August 2026 Newsletter
"On the Horizon"
Message from OCDA President, Rachel Richardson
Welcome from the President
My name is Rachel Richardson, and I’m thrilled to begin my term serving as President of OCDA. This organization holds a special place in my heart, as I truly value the camaraderie and culture of collegiate enthusiasm! It reminds me of what I love most about my profession, and what brings me joy in helping others through the work I do.
For nearly 14 years, I’ve worked at The Ohio State University at Lima as our campus career development manager. Before this, I was the founding administrator of a charter elementary school and daycare, and served as education partner for our local city high school through the small school transformation initiative. While my career began in business and workforce development while working in corporate sales and community development at a local Chamber of Commerce, education continued to emerge as an area of true passion. Career services in higher education positions me within a unique intersection of both industry and education.
Like many other OCDA members, I have the privilege to help others discover career opportunities of interest to them! When working with youth who are exploring future career possibilities for themselves, I often pose a series of questions such as, “what comes easily or naturally for you” and “what do you enjoy doing”?
Oftentimes, students share how much they enjoy being active, on their feet, and on-the-go or even outdoors while they work. Some say while they appreciate working independently and remotely, they prefer a balance of working in office while being part of a team. Over the years what I’ve learned is that what students, and people in general, enjoy as their vocation, can vary just as widely as how people like to vacation differently.
The theme this month is centered around vacations as well as vocations! I challenge you to engage with the Vacation Map activity, and take a moment to also consider your vocation. Ponder what drew you to the vocation you are currently in, and think of what parts of your job come easily and naturally to you. What do you enjoy doing, and how can offerings of OCDA help you in your vocational endeavors?
Have a great summer, and I look forward to serving and connecting with you this upcoming year!
Sincerely,
Rachel
On the Horizon
August is a season of transition. For some career professionals, a new academic year is beginning; for others, fall brings new programs, clients, projects, and opportunities. As summer winds down, it’s a good time to look ahead and consider what you want the next season of your work to hold.
Looking Ahead
What is one thing you’re looking forward to in your work this fall?
Upcoming Events
Ohio Career Development Association Webinar Series Presents:
Advancing Career Readiness Through Policy: OCDA Government Relations Committee Progress & Policy Updates
Thursday, September 10, 2026
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Eastern Time
Register Here
Government Relations Updates
Pulse on Ohio
Government Relations Committee Update
What's happening at the Statehouse?
The Government Relations Committee is working to keep OCDA members informed about legislation and policy decisions that affect career development, education, workforce development, and the communities we serve.
One bill we’re keeping a close eye on is Senate Bill 328, which focuses on Ohio’s Education and Workforce Return on Investment Initiative and includes several provisions directly related to career development. For career development professionals, this is an important bill to watch. The proposed statewide career coaching framework could have implications for how career coaching is defined, delivered, and supported in Ohio schools and potentially for the broader recognition of career development as an essential component of education and workforce development. SB 328 has passed in the Ohio Senate and is now in Committee with the Ohio House of Representatives.
Your Voice Matters
Policy decisions often move quickly, and legislators need to hear from the professionals who understand their real-world impact. The GRC will continue monitoring legislation, connecting with policymakers and stakeholders, and identifying opportunities for OCDA members to participate in advocacy. We also collaborate with NCDA’s Government Relations Committee to stay informed about federal policy developments.
Have you encountered a policy issue in your work that you think OCDA should be watching? Have a question about a bill or want to become more involved in advocacy?
Newton Kimberly & Sarah JanTausch
OCDA GRC Co-Chairs
Learn more about the Government Relations Committee
Legislative information is current as of August 21, 2026. The GRC will continue to monitor SB 328 and other legislation affecting career development and Ohio’s workforce.
Featured Career Resource:
Careers Out There
Careers Out There is a free video interview library featuring day-in-the-life conversations with real professionals across a wide range of fields, including healthcare, business, law, science, public service, and arts and communications.
Each video gives job seekers an inside look at what a career actually involves, including the skills needed, the daily realities, and how to break in. This is a very practical tool for career exploration at any stage. The site also includes career assessments and articles, and the content is available at no cost with no login required.
Access Resource
Want to get more involved with OCDA?
Learn about available OCDA Board positions for the 2026-2027 term, as well as how to get involved with OCDA's committees.
Get Involved!
College Central Network
OCDA's 2026 Conference Gold Level Sponsor
College Central Network
Connecting Students, Career Services, and Employers
For more than 30 years, College Central Network has helped colleges and universities connect students and alumni with career opportunities while providing career services professionals with tools to support career readiness and employer engagement. Through innovative technology and partnership, College Central Network helps bridge the gap between education and employment.
Contact ohiocda@gmail.com if you or your organization would like to help sponsor a future OCDA conference!
If you have any ideas for membership email content, please email Co-Chairs Ryana Munford at munford.2@osu.edu & Taylor Lincicome at tslocum924@gmail.com.
.png)