Randi Love

My career path was certainly not a straight shot. After undergrad, I floated from job to job only staying about two years at each one. I was resigned to the fact that this was going to be my reality — work was bearable but not very interesting or engaging. I felt the need to do something meaningful so I started volunteering with Columbus AIDS Task Force (now Equitas Health) during the early days of the AIDS epidemic. There, I found purpose, passion and valuable relationships. I segued into the field of public health in my early thirties and have been there ever since.

I would characterize my leadership style as participatory. Gathering input from constituents and community members is essential in public health.

Definitely, my best career investment was graduate school. I was looking to expand my knowledge base, but I received so much more. The opportunities at Ohio State are limitless, and I feel so much gratitude for the students, faculty and staff I have had the privilege to meet over the years.

Too many to mention! The right people seem to come in my life at the right moment, and I hope that is reciprocal!

As of today, I am 64 days away from retirement and definitely not planning a second career. However, I will be doing some part time work and volunteering and maybe taking advantage of the Program 60 offerings.

My biggest challenges were self-imposed — lack of self-confidence, striving for perfection and trying to do too much. This is not sustainable. I would tell my younger self that I deserve the same kind of treatment and advice that I would give to a cherished friend. Most women would never talk to a friend the way they talk to themselves!

For a few years, I was director of a community coalition. I was unprepared for the amount of oversight, conflict and coordination that came with the job. That experience was so valuable and ultimately rewarding. It helped me learn to function in an uncertain environment and be satisfied with incremental progress.

There are opportunities, large and small, that happen every day. Pay attention. Show up. Spend time with people who care for you and have your best interests at heart.

I've never been retired before, so I'm looking forward to what is in store for me.