Ohio State is in the process of revising websites and program materials to accurately reflect compliance with the law. While this work occurs, language referencing protected class status or other activities prohibited by Ohio Senate Bill 1 may still appear in some places. However, all programs and activities are being administered in compliance with federal and state law.

Irene Casale-Petrarca

Irene Casale-Petrarca was born and raised in Venezuela. In her narrative, she talks to us about growing up in Venezuela and going to medical school and working as a pediatrician in her home country. She also recounts her first days after moving to Ohio with her husband, having to learn English, and raising her sons. She reflects about her new vocation as a pastor for the founding Spanish-speaking church congregation at Vineyard Church in Westerville, Ohio. She was the first woman pastor for La Viña churches in the U.S.