Friday, December 12, 2025
Walter B. Waetjen Auditorium
Cleveland, Ohio
CEREMONY FOR DOCTORAL GRADUATES
Friday, December 12, 2025
Walter B. Waetjen Auditorium Cleveland, Ohio
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Timothy J. Cosgrove, J.D., Chair
Vanessa L. Whiting, J.D., Vice Chair
Alan G. Starkoff, J.D., Treasurer
Paul J. Dolan, J.D., Executive Committee Member
Nikki C. Byrd
Diane M. Downing
Ronald V. Johnson Jr., J.D.
Taras “Terry” Szmagala Jr., J.D.
D. Geoffrey Vince, Ph.D.
Abigail Blackburn, Student Trustee
Skye A. Carlson, Student Trustee
Lisa K. Kunkle, J.D., Community Board Member
Michael B. Klein, Chair, CSU Foundation and Ex Officio Member
David M. Reynolds, Community Board Member
Carol Olszewski, Ph.D., Faculty Representative
Linda M. Quinn, Ph.D., Faculty Representative
Sonali B. Wilson, J.D., Secretary to the Board of Trustees, General Counsel and Vice President, Legal Affairs and Compliance
PRESIDENT AND CABINET
Laura J. Bloomberg, Ph.D. President
Nicole Addington Chief Financial Officer
Tachelle Banks, Ph.D. Vice President, Student Belonging and Success
Stephanie Brooks, Ph.D. Dean, College of Health Deans’ Representative to the Senior Leadership Team
Caryn Candisky Executive Director, Government Affairs
Randall Deike, Ph.D. Vice President, Enrollment Management
Douglas Dykes, E.M.B.A. Chief Human Resources Officer
Patricia L. Franklin, J.D. Chief Administrative Officer and Chief of Staff
Roy Gifford, Ph.D. Vice President, University Marketing and Chief Marketing and Communications Officer
Kelsie Gory Harkey Vice President and Director, Athletics
Wesam Helou, D.B.A. Chief Information Officer
Julie M. Rehm, Ph.D.
Vice President, University Advancement and Executive Director, Cleveland State University Foundation
Nigamanth Sridhar, Ph.D.
Senior Vice President and Provost
Sonali B. Wilson, J.D.
Vice President, Legal Affairs and Compliance, General Counsel and Secretary to the Board of Trustees
UNIVERSITY DEANS
Carolyn Broering-Jacobs, J.D.
Interim Co-Dean, College of Law
Stephanie Brooks, Ph.D. Dean, College of Health
Rachel Carnell, Ph.D. Dean, Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Honors College
Jill Gordon, Ph.D. Dean, Levin College of Public Affairs and Education
Melissa Gruys, Ph.D.
Dean, Monte Ahuja College of Business
Andrew Kersten, Ph.D.
Dean, College of Arts and Sciences
Bill Kosteas, Ph.D.
Dean, College of Graduate Studies
Brian E. Ray, J.D. Interim Co-Dean, College of Law
Richard Schoephoerster, Ph.D. Dean, Washkewicz College of Engineering
Sajit Zachariah, Ed.D. Dean, CSU Online and Vice Provost
UNIVERSITY DEGREE CEREMONY I
COLLEGE OF GRADUATE STUDIES
President Laura J. Bloomberg, Ph.D., Presiding Officer
(PLEASE REMAIN SEATED DURING THE PROCESSIONAL AND RECESSIONAL)
Processional: “Pomp and Circumstance I” ................................................................................................................................ Sir Edward Elgar
National Anthem: “The Star Spangled Banner” ...................................................................................................................... Francis Scott Key
(The audience is invited to stand and join in the singing of our National Anthem)
CEREMONY OPENING
Carol Olszewski, Ph.D.
Faculty Senate President
GREETINGS AND INTRODUCTION OF THE PLATFORM PARTY AND PRESIDENT
Nigamanth Sridhar, Ph.D.
Senior Vice President and Provost
GREETINGS FROM THE PRESIDENT
Laura J. Bloomberg, Ph.D.
GREETINGS FROM THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Timothy J. Cosgrove, J.D.
Board of Trustees Chair
CONFERRING OF DOCTORAL DEGREES
Cleveland State University Alma Mater
(Please find lyrics on the back of this program)
Gregory Nailing and William Lovell
Recessional: “Die Bänkelsängerlieder” Daniel Speer
There will be a special reception in the Waetjen and Drinko lobbies for graduates and their families after the ceremony.
EVERY EFFORT HAS BEEN MADE TO ENSURE THE ACCURACY OF GRADUATE NAMES AND DEGREES IN THIS PROGRAM BOOK FOR GRADUATES WHO SUBMITTED THEIR INFORMATION BY NOVEMBER 19, 2025. WE SINCERELY REGRET ANY ERRORS OR OMISSIONS.
COLLEGE OF GRADUATE STUDIES
Dean Bill Kosteas, Ph.D.
THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
MIREL V. MARCULETIU
M.B.A., Cleveland State University
B.B.A., Cleveland State University
Dissertation: “Three Essays on ESG’s Impact on Firm Valuation: Investor Consciousness, Hedge Fund Strategies, and Inflation Dynamics”
This dissertation examines how environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors affect firm valuation across three essays. Essay 1 analyzes cross-country differences in societal “consciousness” about ESG and shows that stronger awareness aligns investor behavior with higher firm value. Essay 2 documents hedge funds’ superior stock-picking in
the highest ESG-ranked stocks relative to other institutional investors. Essay 3 studies how inflation conditions shape ESG’s valuation effects using multiple survey sources. Findings show that higher expected inflation strengthens the valuation benefits of strong ESG, whereas greater inflation uncertainty weakens them.
