Beth Black received the Decade of Dedication Award as a longtime STEP Faculty Mentor for the Young Scholars Program cohort. STEP’s most prestigious honor recognizes a STEP Faculty Mentor with 10 or more years of service whose sustained excellence, leadership and student-centered impact have profoundly shaped STEP and its mission.
Beth’s impact on STEP spans its very foundation and more than a decade of sustained mentorship. She has been part of STEP since its earliest days — helping to design the program and continuously strengthen it through mentorship, partnership and leadership as the program evolved.
Over the years, Beth has supported hundreds of students and colleagues through professional development, coordinated care and sustained guidance — often extending well beyond required timelines or formal expectations. Her work reflects not only deep commitment, but a belief that student success requires consistency, advocacy and relationships built over time.
“Beth has been one of the most influential and supportive Ohio State staff members I have ever come across.”
–shared by a colleague in Beth's nomination
Across reflections from students and colleagues, a clear portrait emerges. Beth is described as enthusiastic, compassionate and deeply invested in the success of others. Her mentorship has shaped student pathways, strengthened partnerships, and influenced colleagues’ own approaches to mentoring and student advocacy.
Beth, an undergraduate engagement librarian and associate professor, has served the university for over 20 years after coming to the Columbus campus in January 2006.
STEP Faculty Mentors are matched with a cohort of up to 15 second-year students, guiding them through the exploration of education-enhancing experiences, fostering belonging through one-on-one and group interactions, and supporting their transition to career-ready professionals in an evolving global landscape.