Behind every wedding, conference, and celebration at Cleveland State University is a team that makes sure things run seamlessly. At Events at CSU, our staff brings together years of experience in customer service, logistics, scheduling, and financial management — all with a shared passion for helping people create meaningful experiences in the heart of Cleveland.
Jason Mandula — Senior Assistant Director, Conference & Event Services
Jason has spent more than 15 years at CSU, building deep connections across campus while managing large, complex facilities like the Recreation Center and Student Center. His background in member and guest services gave him the tools to serve diverse audiences and maintain high standards of hospitality.
Today, Jason is the main contact for external clients, and he’s known for his ability to coordinate across departments to keep events running smoothly. He has streamlined scheduling processes, helped the department go nearly paperless, and served as the steady hand that external clients rely on during events. Jason also enjoys the unpredictability of event work: “You never know who will walk through the door next,” he says. And with nine years of restaurant kitchen experience, he brings an extra appreciation for the fast-paced, behind-the-scenes teamwork that makes events come alive.
Katie Blodorn — Assistant Director, Business Development & University Events
Katie blends her CSU pride with her love of Cleveland to connect people and create opportunities. She has coordinated major university traditions like Wellfest, Convocation, and Commencement ceremonies, where she handled logistics, vendor relations, and day-of operations from start to finish.
Her strength is relationship-building — she works with more than five campus partners regularly, builds awareness through LinkedIn, and connects with community groups like Destination Cleveland to grow CSU’s presence. Katie has also expanded external use of campus spaces, including building high school commencement offerings at Waetjen Auditorium.
For her, events are about energy and teamwork: “Even with months of planning, something always changes, and you have to problem solve in real time. That’s where patience, composure, and customer service skills are tested — and where the real team-building happens.” Outside of work, Katie champions her neighborhood of Old Brooklyn and loves exploring all things Cleveland, from Playhouse Square to the Metroparks.
Cole Coppus — Event Scheduling Coordinator
Cole brings a background in sports and entertainment to his role at CSU. He worked in ticket sales for the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he learned how to deliver top-notch customer service and create a great experience for every fan. That same focus on client satisfaction carries over into his work scheduling events for CSU’s students and campus partners.
He has streamlined scheduling processes and helped increase the number of external clients hosting events on campus. Known for his organization and responsiveness, Cole makes sure students and guests have a seamless experience from request to event day. Outside of work, he’s a big fan of Cleveland’s Metroparks, especially the golf courses. For Cole, working at CSU is about supporting students: “I enjoy helping provide a smooth process for all of our students booking events.”
Joe Stolitza — Director, Business, Finance & Event Services
Joe has been with CSU since 2006 as a part of the University Recreation and Wellbeing department, and now Conference and Event Services. He is often described as the financial backbone of the departments. Known around campus as “Joe Money,” he manages budgeting, HR, and business operations, ensuring that Events at CSU runs on a stable foundation. He balances financial responsibility with a supportive leadership style that allows the team to dream big while staying grounded.
One Team, One Vision
Together, Jason, Katie, Cole, and Joe bring the skills, knowledge, and creativity that make Events at CSU more than just a collection of venues. They are the people behind the scenes turning weddings into memories, conferences into successes, and community gatherings into experiences.
When you host at CSU, you’re not just renting a space — you’re gaining a team of professionals who know how to bring people together in ways that reflect the energy and spirit of Cleveland.
Learn more about our team and start planning your next event at www.eventsatcsu.com.