Mary Sterenberg

Mary Sterenberg moved into a career in higher education after more than a decade working in journalism and corporate public relations. During her time as a lecturer, she was a finalist for the university’s top teaching award, the Provost’s Award for Distinguished Teaching by a Lecturer.

She has been recognized by the Student Athlete Advisory Committee, the Panhellenic Association of Ohio State and Mortar Board Senior Honor Society for excellence in teaching. She also was awarded the Outstanding Advisor Award from the Office of Student Life in 2021 for her role advising the Public Relations Student Society of America chapter at Ohio State.

Sterenberg received an Affordable Learning Exchange grant to create an open-source textbook, which saved students thousands of dollars. She also serves on multiple committees within the School of Communication and works closely with the College of Arts & Sciences Center for Career and Professional Success and the College of Arts & Sciences Development Office to build connections with alumni and organizations that translate into strong networking, internship and job opportunities for Ohio State students.

In all courses she teaches, Sterenberg emphasizes real-world application. She gives students experience with industry tools and connects them to professionals and organizations in the field. She teaches the senior capstone course in the Strategic Communication major, securing high-level clients each semester to partner with students on communication campaigns. Past clients include Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Pelotonia, Victoria’s Secret PINK, Root Insurance and Crimson Cup Coffee & Tea.