Congratulations to OSU folklore alumna Puja Batra-Wells on receiving a 2025 Distinguished Staff Award! Puja is currently the Associate Director of the GAHDT. 

The Distinguished Staff Awards annually honor staff members for their contributions to Ohio State’s mission and Shared Values. Recipients are nominated by their peers and carefully chosen by a selection committee. One recipient is awarded the Presidential Staff Award, a special distinction for a candidate who is committed to fostering a community for everyone, affordable education and access for all students.

Puja Batra-Wells is a driving force behind the Global Arts + Humanities – an Office of Academic Affairs initiative that is the gateway to cross-disciplinary research at Ohio State. For over six years, her dedication has helped to grow the initiative into a vital hub of support for creative and humanistic approaches to critical societal challenges and solutions. From managing core operations to spearheading signature programs, Puja’s leadership is exemplary. She fosters a culture of empowerment, inspiring innovation through trust and collaboration. Her commitment to excellence, integrity and genuine care makes her an asset. Puja Batra-Wells serves as the Associate Director of the Global Arts + Humanities | Cross-Disciplinary Research Exchange in the Office of Academic Affairs. 

Find more about the 2025 awards here.