Cleveland State University Launches Talent Hub to Strengthen Regional Workforce Pipeline

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Cleveland State University (CSU) has launched the CSU Talent Hub, a new initiative that connects students with employers through internships, co-ops, project-based partnerships and other career development opportunities. 

Under the leadership of Dr. Debbie Jackson, vice provost for Instructional Excellence, the Talent Hub is central to CSU’s commitment to providing infinite opportunities for every undergraduate. The initiative integrates experiential learning, employer engagement, career development and professional education to help students build the skills and connections needed to launch their careers. Dr. Jackson will provide oversight to the Talent Hub.

"The Talent Hub is a powerful example of what it means to be Cleveland’s University," said Dr. Nigamanth Sridhar, executive vice president and provost. "By bringing together students, faculty and employers, we are strengthening connections between the classroom and the workplace while helping employers meet the workforce needs of our region.”

Janine Kaiser will serve as executive director and Dr. Michele Heath as faculty director of the CSU

Janine Kaiser Headshot

 Talent Hub. Together, they will work to expand community partnerships and equip learners with future-ready skills, advancing one of the key priorities of Cleveland State United, CSU’s strategic plan.

As part of the Talent Hub initiative, CSU faculty are developing new work-based learning pathways to be integrated into academic programs, enabling more students to gain hands-on experience as a seamless part of their coursework. The first curricular proposals are

Michele Heath Headshot

 expected this fall. The University envisions that the Talent Hub will serve each and every undergraduate student, regardless of their course of study, to provide them with the opportunity to complete their degree program while also participating in a work-based or experiential learning pathway. 

The Talent Hub provides employers with a direct connection to CSU students and faculty, creating opportunities to engage with emerging talent, build strategic partnerships and help shape the future workforce of Northeast Ohio. 

To learn more about the CSU Talent Hub or explore partnership opportunities, visit csuohio.edu/talent-hub or email talenthub@csu.edu.