Senior Leadership Team Update, July 2025

July 8, 2025

Dear colleagues,

I am writing to let you know that Dr. Julie Rehm, vice president of Advancement and executive director of the CSU Foundation, has announced her plans to retire at the end of the 2025 calendar year. Julie has been a remarkable colleague and stalwart supporter of CSU, and I am deeply grateful for her contributions to our University. Julie has also become a trusted friend, and while I will certainly miss working with her on a daily basis, I know we will continue to share our passion for adventure, good food and all things Cleveland.  

Julie joined CSU in September 2019, following her tenure as Case Western Reserve University’s vice president of Foundation and Government Relations. Over the last six years, Julie has led our Advancement team to strengthen donor, foundation and alumni relations, which has resulted in record-breaking fundraising and historic gifts to the University, including:

• newly established centers, like the Beth E. Mooney Center for Transformative Leadership
• the naming of the realigned Levin College of Public Affairs and Education
• the construction of the McCombs Family Plaza in recognition of the University’s single largest gift from a donor
• the introduction of Ava, our first ever Advancement team member powered by artificial intelligence.

“Cleveland State is in my heart, and the Advancement team is a wonderful group of very special professionals who care deeply about the University. I am so proud of the work our team has done to support the University’s priorities and strategic vision,” says Julie. “Cleveland State’s reputation in the region is strong. Our alumni, friends and donors understand how important Cleveland State is to the future of the region. If you care about Cleveland, you better care about CSU! You can be sure that I will remain a loud and proud supporter of CSU and its important mission in Northeast Ohio.”

Later this summer, I will share information on a transition plan for the leadership of our Division of Advancement. As Julie will remain in her position until the end of the calendar year, she and I will work together closely to ensure a smooth transition for both our staff and the CSU Foundation.

Please join me in congratulating Julie on a remarkable career in University Advancement and wish her well as she prepares for future endeavors.

Sincerely,

Laura Bloomberg, PhD
President