A proud alumna of The Ohio State University, Dr. Pierce serves as the Chief of Strategy and Belonging for The Ohio State University Alumni Association. With over two decades of experience in higher education, civic engagement, and leadership development, she is a distinguished thought leader, fostering inclusive and equitable environments through strategies that drive meaningful change.

Growing up in a resilient working-class family, she learned that education and hard work are keys to success — a belief she instills in her four children – Andrew, Malcolm, Catherine, and Michelle. Dr. Pierce values education, holding a Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science with a Graduate Interdisciplinary Specialization in College and University Teaching, a Master of Arts in Political Science, a Bachelor of Arts in Social and Behavioral Sciences with Distinction in Political Science, and a Bachelor of Arts in Humanities with Distinction in African American and African Studies. In 2020, she created the Dr. Tina Pierce Social Justice Scholarship to provide funding to Columbus City School graduates who have demonstrated a commitment to community engagement, social justice, or political activism. In creating the scholarship, she envisioned the formation of sustainable connections between current and past Columbus City Schools leaders. Dr. Pierce continues to leave an indelible mark on our community and beyond, fostering a legacy of social change for generations to come.