Cleveland State University Foundation Establishes the William H. Roberts Research Fellowship in the Humanities

The Cleveland State University Foundation proudly announces the establishment of the William H. Roberts Research Fellowship in the Humanities. This fellowship is made possible by William (Bill) H. Roberts’ generous three-year pledge of $60,000 made in the Fall of 2023 and is a testament to his enduring commitment to education and CSU students.

Bill’s educational journey began in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District, where he attended from 5th grade until his graduation from West Technical High School. He furthered his studies at Cleveland State University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in History. Overcoming significant challenges as a first-generation college student, Bill worked part-time and during summers to finance his education. He continued his academic pursuits by earning a Master of Arts in Education through evening and weekend classes at Cleveland State University, ultimately dedicating 27 years to teaching within Cleveland schools.

“We in the College of Arts and Sciences are incredibly appreciative of Bill’s generosity,” said Dean Andy Kersten. “The Humanities are foundational to life and work in the Cleveland area, and the William H. Roberts Research Fellowship will help students make positive impacts that increase our understandings of the past, present, and future of the region.”

The fellowship will support CSU students enrolled in various humanities disciplines, including those within the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Honors College. The funds will be directed towards scholarships to assist students with tuition costs and support student research, enabling them to excel academically and contribute meaningfully to their respective fields.

In addition to the William H. Roberts Research Fellowship in the Humanities, Bill has established three other funds which provide scholarships to history majors and students studying abroad.

The Cleveland State University Foundation and the College of Arts and Sciences extend- their deepest gratitude to Bill Roberts for his remarkable philanthropy and dedication to advancing education in the humanities.