Dublin-Worthington News Stories
Member Spotlight - Rachel Dorothy
By Paul J. CynkarFriday, January 29, 2021
Advancing the Leadership Mindset
Finding Success in the Success of Others
This is the fourth in a series of member profiles based on discovery interview questions that were designed to help me fulfill the requirements of the Dublin Worthington Rotary Red Badge Program for new Rotarians and get an up close view of the traits and strengths of some of the members who provide leadership to this organization.Finding Success in the Success of Others
Membership Spotlight: Rachael Dorothy
Active, Connected, Sustainable
1. Tell us about yourself. Give us three facts that include information about your family, your career and your pastimes
I grew up in Cleveland and my parents now live in Toledo. I earned a degree in mechanical engineering at the University of Dayton. I am currently a project manager for the Columbus Parks and Recreation Department. My husband, Paul, and I live in Colonial Hills. We have an 18 year old son who is living at home while going to school.
2. How long have you belonged to Rotary? What’s the best thing about membership?
I joined Rotary in 2012, the same year I was elected to Worthington City Council. I was encouraged to join by Lou Goorey and that was a good recommendation. With Rotary I have been involved with fundraising, the summer family picnic and the Polio Plus program.
3. As you look back on your life and your career, where and when did you have the biggest impact on others? Who was impacted and how?
In my work with Columbus Parks and Rec, I have been involved in the development and management of sustainable building designs and stay healthy buildings. In Worthington, my home community, I have been an advocate for connectivity, especially bike-ability and walkability. These are part of a bigger social connection. I have also been active in the Colonial Hills Civic Association.
4. As you look back, which of the opportunities you’ve had has been the most fulfilling to you personally? Why?
I feel that Worthington is way too built out for cars so I have been an advocate for more bike and pedestrian opportunities. I also took on a leadership role for the 4th of July Family Picnic. It was a large responsibility, a large event and provided great satisfaction.
5. Describe the most challenging project you’ve ever worked on. What was your role? What was the result?
Definitely the 4th of July Family Picnic. It was an overwhelming experience because it was so big.
6. What are some things you are passionate about? What really excites you? What gets your adrenalin flowing? What makes your heart sing?
I am a passionate project manager. I also love helping people make connections and provide them with opportunities to be active and learn new things.
7. What are you especially skilled at? What is something that others often tell you that they think makes you stand out?
Making connections. I’m told that I am a good listener. I read a lot and gain a lot of information that way. I make a difference by finding out what people care about.
8. When you have a moment to sit back and think (dream) about your future, what do you think about?
I am constantly thinking about our city and how we can make it a better place for all. I think a lot about my family, especially my son, and wonder what he will do and what life will bring him. I think about the great group of friends with whom I share running, walking and reading.
9. If you could choose anyone (alive or deceased) to have lunch with, who would it be? Why?
I would love to have lunch with Jacinda Adern, the prime minister of New Zealand. At age 40 she led her party to a landslide victory, winning an overall majority of 65 seats in the 120-seat House of Representatives, Ardern credited her victory to her government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic impacts it has had. She uses big data to help solve problems. I admire her and would want to work in her Cabinet.