Noah Palmer

Business Administration & Management Major, Accounting Minor
Next: Currently in negotiations for a position, will maintain his landscaping business, and plans to open a party rental business.

“There were people here who made the time to pour into me and teach me far beyond what I learned in the classroom. A few professors challenged me in ways that forced me to learn and grow. With the help of Otterbein faculty and staff, I have developed my network of business professionals and have learned to leverage it. Otterbein developed me as a person — teaching me the skills to be a responsible and organized professional.

Otterbein taught me how to navigate the real world and be successful in my future endeavors. I gained a taste of how big the world could be, and how little I really know. I gained an appreciation for learning and lifelong personal growth.”

• Started a Pickleball Club on campus that he’s grown from five to 4O members.
• Built a landscaping business.
• Currently serving as a commercial sales intern at Hexion Inc.
• Started a personal development book club to help others grow along with him.

Yasmeen Khafagy

Biology and Public Health Education Double Major, Psychology Minor
Next: Currently applying to master’s programs for Public Health and considering employment options.

“For me, Otterbein has been the total package. Not only did I receive the love and care I needed to excel academically, I had numerous opportunities to be a better leader. From internships to research to career preparation, I think Otterbein has made me the perfect candidate for any position. The people and the energy of this campus have shaped me into the best person I can be.”

• Student Government president.
• International student mentor.
• Student trustee for Otterbein Board of Trustees.
• Presented research findings at three conferences and was awarded “most innovative poster.”
• Van Sant fellow.

Ahjay Cody

Psychology and Political Science Double Major
NEXT: Currently interviewing for Clinical Psychology Doctorate programs.

“I’ve always been driven. My family told me to find things that have substance and purpose — and to make that my mission. My experience at Otterbein has been great because of people like Dr. Cornell Lewis, Michelle Armour, Dr. Frank Dobson, Dr. Denise Hatter-Fisher, and God. These people and my experiences have changed me, and they gave me the chance to find out I was meant for this realm.”

• President of Black Athlete Student Union.
• Mental health specialist in the Neurobehavioral Unit at Nationwide Children’s.
• Multi-Skilled Technician/Patient Safety Attendant at Mount Carmel Hospital emergency room.
• Studied abroad at the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Milan, Italy.
• Two-time qualifier for track and field conference finals.

Bailey Zanella

Business Administration & Management and Finance Double Major, Marketing Analytics Minor
Next: Joining Nationwide Financial in annuity sales.

“Otterbein has helped prepare me for life after school in so many ways. The Business, Accounting, and Economics (BAE) Department gave me a great deal of support that allowed me to succeed while in school and confidence going into the workforce. The community has allowed me to grow in the leadership space and challenged me to be the best person, student, and athlete I can be.”

• Panhellenic Council president.
• Sigma Alpha Tau vice president.
• Campus Activities Board secretary.
• Team captain of women’s soccer.
• BAE ambassador.
• Student Government class senator.
• Nationwide Financial intern.

Jennatta Mensah

Public Health Education and Health Communication Double Major
Next: Deciding between two acceptance offers for a graduate program in Health Administration.

“Otterbein has helped prepare me for life after college by encouraging me to step out of my shell and accept new opportunities. Through leadership roles, internships, and campus involvement, I’ve developed confidence, communication skills, and the ability to advocate for others.

Serving as president of the Black Student Union helped me create initiatives like the Black Excellence Ball, strengthening my leadership and event planning skills while making a lasting impact on campus. My internships in public health and student engagement gave me handson experience that aligns with my career goals.

Otterbein has provided a supportive environment where I could challenge myself, build meaningful connections, and grow both personally and professionally. Because of these experiences, I feel prepared to step into the next chapter of my life with confidence and purpose.”

• President of Black Student Union.
• Internship at Mount Carmel Grove City.
• Dean’s List.
• Student engagement officer.
• Campus Compass mentor.
• Member of Sigma Gamma Rho.

Maxton Cox

Art Major, Double Concentration in Photography and Graphic Design
Next: Seasonal photographer, marketing and promotions, Preservation Parks of Delaware County.

“I made it my goal to be the first in my family to earn a degree, and this commitment inspired me to strive for the top. I have been given countless real-world experiences — from internships to external opportunities accessible only through Otterbein’s connections. I’m more confident in everything I do — my work, how I hold myself, and my morals and beliefs. The atmosphere at Otterbein makes it easy to express yourself in every way. I was able to find my true self.”

• Two-time recipient Hassenpflug H’91 Endowed Award for exceptional commitment to the discipline of art.
• Seasonal photographer and marketing intern at the Preservation Parks of Delaware, OH.
• Photography recognized in juried art shows.
• Student intern for the Dept. of Art and Art History and Otterbein Museum and Galleries.