90-year-old has taken more classes than any other CSU student

Mrs. Jean L. Elsner, a Project 60 student in CSU’s College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, will be presented the prestigious President’s Medal at the University’s fall commencement ceremony on Sunday, December 13 at 1:30 p.m. at the Bert L. and Iris S. Wolstein Center.

Mrs. Elsner is a passionate champion of education and a student in CSU’s Project 60 program, a statewide initiative which allows Ohio residents over age 60 to attend classes at public universities at no charge. Mrs. Elsner has taken more than 100 courses at Cleveland State, more than any student in the University’s history.

Over the last 28 years, she has pursued advanced knowledge in a wide array of academic fields, including history, English, computers, political science, and anthropology, and has just completed three courses during the Fall 2009 semester.

Mrs. Elsner has prized learning throughout her life. She graduated with high honors from John Adams High School in Cleveland and went on to distinguish herself with honors at Ohio University. During World War II, she served in the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps. Later, she worked as a substitute teacher and office manager while raising a family. Always politically involved, she has been an active volunteer for election campaigns and various causes. Mrs. Elsner resides in South Euclid, Ohio.

Thousands of fellow students have enriched their own studies and academic success through Mrs. Elsner’s extensive contributions in the classroom. By sharing her life and work experiences, by her thoughtful engagement in today’s rapidly changing world, and by her joy and zest for knowledge, she embodies the intellectual mission of Cleveland State.

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The President’s Medal is awarded to individuals of outstanding achievement and extraordinary commitment to Cleveland State University who have directly and tangibly advanced the best interests and mission of the University.

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