CSU Student of Distinction: Tamika Robinson Carter

Although Commencement has passed, Cleveland State University continues to celebrate graduating students who have overcome obstacles, achieved significant milestones or fulfilled the university’s mission inside and outside the classroom.

Today, we celebrate Tamika Robinson Carter, who earned her Master of Business Administration degree.

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

TRC: Absolutely. While earning my MBA at Cleveland State University, I continued serving as an Operations Coordinator and Office Manager at Equitable Advisors, where I was able to immediately apply classroom strategy, leadership, and analytics into real-world business decisions. I also have two businesses, Tamika Shanea', LLC (a multi-faceted business) & Consultamind Systems (an AI consulting business). This experience made my CSU journey even more meaningful because every lesson became something I could use to strengthen business operations, improve processes, and lead with excellence in my career & entrepreneurial ventures.

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

TRC: The relationships I built with faculty and staff have been one of the most valuable parts of my CSU experience. Their encouragement, insight and willingness to challenge me pushed me to think at a higher level and trust my voice as both a leader and a scholar. Those connections made me feel seen, supported and inspired to keep growing.

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

TRC: Cleveland State inspired me to fully embrace the leader, visionary and changemaker I am becoming. This journey reminded me that my experience, resilience and entrepreneurial spirit all have a greater purpose. As I prepare to graduate, I feel more confident than ever in my ability to lead in corporate spaces, grow my businesses and create lasting impact in Cleveland and beyond.

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

TRC: I believe I embody CSU’s mission by empowering others through leadership, creating knowledge through action and using my education to serve both my workplace and community. My story reflects what it means to turn learning into transformation — not just for myself, but for the people, teams and businesses I touch. Whether through operations leadership, entrepreneurship or mentorship, I strive to leave every room better than I found it.

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

TRC: Yes, and that is one of the most rewarding parts of this journey. I have continued to advance in my professional career while also building and expanding my entrepreneurial ventures, and CSU has been instrumental in sharpening the executive mindset required for both. The program strengthened my confidence in strategy, innovation and leadership, helping position me for continued growth as a corporate leader and CEO.

Congratulations, Tamika!