Women of UC
When alumnae thrive, UC prospers.
Women of UC is a network of Bearcats united to empower our graduates. Together, we inspire each other to advance our personal and professional lives.
We plan experiences ranging from cocktails and conversation to taking deep dives on professional issues - A mix of work and play - All with the aim of bringing alumni together. We hope to see you very soon!
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Women of UC in Action
Patty Kautz, Bus ’88, recently became executive vice president for Washington, D.C.-based GRF CPAs & Advisors, a leading national accounting firm. Patty is the first volunteer leader of the Women of UC network of alumnae.
One of Africa’s top young attorneys, Frinwi Achu, Law ’16, considers her UC experience the ideal launchpad for her career advising companies, startups and foreign investors about doing business on the continent.
CincyTech makes the smartest possible investments in next-gen digital and healthcare businesses. That work was supercharged when UC Neuroscience Graduate program alumna Christin Godale, Med ’22, became the organization’s director of life sciences.
Ruthie Keefe, CECH ’81, says she owes her business success to UC. She credits her education, her ongoing experiences as a deeply engaged alumni volunteer leader, and opportunities found through her vast Bearcat network.
As senior editor of entertainment for "Essence," a leading magazine for Black women, Brande Victorian, A&S ’07, sees her journalism career providing opportunities to make an impact in ways she considers personally and culturally meaningful.
Ever marvel at the look and feel of big-time events like the Olympic Games or the Super Bowl? Brilliant designers such as Amy Lukas, DAAP ’95, are behind the curtain creating those brand experiences.
Named “one to watch in 2022” by "Broadway World," Veronica Stern, CCM ’21, treasures the opportunity to play the storied role of Anya in the revival of Broadway musical "Anastasia."
Cynthia Johnson, Pharm ’18, owns Cindy J Cosmetic Labs, LLC, an innovation company that offers research and development services for cosmetic business owners.
Annette Echikunwoke, A&S ’18, Bus ’19; Vanessa Gilles, CECH ’18; and Jordan Thompson, CECH ’18, ’20; competed in the 2021 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, with Gilles and Thompson earning gold medals. Read more about women of UC in the 2021 Summer Olympics.
The University of Cincinnati Clermont College recently welcomed Lisa Mahle-Grisez as associate dean of academic affairs.
Kristen Tomlan, BSID ’11, turns favorite childhood treat into a dream business.
Mary Wineberg, BSED ’02, claimed the gold in the 4 x 400 meters race in 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Tessa Clark, BSDES ’16, does Bravo’s Project Runway.
Nicole Wiesmann, BSDE '93, talks about creating a purpose-driven design culture at Banana Republic.
Tony-winning UC alumna, Karen Olivo, CCM' 97, recognized during Hispanic Heritage Month.
Rashida Manuel A&S '12, '16 is on a mission to build a more equitable, sustainable Cincinnati.
Heather Farrington, PhD, A&S ’11 puts DNA to work for wildlife.
Career is a testament to volunteerism’s mutual benefits for Mary Kay Brown, MEd, CAHS ’71, ’02.
Paula Lampley, JD, Law ’92 serves as director of College of Engineering and Applied Science’s Women in Engineering.
Past Events
- Cincinnati vs. Baylor Women's Basketball Game & Reception | February 2026
In honor of National Girls and Women in Sports Day, Women of UC celebrated by connecting fellow alumnae over light bites and drinks during a pregame gathering at the Vault and cheerings on the women's basketball team as they host the Baylor Bearcats. UC alumna, Ana Owens, A&S '18, '21, Director of Operations for the Cincinnati women's basketball staff shared her story.
- Empowerment through Creativity with Dr. Sarah Hellman | August 2025
Private paint party experience with Dr. Sarah Hellmann, CECH ’11, who is an author, artist and speaker. After receiving her PhD from the University of Cincinnati, she founded Art for All People, which brings hope and healing through art. - Women of UC Breakfast | March 2025
Breakfast and special programming honoring the excellence of two dynamic alumni speakers, author, artist and speaker, Dr. Sarah Hellmann, CECH ’11, and status-quo challenger and visionary Sheri Conn, CEAS '95, Bus '96. - The Ultimate Active Experience | January 2025
Women of UC held an empowering night of movement and shopping with at MEAS Active in Over the Rhine. Over 20 alumnae were led through a refreshing strength class by Brittany Cox, Bus ’14, followed by exclusive shopping at MEAS Active with owner Erin Roddy, DAAP ’13. Thanks to Brittany and Erin, Alumnae left feeling invigorated to start the year strong and stylish.
Women of UC attendees at Sip & Paint event.
Have an idea or
want to host a Women of UC event?
Contact Emma McAvoy
Program Director, Alumni Engagement
or call 513-558-2431.
This network is open to all University of Cincinnati alumni, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, sexual orientation, or any other class or status protected by applicable law.