Congratulations to Sarah Baker on being named the 2025 Jack O’Donnell Award for Community Service recipient!

A lifelong Wooster resident, Sarah Baker embodies an unwavering commitment to her community through her professional achievements and heartfelt service.

After graduating from Wooster High School, Baker furthered her education, eventually earning her Juris Doctor before returning to her hometown. She joined Critchfield, Critchfield, & Johnston, where she spent 15 years advancing from Associate to Partner while gaining invaluable mentorship and community engagement opportunities.

In the summer of 2024, Baker transitioned into a new chapter of her career as Vice President, Director of Wealth Management at The Commercial & Savings Bank. Reflecting on her experiences with Critchfield and CSB, Baker said, “I’ve always been encouraged by my employer to do whatever I needed to do in the community that I viewed as a need.” This support has shaped her career and deepened her commitment to service.

Baker credits her parents, Mark and Diane Gordon, for instilling in her a strong desire for community involvement–a value that continues to guide her, along with the unwavering support of her husband and two children. “It’s just a wonderful place to raise a family,” Baker shared. “I trust the community to help raise my children in a way that is consistent with my values.”

Baker has been faithfully involved in numerous organizations, such as Rotary, United Way, Wayne Economic Development Council, in addition to supporting local schools and nonprofits like Friends of OneEighty. Through Leadership Wooster and Chamber events, Baker has formed meaningful connections that broaden her impact on the community. In addition to these roles, Baker is passionate about mentoring youth and dedicates her time to coaching third and fourth grade basketball teams, helping develop future leaders on and off the court.

With a deep appreciation for the legacy of those who came before her, Baker remains committed to Wooster’s growth, ensuring success for generations to come. “Find what you’re passionate about, and try every day to make [Wooster] a better place…ultimately the hard work pays off, and you can see the benefits of everyone’s collective hard work.”

The Jack O’Donnell Award Recipient for Community Service is presented annually to an individual in memory of former Chamber President, Jack O’Donnell. In recognition of his or her contributions to the community through their volunteerism, enthusiasm and love for Wooster.

2025 Jack O’Donnell Award for Community Service - Sarah Baker