Lea Madry: Determined to Make a Difference

Lea Madry graduated in June, magna cum laude, in sociology. She will be attending the University of Chicago Law School in the fall, on scholarship, and leaves behind quite a legacy.

 

Madry grew up in Dublin, Ohio, and earned a full-ride Morrill Scholarship to Ohio State. A first-generation student, she was determined to hit the ground running and immerse herself in academics and community service.

 

 “My mother was my role model,” said Madry. “She taught me to value education, make the most out of life, and give your time serving others.”

 

Madry began her freshman year determined to find a path to law school. By the end of her first year, Madry found her academic niche—sociology. “Sociology allowed me to do what I love most … solve problems,” said Madry.

 

Outside the classroom,Madry sought out opportunities to get involved in student organizations committed to improving the community, empowering young women, and building leadership.

 

Early on, Madry was chosen to participate in the College of Arts and Sciences’ Program for Advising in Scholarship & Service (PASS), a selective first-year community for students with a shared interest in the academic, cultural, career, and community benefits of diversity. She took advantage of every leadership training opportunity provided in the program and sought out the advice of both academic and career advisors.

 

”PASS introduced me to so many new and interesting people of all backgrounds,” said Madry. “I grew so much because I had to challenge myself to think in ways I have never thought before.”

 

After completing her first year in the PASS program, Madry decided that she wanted to become a mentor to others. Over the course of her sophomore year, she helped incoming freshmen connect with other students, meet faculty, and discover new learning experiences.

“Meeting new people from multiple backgrounds is such an enriching experience. I wanted others like me to have that same chance,” said Madry.

 

In 2009, she founded the Ohio State chapter of Delta Xi Phi, a multicultural sorority dedicated to the advancement of women through higher education, increasing multicultural awareness, and community service. As president, she helped build a thriving membership base among women from multiple backgrounds and places around the globe.

 

“I wanted to bring Delta Xi to Ohio State so that other women like me would have a place to nurture and celebrate their differences,” said Madry.

 

With a little time on her hands before she heads to Chicago, Madry has put together a bucket list—an itemized list of things to do before leaving Columbus.

 

“I want to go to a Gallery Hop and the Chocolate Cafe,” said Madry. “I don’t imagine I’ll have time to come home and do things like that for a while.”