Hooded by Robert Ngo, Ph.D., Monte Ahuja College of Business
THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN CLINICAL-BIOANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY
AHMED MOHAMED HEFNY SALEM
M.S., Cleveland State University
M.S., Suez Canal University
B.S., Suez Canal University
Dissertation: “Synthesis and Anticancer Activity of Azodioxide Transition Metal Complexes”
A series of mono- and bimetallic azodioxide complexes of first-series transition metals was synthesized and structurally characterized via single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Using a modified chloride abstraction strategy employing TlPF₆ in acetonitrile, a range of homoleptic and heteroleptic azodioxide complexes of Mn(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), and Zn(II) were prepared, along with one Mn(IV) species. The resulting complexes display diverse coordination geometries, including octahedral, distorted tetragonal, and notably, trigonal prismatic arrangements. Among these, trigonal prismatic coordination was observed in the [Mn(bpy)₂(az)]² + and [Zn(bpy)(az)₂]² + cations,
adding to the limited number of structurally characterized azodioxide complexes adopting this geometry. Key bond lengths and metrical parameters were compared to those of previously reported Co(II) and Fe(III) azodioxide complexes, highlighting structural trends across the series. The zinc complex simultaneously induces intrinsic apoptosis in MCF-7 breast cancer cells and upregulates HIF-1α expression under hypoxic conditions. This suggests a potential crosstalk between hypoxia signaling and apoptotic pathways, wherein modulation of HIF-1α may influence or be influenced by the mitochondrial apoptotic machinery.
Hooded by W. Christopher Boyd, Ph.D., College of Arts and Sciences
FATMA MOHAMED
HEFNY SALEM
M.S., Cleveland State University
M.S., Port Said University
B.S., Suez Canal University
Dissertation: “Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Novel Tubulin and FAZ1 Inhibitors as Potential Therapeutics for Human African Trypanosomiasis”
Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT), caused by Trypanosoma brucei species, remains a major public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa. Current treatments suffer from severe toxicity, drug resistance, and poor oral bioavailability, highlighting the need for safer and more effective therapies. This dissertation explores two medicinal chemistry strategies targeting parasite-specific pathways. First, a series of tubulin inhibitors with strong in vitro activity were structurally optimized to enhance solubility, ligand efficiency, and oral bioavailability. Several
analogs showed low micromolar IC₅₀ values and high selectivity against host cells, with compound 7 demonstrating oral efficacy in mice. In parallel, the unique FAZ1 protein was explored as a novel target. Prazosin derivatives were designed and synthesized, yielding three compounds with sub-50 nM IC₅₀ values and minimal off-target activity. Together, these optimized tubulins and FAZ1 inhibitors show potent anti-trypanosomal activity, favorable pharmacokinetics, and promise as leads for new HAT therapies.
Hooded by Bin Su, Ph.D., College of Arts and Sciences
THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN ENGINEERING
AHMAD ALOMARI
M.S., Yarmouk University
B.S., Yarmouk University
Dissertation: “Reinforcement Learning-Driven Quantum Agents for Efficient Quantum Sensor Circuits Optimization”
This study introduces efficient Quantum Reinforcement Learning (QRL) methods for designing optimal quantum sensor circuits (QSCs) for complex quantum physics tasks. A Grover Autonomous Quantum Agent (GAQA) uses amplitude estimation and Grover search to maximize Quantum Fisher Information (QFI), reducing measurement requirements and improving robotic problem solving. A quantum reinforcement agent (QRA) optimizes QSCs by maximizing QFI while minimizing gate count, producing high-performance entangled states in two-qubit
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evaluations. A Grover Policy Agent (GPA) combines quantum policy evaluation and improvement to autonomously generate compact, high-QFI QSCs that produce entangled squeezed states. Finally, a Hybrid Classical-Quantum Agent (HCQA) integrates DQN-based learning with quantum action selection, enabling efficient generation of high-QFI circuits. Together, these agents demonstrate the promise of QRL for advancing quantum state estimation, control, and complex quantum problem-solving.
Kumar, Ph.D., Washkewicz College of Engineering
DIPEN ROHITKUMAR BHUVA
M.P.S., Northeastern University
B.Eng., Bhagwan Mahavir University
Dissertation: “Intrusion Detection and Secure Communication for Space Vehicles: A Multi-Layered Framework”
This dissertation presents a deep learning-based cybersecurity framework for long-duration space missions, addressing challenges in secure authentication and communication. It tackles five key areas: (1) intrusion detection in intra-vehicular networks using deep learning for CAN and simulated SpaceWire systems; (2) resident space object (RSO) threat monitoring via machine learning-based classification and tracking; (3) secure cognitive radio communications through blockchain-enabled decentralized access control; (4) continuous astronaut authentication using
adaptive multimodal biometrics combining behavioral and physiological data; and (5) inter-space communication security via a hybrid encryption system integrating blockchain, ML-based lattice cryptography, and DNA steganography. Each component is experimentally validated using real and synthetic datasets, demonstrating high accuracy, low latency, and minimal false positives. Together, these contributions form a unified AI-driven architecture for securing space vehicles, ensuring integrity, privacy, and resilience during extended missions.
