Rachel Whisler
Ms. Rachel Whisler is the Program Manager for the college’s Division of Public Health. She serves as a liaison to community-based partners throughout Ohio and manages the college’s Commitment to Access Resources and Education (CARE) Program, which supports dental students preparing to practice in underserved communities. She earned her bachelor’s degree in political science from Ball State University and her Master of Public Health degree from Ohio State.
Get acquainted with Rachel and learn about her early years in Elkhart, Indiana; the superpower she’d love to have; and her source of joy!
- Question Where did you spend most of your youth? And what was it like there?
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Answer
I grew up in Elkhart, Indiana, a community best known for its strong manufacturing roots and hardworking spirit. It was a place where people valued family, community, and perseverance. Growing up there gave me a deep appreciation for the importance of connection and service, values that continue to guide me in my work today.
- Question When you were a kid, what did you love to do the most?
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Answer
I loved being active outdoors. In the summers, life revolved around the water – swimming, boating, and fishing were a big part of my days. In the winters, I spent time snow skiing, ice skating, and sledding. Those experiences gave me a real love for nature, movement, and making the most of each season.
- Question What advice would you give yourself as a teenager?
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Answer
If I gave some advice to my teenage self, I would tell her not to be so hard on herself. Things don’t have to be perfect, and it’s okay to make mistakes along the way. I’d remind myself to enjoy the moment more, trust that I was doing my best, and know that everything would work out in time.
- Question With a bachelor’s degree in political science from Ball State University, what did you plan to do when you graduated?
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Answer
My initial plan was to pursue a career in public service, including government/policy work. I was drawn to the idea of making a difference in communities and using my education to support others. While my career path eventually shifted toward program development and education, that foundation gave me strong skills in critical thinking, communication, and understanding diverse perspectives – all of which have been invaluable in my professional life.
- Question What led you to a job at Ohio State’s College of Dentistry?
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Answer
Being part of a program that supports future dentists and impacts the health of underserved communities felt like a natural fit for my skills and values. It has been incredibly rewarding to contribute to that mission.
- Question What inspired you to earn a Master of Public Health degree here at Ohio State? And what’s the most important thing you learned from it?
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Answer
Public health offered a broader perspective on the systems and policies that shape people’s health, which complemented my work at the college. The most important thing I learned is that improving health outcomes requires education and collaboration. Real progress happens when communities, providers, and institutions work together toward solutions.
- Question If you could have one superpower, what would it be?
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Answer
It would definitely be teleportation. I’d love to just snap my fingers and be anywhere – whether it’s visiting family, exploring a new city, or skipping the long commute and airport lines. It would make life so much more adventurous and spontaneous!
- Question Tell us the one question you were hoping to be asked – and then answer it!
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Answer
That would be, “What’s the greatest joy in your life recently?” And the answer is my four grandchildren. Having my sons, their wives, and my grandbabies close by truly feels like a gift. They bring so much joy, laughter, and perspective to my life, and being able to share in their everyday milestones keeps me grounded and grateful. It’s a reminder of what matters most.