Dear CSU Alumni,
Cleveland State is defined by the people who come here, the relationships we form, and the ways those relationships shape lives. We do this by immersing ourselves in an environment that is about rising to challenges, adapting to change, engaging in critical inquiry and creative thinking, and connecting people and ideas.
Over the past year, we’ve had to lean into these attributes as we confronted unprecedented challenges presented by COVID. We did so with remarkable success. We mitigated the spread of the virus by wearing masks, social distancing, handwashing, and testing.Communications and digital engagement were increased to keep students, families, faculty, staff, and alumni informed. Athletic teams practiced and played and won games and championships. The arts found ways to perform and showcase work. Social life happened in new ways and places. But most importantly, students kept learning, faculty kept teaching, and staff kept working. Through this collective experience, it became increasingly evident that universities, too, require a community of people unified by the shared objects of their love: values such as learning, truth-seeking, mutual respect, creativity and innovation, honesty and service.
While much remains uncertain, the vaccine rollout offers great promise for the months ahead. Speaking of which, CSU is currently hosting the first state-federal Mass Vaccination Clinic in Ohio at the Wolstein Center with the capacity to administer 6,000 COVID vaccines a day! The location was recommended by Ohio and selected by FEMA based on its proximity to many high-risk citizens and medically underserved populations. From what I’m hearing, the clinic is operated like a well-oiled machine and free parking is provided. Both good news.
I want to end with a personal reflection. The past year was hard, and there are still difficult days ahead. But it also reinforced my belief in the importance of community and my passion for this great university. May we continue to care and rely on one another, and on the power of our educational mission.
Sincerely,
Nikki Byrd
President, Alumni Association Board