ANANYA HAZARIKA
M.Tech., Indian Institute of Information Technology
B.Tech., North-Eastern Hill University
Dissertation: “Semantic Framework for Integrated Sensing and Communication in Next Generation Wireless Systems”
The proliferation of heterogeneous Internet of Things (IoT) systems, ranging from static underwater sensors to mobile terrestrial nodes and aerial unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) engaged in tracking fast moving targets, has accelerated the evolution of non-terrestrial and hybrid communication ecosystems. These environments demand real-time, context-aware, and semantically meaningful information exchange across diverse physical conditions, network topologies, and motion behaviors. However, traditional Shannon-based communication paradigms, which prioritize throughput and reliability, overlook
the contextual and behavioral value of information. As a result, they fail to efficiently serve dynamic, resource-constrained, and missioncritical applications in underwater monitoring, aerial coordination, and integrated multi-domain operations. This dissertation develops a unified semantic-aware framework for Beyond 5G (B5G) and 6G networks that generalizes across non-terrestrial IoT environments, integrating Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) and intelligent coordination to ensure efficient, low-latency, and meaning-oriented information transfer.
Hooded by Mehdi Rahmati, Ph.D., Washkewicz College of Engineering
THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN ENGINEERING (CONTINUED)
YU HU
M.S., Cleveland State University
B.S., The University of Toledo
Dissertation: “In Search of Transparency and Scalability in Industrial Controls: from Mason Reset to Generic-PID”
The research presented in this dissertation addresses two problems in the field of PID control: its lack of transparency and foundational principles in tuning, and its limited scalability beyond first order processes. In reviewing the origin of PID, a key invention, namely the Mason Reset (MR), is rediscovered, along with the concept of three-time-scale control action and the foundational principles of reset and synchronization. The scale of integration is introduced as an improvement to MR to
strike a balance between the amount of steady state error and the closeness of the control action to pure integration. Furthermore, transparency in controller tuning is attained through the bandwidth parameterization of all controller parameters. In G-PID, we believe, practitioners will finally find what they have been looking for: a model-free design framework with transparency in tuning and scalability in design.
Hooded by Zhiqiang Gao, Ph.D., Washkewicz College of Engineering
OBAID KHAN
M.S., National University of Technology
B.S., University of Engineering and Technology
Dissertation: “The Synthesis of Two-Dimensional Silicoaluminophosphates and Zeolites: Surface Functional Group Tuning, Nanosheet Morphology Control, and Their Applications”
Two-dimensional (2D) inorganic materials have gained attention due to their unique sheet-like morphologies, tunable surface chemistry, and intrinsic mesoporosity, which together improve mass transport and create abundant accessible active sites. These characteristics make them strong candidates for adsorption, catalysis, and separation applications. In this work, 2D silicoaluminophosphates (SAPO) and MFI-type zeolites were developed for adsorption and membrane separation. The 2D SAPOs were synthesized using amino acids anchored on the surface, which altered the surficial properties.
Amino acids are affordable and widely available, and their use with triethylamine as two structure-directing agents enabled effective anchoring of the amino acids on the material surface. The amino and carboxylic groups served as active sites for adsorption, demonstrated through Congo red uptake. The materials were easily regenerated with methanol and reused for multiple cycles. Different amino acids were examined to study how their shapes and functional groups influenced mesopore formation and adsorption behavior.
M.S., Chang’an University
B.S., Chang’an University
Dissertation: “Generalization and Robustness of Vehicle-to-Everything Cooperative Perception”
This dissertation advances generalization and robustness in V2X multi-agent cooperative perception. While sharing information across vehicles and infrastructure mitigates occlusions and limited sensing, deployment is hindered by adverse weather, cross-dataset shift, and collaborative corruptions (pose errors, delays, packet loss, noise). We contribute: (1) V2X-DGW, a domain-generalization approach for LiDAR-based 3D detection robust to rain, fog, and snow; (2)
V2X-DG, improving cross-dataset generalization via cooperative mixup and cooperation feature consistency; and (3) CoAT, collaboration-aware adversarial training that injects hybrid geometry and message perturbations to harden feature-level fusion. Experiments on public V2X benchmarks show higher accuracy, stability, and graceful degradation under impairments, moving cooperative perception toward safer, more reliable autonomous driving.
BAOLU LI
Hooded by Shaowei Yang, Ph.D., Washkewicz College of Engineering
THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN ENGINEERING (CONTINUED)
MEGHANA YELURI
M.S.C.E., Cleveland State University
M.Tech., Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University
B.Eng., Osmania University
Dissertation: “Next Generation Ultra-High Performance Concrete: Integrating Alternative Cementitious Materials, Synthetic Fibers, and Nano-Enhancement for Sustainable Infrastructure”
Ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) is a next-generation cementitious composite with exceptional strength and durability. However, traditional UHPC is expensive and less environmentally friendly due to its high cement content and dependence on silica fume and fly ash — materials that are energy-intensive to produce, expensive, and scarce. This research develops a sustainable and affordable UHPC by replacing silica fume and fly ash with metakaolin (MK) and diatomaceous earth (DE) as alternative supplementary cementitious materials. MK’s high reactivity and DE’s rich silica content improved
mechanical strength, durability, and reduced drying shrinkage. Graphene oxide, used as a nano-reinforcement, further enhanced bonding and microstructural density, minimizing microcracking. To replace imported steel fibers, synthetic fibers such as polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and carbon fibers were evaluated; PVA improved flexural properties, durability, and shrinkage resistance, while carbon fibers enhanced mechanical performance. Overall, this study demonstrated a durable, cost-effective, and environmentally responsible UHPC using locally sourced materials.
