Beating the odds, building a future

portrait of young woman with long, dark hair

Mariah Rotter has always believed the criminal justice system could be better. After witnessing crime in her community and questioning how it was handled, she found a passion for reform—and a path forward. That passion led her to , where she’s earned both an Associate in Applied Science in Law Enforcement Technology and a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice.

“My passion for changing our criminal justice system inspired me to select my major,” she said. “I want to help the criminal justice system fight crime and help our state’s reformatory grow stronger.”

Rotter isn’t stopping here. After graduation, she plans to continue her education, working toward a bachelor’s in criminology and eventually a master’s degree in the field. Her experience at OHIO has fueled that drive.

“It helped me understand the criminal justice system, law enforcement technology, and how to improve my learning experience,” she said. “It taught me never to stop pursuing my dreams, no matter what gets in my way.”

While she found academic knowledge in the classroom, Rotter says her most meaningful lessons came through resilience.

“I overcame the challenges presented during the COVID-19 pandemic, having two children, sleepless nights, thyroid cancer, and working a full-time job for the duration of my schooling,” she said. “It taught me my father was right when he said, ‘If you want something, you can't complain or be afraid.’”

She credits Lisa Cantrell, her financial advisor, as someone who made her success possible.

“She’s always made me feel cared for and worked relentlessly with me to obtain these degrees,” Rotter said.

One of her favorite memories came from the energy and insight brought by younger students in her classes.

“Seeing the younger generations come to school and bring a different perspective, input, and knowledge to my classes—that really stood out,” Rotter said.

As she reflects on what it means to graduate, Rotter feels empowered.

“Being an OHIO graduate means that no matter what life has thrown at me, I’ve done it,” she said. “It means feeling secure, full of knowledge, and knowing that I’ll be able to provide for my family. Now I am more than able to relentlessly become the best version of myself.”

Her advice to future Bobcats: “Shoot for the stars—then go visit them.”

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