The impact of a Buckeye legacy

As Buckeyes, we’re deeply aware of how Ohio State pride passes from generation to generation. Some of our favorite stories from the Engagement Center focus on the Buckeye family connections we hear from alumni like Stephanie Jorgensen ’13. 

Stephanie’s multi-generational connection to Ohio State started with her grandfather, Leon Twarog, who founded the Department of Slavic and East European Languages and Cultures, and her grandmother, who earned a PhD from the university. Stephanie’s mother later followed in her parents’ footsteps, earning a PhD from Ohio State as well. 

As part of our conversation, Stephanie recalled fond memories of campus trips with her mother — their favorite spot was Mirror Lake. During those visits, Stephanie developed a sense of Buckeye pride that stuck with her throughout her childhood. 

This meant that when Stephanie chose to pursue an undergraduate education, Ohio State was the obvious choice. However, she was nervous about attending college as a single parent. In her pursuit of resources that could help support her and her child while she attended college, Stephanie found Ohio State’s ACCESS Collaborative Program.  

The ACCESS Collaborative Program is an academic and social support program that aims to increase the retention rates of parenting students. Full- or part-time students can access scholarship and mentorship opportunities, professional development, housing and other assistance through the program. For Stephanie, that meant her dream to be a Buckeye was possible. 

Inspired by the support she received from the Buckeye community, after graduating, she decided to look for ways to give back. She found a creative outlet through which she could make an impact — standup comedy. 

Stephanie produced a philanthropic comedy show for breast cancer awareness with an all-female lineup, because she wanted to make a space to uplift women in comedy while raising money for worthy causes. The success of her first show motivated her to continue her work, and she found a home in her desire to bring levity to difficult situations like breast cancer and single parenthood. 

Through her activism, Stephanie continues to pay forward in her community. Her passion for giving back is rooted in her memories of Ohio State and the life-changing support and generosity she received from the Buckeye community. She hopes that by sharing her story, others like her will hear about Ohio State’s ACCESS Collaborative Program and take advantage of the work they do to create an inclusive campus for all. 

Stephanie’s mother may not have realized it at the time, but when she took her daughter to visit campus, she laid an important foundation for what would become a Buckeye family legacy. With the opportunities provided to her by Ohio State, Stephanie was able to continue the tradition and take her child to Mirror Lake.  

She cites these visits as her favorite memories from her time on campus, recalling feelings of nostalgia and connection that, as Buckeyes, feel familiar to us all — and remain strong from generation to generation.