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“Erica embodies integrity in every aspect of her work. Her unwavering commitment to ethical standards, transparency and honesty sets her apart as a trusted and reliable professional. She consistently demonstrates a strong moral compass and a dedication to doing what is right, even in challenging circumstances.”

Erica Dovin, ’21, is only three years into her career, but she has already made significant strides. After graduating in 2021 with a Bachelor of Science in human development and family studies, Erica began working at Akron Children’s Hospital and has since been promoted twice. Her journey at Akron Children’s started with a part-time position as a child passenger safety technician where she supported parents and the community with the installation of their car seats and stayed up to date on the latest technical information.

“One of Erica’s most notable strengths is her initiative. She is proactive, resourceful and driven to achieve excellence in everything she does,” said Heather Wuensch, director of community benefit, advocacy and outreach, at Akron Children’s Hospital. “She has a remarkable ability to identify opportunities for improvement and takes decisive action to implement innovative solutions.”

Erica’s performance led to a promotion after just one year to injury prevention specialist, a full-time position focused on the Safe Mobility Project – a collaboration between Akron Children’s and the Goodyear Foundation. This project concentrated on child passenger safety, bicycle safety and teen safe driving. As the lead, Erica managed in-depth logistics including event staffing, presentations to donors and reporting on deliverables.

“Erica embodies integrity in every aspect of her work,” said Heather Wuensch. “Her unwavering commitment to ethical standards, transparency and honesty sets her apart as a trusted and reliable professional. She consistently demonstrates a strong moral compass and a dedication to doing what is right, even in challenging circumstances.”

In December, Erica was promoted for a second time to regional advocacy, community outreach and education coordinator. In her new role, she is responsible for developing and implementing community health education strategies across the hospital’s service areas, forging partnerships and representing Akron Children’s Hospital throughout the region.

“Through our community-based programming serving vulnerable populations, Erica always provides education and support in a kind and respectful manner, meeting families where they are,” said Heather Trnka, injury prevention supervisor, Akron Children’s Hospital. “This is a skill which is not easily taught, but Erica was a natural at connecting with families in a meaningful way. She is highly competent, well-organized, outgoing and an excellent communicator.”

Erica has consistently sought opportunities to grow professionally and contribute to her community. In 2023, she joined the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank’s CORE Young Professionals, where she engaged in poverty simulations, volunteered and worked to combat hunger in her community. Additionally, Erica contributes to workplace morale by leading the Wellbeing Committee in the External Affairs Department at Akron Children’s, fostering a positive work environment and supporting local nonprofits through donation drives. Since the introduction of Akron Children’s employee recognition program in 2022, Erica has received 21 awards, underscoring her unwavering commitment to the hospital’s mission and her outstanding performance.

“Each day as I go to work, my passion for working with children and families, specifically those with adverse experiences, grows stronger,” Erica said.

Erica remains connected to Kent State through her sorority Delta Zeta. In 2023, Erica was named Kent State’s Delta Zeta chapter director. Under her leadership, Delta Zeta raised more than $90,000 for their philanthropic partners, maintained maximum membership and impacted the community by averaging 15 community service hours per member. Delta Zeta was also awarded Chapter of Excellence, achieving success in every subcategory of awards.