University Advancement

Dear Friends,

There is much to celebrate at Cleveland State University. Under President Ronald Berkman, CSU is poised for continued growth – in academic quality and reputation, research and philanthropy, modernizing the physical campus, and playing a leadership role in the economic recovery Cleveland and Northeast Ohio.

Most importantly, the University will continue to have a transformational effect on the lives of thousands of students, producing the educated leaders and work force that our region so desperately needs.

As the forward momentum continues, so, too, does one pressing need – financial support.

• More than 90 percent of CSU students receive financial aid totaling $135 million per year --- mostly loans and grants
• CSU ranks in the top 100 nationally for student loans
• The average debt for CSU undergraduates is $21,000

Cleveland State is working hard to relieve the financial burden on students and their families.

• We recently announced a new Freshman Scholars Program that is renewable up to $12,000 over four years. A $3,000 gift will provide a scholarship to one student for one year.
• Dr. Berkman recently announced the President’s Opportunity Award to cover scholarship funds lost in state budget cuts for students who need it most — those who have little or no ability to contribute to their education. A $1,500 gift will fund this award for one student for one year.

Scholarship support is Cleveland State’s top fund raising priority. And for good reason.

• Scholarships help us recruit and retain the best and brightest students.
• Scholarships help first-generation college students, single mothers and others most at risk of dropping out for financial reasons
• Scholarships keep students in Northeast Ohio to make an impact after graduation.

Your support for CSU is an investment that pays dividends. Your tax-deductible gift of any amount can help fund student success. Please donate online at www.csuohio.edu/giving or call 216.687.5513.

We thank you for your past support and hope we – and our students -- can continue to count on you in the future.

Peter Anagnostos	Richard Barone
Vice President, University Advancement Executive Director, CSU Foundation	Chair, Board of Directors CSU Foundation