Dennis M. Lafferty has joined Cleveland State University's Division of University Advancement as an executive-in-residence.

Lafferty, a well-known and respected civic leader, brings to CSU outstanding professional experience. For the past 23 years, he has been with the Cleveland office of Jones Day – as executive assistant to the managing partner and office administrator. Prior to that, he served for 14 years as vice president for government and community affairs for the Greater Cleveland Growth Association.

"I could not be more pleased that this outstanding individual has chosen Cleveland State University for the next phase of his distinguished career," said CSU President Ronald Berkman. "Dennis is a champion for the city of Cleveland and Northeast Ohio. He is a keenly intelligent, visionary leader who has focused his energy and skills on such diverse projects as expanding Cleveland Hopkins Airport to securing the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. He brings outstanding credentials and accomplishments to our University and will be an invaluable team member."

Lafferty added, "I am privileged to join the Cleveland State family. The University provides an outstanding education to the students who are the future of Northeast Ohio. CSU's leaders are also committed to creating a vibrant neighborhood for learning and living in downtown Cleveland. It will be a privilege to assist President Berkman, as well as faculty, staff and students, in any way I can."

As executive-in-residence, Lafferty will be responsible for developing new partnerships between the University and various stakeholders and for fostering relationships between CSU and the business community, particularly through the New Pathway Program, an initiative that provides scholarships, internships and cooperative education experiences for students while meeting the employment needs of partner companies.

"CSU and the Division of Advancement could not ask for a better emissary," said Steve Minter, interim vice president for advancement. "He's the ideal person to strengthen and expand CSU's corporate, educational and civic partnerships and bolster our advancement efforts."

A graduate of Youngstown State University, Lafferty is often cited by the news media as the "power" behind Cleveland's power-brokers. Crain's Cleveland Business named him one of 20 individuals who helped reshape Northeast Ohio and one of the 50 most influential individuals in this area.

About Cleveland State University

Founded in 1964, Cleveland State University is a public research institution that provides a dynamic setting for engaged learning. With an enrollment of more than 17,000 students, eight colleges and approximately 200 academic programs, CSU was again chosen for 2011 as one of America's Best Colleges by U.S. News & World Report.

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