Rachel Whisler Named Distinguished Staff

May 8, 2026

Rachel Whisler surrounded by supporters and colleagues at the Distinguished Staff Luncheon. Front row from left: Ben Lewis (from Ohio State’s Office of Outreach and Engagement), Rachel Whisler, and Kevin Levings. Second row from left: Dean Carroll Ann Trotman; Abby Anderson, Romaine Valentin, Dr. Canise Bean, and Dr. James Cottle. Back row from left: James Anderson and Eric Howard. — Rachel Whisler was surrounded by supporters and colleagues at the Distinguished Staff Luncheon. Front row from left: Ben Lewis (from Ohio State’s Office of Outreach and Engagement), Rachel Whisler, and Kevin Levings. Second row from left: Dean Carroll Ann Trotman; Abby Anderson, Romaine Valentin, Dr. Canise Bean, and Dr. James Cottle. Back row from left: James Anderson and Eric Howard.

Rachel Whisler has been named a Distinguished Staff Member at The Ohio State University. This is the highest award given to staff members. She is one of 13 staff members at Ohio State to receive this award, which honors staff who show strong service, leadership, and commitment to Ohio State’s values.

Rachel serves as program manager for the college’s OHIO Project. During her 20 years of leadership, the program has made a big impact. It has supported over 235,000 patient visits, completed 575,000 dental procedures, and provided $28.6 million in dental care to Ohioans who need it most.

She also leads the college’s CARE Program. The program encourages students to become leaders and return to their hometowns to practice in areas of Ohio with a lack of dental services.

Rachel’s work played a key role in leading to the college’s creation of the Division of Dental Public Health. “Rachel brings people together with purpose and heart,” said Dr. Tammy Duangthip, chair of the Division of Dental Public Health. “Her leadership has changed lives in the classroom and across Ohio communities.”