The Women’s Place celebrated Black women faculty and professional staff in its member spotlight in June. Demetria Woods, a member of the Black Women Faculty and Professional Staff at Ohio State, is an Extension educator focusing on 4-H youth development in the Miami County office of OSU Extension. Woods has worked with Extension since 1994, and she brings a rich amount of experience to the role as a participant in 4-H since her youth.
The Women’s Place asked Demetria a series of questions about her work at the university and beyond. Find out more in some of her Q&A listed here:
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What did you see yourself doing growing up? I knew I wanted to pursue something in the world of business, but I was not sure in what area. Thus, I decided to get a degree in business administration. It allowed me to examine a variety of topics in the field. Unfortunately, I did not land a job in the area of my choice, but while working in a local store, I quickly learned that it was not a job from which I wanted to retire. I went back to school and completed a master’s in Agricultural and Extension Education.
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Are you in a position that reflects those interests? Yes (if you don’t count my early years of finding myself). I participated in 4-H throughout my youth; 4-H is the youth development component of the Cooperative Extension System.
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What have you enjoyed the most about working at Ohio State? I have always said – the people. I have been blessed to work with amazing youth and adult volunteers. I have also had the privilege of working with coworkers and team members - some for more than 25 years – who have inspired and challenged me to reach to greater heights personally and professionally.
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What are your favorite words of wisdom or inspiration? I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. – Philippians 4:13 (King James Version)