I recently walked into my doctor’s office, and smelled an obvious odor. This sounds like the beginning of a bad joke, right?
Actually, it isn’t, and what I noticed immediately was the scent of new carpeting. As I waited for my exam, several other patients walked in for their appointments, and without hesitation, each commented on the new carpet. Frankly, it looked so similar to the old carpet that I wouldn’t have noticed—without that unmistakable “new” scent. There are certain identifiable scents that trigger our minds to think new—just like that new car scent—the one you wish would last for years instead of weeks.
A number of new things are going on at CSU and in Cleveland. They may not have scents associated with them (I certainly hope not), but their new presence brings about time to reimagine, rededicate and to celebrate.
Harlan Sands was introduced to the CSU and Cleveland communities as the new President of your alma mater, effective July 1st. Sands has a distinguished career in higher education, serving most recently at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. Moments after the Board of Trustees made the announcement, Sands addressed a standing-room-only crowd in the student center ballroom, filled with students, faculty, staff, friends, and other inquiring minds. At the event Sands introduced the new first family: wife Lynn and sons Samson and A.J. There was a lot of excitement in the air with Sands’ announcement. We look forward to honoring and thanking President Berkman for his contributions and leadership in the months ahead, and to welcoming CSU’s new leader.
Alumni, students and friends were recently recognized as part of our 2nd Annual Alumni Recognition Program. Along with these honorees, our 2018 Fascinating Alumni were unveiled. Learn about them here.
Just when the CAVS were seeming a bit tired, a new roster was introduced overnight with several new faces joining the team. Their performance in their first game against the Celtics was SWEET! Maybe there’s new carpeting for them too!
We’re gearing up for the new baseball season as we head out west for our annual Cleveland Indians Spring Training event in Goodyear, AZ. We’ll host a reception on Tuesday, March 13 and reunite with alumni and friends as the Indians take on the Angels on Wednesday, March 14. If you’ve got that baseball fever in you, please come on out and join us in Arizona, or purchase your tickets to the home opener here in Cleveland through our website, www.csualumni.com
We continue to experience strong alumni participation in our programs, volunteer experiences and through our chapters. I’m proud to announce that General Electric recently became our fourth Corporate Alumni Chapter. There are so many committed CSU employees at GE and we’re thrilled to welcome them aboard, joining ranks with Sherwin-Williams, Forest City and American Greetings.
Each year we host events in Florida in February (I know, this is a tough assignment!) and this week we will be in The Villages, Fort Myers, and Boca Raton. Over 100 alumni have pre-registered for these events where we will showcase outstanding faculty and provide CSU updates. Something new we’re introducing (scentless, however) is a new video tour of the campus over the decades. The campus has evolved strikingly and we wanted alumni who may not have the opportunity to return to Cleveland to experience the changes. You may check out the video for yourself here. (hyperlink)
Even without the fresh new smell, a lot of great things are happening at CSU and with our engaged alumni. Thank you for all you do to support CSU.