Hooded by Srinivas Allena, Ph.D., Washkewicz College of Engineering
THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN REGULATORY BIOLOGY
ANNETTE MARIE BELLAR
M.S., John Carroll University
B.S., University of Toledo
Dissertation: “Voluntary Wheel Running Improves Hyperammonemia-Induced Changes”
Aim: Voluntary exercise improves clinical outcomes in healthy subjects but increased muscle ammoniagenesis may limit beneficial responses during hyperammonemia. Responses to four weeks of voluntary wheel running (VWR) were compared to usual activity (UA) to determine if hyperammonemia (AmAc) alters VWR responses and if VWR alters responses to AmAc. Results: Higher concentrations of glycolytic and lower TCA intermediates were observed in the AmAc-UA mice (p<0.05) with reversal of some of these intermediates with VWR. Lower muscle mass (p<0.01) and grip strength in AmAc-UA were
reversed by VWR (p<0.001). Reduced mitochondrial oxidative responses in AmAc-UA were reversed in AmAc-VWR (p<0.05). Global muscle protein synthesis was higher, while autophagy expression was lower with VWR than UA in AmAc mice (p<0.05). In the AmAc-VWR group, six highly abundant taxa were urease positive, including immunogenic Salmonella. Conclusion: This work shows that VWR reverses sarcopenia, protein synthesis/autophagy perturbations, and mitochondrial oxidative dysfunction shifts the microbiome during hyperammonemia.
OLIVIA G. PATTERSON
M.Sc., Youngstown State University
B.S., Youngstown State University
Dissertation: “Investigating the Mechanisms of Benefit of Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) Treatment of Ovarian Cancer”
Ovarian cancer (OC) is currently the leading cause of death from gynecological cancer, with the majority of cases ending in fatality, indicating the critical need for improved therapeutics. OC in the advanced stage metastasizes to the peritoneum, at which time >90% of patients will develop ascites, a buildup of fluid in the abdomen that is associated with a 5% survival rate. Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is an advantageous treatment given to select patients with advanced
disease. HIPEC has shown success in treating advanced OC by extending overall survival by nearly 12 months, yet the mechanisms of benefit remain unknown. A functional animal model is lacking for the study of HIPEC. I have developed the first reproducible noninvasive animal model of HIPEC by using external abdominal heat. Results reveal significant attenuation of tumor growth, changes in immune cells, a lack of ascites development, and extended survival in hyperthermic chemotherapy treated mice.
Hooded by Ofer Reizes, Ph.D., College of Arts and Sciences
THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN REGULATORY BIOLOGY (CONTINUED)
CLAUDIA TAUSZ
M.S., Oregon Health & Science University
B.A., Hampshire College
Dissertation: “Rotifers as Indicators of Water Quality in Lakes and Reservoirs of the Conterminous United States”
Pelagic rotifers are promising candidates for use as bioindicators due to their widespread distributions, rapid generation time, and sensitivity to changes in environmental conditions. The primary objectives of this research were as follows: a) to determine how rotifer species assemblages relate to environmental variables; b) to assess the value of functional feeding guild ratios for predicting water quality; and c) to investigate cryptic speciation in the ubiquitous rotifer species Keratella cochlearis. Multivariate analyses revealed strong correlations between rotifer assemblages
and trophic state variables. Species-level analyses were more robust in their predictive power than genus-level analyses. Feeding guild ratios differed significantly between trophic categories and between ecoregions. Preservation quality impacted the investigation into cryptic speciation of K. cochlearis, leaving its status as a cryptic species complex in North America inconclusive. Together, these findings demonstrate that rotifers provide consistent signals of lake conditions across environmental gradients and can enhance water quality assessments.
Hooded by Julie A. Wolin, Ph.D., College of Arts and Sciences
THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN URBAN EDUCATION
NICHOLE C. BROWN
M.S.N., University of Akron
B.S.N., Malone University
Dissertation: “Inattention Blindness: An Exploratory Descriptive Study in Practicing Nurses”
Inattention blindness (IB) is a phenomenon where individuals fail to notice large or salient objects, despite being in plain sight due to low expectations and high mental workload. To explore the prevalence of IB in practicing nurses within the context of Tanner’s clinical judgment model, a single simulated patient scenario containing triggers similar to a patient care environment was designed. Overall rates of IB were high among practicing nurses. There were no
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significant differences between three aspects of noticing. Years of experience and level of education did not significantly impact rates of IB. Type of nursing unit accounted for a moderate variation in scores, although not at a significant rate. Practicing nurses experience high rates of IB in all aspects of noticing, which may pose a threat to clinical judgment. Further research is needed to explore this impact on clinical judgment and patient safety.
by Joan Thoman, Ph.D., College of Health
ALLYSON
S. CHICOSKI
M.S.N., Kent State University
B.S.N., Kent State University
Dissertation: “The Effects of Experiential Teaching on Nursing Students’ Anxiety, Confidence, Satisfaction, and Self-Confidence in Learning of Communication Handoffs”
Nursing education often falls short in preparing graduates for the complexities of clinical practice. This is partly due to an oversaturation of content in the nursing curricula but also the passive learning found in the lecture environment. These gaps, especially in communication handoffs, contribute to poor patient outcomes. This quantitative research study examined the differences in nursing students’ learning outcomes using two instructional approaches, lecture and experiential, when teaching communication skills and handoffs. It evaluated the impact on
anxiety, confidence, satisfaction, and self-confidence in their learning. Results revealed a decrease in anxiety and an increase in confidence in all participants, but especially in the experiential group. Learner satisfaction and self-confidence were also notably higher among students taught through experiential methods. These findings highlight the need for nursing curricula to consistently integrate experiential learning opportunities that mirror real-world practice, to help bridge the gap between theoretical instruction and clinical application.
