Rate this HBCU Day 74: Central State University (OH)

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I didn’t realize Central was only 53% Black, I’ve never met a white person from that school.

It’s one of the universities that has really taken a hit from Ohio’s drop in public university funding about a decade ago - they also need some capital injection from alumni base to update the campus.

I like it as a school, but they’re not great at recruiting - I don’t even think I got a letter from them as a Black cleveland metropolitan school district student with a high GPA/ACT/SAT - but the PWIs flooded me with info

Trying to recruit you wouldn't have been the best use of their (limited) recruiting budget.
You likely got packages from the top schools in OH, top schools in the region, and from the selective schools that have national applicants.
And they had the resources to 'show you the money' in terms of scholarships and aid packages.

Their best bet for recruitment of top in-state students would be to have Summer enrichment programs for high school students.

 

[EndDomination]

Trying to recruit you wouldn't have been the best use of their (limited) recruiting budget.
You likely got packages from the top schools in OH, top schools in the region, and from the selective schools that have national applicants.
And they had the resources to 'show you the money' in terms of scholarships and aid packages.

Their best bet for recruitment of top in-state students would be to have Summer enrichment programs for high school students.

I mean moreso that I didn’t even get an invite to visit campus or to apply to the school via email.

I was waiting on NYU to send me my aid package update when I probably would have strongly considered Central.

 

[How Sway?]

Very interesting profile.

 

[todd1]

1994 Grad.......I owe everything to Central. It made me who I am. The low African American population is a recent change...as it was all Black when I went there. They hooked me up when FAMU pulled the rug out from under me 2 weeks before school started. I can't imagine going anywhere else. Yes, its in the middle of nowhere, but it was a real family vibe back then. If you want a real backstory...try to research the Ohio state law barring two state supported institutions from residing in the same county. Then figure out how Ohio built PWI Wright State University in the same county as Central in the 80s...talk about starved for resources. More alumni:
Hugh Douglas (NFL Lottery Pick NYJ)
Erik Williams (Super Bowl Champion Dallas)
Nancy Wilson
Roger Troutman
Barry Hankerson (Blackground Records)
Leontine Price

 

[Cakebatter]

During the 90s in Detroit, we looked at Central State as an HCBU, but it was notorious for being a party school. I don't know any graduates, but know a guy who went there for 2 years. He says he loved it there, but he may not be referring to the education, but the social life.

 

[NYC Rebel]

1994 Grad.......I owe everything to Central. It made me who I am. The low African American population is a recent change...as it was all Black when I went there. They hooked me up when FAMU pulled the rug out from under me 2 weeks before school started. I can't imagine going anywhere else. Yes, its in the middle of nowhere, but it was a real family vibe back then. If you want a real backstory...try to research the Ohio state law barring two state supported institutions from residing in the same county. Then figure out how Ohio built PWI Wright State University in the same county as Central in the 80s...talk about starved for resources. More alumni:
Hugh Douglas (NFL Lottery Pick NYJ)
Erik Williams (Super Bowl Champion Dallas)
Nancy Wilson
Roger Troutman
Barry Hankerson (Blackground Records)
Leontine Price

You likely knew my boy Sheron from Brooklyn who played left tackle there for a short spell. Erik Williams loved him. He should have gone to the league but I think dropped out.

Was the best football player Ive ever played with in my life, OU, semi-pro, the best.

 

[get these nets]

HBCU Pathway

www.wccnet.edu

Ann Arbor college highlights transfer program with Historically Black universities​

The HBCU Pathway is designed to assist students in preparing to transition seamlessly from high school to an Historically Black College & University (HBCU) upon completion of their associate degree at Washtenaw Community College


Our primary goal is to keep college tuition affordable for students and families while providing an opportunity that ensures a sense of belonging. Pairing WCC's low-cost tuition rates with an affordable HBCU tuition will help minimize the overall cost for students completing college.


More than 19,000 students enroll at WCC annually to receive one of the best overall values in higher education. Whether you're interested in online or in-person courses, we have the educational resources and renowned faculty to provide everyone a high-quality, impactful education.


Interested in discovering more, complete the form that best fits your interest:

Prospective Student

Current Student

Community Member

"WCC prepared me for Morehouse College by offering rigorous courses and practical student leadership opportunities. A person who has been educated at WCC and an HBCU is destined to make a positive impact on the world."
- DeVaughn Swanson

Program Benefits:​

• Guaranteed admission into most partner schools
• Access to in-state tuition & scholarships at several partner schools
• HBCU campus tour(s) & peer activities
• Completion and acceptance of general education requirements upon transfer

Eligibility Requirements:​

1. Must be enrolled or admitted at WCC
2. Submit complete HBCU Pathway interest form
3. Participate in program events and activities

Partner Schools:​

• Jackson State University
• Southern University at New Orleans
• Mississippi Valley State University
• Central State University

---

 

[StarClout]

