LIMA, Ohio, April 25, 2024 – Lima Pallet Company Inc. President, Traci Sanchez will give the address at the commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 4th, 2024, at 10 a.m. for Rhodes State College. Over 300 students will graduate this year and 202 are scheduled to participate in the College’s 54th annual commencement ceremony.
Tracie Sanchez has devoted her life to championing the cause of others. Born with an unwavering commitment for equity and opportunities for all members of society, she undertook a significant journey aimed at empowering women and uplifting communities.
From a young age, Ms. Sanchez demonstrated a keen sense of empathy and a strong desire to make a difference. Born in Lima, Ohio, she is a graduate of Bath High School, and attended Rhodes State College before beginning her time at Lima Pallet Company, Inc, a family-owned business started by her parents. She has spent the last 40+ years at Lima Pallet, becoming President in 1998. Shortly after, in 2008, Lima Pallet became a certified Woman Owned Business, and she has been the sole owner since 2012. Throughout her academic and professional pursuits, Ms. Sanchez continually challenged norms and shattered glass ceilings, paving the way for future generations of women.
As a true trailblazer in her profession, Ms. Sanchez has fearlessly tackled obstacles and pioneered innovative solutions. Her relentless dedication to this community has earned her recognition as a leader and inspiration to many. Ms. Sanchez is very active at the State and Local level, serving on the board of Directors for the Ohio Bureau of Workers Compensation, in which she was appointed by Governor Kasich, Board of Directors for the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), served as a delegate for the State of Ohio in 2016, 2020, and 2024, as well as various other local boards, such as, the Lima Memorial Health System Board of Trustees and Finance, Audit, and Investment Committees; the Lima Chamber of Commerce Executive Board and the Greater Lima Region Board. Ms. Sanchez also served on the Lima Rotary Board and as President of Rotary from 2017-2018.
Apart from her professional achievements, Ms. Sanchez has shown unwavering dedication to supporting those in need. Through volunteering, mentoring, and philanthropy, she has consistently exhibited her commitment to improving the community and effecting positive change. Today, Ms. Sanchez stands before us as a beacon of hope and inspiration. Her unwavering passion, resilience, and compassion serve as a reminder of the transformative power of advocacy and engagement.
Following this graduation, over 20,000 will have graduated from the College since its establishment in 1971.
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