Meet July Classified Employee of the Month Ruth Blickle
Compass features a Q&A with the non-bargaining Classified Employee of the Month. Each month, Classified Senate selects an employee to acknowledge and recognize as someone who is setting high standards for excellence and innovation. The monthly feature, titled "Great Job," provides a glimpse into the honoree's life on and off campus.
How surprised were you to win the Employee of the Month award?
Yes, it was truly a surprise! I was in a departmental meeting when the Employee of the Month Committee came into the room. After recognizing several of them as being Classified Senate members, I realized why they were there.
What is your job title and how long have you worked it?
For the past 14 months, I have been an administrative associate for Air Force ROTC and Army ROTC. Previously, I worked for Affirmative Action, Institutional Equity, Equity and Civil Rights Compliance (all one office) off and on for 26 years. I have worked at Ohio University for 31 years.
What are the most enjoyable things about your job?
The great group of people I work with in both the Air Force ROTC, Army ROTC, and University College.There isn’t one of them I don’t look forward to seeing and working with every day.
What is your hometown and where do you live now?
My hometown is Napa, California. I have lived in the Athens area (now in Shade) for 45 years.
What was the last good book you read?
“Rebecca” by Daphne DuMaurier. Also, I’m a great Agatha Christie fan and listened to many of her stories while I was on the treadmill at WellWorks.
If you weren’t in your present job, you would be ___?
Working as a volunteer. I would rather have a purpose when I retire other than sitting at home.
What things in life are the most important to you?
My daughter, grandchildren, and close friends. And, of course, our four dogs.
Where is your favorite vacation destination?
Cape Cod. Because of the great memories of our family spending time there every September, I would like to go back to Cape Cod to re-live the memories and see how it has changed.
What are your hobbies?
Crocheting, knitting, shopping and more specifically antique (glass) shopping.
What is something that most people don’t know about you?
I was born and raised in California. I also enjoy riding motorcycles as a passenger and watching World of Outlaw races.
What are your favorite TV shows?
Old movies on Turner Classic Movies, Agatha Christie movies and British mysteries and comedies.
Who are your favorite musicians?
Abba, Celine Dion, Garth Brooks and Air Supply.
What is the next big event you can't wait for?
My grandchildren going to college.
Who are the most annoying celebrities to you?
The Kardashians – need I say more?
What is your dream car?
A red Lamborghini
What is your favorite saying or quote?
“This too shall pass!”