In fall 2023, a group of Cleveland State University students participated in a one-of-a-kind on-campus learning experience called the Sherwin-Williams Career Accelerator Business Learning Community. The program was made possible through a strategic partnership between CSU, Talent Acquisition Services from JobsOhio and The Sherwin-Williams Company.

Information systems technology major Jesse Byrd was selected to participate in the first cohort for the Monte Ahuja College of Business. Since joining the program, Byrd has secured a co-op in the cybersecurity department of Sherwin-Williams, as well as a scholarship.

“This experience has provided valuable opportunities to participate in networking events, improve my social skills and build confidence,” said Byrd. “Networking, meeting people and enhancing communication skills are essential for any career, including IT, and this program encourages me to focus on these vital areas.”

Mary Eskander is an accounting major planning to graduate in 2025. She, too, was selected to take part in the first cohort and is now in her second year in the Sherwin-Williams Career Accelerator Business Learning Community.

“I have had the privilege of attending several events where I’ve met amazing people,” she said. “Throughout my time, we covered many topics that are important in the business world and have all been applicable in my professional life.”

Eskander also said that the experience has given her the opportunity to meet fellow professionals from different companies who have shed light on each of their cultures and how they are run internally.

“As someone who will be graduating soon, this program has shaped what I look for in the future, as I have been able to learn from others’ experiences and piece together what I want,” she said.

The Monte Ahuja College of Business' second cohort of the Sherwin-Williams Career Accelerator Business Learning Community launched in fall 2024 with a new group of students. Senior Assistant Dean for Student Affairs and Academic Programs Anne Nelson designed and manages the program and believes that the true value in the partnership with JobsOhio and Sherwin-Williams is beyond measure.

“Higher education must become more aligned with workforce needs to support the careers of today and the future for the American economy and our society in general,” she said. “This type of knowledge helps the student to stay focused and finish their CSU degree, and this partnership can be replicated with other organizations in Northeast Ohio.”

CSU President Laura Bloomberg agrees.

"Our learning communities align perfectly with the core values of our new strategic plan, Cleveland State United,” she said. “One of our goals in the coming years is to strengthen relationships with community partners and create more pathways for students and learners. By partnering with other organizations, we can continue building learning communities like this one, where we can prepare our students to address Cleveland’s most pressing social and economic challenges.

“Together, we can create lasting impact and ensure that CSU serves as a true convenor and thought partner in reimagining the future of our region.”

CSU and Sherwin-Williams Workforce Talent Development Program Expands
Beginning in fall 2024, the program expanded to include chemistry and engineering at CSU, which are designed for sophomore students within these undergraduate programs. The first cohort of students are sharing in co-curricular activities and structured experiences that will: 

• Equip them with tools and skills for effective exploration of internships and co-ops.
• Provide support for long-term student career readiness in chemistry and engineering.
• Deliver structured workshops and networking events with business professionals from Sherwin-Williams and other chemical and engineering companies.
• Engage in resume building and professional portfolio development.
• Design and implement leadership and communication skills needed to strive in the corporate world.

“Even beyond key theories for a course, such as financial accounting skills, students can now better understand how these skills transfer for success in the workforce and other CSU education experiences,” said Nelson.

Nelson is working alongside her colleagues in CSU’s Chemistry Department and the Washkewicz College of Engineering to support the two new learning communities. All three have hosted two joint events during the fall 2024 semester alongside Sherwin-Williams professionals.