Access Champion: Emily Jodway Patyna

December 6, 2024 - Becky Jensen

Many of the articles you read from the MSU College of Social Science are not about her, but she is usually the one who writes them. MSU support staff member, Emily Jodway Patyna, Communications Manager and lead writer on the college communications team since summer of 2022, is being recognized this month for her excellent written word contributions that help support a more inclusive world.  

Patyna, a Lansing, Michigan native, writes all the articles you will read in our Access Matters Accolades Newsletter. She works behind the scenes each month to interview and write news articles about all the students, faculty, staff and alumni featured.  

“The feature stories are so fun to write because I am constantly meeting new people and learning new things. Quite literally every person I interview is unique. I’ve spoken to people who have done important work in Washington, D.C. at the Federal Reserve Board, participated in the Selma to Montgomery March, traveled around the world, or have done amazing work right here on campus. Each person has something they bring to the table in their own way,” she said.  

"Emily’s exceptional writing for the Access Accolades newsletter is the driving force behind its ability to celebrate and elevate the achievements of our community members excelling in the access space. Her thoughtful storytelling not only highlights their impactful work but also inspires others to contribute to a culture of inclusion and excellence. As the content driver, Emily ensures each article resonates with purpose, making a tangible difference in amplifying voices and fostering a deeper sense of connection and commitment within our community," said Nwando Achebe, Associate Dean for Access, Faculty Development, & Strategic Implementation and Director of the SSC Office of Institutional Access.  

Patyna is passionate about accepting others and hopes others can grow by learning about themselves.  

“In my 20s I started to embrace some of my traits rather than mask them. In 2023, I was diagnosed with autism. I feel like it’s helped me understand myself and some of my differences a lot better. I wish for everyone to find that clarity in their lives and to be appreciated for their differences. Being differently abled should be celebrated, not shunned. It’s up to us to foster that ideal and encourage our leaders and lawmakers to see this become a reality,” she said.  

MSU is a place where Patyna says she can thrive.  

“I am surrounded by supportive and like-minded coworkers who make coming to work something to look forward to! I also love working on campus and being in an environment with the liveliness of a college campus and students, and I love when I can meet up with my sister, who is also a student, for coffee at Starbucks on Grand River or Strange Matter in the MSU Union.”   

Patyna is a Haslett High School graduate who went on to study communications at Alma College, where she was a proud member of Gamma Phi Beta sorority. She received her master’s degree in Sport Management from Western Michigan University, and she worked in the Athletic Communications office there. She started working at MSU in 2021, in the Athletic Communications department. Patyna says her parents played a huge role in her success.  

“They have encouraged and supported me in every direction life has taken me. My mother is the one I always looked up to and she inspired me to become a strong, independent woman, not afraid of pursuing my career aspirations and capabilities. My father is patient, kind and has taught me to weather the storm with a hopeful attitude and to always remember that no matter what, my family will always be there for me,” said Patyna.  

Outside of work, she is a head softball coach with the Fastpitch Softball Club of Haslett and has a great love of fitness and working out in the gym. Patyna is also an avid sports fan, especially of MSU basketball, football and gymnastics. She and her husband enjoy hosting tailgating fun on campus.  

 

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