Hooded by Wendy Green, Ph.D., Levin College of Public Affairs and Education
THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN URBAN EDUCATION (CONTINUED)
EDWARD DANIEL KOSEK
M.Ed., Cleveland State University
B.S., Suez Canal University
Dissertation: “A Qualitative Investigation: The Puerto Rican Male Urban High School Experience in the U.S. Mainland”
This study utilizes a constructivist inquiry paradigm to explore and uncover the essence of the urban high school experience of male Puerto Rican students in the United States mainland. Cleveland, as well as the Greater Cleveland area is home to a large population of Puerto Ricans, many of which have migrated to the area seeking better educational and economic opportunities. As the Puerto Rican
population in the mainland U.S. continues to grow, it is necessary for those serving this community to have an understanding of their culture and lived experiences in order to meet their educational needs. Schools must be prepared to meet the needs of those in their community in order to educate the future generation and positively impact their quality of life.
Hooded by Frederick Hampton, Ed.D., Levin College of Public Affairs and Education
PATRICIA MONIQUE LYONS
M.Ed., Cleveland State University
B.A.S., St. Petersburg College
Dissertation: “Pathways Toward Matriculation: A Retrospective Exploration of the Experiences of Emancipated Youth”
In the U.S. educational system, research on emancipated youth who have aged out of the foster care system is increasingly vital. To understand their transition to higher education, it is crucial to identify the obstacles they encounter in high school. Teachers, administrators, and counselors must work proactively to close educational gaps and support successful matriculation. Persistent inequities related to gender, race, and marginalization demand deliberate action rather than inaction. My research explores the
challenges emancipated foster youth face as they move from high school to college or other postsecondary institutions. It underscores the responsibility of institutions and government agencies to eliminate barriers to access, readiness, affordability, and financial aid. Grounded in Arnett’s theory of emerging adulthood and Bourdieu’s theory of social capital, this study emphasizes the collective duty of educators to implement equitable practices that mitigate adversity and promote positive educational outcomes.
Hooded by Wendy Green, Ph.D., Levin College of Public Affairs and Education
JESSICA PATRICE MOORE
M.Ed., Cleveland State University
B.A., Bowling Green State University
Dissertation: “Strong, Strained, and Stretched: Black Women Doctoral Students, the Strong Black Woman Schema, and Experiences of Ambiguous Grief and Loss During COVID-19”
Black women have been historically oppressed and stereotyped through systems of enslavement, labor, and the family structure. Many Black women identify with the Strong Black Woman Schema (SBWS) to mitigate oppressive experiences within privileged spaces. The structure of higher education has posed some challenges for Black women graduate students attending predominantly white institutions (PWIs). Stressors and experiences of pandemic related grief and loss reportedly increased for graduate students attending PWIs during
COVID-19. The effects of COVID-19 have prompted the use of ambiguous loss theory to conceptualize pandemic-related grief and coping. To date, there are no studies that address the experiences of Black women doctoral students who identify with the SBWS, in the context of COVID-19, ambiguous loss, and coping. Through the lens of intersectionality and Black feminist thought (BFT), hermeneutic phenomenology was used to address the gaps in the literature and to capture the lived experiences of participants.
Hooded by Tawanda Greer-Medley, Ph.D., Levin College of Public Affairs and Education
THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN URBAN EDUCATION (CONTINUED)
KHADEJA NAJJAR
M.A., Cleveland State University
B.A., Cleveland State University
Dissertation: “Trauma and Identity Development Among Second Generation Palestinian American Women”
This study explored how historical and intergenerational trauma shape identity formation among second-generation Palestinian American women. While research has shown that historical trauma affects ethnic identity and that gender socialization influences identity development, little scholarship has examined how these dynamics intersect within the Palestinian diaspora. Using a social constructivistgrounded theory approach, four focus groups were conducted with 21 participants. Findings revealed that participants experienced exile as ongoing trauma with lasting psychological effects, shaping
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emotional experiences and identity development. They described a strong responsibility to preserve Palestinian culture through everyday practices of sumud and to engage in advocacy informed by their relative safety in the diaspora. The study also highlighted the impact of anti-Palestinian racism, operating through erasure and silencing, which further complicated identity formation. These findings underscore the need for culturally grounded, decolonial frameworks to understand the collective, embodied, and gendered dimensions of trauma, resilience, and identity.
C. Phillips, Ph.D., Levin College of Public Affairs and Education
QUINCI BONE’T TEER
M.Ed., Cleveland State University
B.A., University of Rio Grande
Dissertation: “It Takes a Village: A Case Study of Stakeholder Narratives in State Takeover Districts”
Enacted in Ohio in 2015, state accountability legislation enabled intervention in districts receiving an “F” on state report cards for three consecutive years. Consequently, Youngstown (2016), Lorain (2017), and East Cleveland (2018) — districts with high poverty rates and predominantly Black populations — were taken over under House Bill 70 (ORC § 3302). This case study examines stakeholder narratives in Ohio’s state takeover districts from 2015 to 2023. The research addresses: (1) forms of structural oppression
and opportunity identified by stakeholders; (2) discursive practices of supporters and critics of state takeovers; and (3) how these accounts engage cultural identity, community wealth, and activism. Data includes 12 semi-structured interviews and analysis of 172 archival sources (board meetings, media, legislation, state reports, online commentary, and policy websites). By centering the voices of those affected, the study exposes the impacts of intervention often overlooked in official statistics.
Hooded by Anne M. Galletta, Ph.D., Levin College of Public Affairs and Education
DJ WALKER
M.A., Cleveland State University
B.A., The Ohio State University
Dissertation: “College Students’ Financial Stress and Mental Health Help-Seeking”
Worsening economic conditions may negatively affect college students’ mental health, making psychotherapy an important yet understudied resource for addressing financial stress. This phenomenological study examined how first-generation, economically marginalized college students experience financial stress and seek mental health support. Twelve participants completed semi-structured interviews exploring their financial and help-seeking experiences. Findings revealed that financial stress was a longstanding issue shaped by early hardship and had significant effects on mental health, relationships, and academics.
