Mort Mandel, an innovative businessman, prominent community leader and longtime supporter of Cleveland State University, passed away October 16. Below is a statement from CSU President Harlan Sands:

“It is with great sadness that we collectively mourn the loss of Mort Mandel, a giant in the Cleveland community for five decades, and the last living namesake of our Mandel Honors College.

An incredibly innovative and successful businessman, Mort dedicated his life to giving back to his community. Along with his brothers Jack and Joseph, he created a lasting legacy of philanthropy that has transformed our city and the lives of many throughout our region.

At Cleveland State, the Mandels’ generosity helped create the Mandel Honors College, our unique student experience that combines academic excellence, experiential learning and community service to ensure all graduates have the skills and insights necessary to be future leaders of Cleveland and beyond. They also provided support for an innovative Honors Pathway Program so honors students at Cuyahoga Community College can transfer seamlessly to the Mandel Honors College at CSU.

This is the legacy that Mort and his brothers have left us, and for that, we are forever grateful.

We look forward to the opportunity to celebrate his life and contributions in the days to come. For today, our prayers go out to his family, friends and many others whose lives he has touched, and who collectively and individually are feeling this loss in a very personal way.”

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