We introduce you to our Face of ACE, Lisa Rismiller, from University of Dayton! ACE Women’s Network-Ohio continues to explore new and creative opportunities to communicate who we are, provide networking opportunities for Ohio women in higher education and to promote women’s professional advancement. Our new Faces of ACE posts will introduce you to women involved in the ACE Women’s Network-Ohio.
Name: Lisa Rismiller
Title: Secretary of the Board of Trustees
Education: B.B.A in Marketing & Real Estate from the University of Cincinnati, M.P.A. (Master of Public Administration) from the University of Dayton, Certificate in Strategic Leadership from Loyola University Chicago.
How long have you been involved with the ACE Women’s Network-Ohio and in what capacity?
I have been involved with the ACE WNO since 2004, when I joined its Executive Board as an “at large” member. In 2006, I became the Network’s treasurer, and served in that role until July 2017. I also served as the Network’s state co-coordinator (nka state-chair) from July 2009 - 2012
What have you gained from your involvement in the ACE Women’s Network-Ohio?
A broad and deep network of colleagues from all disciplines, at all levels and from a wide variety of institutions. This is an invaluable pool from which to draw in order to continue my own lifelong learning.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
From a former supervisor who also was an important mentor, I heard, “What’s your passion?” This was his response when I sought his advice while struggling with a decision to remain in my current position or strike out on a new career path by taking on a very different role. I’d been struggling with the “pros / cons” of both options, and had found myself at an impasse. Those three words, spoken by a trusted advisor, suddenly made my choice crystal clear – and I never regretted the choice I ultimately made.
What’s your favorite inspirational quote?
Former US Secretary of State Madeleine Albright: “There’s a special place in hell for women who don’t help each other.”
What are you most looking forward to professionally or personally in the coming year?
Making a real difference in my new (as of July 1, 2016) position, which is a unique role within a university. Interestingly, I did this same work for five years, from 1997-2002, before serving as the founding director of our campus Women’s Center for 13.5 years. I returned to Board of Trustees work because I thought that, given my past experience and my extensive knowledge of my institution, I could help our new president have, in the Board of Trustees, the true strategic partner they could / should be. We made some progress that first year, but much remains to be done. I’m up for and looking forward to those challenges.
