WESTERVILLE, Ohio – In deserving fashion, long-time Otterbein Athletics recruiting coordinator and executive assistant Kathy Mazza has been selected to receive the annual "Bread and Roses" Award here on campus.

Since 1992, the Otterbein University Women's Forum has presented the honor to those making outstanding contributions in support of women. In addition, since 2005, the forum has also recognized students who have shown leadership and exemplary service in support of women's issues.

"She puts up with everything from everyone, and serves as a great liaison for our department into other areas of campus," said Connie Richardson, Senior Associate AD. "Supporting 21 varsity sports isn't easy, but her efforts behind the scenes are instrumental and play a key role in our success. More importantly, Kathy has always been a tremendous friend."

Mazza (who began working at Otterbein in 2001) was jointly nominated by Richardson and Annette Boose, former Academic Administrative Assistant in Health & Sports Sciences.

Over the past two decades, Mazza has impacted the Athletic Department in countless ways. To try and list all of her "duties" would be borderline impossible and endless. If you can think of a task or project, chances are that she has likely handled/contributed in some fashion.

"Our department wouldn't run without Kathy," said Monica Wright, head volleyball coach and office neighbor. "She knows more about the day-to-day operations of athletics than anyone on staff.  If you need help, ask Kathy. If she doesn't know the answer right away, she will find out... 
 
"She is as excited for group success as she is for personal successes, and truly a friend to all," Wright added. "Even my children get excited to see her in the office. We all joke that when Kathy retires, we might need to close the department."

Kathy and her husband, Don, have two children that are both Otterbein graduates; Dominick (2005) and Carrie (2006). They now also enjoy spending time with their young grandson, Luca.

Mazza will be officially recognized at Otterbein's on-campus ceremony in the Chapel next Friday (April 8) from 3-4 p.m.