A Message from the President

Dear CSU alumni, friends and partners,

At the start of this calendar year, students, faculty and staff returned to campus to find a new photo installation along the main concourse in Berkman Hall. In recognition of the 60th anniversaries of both Cleveland State University and the Civil Rights Act of 1964, our Office of University Marketing partnered with the Department of Africana Studies to create the exhibit “Protest to Progress,” which charted the growth of CSU amidst a city adapting to its newly affirmed inclusivity.

“Protest to Progress” was an important history lesson for us all, summarizing key events and providing the context for how these events impacted the City of Cleveland, CSU and the nation at large. Located in a popular gathering spot in Berkman Hall, members of our campus community came across the exhibit daily, giving them the opportunity to pause, learn and reflect.

In viewing the exhibit for the first time, I walked through six decades of tensions, debates, mutual understanding and, unfortunately at times, setbacks on our campus. I was struck by the tumultuous times in which CSU was founded. Yet, the University came to root itself firmly and proudly in Cleveland. CSU became a pillar of the community, guided by the core value of embracing the diversity of the region. This period of development for CSU was possible because educators, students and administrators were committed to the idea of a public university that would thrive in its urban environment. We would become of the city, not merely situated in it.

This type of dedication is what we highlight in this edition of Cleveland State Magazine. Here we feature the stories of individuals who have shown unique and inspiring commitment to making the world a better place, even in the face of challenging circumstances. 

These are just a few examples of our engaged alumni. In honor of CSU’s 60th anniversary, thank you to the many members of the CSU family who have gone on to pursue your own progress and improve the lives of others.

We are Cleveland State University.