The Woodward Alumni Hall of Fame Association
Demicha Denise Rankin, MD Inducted 2024 - Class of 1996
After graduation, Demicha attended The Ohio State University and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology. She continued at OSU for Post-Baccalaureate work and received an MD from the College of Medicine in 2006. Since that time, she has had many clinical and administrative appointments including her current positions as Clinical Professor and Vice Chair of Diversity, Equity and Inclusions in the Department of Anesthesiology at The Ohio State University. Demicha’s membership in professional organizations include the AOA Honor Society, Promotion and Tenure Committee, Antiracism Task Force and the Ohio Society of Anesthesiologists among many others. Her passion for her field is evident as she has mentored many under-graduate students, medical students, residents and assistant professors.
Dr. Rankin’s many professional activities include Lecturer for her department as well as in workshops at the local, state and national level. She has served as Instructor in Neuroanesthesia and airway related courses. In addition, she has numerous published submissions in the Journal of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Anesthesia and an article submitted to ASA Monitor (American Society of Anesthesiologists Monitor) which is pending publication.
Demicha has received many honors and awards including Castle Connolly Top Doctor and Top Black Doctor. In addition, she has received recognition in excellent patient care and safety. Her election into The Association of University Anesthesiologists Council is distinguished as the selection process was highly selective. She has even received a proclamation in 2019 from Toledo Mayor, Wade Kapszukiewicz.
Where did you attend grade school and/or junior high school? Spring School and Leverette junior high
In what neighborhood did you live while attending Woodward? Please describe it. North side; Stickney area
Who were your best friends while attending Woodward? LaShonda Jones, Janeen Wiggins, Sadie Wilson, Saneisha Shumpert, Tonya Harris
Describe an important and/or humorous thing that happened to you while you were at Woodward. I was homecoming Queen
Who were your favorite teachers at Woodward? Why? Mrs. Szelagowski (chemistry teacher) Mrs. Attie (French teach-er) Mrs. Schick (art teacher) Each of these ladies were impactful in their own ways for instilling confidence in me.
Did any Woodward staff members have a profound effect on you? Who? In what way did they affect you? Carla, the polar posse dance team lead was impactful.
Are you married? Please tell us about your family members-- children, grandchildren, etc. Yes, my husband is Chay Rankin and we have two daughters; Chayla and Chloe.
What are your present hobbies What do you do for fun? Travelling, cooking, tennis and attending my children's sporting events
How did you feel when you were informed of this honor? Very Humbled
While at Woodward, did you have any nicknames? No.