1994 Grad.......I owe everything to Central. It made me who I am. The low African American population is a recent change...as it was all Black when I went there. They hooked me up when FAMU pulled the rug out from under me 2 weeks before school started. I can't imagine going anywhere else. Yes, its in the middle of nowhere, but it was a real family vibe back then. If you want a real backstory...try to research the Ohio state law barring two state supported institutions from residing in the same county. Then figure out how Ohio built PWI Wright State University in the same county as Central in the 80s...talk about starved for resources. More alumni:
Hugh Douglas (NFL Lottery Pick NYJ)
Erik Williams (Super Bowl Champion Dallas)
Nancy Wilson
Roger Troutman
Barry Hankerson (Blackground Records)
Leontine Price

2015 grad here. I feel the same way about Central. Pledged there and everything

 

[todd1]

1994 Grad.......I owe everything to Central. It made me who I am. The low African American population is a recent change...as it was all Black when I went there. They hooked me up when FAMU pulled the rug out from under me 2 weeks before school started. I can't imagine going anywhere else. Yes, its in the middle of nowhere, but it was a real family vibe back then. If you want a real backstory...try to research the Ohio state law barring two state supported institutions from residing in the same county. Then figure out how Ohio built PWI Wright State University in the same county as Central in the 80s...talk about starved for resources. More alumni:
Hugh Douglas (NFL Lottery Pick NYJ)
Erik Williams (Super Bowl Champion Dallas)
Nancy Wilson
Roger Troutman

You likely knew my boy Sheron from Brooklyn who played left tackle there for a short spell. Erik Williams loved him. He should have gone to the league but I think dropped out.

Was the best football player Ive ever played with in my life, OU, semi-pro, the best.

Yep....I knew a lot of those guys because I was a Student Ambassador and we showed up to school early every year...during football and band camp

 

[get these nets]

 

[get these nets]

Akron Law and Central State University establish 3+3 J.D. program​

09/21/2023

Barbara DiGiacomo, Akron Law associate dean for administration and enrollment management, and Sidney Williams, Central State director of graduate school preparation programs, display the agreement following the signing.

The University of Akron School of Law (Akron Law) and Central State University today announced a degree partnership to create a seamless, sequential system for students to obtain both a bachelor‘s degree from Central State and a Juris Doctor (J.D.) from Akron Law in just six years instead of the usual seven.
The partnership, commonly referred to as a three plus three (3+3) degree program, offers an exceptional educational opportunity for qualifying students. Central State becomes the sixth college to have a 3+3 program with Akron Law and the first historically black college or university (HBCU) in Ohio to have a 3+3 partnership with any law school.
Pursuant to the agreement, eligible Central State students can apply the first year of law school courses at Akron Law to satisfy the graduation and degree requirements at Central State, and concurrently apply the first year of Akron Law courses toward a J.D. degree granted by The University of Akron.
“We are delighted to begin this new 3+3 partnership with Central State University,” Akron Law Dean Emily Janoski-Haehlen said. “For eligible students, the program can be a game-changer. The students complete both baccalaureate and J.D. degrees on an accelerated schedule at a substantial cost savings and are able to enter the job market a year earlier than their undergraduate peers.”
“Central State University is thrilled to make this opportunity with Akron Law available to our students,” said Sidney Williams, director of graduate school preparation programs. “Students who are committed to pursuing a law degree will be able to get a one-year head start on their J.D. after completing three years of a baccalaureate degree.”

 

[DropTopDoc]

Akron Law and Central State University establish 3+3 J.D. program​

09/21/2023

Barbara DiGiacomo, Akron Law associate dean for administration and enrollment management, and Sidney Williams, Central State director of graduate school preparation programs, display the agreement following the signing.

The University of Akron School of Law (Akron Law) and Central State University today announced a degree partnership to create a seamless, sequential system for students to obtain both a bachelor‘s degree from Central State and a Juris Doctor (J.D.) from Akron Law in just six years instead of the usual seven.
The partnership, commonly referred to as a three plus three (3+3) degree program, offers an exceptional educational opportunity for qualifying students. Central State becomes the sixth college to have a 3+3 program with Akron Law and the first historically black college or university (HBCU) in Ohio to have a 3+3 partnership with any law school.
Pursuant to the agreement, eligible Central State students can apply the first year of law school courses at Akron Law to satisfy the graduation and degree requirements at Central State, and concurrently apply the first year of Akron Law courses toward a J.D. degree granted by The University of Akron.
“We are delighted to begin this new 3+3 partnership with Central State University,” Akron Law Dean Emily Janoski-Haehlen said. “For eligible students, the program can be a game-changer. The students complete both baccalaureate and J.D. degrees on an accelerated schedule at a substantial cost savings and are able to enter the job market a year earlier than their undergraduate peers.”
“Central State University is thrilled to make this opportunity with Akron Law available to our students,” said Sidney Williams, director of graduate school preparation programs. “Students who are committed to pursuing a law degree will be able to get a one-year head start on their J.D. after completing three years of a baccalaureate degree.”

