Letters, posts and emails

Our story on the Case memorabilia collection of Frank Merat, PhD, in the summer 2018 Case Alumnus prompted an alumnus to send Professor Merat his collection of freshman beanies. He also sent a letter with wonderful memories, which we excerpt with his permission:

For about the last 50 years, I’ve wondered what to do with my little collection of freshman beanies. You see, not one of our six kids—all college grads and all from different universities—has ever mentioned this freshman ritual. They have no idea of its meaning. Thus, when I’m dead and gone, these beanies would simply be pitched. And we can’t tolerate that!

Makes me wonder, when you entered Case in 1968, were the freshmen all required to wear beanies? In ’42, we were, and if neglected we’re subject to paddling. Matter of fact, all the colleges in the area required wearing them. Then those brazen sophomores would sneak up and steal it just to get you in trouble!

Must admit, I laid hands on a couple to play safe, then saved these few as mementos of those trying days. They have moved with my stuff six times, carefully packed with other goodies.

One memory I still enjoy is our two weeks in surveying camp the summer following freshman year. The entire class had to attend for credit in a State of Ohio forested park down near Loudonville; I believe Mohican Forest State Park. In teams of three, we learned to survey and draw contour maps for a large section of this park. Then the sophomore civil engineering students in the fall pieced the plots together into a topographical map of the park for the state. Really got to know our classmates—kind of like “boot camp.”

Was there still surveying camp when you entered Case?

Clarence May Jr. ’48

Forest, Virginia

17% come from underrepresented groups

20% of the incoming students are international, hailing from 50 nations 10% identified as the first in the family to go to college

37% plan to major in engineering, science and math

26,646 applied for undergraduate admission, another record. Fewer than 30% were accepted 1,390 students arrived, a university record

Class of 2022

30% of those engineering majors are women An alumnus wrote to say our graphic depicting the Class of 2022 in the winter Case Alumnus was incomplete. It noted that 37 percent of freshman planned to major in engineering.

“In reference to the stats for the Class of 2022, it would have been more complete if it had also included the percent of majors in science and math. Not all of us are engineers.”

Don Brock ’61

Our Facebook post on the rebirth of The Barking Spider as a music-friendly franchise of Dave's Cosmic Subs sparked many fond memories. Here's a sample:

I spent many a Thursday listening to Hillbilly Idol at The Barking Spider back in the day...

Steve Wodell

The main room of the Spider was one of the prettiest places to play music in Cleveland. So I’m not surprised that I’m a little disappointed; but I’m surprised that it looks like the Hard Rock Cafe. I hope the musicians figure out how to warm it up a bit!

Alexander Kernbaum

Case Alumnus

Tomlinson Hall, Room 109 10900 Euclid Avenue Cleveland OH 44106

Carriage House and Licks Ice Cream where I worked—fond memories.

Greg C. Young

You know that you're old when an institution that is reborn didn't exist when you were a student. Tempus fugit.

John Hayes ’77

Alumnus from Mexico strikes a chord

Our story on Adriana Velazquez Berumen, MS ’86, and her keynote address to the Engineers Week Reception Feb. 28 generated a huge response on social media. The comments came from alumni and friends around the world, many in Spanish. Here’s a sample:

Good for you, and for the many years of working nonstop Adriana!!! You are a pride for Mexico, for your family and for all of us who know you!!!

Dina Foncerrada

Adriana bravo! How wonderful that you continue to inspire the following generations with your words and with the passion you put into everything you do. As a friend, family and Mexican, I feel very proud of everything you have achieved. A big kiss and hug.

Becky Sampson

What a fortune to have found you on my path. Thanks Adriana on behalf of Mexico!

Monica Perez Bravo

You are the best Adri, thanks to your tenacity and focus you have made a global impact, which is not easy; I am so proud. Thank you for your example. Congratulations!

Alejandra Robles

What an incredible dear you are Adri, super proud of all of your work. Alberto Foncerrada Berumen