Sally A Hughes

Trustee

Sally A. Hughes is the founder and former President and Chief Executive Officer of Caster Connection, a Columbus, Ohio – based company which she established in 1987. Over more than 3 decades, she built the organization into a multimillion-dollar enterprise with a global customer base, a full-scale distribution operation, and a reputation for delivering high-quality, customized solutions in the industrial caster industry. Her leadership has been defined by passion, integrity, focus, and commitment to superiority.

Following an early career in professional music, Sally transitioned into entrepreneurship, applying the discipline and determination she developed in the entertainment industry to successfully lead in a traditionally male-dominated field. Her collaborative leadership style-engaging employees, customers, and partners in problem-solving and product development has been central to the company’s sustained growth and innovation.

Sally brings extensive governance and advisory experience, having served on numerous boards and leadership organizations. Her affiliations include the Women’s Leadership Network Advisory Board at Otterbein University, the Women’s Business Enterprise Council Ohio River Valley (WBEN-ORV), The Ohio Chamber of Commerce, The Wellington School, the National Association of Women Business owners (NAWBO), The Women’s Presidents’ Organization, and the International Women’s Forum, among others.

She was appointed to serve on Attorney General Mike DeWine’s Ohio Consumers’ Counsel and has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing opportunities for others. As chair of the Women’s Small Business Gala, Sally was recognized for the record-setting fundraising and engagement efforts to support women entrepreneurs.

Sally’s leadership and business success have been widely acknowledged. She was named the Ohio Small Business Person of the Year in 2016 and has been honored twice with Columbus Smart 50 Award.

In 2022, Caster Connection was acquired by private equity firm River Associates, reflecting the strength and value of the company she built. She remains on the board of directors.

A former proud Otterbein student and fellow parent, Sally remains deeply committed to the University’s mission and is passionate about contributing her experience, perspective, and leadership to support its continued growth and impact. Sally resides in Upper Arlington and is an avid golfer, pickleballer and travels the world extensively with her husband John.