This story is part of a University of Toledo faculty and staff spotlight series, where we feature uplifting stories of the remarkable achievements and contributions of hidden champions who call UToledo home, fostering connections across campus. Cover graphic by Juice House. Image courtesy of Kimberly Blausey.
Kimberly Blausey is a paralegal of the College of Law’s Legal Clinic at the University of Toledo, where she serves as a legal assistant and manager. Next month marks her 11th year working for the university. The JuicePress team recently interviewed Blausey to learn more about her role and contribution to campus.
Q: Can you summarize what you do in your role at UToledo?
A: My primary function is that of a legal assistant and manager of the College of Law Legal Clinic’s day-to-day business, which includes all client intake and referral, purchasing and inventory, sensitive legal document and case file management, faculty and student support, budget tracking, and webpage management with emphasis on using independent judgment, utilizing problem-solving skills daily to assess and de-escalate highly stressful situations while requiring limited supervision. I am the frontline for all client — community based — and student contact, ensuring the Legal Clinic operates efficiently and meets American Bar Association requirements.
Q: What are your degrees in and where did you study?
A: I graduated from Bowling Green State University in sports management with a bachelor’s degree in education.
Q: What field or research area do you focus on? What initially sparked your interest?
A: The Legal Clinic operates as a law firm; therefore, my position focuses on clerical skills, analytical skills, [and] creative and managerial skills. It’s important that I try and keep up to date on the rules of our local courts and the new changes that seem to occur in immigration law all the time. My interest in this position was sparked by the office managerial skills needed, my interest in law and working with students and clients.
Q: Tell us about your academic journey, what were some pivotal moments for you?
A: I grew up in Ottawa Hills and graduated from there. I graduated from BGSU — I know, the rival school — with my bachelor’s degree where I also was a member of their women’s tennis team. I never furthered my education formally, but I have always attended seminars and conferences that have interested me in various topics through the years.
Q: Who or what has been a significant influence on your professional journey?
A: My mother was a big influence. She is a retired clinical psychologist. For many years, I worked as her office manager. In that position, I did more than just manage her practice. I was also able to do testing with her patients and saw how caring and good she was with people. I strived to be the same, and I think that’s what has made me good at the current job I have here at UToledo. I learned from her a solid work ethic, listening skills and how to interact with people from all walks of life.
Q: What excites you most about the future of your field?
A: The law is exciting especially in these times. I worry about the future of law in this current climate, but I still believe in democracy. The future of this field lies in our law students, and I enjoy seeing them develop their skills — including analytical thinking — graduate and go on to become lawyers. The College of Law really is a special place with amazing students, and I don’t think it’s recognized enough.
Q: What advice would you give to students who are interested in pursuing a career in your field?
A: What I do requires significant attention to detail, organizational skills, patience [and] kindness, yet knowing when to be firm. If the law is of interest, and being a lawyer is not something you want to do, a paralegal is a great field, and what I do also involves office managerial skills as well as people skills. It’s a nice combination.
Q: What are some of your most significant achievements at the university?
A: Well, I’m very proud of myself for doing the work I do here to the point that it was recognized as in need of a classification change. I also was just told I was one of five recipients for the 2025 Outstanding Staff Award! That means I must be doing something right.
Q: In what ways have you contributed to the broader university community?
A: I participate in small ways. I’ve done several professional development opportunities, and I attend football games as well as men’s and women’s basketball games. Last year, my husband and I participated in the athletic fundraiser as well. I’ve attended plays here and the Arts Festival. I also promote the university whenever I have a chance, to people I meet outside of work.
Q: How do you support students outside of the classroom?
A: I have made some monetary contributions to Law Review here at the College of Law, as well as to a scholarship fund. I have been a sounding board at times for law students who find themselves struggling with the demands of life and law school. I have attended law student organizational fundraisers like the Black Law Student Association.
Q: What is a meaningful or favorite memory you have of being an undergraduate or graduate student?
A: While an undergraduate at BGSU, I cherish my tennis team experience. It’s not academic in any way; however, it was a huge accomplishment for me personally and taught me discipline, professionalism and teamwork. All attributes that have contributed to my work here.
Q: What do you enjoy about living in the Toledo area?
A: I’m born and raised here. I’ve traveled around the country — did my internship in Arizona, too — and I enjoy the living style of this region. Toledo provides a nice-sized city with many things to do from Mud Hens and Walleye games to our exceptional zoo and parks. We have some really good restaurants, a fantastic museum, pretty affordable living and some really good people in this area. We can always do better though!
Q: What hobbies or interests do you pursue outside of work?
A: I like to exercise, attend musicals and spend as much time as I can now with my grandson!
Q: What is a fun fact about yourself?
A: I was a nationally ranked tennis player in mother-daughter doubles back in my 20s, and I played the drums at my wedding.
Note: Responses from the interviewee were received by email and have been edited for grammar and clarity.
