The first Black woman to earn a PhD from the Chemistry Department at Ohio State. Award-winning scientist and business leader. Philanthropist and mentor. And now, winner of the Distinguished Service Award from the College of Arts and Sciences.

Nodie Washington (PhD, chemistry, 1982) is an internationally-acclaimed expert in the fields of applied chemistry and testing methodology who established her reputation both in the academic and business worlds, first as a faculty member at Jackson State University and Central State University and later during a 25-year career at the Procter & Gamble Company (P&G).

Washington says that her illustrious career is rooted in humble beginnings. “I come from a modest family, grew up in Shreveport, Louisiana. Working parents. And they taught all of their kids that education is the key to success. And year after year, time after time, that has proven to be true.”

Washington came to The Ohio State University as what she would describe as a non-traditional student. After earning her bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Southern University and her master’s degree in chemistry from Rutgers University, Washington taught chemistry to undergraduate students. She says she was motivated to further her education, just as she was encouraging many of her students to do – and that she hoped to model perseverance for her students.

“Between the research, family and other things, it’s a lot of work. I had confidence in myself, but I had to remind myself that I could do it. I had previously taught chemistry at Central State University in Wilberforce to undergraduate students, and I would often encourage them to go on and pursue their degrees. And so, as I encouraged them to continue and persevere, I had to remind myself to do the same thing.”

Washington became the first Black woman to earn a PhD from the Chemistry Department at Ohio State in 1982. She says that her time at Ohio State also taught her the value of teamwork. She says she would later leverage that skill to lead research teams of scientists and engineers at P&G in the development of fabric care products, such as the billion-dollar brands of Tide and Downy, and in the creation of global programs in China providing fundamental knowledge and applications using her knowledge of textile chemistry.

“I solicited the help of many, from programming to keypunch to other sources of information regarding my research work…as well as the other colleagues in my laboratory, who served as a sounding board to bounce ideas off of. That proved to be helpful, not only during my research work, but even to this day. I’m a big believer in teams.”

Washington also takes pride in the work she has done as a mentor, both in the business world and in her community. While at P&G, Washington received the P&G Lifetime Mentoring Award and the P&G Black Leadership Team Lifetime Achievement Award for her mentorship and expertise. In recognition of her service, an award – the Nodie Monroe Washington Fiber Fabric Recognition Award – was created in her honor. Washington is also a former volunteer for Wilberforce University, a former member of the Board of Education for Xenia Community Schools and a former member of the advisory board of Greene County United Way.

Washington is also deeply involved in philanthropy, particularly in the communities that have fostered her personal growth. Washington serves as sponsor and benefactor of the Nodie Monroe Washington Chemistry Scholarship at Southern University and the Laverne R. Monroe Academic Scholarship at Booker T. Washington High School in Shreveport, La. Washington is also sponsor and benefactor for the Washington Humanitarian Fund at the Dayton Foundation. Washington and her daughter, Jenene Washington, co-founded the Dr. Jenene Washington Stepter Science Grant, a fund for teachers in the Xenia Ohio Community Schools.

In all of her professional and altruistic endeavors, Washington says she has been motivated to create a safe environment in which others can grow and succeed. “It’s crucial to make sure you’re setting up an atmosphere within either the university or the workplace so that it’s a welcoming environment. People are motivated and empowered when they have an environment that’s welcoming, an environment that they realize wants them there.”

Washington says that it is a great honor to receive the Distinguished Service Award from the College of Arts and Sciences. “It’s a big deal, particularly coming from The Ohio State University. Ohio State is a very prestigious institution within the state, but also beyond the state of Ohio. So, to be recognized by a non-historically black college and university, to say, ‘We value what you’ve done, not only while you were a student here, but through the course of your career,’ means a great deal.”

Washington serves as an example of the power of collaboration and compassion. In her own words, “You’re not in this alone. Always think of others as those who can be a partner with you in whatever you’re dealing with. And to reach out, when necessary, to provide assistance or ask ‘How can I help?’ That goes a long way. When you see others who need help, don’t wait for them to ask for you. Volunteer, reach out and see what you can do.”

The College of Arts and Sciences congratulates Dr. Nodie Washington and all of the recipients of the 2022-2023 Arts and Sciences Alumni Awards. The five recipients will be presented with their awards on Friday, April 14.