performing artists to their area—or gather to hear speakers on a variety of topics. They often talk with prospective students about the university. And they help future Buckeyes by supporting scholarships. Through events such as golf outings, auctions, a scholarship gala, and football game party raffles, clubs generate funds to build regional scholarship endowments. Scholarships are awarded based on merit, school and community involvement, and a positive attitude toward college work. The common thread among clubs is the camaraderie and collaboration of those who love scarlet and gray.

In early September, Ohio State graduate Rob Muñoz reports on the upcoming presidential campaign for his Las Vegas news program.

Rob Muñoz, Orange County/Inland Empire Alumni Club

Being from California, why did you choose Ohio State?
I was contacted by the Orange County/Inland Empire chapter of the Alumni Association while I was a senior in high school. Ohio State had just entered my radar and when I went to interview with alumni for a scholarship, their enthusiasm and love for the university sold me right away.

What was it like for you to be in the Midwest?
Ohio was great! I expected a culture shock of some sort, but it was just like living anywhere else. I was pleasantly surprised and definitely adapted quickly. Being a Buckeye is an amazing experience and like nothing else!

What did the alumni scholarship mean for you?
By receiving the scholarship, I was able to attend an out-of-state school that I might otherwise not have been able to attend.

How have alumni helped you with your education and experience?
While I was an Ohio State student, I interned with ESPN and affiliates in Columbus and Los Angeles. Alumni helped me obtain these opportunities. In 2010, I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in journalism, then went to work in Waco, Texas, as a television news reporter. After several months in that position, I was recruited to a top morning program at the NBC affiliate in Las Vegas. Ohio State alumni have inspired me to reach new heights. And I am so glad I did.

Since earning two degrees from Ohio State, Stephanie Ray keeps up her connections with alumni club members.

Stephanie Ray, Lucas County Alumni Club

What scholarship were you awarded? What did you study?
I received the Robert Momsen Scholarship from the Lucas County Alumni Club. I earned two degrees from Ohio State—bachelor’s degree in exercise science in 2005 and a doctorate in physical therapy in 2008. As an undergraduate, I was a member of the Health Science Scholars and Ohio State Honors program, as well as an Academic All-American for Ohio State varsity track and field.

What are you doing now?
I manage an outpatient physical therapy clinic in Hillsdale, Michigan, where I specialize and treat vestibular disorders and perform Worker’s Compensation evaluations. I serve as a clinical instructor for both physical therapy and physical therapy assistant students. I’m also Michigan’s representative on our company’s continuing education committee for our clinicians.

What has been your experience as a scholarship recipient?
Meeting others who are equally passionate about Ohio State has led to some great friendships. Since graduating, I visit with the club members at their tailgate on football Saturdays. During a club fundraising event in 2005, I was asked to follow Archie Griffin’s talk and share my experience as a scholarship recipient and what I love about Ohio State. I would not trade my experience with the Lucas County Alumni Club or Ohio State for anything!

Dana Wagner has carried out her family's longtime Buckeye tradition as the ninth member of her family to go to Ohio State.

Dana Wagner, Detroit Alumni Club

What has the alumni club scholarship meant to you and your family?
By receiving the alumni scholarship and the National Buckeye Scholarship, I have been able to study at Ohio State, my number one choice. My two older brothers also studied at Ohio State and received scholarships through the Detroit Alumni Club.

Since your family lives in Michigan, why was Ohio State top on your list?
Although I was born and raised in Michigan, I have bled scarlet and gray since birth. I am the ninth in my family to go to Ohio State, with the tradition going back to my grandparents and my parents, who met at Ohio State during the 1970s. Many years before the Ohio State vs. Michigan games, I wore my Buckeye jersey to school and brought my mom’s homemade Buckeye candy to share. I only gave them to people who said, “Go Bucks!”

What are your educational and career goals?
I’m enrolled in the combined bachelor’s of science and business administration/master’s of labor and human resources program in the Fisher College of Business. I have completed incredible internships with four companies. After I graduate in June 2012, I hope to work in a strategic human resources role or as a human capital consultant. No matter where I am living or what I am doing in the future, I will be a part of the Buckeye family.

More stories from The Ohio State University 2011 Endowment Report.