Barriers to help-seeking included stigma, skepticism, structural inaccessibility, and strong self-reliance, while facilitators included accessible resources, counseling relevance, and perceived necessity. Participants used both formal and informal supports, as well as self-directed coping strategies. Support was described as unhelpful when invalidating or ineffective, but beneficial when it directly eased financial burdens, provided useful guidance, or fostered empathy and connection. The study concludes with implications for future research, professional training, clinical practice, and policy development.
Hooded by Julia C. Phillips, Ph.D., Levin College of Public Affairs and Education
THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN URBAN STUDIES AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS
ALISSA C. GLENN
M.S.P.P.M., Carnegie Mellon University
B.A., Case Western Reserve University
Dissertation: “Understanding Food Prescriptions: Making Sense of an Emerging Intervention”
Nutritious foods are increasingly prescribed by health care providers with the goals of improving patients’ food security, diet quality, and health outcomes, and reducing health care expenditures, however emerging literature shows mixed results. This research examines a Food as Medicine program that prescribes medically tailored groceries to patients who are food insecure and have at least one diet-related chronic illness. Twenty patients were interviewed, and interpretative phenomenological analysis is used to understand their experiences.
Participants view the program as meaningful and supportive and primarily value the program as offering social connection, financial relief, and support for nutritional changes through multiple pathways. The program influences behavior across multiple levels of the Social Ecological Model, through both explicit and implicit pathways, and social connection appears to mediate behavior change outcomes. This research helps fill gaps in understanding how patient perceptions and social factors impact the success of food prescription programs.
Hooded by Megan Hatch, Ph.D., Levin College of Public Affairs and Education
THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF NURSING PRACTICE
TAMMY PRICE
M.S.N., Cleveland State University
M.B.A., Lake Erie College
B.S.N., Cleveland State University
Scholarly Project: “Falls Policy Audit in an Ambulatory Surgical Setting”
The purpose of the quality project aimed to evaluate the falls policy adherence at the ASC. The goal was to reduce the rate of falls through routine leadership audits of staff, following consistent adherence to the falls policy of the facility.
Hooded by William Matcham, Ph.D., College of Health
EUGENIA SWEET
B.S.N., Ursuline College
Scholarly Project: “Improving the Referral Process to Facilitate Nutritional Deficiency Screening from OB Providers to the Women’s Health Dietitian”
Problem Statement: Nutritional deficiencies in pregnancy can lead to adverse maternal and infant outcomes. At the OB high-risk clinic in this project, the referral process from OB providers to the women’s health dietitian was inconsistent and inefficient, creating delays that hindered timely nutritional interventions. Purpose and Methods: This quality improvement (QI) project aimed to streamline the referral process from OB providers to the women’s health dietitian to improve timely access to nutritional counseling. A single PDSA cycle was used
to plan, test, observe, and refine the redesigned workflow. The primary goal was to determine whether the new referral and communication process was faster and more efficient than the previous system. Inclusion and Analysis: Secondary data was extracted from EPIC, with no direct participant involvement. Descriptive statistics calculated average days, sample sizes, and percent changes across workflow steps. Implications: Improving referral efficiency may enhance patient care, reduce risks, and support timely nutritional interventions.
Hooded by William Matcham, Ph.D., College of Health
THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
JANEL RENEE DOVALA
B.A., Kent State University
Capstone: “Enhancing Social Participation and Community Engagement for Parents of Children With Disabilities Through Shared Leisure Activities”
This capstone project centered on enhancing social participation and community engagement for parents of children with disabilities through shared leisure activities in four consecutive Parent Unwind Night sessions. The project created supportive spaces where parents could connect, recharge, and access valuable community resources, which in turn fostered meaningful social interaction, reduced parenting stress, and built a sense of belonging among attendees.
Hooded
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In addition to facilitating social participation, the project also emphasized resource sharing to empower parents and caregivers with local community support, including IEP guidance, extracurricular opportunities, summer camps, educational services, and funding resources. As a result, social networks were strengthened, and community connections were enhanced for families navigating disability-related needs.
Kelle Foust, Ph.D., OTR/L, College of Health
EMILYANN ELIZABETH MARIJAN
B.S., Western Carolina University
Capstone: “Integrating Mobile Over-Ground Harness Systems With OpenCap.ai Markerless Motion Capture for Children With Mobility Impairments: A PDSA Feasibility Study”
This capstone focused on integrating OpenCap.ai, an open-source markerless motion capture software, with mobile overhead harness systems from the PLAAY on the Move program, a communitybased program for children with mobility and sensory impairments at Cleveland State University. The project used a Plan-Do-StudyAct (PDSA) to explore the feasibility of using this AI-based technology to objectively measure movement, engagement, and participation during harness-supported play. By pairing OpenCap
with a mobile over-ground harness system, the study aimed to identify challenges and adaptations needed for real-world implementation and to advance methods for quantifying and objectively measuring indices of play participation and engagement in pediatric rehabilitation. This work contributes to the growing field of technology enhanced occupational therapy by bridging the gap between innovative motion analysis tools and community-based practice.
