CSU celebrates graduating students who have overcome obstacles, made significant achievements or are fulfilling Cleveland State University’s mission in or outside the classroom.

Today, we celebrate Jack Whitman ’25.

CSU: Have you had any significant internships/co-ops/careers while at CSU?

JW: I have been a student worker at the Washkewicz College of Engineering since my Sophomore year. I worked as a member of the Marketing and Communications team, first under the Director of Marketing for the college and later reporting directly to the Dean. Due to my working relationship with Dean Schoephoerster, I was also able to complete my Honors Internship at the Engineering Dean's office. I also hold a job with Big Kitty Labs as a Business Development Representative and work in my family business.

CSU: How would you describe the connections you have made with the faculty and staff at CSU?

JW: In short, profound. Working with Dean Schoephoerster for my internship was amazing, because he pulled in experts from his network to help me formulate real solutions for real needs the college had. By working with those real-world leaders, I was able to create real value, making this internship a far more effective learning experience than punching the clock at a company. I have also gained jobs due to connections facilitated by faculty, notably Lynn Buchinsky at the Weston Ideation Lab.

CSU: How has Cleveland State inspired you for your future?

JW: CSU has taught me that small actions can have big results. When I came to CSU, it wasn't by choice - I didn't even want to go to college. But in no time at all, I found purpose, first with the Cauldron and later with Student Government. My student employment taught me real-life communication skills that I was able to later implement, letting my family know that I am now mature enough to be trusted with a role in our family business. 

Fully intending to drop out after one year, I selected CSU based purely on the fact that it was the lowest-tuition option. In doing so, I inadvertently put myself in the perfect place to grow - A campus with enough students to offer once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but few enough students to avoid being lost in the noise.

CSU: How do you think you have fulfilled the CSU’s mission?  

JW: The mission statement is true - Cleveland's University does provide unlimited opportunity. By becoming involved with Student Government, I learned about the internal workings of the University, and was able to make an impact by working with the Division of Hospitality to resolve issues facing students. Through the Weston Ideation Lab, I received over $5000 in funding for startup endeavors via three separate grants. I never would have had these experiences without being at CSU. The alumni network in the Cleveland area is also worth mentioning - simply saying that you are a current CSU student opens doors, due to the number of alumni that are now decision makers or employees at Cleveland-area businesses.

CSU: Do you have a career lined up, and how has CSU been instrumental in that process?

JW: For my career, I plan to continue in my family business and eventually take over when my dad retires, something that I never would have been trusted to do before CSU. Started out of my dad’s college dorm room at The University of Michigan, it now includes 6 different sub-companies spanning from wholesale medical distribution to tree service. In a full-circle moment, one of these companies is Sidewalk Radios, the startup that received grant funding via the Weston Ideation Lab. From my dad’s college startup to mine, my family's entrepreneurial legacy continues, in no small part due to opportunities found at CSU.

Congratulations, Jack!