CSU celebrates graduating students who have overcome obstacles, made significant achievements or are fulfilling Cleveland State University’s mission in or outside the classroom.

Today, we celebrate Mira DiPierro ’25.

CSU: Have you had any significant internships/co-ops/careers while at CSU?

MD: During my time at Cleveland State, I’ve had the opportunity to intern with the Lake County Prosecutor’s Office—an experience that has significantly deepened my understanding of the criminal justice system. Each week brought new and meaningful learning opportunities, from sitting in courtrooms alongside prosecutors and probation officers to interviewing detectives and riding along with investigators. I observed sentencing hearings, pretrials and change-of-plea proceedings; shadowed victim advocates as they supported survivors through challenging processes; and gained firsthand insight into the investigative work that forms the foundation of the justice system.

One of the most memorable experiences was attending weapons training at the sheriff’s range, where I learned about crime lab operations, SWAT procedures and the intricate coordination required between agencies. These moments gave me a deeper appreciation for the people and principles behind our justice system and strengthened my goal of pursuing a career with the FBI.

Outside my internship, I work at the Madison Public Library, where I’ve learned how small acts of service can create meaningful connections. Whether helping patrons find resources or preparing materials for community events, I’ve developed skills in patience, teamwork and treating every person with kindness and respect—qualities that carry into every area of my life.

Since the summer of 2022, one of the experiences closest to my heart has been volunteering with the Miracle League of Lake County, a baseball league for children and adults with disabilities. Nearly every Saturday from mid-June through late September, I assist players with fielding, pitching, batting and base running while watching them shine with confidence and joy. This work has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, teaching me empathy, patience and the importance of creating inclusive spaces where everyone can thrive.

My connection to the league deepened through my honors research study, where I explored parental perceptions of sense of community within the Miracle League. Conducting this research allowed me to contribute to knowledge that supports inclusion and empowerment, linking my academic pursuits with a cause that is deeply personal to me. Every moment with the Miracle League has reinforced lessons that will stay with me for life. It has taught me to appreciate everyday abilities I often take for granted and to celebrate the strengths and contributions of others. Seeing people from diverse backgrounds come together and succeed in their own ways is both inspiring and humbling.

Together, these experiences have shaped not only my professional aspirations but also who I am as a person. They have shown me that real success is built on compassion, perseverance and a willingness to serve others—values that Cleveland State has encouraged in me every step of the way.

CSU: How would you describe the connections you have made with the faculty and staff at CSU?

MD: The connections I’ve made with faculty and staff at Cleveland State have been some of the most meaningful and transformative parts of my college experience. These incredible individuals have supported me academically and shaped who I am as a person. I’ll never forget having the opportunity to have lunch with President Bloomberg and several other students this past April. She was down-to-earth, attentive and genuinely interested in our experiences. That moment reminded me how much CSU values its students and invests in their growth.

I am profoundly grateful for the professors and mentors who have walked alongside me throughout my journey. Rosemary Nugent from the CSU College of Law has been a constant source of kindness and guidance and has always made me feel seen and supported. Professor Maria Rowlett and Dr. Stephen Slane, who taught me inferential statistics as a freshman, have continued to check in with me long after the class ended. They wrote recommendations, offered advice and consistently encouraged me to pursue my goals. Dr. Nicole Hanna has inspired me in ways I can’t fully express; her classes not only engaged me but sparked a lasting passion for criminology and motivated me to explore the field in depth. Dr. Valerie Wright has continually challenged and encouraged me to reach higher, helping me recognize my potential even when I doubted myself.

Dr. Olivia Pethtel has been an extraordinary mentor through my honors psychology courses and my honors research study. She has guided me with patience and unwavering support, helping me refine my research ideas, tackle challenges and connect my work to real-world impact. Her mentorship has shaped how I approach learning, leadership and problem-solving, and I will carry the lessons she has shared with me throughout my life.

I cannot overstate how much I appreciate the support, encouragement and belief these faculty and staff members have offered me. Their guidance has been a cornerstone of my personal and academic growth, and the lessons and inspiration they’ve shared will remain with me long after graduation. I am endlessly grateful for the privilege of learning from them and for the connections I hope to carry forward for the rest of my life.

CSU: How has Cleveland State inspired you for your future?

MD: Cleveland State has inspired me to approach my future with curiosity, resilience and a commitment to lifelong learning. Studying psychology and criminology, along with minors in neuroscience and anthropology, has shown me how interconnected knowledge can be and how every new concept deepens my understanding of human behavior, society and the world around us. CSU has challenged me to think critically, explore beyond what I already know and embrace learning as a continuous journey—not just in the classroom but in every opportunity I pursue. The faculty and mentors I’ve worked with have encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone, ask questions and seek knowledge wherever it exists.

Outside the classroom, CSU has given me opportunities to apply what I learn in real and meaningful ways. My internship at the Lake County Prosecutor’s Office showed me how knowledge, curiosity and careful observation intersect in professional law enforcement. Sitting in courtrooms, shadowing probation officers and speaking with detectives gave me insights no textbook could provide and strengthened my desire to serve in the FBI one day.

CSU has inspired me to embrace challenges, pursue knowledge and stay committed to personal and professional growth. The lessons I’ve learned about leadership, empathy, perseverance and the power of curiosity will guide me as I move toward my future career. More importantly, they have instilled a mindset that learning never stops. No matter where I go next, I know the skills, experiences and values I gained at Cleveland State will continue to shape and inspire me.

CSU: How do you think you have fulfilled the CSU’s mission?  

MD: I believe I have fulfilled Cleveland State University’s mission by striving to empower myself and others, creating knowledge through research and practical experience, and actively engaging with my community. Academically, pursuing dual degrees in psychology and criminology, along with minors in neuroscience and anthropology, has allowed me to explore complex questions about human behavior, society and justice. Through my honors research study on parental perceptions of community in the Miracle League of Lake County, I contributed meaningful insights that connect scholarship to real-world impact, reflecting CSU’s commitment to knowledge creation.

Beyond the classroom, I have engaged with the broader community through service and leadership. Volunteering with the Miracle League has been one of the most rewarding and formative experiences of my life. Assisting children and adults with disabilities on the baseball field has taught me patience, empathy and the importance of creating inclusive spaces where everyone can thrive. Seeing players’ confidence, joy and sense of belonging grow has shown me what it truly means to empower others and how small acts of service can have a lasting impact. This work reflects CSU’s mission to engage communities and foster inclusion, and it has shaped me into someone who strives to lift others up in every environment.

My internship at the Lake County Prosecutor’s Office has further allowed me to collaborate with professionals across the criminal justice system, applying knowledge in ways that benefit the community and reinforce the value of engaged learning. Working at the Madison Public Library has offered similar opportunities to serve others while strengthening my communication, organization and teamwork skills.

Through these experiences, I have embraced CSU’s mission of providing accessible, inclusive and impactful opportunities. I have learned the importance of collaboration, empathy and perseverance—skills that will allow me to continue making a positive difference in my future career. In every class, internship, volunteer role and leadership opportunity, I have sought to embody CSU’s vision: to learn, to serve and to contribute to a world shaped by knowledge, compassion and action.

CSU: Do you have a career lined up, and how has CSU been instrumental in that process?

MD: I plan to begin my career in law enforcement after graduation, with the long-term goal of working for the FBI. CSU has played a significant role in preparing me for this path by helping me build a strong academic foundation in criminal justice, leadership and ethics. The support I’ve received from faculty, along with the professional and personal growth opportunities CSU has provided, has given me the confidence to take the next step toward a career in public service.

Congratulations, Mira!