Hooded by Kelle Foust, Ph.D., OTR/L, College of Health
THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF PHYSICAL THERAPY
CELINE AGNOR
B.S., The Ohio State University
Capstone: “Education Drives Prevention: Creating an Evidence-Based Resource for Snapping Hip Syndrome in Dancers”
Hooded by Suzanne M. Giuffre, PT, Ed.D., College of Health
CARLY ANENSON
B.S., University of Akron
Capstone: “Seeing Success: Improving Patient Outcomes Through Timely Referral After Concussion”
Hooded by Suzanne M. Giuffre, PT, Ed.D., College of Health
ALIAH BAILEY
B.S., Cleveland State University
Capstone: “One Click to Care: Developing an Evidence-Based Manual Therapy Resource Tool”
Hooded by Suzanne M. Giuffre, PT, Ed.D., College of Health
WANIDA BALANKURA
M.B.A., Kent State University
B.S., Kent State University
Capstone: “Trauma Informed Care in the NICU and Beyond”
Hooded by Suzanne M. Giuffre, PT, Ed.D., College of Health
VICTORIA BOTZ
B.S., University of North Georgia
Capstone: “Addressing Barriers and Enhancing Therapist Proficiency in the Clinical Integration of the Universal Exercise Unit for Children With Neurological Disorders”
Hooded by Suzanne M. Giuffre, PT, Ed.D., College of Health
ELIZABETH LYNNE CARLSON
B.A., The College of Wooster
Capstone: “Saddle Up for Recovery: A Physical Therapist’s Guide to Getting Riders Back in Motion”
Hooded by Suzanne M. Giuffre, PT, Ed.D., College of Health
BRANDON CASSIDY
B.S., Cleveland State University
Capstone: “Pressure Mapping in Rehabilitation: An Educational Program to Improve Seating Interventions and Enhance Clinical Decision Making”
Hooded by Michele Collins, PT, D.P.T., College of Health
RENEE ELIZABETH CONN
B.S., Kent State University
Capstone: “Curricular Innovation for Pediatric Pelvic Health: A Strategic Advancement in Outpatient Physical Therapy Practice”
Hooded by Deborah D. Espy, PT, Ph.D., College of Health
THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF PHYSICAL THERAPY (CONTINUED)
RACHEL ELIZABETH CORNETT
B.S., Ball State University
Capstone: “Vaso-Occlusive Episodes: Defining Barriers to Care and Mobility in Pediatric Acute Care”
Hooded by Michele Collins, PT, D.P.T., College of Health
JENNA BETH DAULBAUGH
B.S., Baldwin Wallace University
Capstone: “Evaluating Force Plate Use and Cost Efficiency in Neurorehabilitation and Prosthetic Populations”
Hooded by Deborah D. Espy, PT, Ph.D., College of Health
KATELYN GERKE
B.S., Cleveland State University
Capstone: “Reducing Process Variation and Delay in Aquatic Therapy-to-Land Transitions: A Defining Analysis”
Hooded by John J. Jeziorowski, PT, Ph.D., College of Health
RYAN GUILFORD
B.S., The Ohio State University
Capstone: “Ready to Run: A Guideline for Return to Sport Testing After Hamstring Strain”
Hooded by John J. Jeziorowski, PT, Ph.D., College of Health
TAYLOR ELIZABETH HUBERT
B.S., Clarkson University
Capstone: “Minutes Matter. Less Waiting, More Healing: Redefining the Intake Experience”
Hooded by John J. Jeziorowski, PT, Ph.D., College of Health
RYAN HUFFMAN
B.S., Miami University
Capstone: “Enhancing Tendinopathy Guidelines: Optimizing Patient Care With Updated Evidence”
Hooded by John J. Jeziorowski, PT, Ph.D., College of Health
MATT JOHNSON
B.S., University of Akron
Capstone: “Jumping the Gap: Efficiency of the Current Exercise Prescription Mechanism for Plyometrics and Bounding”
Hooded by John J. Jeziorowski, PT, Ph.D., College of Health
KELLY ANNE JONES
B.S., San Diego State University
Capstone: “Introducing Red Light Therapy in an Outpatient Physical Therapy Clinic: Evidence-Based Parameters and Benefits for Patient Recovery”
Hooded by Jane Keehan, PT, Ph.D., OCS, College of Health
THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF PHYSICAL THERAPY (CONTINUED)
DANIELLE MARIE JOSEPH
B.A., Cleveland State University
Capstone: “Streamlining Exercise Prescription for Adults With Cystic Fibrosis: A Physical Therapy Decision-Making Framework”
Hooded by Jane Keehan, PT, Ph.D., OCS, College of Health
JORDAN KARL-DEFRAIN
B.S., The Ohio State University
Capstone: “Translating Function Into Practice: Evidence-Based Approaches for Therapy in Older Adults With Neurodegenerative Conditions”
Hooded by Jane Keehan, PT, Ph.D., OCS, College of Health
BAILEE RENE KINGSLEY
B.A., Bluffton University
Capstone: “Back in Action: An Evidence-Based Approach to Home Exercise Program Prescription for Adults With Low Back Pain”
Hooded by Jane Keehan, PT, Ph.D., OCS, College of Health
KATERINA MARIA KUMHALL
B.A., Ohio University
Capstone: “Define and Map: Identifying Inclusive Community Resources for Promoting Physical Activity in Children Across the Cleveland Area”
Hooded by Karen E. McIntyre, PT, D.P.T., College of Health
LOGAN MENOSKY
B.S., Cleveland State University
Capstone: “Balancing Independence: A Home Health Guide for Fall Prevention in Older Adults”
Hooded by Karen E. McIntyre, PT, D.P.T., College of Health
ALEXANDER JAMES MERVAR
B.S., Kent State University
Capstone: “Enhancing DME Order Efficiency Through Digital Workflow Integration and Interdepartmental Process Optimization”
Hooded by Karen E. McIntyre, PT, D.P.T., College of Health
JAMAL MIFALANI
B.S., Cleveland State University
Capstone: “Developing an Evidence-Based Focal Knee Joint Cooling Protocol to Reduce AMI and Improve Quadriceps Activation”
Hooded by Patrick McGinty, PT, D.P.T., OCS, College of Health
SARAH ANNE MILLER
B.A., Case Western Reserve University
Capstone: “Understanding and Creating Recommendations to Improve Burnout in Shared Orthopedic and Neurological Physical Therapists”
Hooded by John J. Jeziorowski, PT, Ph.D., College of Health
THE DEGREE OF DOCTOR OF PHYSICAL THERAPY (CONTINUED)
MATT MINO
B.S., The Ohio State University
Capstone: “Beyond the Clinic Walls: Improving Brand Awareness Through Digital Marketing”
Hooded by Patrick McGinty, PT, D.P.T., OCS, College of Health
KEVIN PARKER JR.
