EHE News
Bowling Receives University's Highest Honor for Staff
6-21-11
Bobbie Bowling
The phrase "Show me the money!" may not have been coined specifically in reference to the work Bobbie Bowling does as grant development specialist for the Department of Human Development and Family Science, but it certainly could have.
"Since Bobbie has been with the department, the grant dollars received by our faculty have increased by $5.5 million," wrote a colleague. "Her ability to juggle many different tasks and do so smoothly and competently speaks to her hard work, organizational skills and commitment to the job."
In recognition of her outstanding efforts, Ohio State selected Bowling to receive its 2011 Distinguished Staff Award.
Her juggling skills have made her a bit of a superhero around Human Development and Family Science (HDFS), not just among faculty but among grad students and staff as well. She is described as immensely patient, cheerful, knowledgeable and upbeat - not to mention calming and confident - all traits that come in handy in her line of work, which involves submitting grant proposals, managing awards and trolling for additional grant possibilities.
"I consider myself lucky to work with the HDFS faculty, staff and students," Bowling said. "I am interested in the research that each is doing, from dating and gun violence, to homeless youth to the Americorps Kid Corps program. What they do makes a difference in the lives of many, many people; my hope is that I make a tiny contribution in my own way."
Part of her trade secret is a dogged determination to get the job done and done right. Her attention to detail and her willingness to put in long hours, coupled with her eagerness to learn and apply new skills, make her an invaluable team member.
"Department members also know Bobbie is the first one to go the extra mile for them," wrote another colleague. "The type of service Bobbie provides keeps members of the department happy and productive."
Bowling received a bachelor's degree in women's studies from Ohio State in 2006. Previously, she served as an Americorps volunteer for Ohio State's math and literacy program targeted to the Appalachian community in Columbus. She returned to campus in 2004 as a member of the Comprehensive Cancer Center grants team, joined HDFS at the beginning of 2009, and received certification as a research administrator later that year. A member of the National Council of Undergraduate Research Administrators, she plans to seek a graduate degree.
The Distinguished Staff Award recognizes 12 staff members, who have had five years of continuous service, for exceptional accomplishments, leadership and service to the Ohio State community.
The honorees significantly improve or enhance the quality of university work life in ways that make a substantial difference for their colleagues; contribute to outstanding and sustained improvements in customer services; and develop creative solutions to problems that result in significantly more effective and efficient university operations. The Office of Human Resources awards honorees a $1,500 cash award and a $700 increase to their base salary.
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