Conversations with Dorothy Hassan

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dorothy Hassan

Dorothy, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
In 2012, I returned to the United States after spending 6 years in Yemen and another 4 years in Egypt. I have always had an affinity for cultural and people and advancement. I have a Bachelor’s degree in History and my first job after graduating undergrad was in human services. WHen I lived in Yemen I taught English at both a K-12 school and a all girls institute. When I moved to Egypt, I was primary years teacher in a K-6 international school.
In 2012, I returned to Ohio with a Egyptian husband who had low English language proficiency at that time. I had a unique look at the struggles that he faced trying to become settled in his new home.
I returned back to school for my Master’s in TESOL and was excited to complete a teaching practicum. I served my teaching practicum at an organization that my husband attended for ESL when he first arrived. I was happy to report 100% successfully transfer to other initiatives and full time employment for my students in that class. I still see students from that class around the city, at their jobs. After that I moved on to work with another local non profit organization and starting a food pantry that catered to the unique dietary needs of immigrant and refugee families on the Westside of Columbus. This work became the muse of my doctoral research because of the leadership skills gained by the students who volunteered with the pantry. I received a PhD in Higher Education Leadership in 2022. Now I lead a non profit organization on the Northside that is on a mission to improve the lives of immigrants and refugees in Central Ohio. We have more than tripled our impact and continue to grow.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Growth is never smooth, as a female non profit CEO, one of the greatest struggles is dealing with mom guilt. I am mother to 5 and it is quite the dance to make sure that everyone’s needs are met. For a very long time, I tried to do everything and be everything for everyone. After learning more about self care, I can boast that now I focus more on doing the best that I can in every role that I serve and being satisfied with my best. I am an essentialist and I firmly believe that I can do less but more, better.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am the Chief Executive Officer of a non profit organization on a mission to improve the lives of immigrants and refugees in Central Ohio. I specialize in community building and increasing the self efficacy of individuals that have been marginalized. I also keep mental health at the heart of my service. I am personally on a mission to talk about the value of mental health before a diagnosis.
I am also a small business owner, owning an educational consulting business. My team and I curate learning experience for adults that are based in a DE& I framework.
My need to learn sets me apart from other professionals. I approach every single moment of my life with a growth mindset; always something to learn, always a way to grow.

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
My favorite book is Essentialism by Greg McKeown, I re read it often to keep myself focused and aligned.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: dr_d_hassan
• Youtube: Dorothy Hassan