B.S., Cleveland State University
Capstone: “Moving On Up: Improving Resource Utilization Group for VA Patients”
Hooded by Patrick McGinty, PT, D.P.T., OCS, College of Health
AUSTIN PHILLIPS
B.S., Miami University
Capstone: “From Power to Play: Plyometric Force Plate Testing in Upper Extremity Return-to-Sport”
Hooded by Patrick McGinty, PT, D.P.T., OCS, College of Health
MAKAYLA TAYLOR SMITH
B.S., Cleveland State University
Capstone: “Beyond the Clinic: Empowering Patients With Neurological Conditions Through a Maintenance Exercise Pathway”
Hooded by Mary Milidonis, PT, D.P.T., College of Health
SEAN SOEDER
B.S., Cleveland State University
Capstone: “One Protocol to Rule Them All: A Standardized MetroHealth ACL Rehabilitation Protocol”
Hooded by Mary Milidonis, PT, D.P.T., College of Health
ALANA SPENCER
B.S., Baldwin Wallace University
Capstone: “Strength in Stability: A Physical Therapy Approach for Hypermobility and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome”
Hooded by Mary Milidonis, PT, D.P.T., College of Health
ZOE YOST
B.S., Otterbein University
Capstone: “Bridging Research and Practice: Developing a Framework for Wheelchair Assessments in Outpatient Rehabilitation Settings”
Hooded by Mary Milidonis, PT, D.P.T., College of Health
COMMENCEMENT OFFICIALS
Commencement Director
Katie Blodorn
Commencement Coordination Team
Adam Chase
Sheila Gardner
Steve Meadows
Joe Sarog
Stage Manager
James Workman
Livestream Coordinator
Matt Harmon
Livestream Assistants
Andy Bestgen, Lexi Zook
Stage Assistants
Michelle Schilling
Davon Walker
Tze Ann Chou, Noreen Perkins, Gabriel Toledo
Sign Language Interpreters
Patricia Bettis-Eddie, Cathy Harper
Ceremony Announcer
Matthew G. Lupica
Honorary Head Marshal
Carol Olszewski
Music
Doctoral Ceremony ...........................................................................................................................................................................................
National Anthem Soloist ...............................................................................................................................................................................
Olympic Brass
Hannah Schade
McKenzie Burgess, Mehki Dawson, Brodey Haynes, Grayson Moore, Alma Mater Vocalists
Audio Engineer
John Powell
Student Audio Technicians
Gabe Ensell, Ephrem King, Camryn Racin, Teddy Scully
Student Video Technical Director
Kaitlyn Strouse
Student House and Stage Managers
Nate Luhta, Cooper Sanders
Livestream Coordinator
Matt Harmon
Livestream Assistants
Andy Bestgen, Lexi Zook
Logistics and Coordination
A special thank you to Dr. Thomas Humphrey and Valerie Mathis
Hannah Schade, Khoury Ward
COMMENCEMENT OFFICIALS
Faculty Representatives
College of Arts and Sciences
Mekki Bayachou
Christopher Boyd Emily Rauschert
Monte Ahuja College of Business
Robert Ngo
Washkewicz College of Engineering
Zhiqiang Gao
Jacqueline Jenkins
Robin Chilton
Michele Collins
Kelle Foust
Katie Clonan-Roy
Steven Giddens
Jamie Ballard
Christina Carstarphen
Lydia Demjanczuk
Lisa Evans
Chadra Kathapalli
Mehdi Rahmati
College of Health
Mary Gergis
Suzanne Giuffre
Michael Hammonds
John Jeziorowski
Shaowei Yang
Jane Keehan
Patrick McGinty
Karen McIntyre
Mary Milidonis
Levin College of Public Affairs and Education
Wendy Green Tawanda Greer-Medley
Frederick Hampton
Megan Hatch
Staff Representatives Assisting at Commencement
Olivia Fraser
Michelle Jones
Brandon Kazimir
Alisa Lawson-McKinnie
Barbara Loomis
Matt Lupica
Justine Nanyondo
Lekisha Rogers
Michelle Schilling
Heather Schlosser
Karla Reese
Tonya Runner
Joan Thoman
Julia Phillips
Nicholas Zingale
Kathleen Sessions
Lauren Silvia
Taliah Wiggins
Sierra Woods
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Conference Services
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Hospitality and Facilities Services
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School of Music
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CLEVELAND STATE UNIVERSITY’S ALMA MATER
Near the shores of great Lake Erie, grand for all to view
Proudly stands our Alma Mater noble CSU
Lift your voices, join the chorus ‘til our work is through.
Hail to thee our Alma Mater hail, hail all, CSU!
To educate, for future’s sake, truth through knowledge is our goal,
Steadfast remains our Alma Mater, whatever the future holds.
Lift your voices, join the chorus ‘til our work is through.
Hail to thee our Alma Mater hail, all hail, CSU!