Woman of the Week – Mary Augsburger

Here at Executive Elements, we like to feature fantastic women we think you should know. Some of these women are clients, some are friends, some are women we’ve only just met. But they all have this in common: they are dynamic, interesting women who have agreed to share with us their insights and secrets to success.

My Name:
Mary Amos Augsburger

My Current Job/Company:
Executive director of the Ohio State Bar Association. I am honored to be only the fourth executive director and the first woman to hold this position in the organization’s 137-year history.

My Work:
I lead the daily operations of a 26,000-plus member organization that is committed not only to advancing the professional interests of attorneys and legal professionals, but also to expanding access to justice and defending the rule of law.

My Passion(s):
My family. Public policy. Lifelong learning.

My Family:
I have a spirited 5-year old son, Alex, who not only brought out the mother in me, but has helped me hone my negotiating skills more so than law school ever did. My husband Ryan is the strong, supportive partner who makes it possible for me to put family first and do what I love.

My Hero or Heroes:
My dad, who has always been the wind beneath my wings. I also have great respect those who are willing to put their names on the ballot to make a difference. One in particular — Kim Zurz, a former Ohio State Senator and the Director of the Ohio Department of Commerce when I worked there. Kim wouldn’t let me settle for a support role. She forced me out of my comfort zone and helped me find my voice.

My Escape:
The beach, with a good legal thriller (and I don’t mean case law or contracts).

My Pet Peeve:
The phrase “we’ve always done it that way.” Thank you for the history lesson, now what’s the best approach moving forward?

My Indulgence:
European wines and fashion.

My Roots:
I grew up in a small town, Ohio – humble roots and proud. My dad is a retired military officer and my mom also worked in the public sector. They inspired my passion for public service.

My Future:
I’ve had a good ride so far and can’t wait to see what it brings! One thing is for sure — I am committed to doing more to give back for the many blessings I have enjoyed.

My Favorite Quote:
Here’s one of many: “There are no easy answers…but there are simple answers. We must have the courage to do what we know is morally right.” – Ronald Reagan

My Accessory:
Statement necklaces. A bracelet with Alex’s birthstone on one arm and my Apple watch on the other. (Tech is the key to making it all work for me).

My Advice to Young Women:
Don’t wait to be called upon. And that goes hand in hand with doing your homework and being able to communicate your position well. You don’t want to be that person who talks just to hear themselves talk, but it’s also no good to have all the answers and not be heard.

How I Balance It All:
I prioritize and actively reject guilt — you can’t be all things to all people. I also have a lot of support both at the office and at home.