That’s dope af

 

[get these nets]

 

[get these nets]

Central State University Foundation announces $175,000 gift to clear graduates’ Institutional debt​

May 21 2024

Above: Central State University graduates celebrate with roaring applause after the Central State University Foundation announced a $175,000 gift to clear their Institutional debt.
At the Commencement Ceremony on May 11, the Central State University Foundation made a groundbreaking announcement that thrilled the assembly of graduates and their families, leading to roaring applause at William Patrick McPherson Memorial Stadium.
In an extraordinary act of generosity, the foundation declared a donation of $175,000 to eliminate all outstanding Institutional debt for this year's traditional graduating class.
Image

Judge Michael Nelson of the Central State University Foundation Board of Trustees announces the elimination of Institutional debt for graduates in the Class of 2024.
“The support from the Foundation will benefit many graduates who strived for an education, but continually faced economic hardship,” Interim Central State University President Dr. Alex Johnson said. “This burden is now lifted, in part, due to the generosity of individuals who have assembled to support Central State University and its students.”
The unprecedented gift ensures that each graduate will leave Central State University without owing any balance to the Institution. The initiative targets debt held directly by Central State, thus allowing graduates to commence their post-collegiate journey with a cleaner financial slate. The relief does not extend to federal student aid debts.
Dr. Derek Anderson, president of the CSU Foundation Board of Trustees, expressed his pride in the board's decision.

"We believe in the immense potential of our graduates and are thrilled to provide them with this foundation as they embark on their next chapters," he said.

Although unable to attend the ceremony, his sentiments were warmly conveyed by Judge Michael Nelson, who presented the award on behalf of the foundation.
Nelson, addressing the graduates, highlighted the significance of this gift: "Today marks not just the culmination of your hard work and dedication, but also the beginning of a promising new phase. The foundation is honored to play a part in ensuring you step into this phase unencumbered by Institutional debt."
Central State President-elect Dr. Morakinyo Kuti said students will use their career opportunities to improve their lives.
“The Foundation’s generosity allows the latest Centralians to grow their wealth by reducing debt from their investment portfolios,” he said.
Image

Graduates react with gratitude to the Central State University Foundation.
The Central State University Foundation's contribution underscores its commitment to supporting students not only academically but also financially. By alleviating the burden of debt, the foundation aims to empower graduates to pursue further education, career advancement, and personal growth without the immediate financial pressures that come with Institutional debt

 

[get these nets]

Central State University is under fiscal watch by the Ohio Department of Higher Education​

October 30, 2024


Central State University.




Central State University has been placed under fiscal watch by Ohio Department of Higher Education Chancellor Mike Duffey.
Central State, Ohio’s only public Historically Black University, will adopt a financial recovery plan “that will outline a path toward financial stabilization with a goal of ending the fiscal watch within three years,” according to ODHE.
“Post-pandemic, institutions of higher education nationally are facing constrained finances,” Duffey said in a statement. “With today’s fiscal watch declaration, Central State University will receive assistance in adapting and positioning itself to become an even stronger and more competitive institution.”
There are eight criteria under Ohio’s law that would prompt a fiscal watch designation and Central State met five of them, ODHE spokesperson Jeff Robinson said. The five criteria are —

• The state university requested an advance of state subsidy money during the quarter covered by the report.
• The state university failed to make any payments to vendors when due during the quarter covered by the report as a result of a cash deficiency or a substantial deficiency in the payment processing system of the state university or college.
• The state university has revised its original budget for the fiscal year and the revision will result in a substantially reduced ending fund balance or larger deficit.
• The state university projects a significant negative variance between its most recently adopted annual budget and actual revenues or expenses at the end of the fiscal year.
• The state university is identified by the federal government or a regional accrediting organization as subject to heightened reporting standards or special monitoring status, including but not limited to the United States department of education’s heightened cash monitoring process.

The State Auditor will consult with Central State and the university must provide quarterly reports to its Board of Trustees and Chancellor. ODHE will also work with Central State by offering additional accounting support.
Central State President Morakinyo A.O. Kuti became the university’s 10th president in July and said he first noticed something was off with the university’s finances when he requested a financial review during his presidential transition period. After becoming president, Kuti asked the university’s chief financial officer at the time questions about finances, but Kuti “wasn’t satisfied with the answers that he was giving me.”
“I thought the university had a lot more cash in reserves than he told us we had,” Kuti said.
Kuti said he “relieved (the CFO) of his duty” 30 days after becoming president and hired an interim CFO in August who discovered the “situation was worse than we thought.”
He informed ODHE once he became aware of how dire the financial situation was and his goal is to get out of fiscal watch in 18 months.
“(The) fiscal watch was because our financial operations were not operating in a proper manner,” Kuit said. “The future is bright at Central State … There’s lots of opportunities at Central State University, and we needed to get our fiscal house in order in order for us to achieve our goals.”
He met with members of the AAUP-CSU Executive Committee on Monday