Ohio University Chillicothe graduate forges entrepreneurial path as founder of 'Dear Sadie'

The journey of an entrepreneur often involves taking risks and embracing opportunities.

Ohio University Chillicothe graduate Paige Farmer took the risk of leaving a corporate job and embraced the opportunity to design her own career as founder and owner of Dear Sadie, a marketing and event planning business named after her beloved dog.

Farmer earned her bachelor's degree in health services administration from the College of Health Sciences and Professions in 2015, completing her coursework at Ohio University Chillicothe, where she received the Outstanding Graduate Award, a testament to her dedication and achievements as a student.

Farmer started her college career at another university and transferred to OHIO Chillicothe, a choice she describes as the best decision of her college career. That transfer brought her closer to her family, offered internship and job opportunities that helped her develop crucial skills, and introduced her to lifelong friends. OHIO Chillicothe became the perfect stepping stone to her future success.

As a student at OHIO Chillicothe, Farmer interned in the marketing department at Adena Health System and was able to leverage her experience and connections to secure a job in marketing and communications there after graduating. This initial role allowed her to acquire skills, develop key relationships and build the confidence necessary to launch her own business.

Farmer made the life-changing decision to leave her job and become a stay-at-home mom. While her decision was rooted in her desire to be available for her children, Farmer soon discovered that her creative mind needed an additional outlet.

That's when Dear Sadie was born. As a business owner, Farmer appreciates the ability to balance her work with the needs of her family. She schedules her days to accommodate the needs of her family while finding professional fulfillment planning events and supporting the marketing needs of other business owners and organizations.

Reflecting on her time at OHIO Chillicothe, Farmer credits the supportive staff for ensuring her seamless transition as a transfer student. Aside from the culminating moment of graduation, Farmer’s favorite memories from her time at OHIO Chillicothe include group projects and studying in the library.

"I loved the library and being able to go there in between classes to study or get some homework done," Farmer said.

Farmer advises students to be open-minded, leverage the available resources for support, and build a strong network.