Law, Leadership, and a Lunchbox

Driven by a desire to serve, Stephen White ’10 has found exciting and innovative ways to make an impact throughout his career. He uses his knowledge and skills to strategically and authentically reach communities across the state, and now, the world. White’s journey exemplifies the power of servant leadership and creative thinking.  

Learning through mentorship and experience 

As a first-generation college student, White understood the importance of education. He received a scholarship to attend Ohio State and studied English and political science. Even as an undergraduate student, White proactively sought opportunities for his next steps. He worked as a student assistant in the law library, which helped him better understand the landscape of law school and build relationships. White also had the support of his mentors, including former U.S. Senator John Glenn, as he considered his future.  

White always had an interest in public service, and when he came to Moritz, he was able to explore that interest further. He participated in the Legislation Clinic and worked closely with leaders in the Ohio General Assembly. Additionally, he built relationships with people in the Statehouse that have remained to this day. 

“In the clinic, I got to see the political process in action,” he recalled. “I really started to understand the roles that impact policy and shape legislative ideas.” 

White also participated in the Program on Law and Leadership and found the Lawyers as Leader course particularly insightful. 

Inspiring moments of discovery 

White graduated with both a J.D. and an M.A. in public policy and management. Since then, his career path has been guided by and rooted in his principles and vision of servant leadership. White served as General Counsel and the Central Ohio Director for U.S. Senator Rob Portman, where he helped establish relationships that impacted workforce development, education, and public-private partnerships in the state. He also previously worked at the Ohio Supreme Court, the Ohio Senate, and Taft Stettinius & Hollister and taught a Nonprofit Law and Leadership course at Moritz.  

Since 2018, White has served as Chief Strategy Officer and General Counsel at the Center for Science and Industry (COSI). In his tenure, one of the biggest challenges he faced is the COVID pandemic. Because the museum was unable to open its doors, White and the team at COSI had to consider how to make knowledge accessible. 

“We had to think differently about what a museum could be,” said White.  

With this in mind, White developed the COSI Learning Lunchbox model of engagement, an interactive education kit that includes supplies needed for STEAM activities and additional learning resources for underserved youth. During the pandemic, they were delivered alongside meals from local foodbanks. 

“We had this idea of ‘feeding hungry minds, feeding hungry lives’ that drove us,” White explained. “By partnering with foodbanks, we fulfilled a human service element for vulnerable members of our community while also fulfilling a desire for learning.”  

Distribution of Learning Lunchboxes has continued and grown since the pandemic. Partnerships expanded to include homeless shelters and libraries to reach more individuals. Learning Lunchboxes have also started to be handed out internationally. In total, over 350,000 kits have been distributed.  

“Education is a ticket to the future,” White said. “We want to inspire a ‘wow’ or ‘eureka’ moment and impact people wherever they are.” 

This focus on accessibility also translates to White’s role as chair of the Education Committee for the International Space Station (ISS) U.S. National Laboratory. Along with his fellow board members, he provides support and guidance around ISS National Lab education initiatives.   

Lessons in servant leadership 

Throughout his career, White has learned the importance of working with a team. As a leader, understanding the unique capabilities of each member impacts the team’s effectiveness.  

“Collaborating enables greatness,” he said. “It’s much easier to translate issues into solutions when you’re working together.” 

He advises potential law students to be proactive in building relationships with people who can support them in their academic pursuits. In addition, he encourages current law students to focus on finding the area of law that they are passionate about.   

“Law is a big field,” White said. “Finding where you fit and what you love can really help when you’re faced with challenges.” 

White has found his own fit where he can serve the public in meaningful ways. His dedication and commitment to the greater good are a powerful example for others to follow.