Sept. 26, 2025

Dear campus community,


For many years, Cleveland State University has been a vital community hub, a source of support and a place of belonging for all our students. We continue to honor this legacy and our commitment to meeting the needs of every student, recognizing the essential importance of providing an enriching educational experience on our campus.
This past legislation session, the Ohio General Assembly passed Ohio Senate Bill 1 (SB1), which prohibits certain diversity, equity, and inclusion programs and activities. Cleveland State complies with Ohio SB1. In reviewing our programs for compliance with SB1, we also determined that our delivery of resources and services to our students could be reimagined ad enhanced. At this time, our core commitment to student success remains firm.
We will continue to welcome every student to our campus, and meet the needs of our students and campus community through a range of comprehensive services, supports, programs and resources, with dedicated staff.
The following lists current and new programming initiatives that serve all students:
  • Academic Coaching offers academic and co-curricular support tailored to the individual needs of students. The Academic Coaching Office’s central location is BH 110 under the leadership of Associate Vice President Jeff Johnston.
  • The Student Resource Center aims to foster student engagement, enabling students to connect with one another and community resources. The center provides comprehensive programs, resources and services, including referrals to help students overcome various obstacles to success and ensure equal access to opportunities within the academic community. The website for the center is under construction. The center is located in BH 272 under the leadership of Director Evie DuVernay.

  • Viking Safety Ambassadors (VSA) play a vital role in fostering a safe, welcoming and supportive campus environment, working closely with campus police. The VSA webpage is under construction. VSAs are located at the front desk of the Student Center under the leadership of Assistant Dean David Haas.

  • The Center for Campus Engagement aims to promote student involvement and community through leadership development and programs. It is committed to providing high-quality student leadership, organization and club experiences. The center is located in SC 343 and is led by Senior Director Jarrett Pratt.

  • CARE management offers comprehensive support to connect students with resources both on and off campus. CARE management is located in SC 319 under the leadership of Senior Care Manager Andrew Pausch-Taylor.
  • The Counseling Center offers a range of services to help students achieve their personal and academic goals. The Counseling Center is located in RT 1722 under the leadership of Director Brittany Sommers.

  • The Office of Disability and Testing Services (ODTS) provides resources and support for students who require accommodations to reduce barriers in the teaching and learning environment, as well as in residential facilities. ODTS is located in RW 210 under the leadership of Associate Vice President and Dean of Students Nicholas Petty.

  • The Division of Student Belonging and Success (SB&S), in partnership with Facility Services, will provide more shared community spaces for student organizations and informal gatherings. SB&S is located in SC 319 under the leadership of Vice President Tachelle Banks.

  • The Office for Protected Rights (OPR) provides services to address the effects of unlawful harassment, discrimination, sexual violence and retaliation. The office offers resources, accommodations and prevention education throughout the campus. OPR is located in AC 236 under the leadership of Director LaJuan Flores.
 
We understand you may have questions and concerns. For more details about Cleveland State University’s implementation, including academic implications, please visit the CSU SB1 website. You can also contact the Office of University Compliance at compliance@csuohio.edu with any specific questions about Senate Bill 1.

Sincerely,

Dr. Tachelle Banks
Vice President, Student Belonging and Success

Matthew Roche
Executive Director of Compliance
Office of General Counsel


© 2025 Cleveland State University, 2121 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44115-2215 PH: 216.687.2000
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