Exciting News: ONU Unveils 2025 Young Alumni Award Winners!

Rob Roll and Jennifer Kinsley Smith are set to receive the prestigious William L. Robinson Young Alumni awards from Ohio Northern University during Homecoming Weekend on October 3-4, 2025. Both are alumni who have earned undergraduate and graduate degrees from ONU, earning them the title of “Double Bears.”

The ONU Alumni Association created these awards to recognize individuals who, over the past 15 years, have shown exceptional dedication to their professions, communities, and the university. Both Roll and Smith will serve as grand marshals in the Homecoming parade and will be honored during the football game on October 4.

Rob Roll, BSBA ’13, MPPA ’14

Rob has built a remarkable career as a senior tax manager at GBQ Partners in Columbus, one of the top 100 accounting firms in the U.S. After graduating from ONU, he joined the firm and quickly moved up the ranks.

In his role, Rob advises high-net-worth clients and private equity firms on complex tax issues. He emphasizes the importance of building trust and relationships with clients. “I don’t just do taxes for a living—I’m here to help people,” he shares.

This focus on human connection is not just a personal philosophy; experts in tax law stress the same importance. According to a 2022 study by the National Association of Tax Professionals, clients are more satisfied when they feel understood and supported by their tax advisors.

Rob sees his work as a way to make a positive impact. Whether it’s helping a couple structure a charitable donation or guiding a family through business succession planning, he believes he’s contributing to something greater.

Jennifer Kinsley Smith, BS ’10, JD ’13

Jennifer’s focus as a managing attorney with the Legal Aid Society of Cleveland is on restoring dignity to those in need. Every day, she interacts with clients facing significant challenges, from homelessness to complex legal issues. Her work is not just about legal expertise; it’s about providing hope and restoring lives.

In her role, she splits her time between the courtroom and community outreach. “Every person deserves respect and a fair chance,” she says, illustrating her commitment to her clients. Her belief is reinforced by data from the Legal Services Corporation, which shows that legal aid significantly impacts families’ stability and overall well-being.

Jennifer’s passion for poverty law has only grown over her seven years in this field. “For me, leveraging the law to help families is the most meaningful work I can do,” she adds, underscoring the nobility of her mission.

Both Rob Roll and Jennifer Kinsley Smith exemplify what it means to be dedicated alumni, using their education and skills to create positive change in their communities.

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