The CSU Foundation is proud to serve our students and University, helping to ensure that the promise of success and accomplishment becomes reality.

And we have lift off: After major self-discovery, this Peacock Scholar makes her ascent

September 04, 2026

Oliva was self-admittedly the “average” high schooler in Avon, OH. She wasn’t remarkable, she thought, even though she’d long...

Today’s students will one day join a talent pool and workforce that includes thousands of CSU graduates who have been influencing and advancing society’s collective good for the better part of 50 years.

Where belonging becomes purpose

When Graceyn arrived at Cleveland State University, she felt the same quiet uncertainty many first-year students do: new place,...

Your support helps alleviate the pressures that can cause some of our students to simply give up, only a few short steps away from obtaining a college degree.

A commitment to access, excellence, and student success

For Monte and Usha Ahuja, giving to Cleveland State University is rooted in gratitude, belief in education, and a...

Thank you for investing in our students. Your support is transforming lives, igniting hope and pulling dreams within reach.

Support CSU

No matter the size, each gift helps ensure student success. Thank you for making a gift in support of our students, our University and our region.

make a gift today

Charitable Lead Trusts

Give Income Now, Transfer Assets Later

If you are looking for a way to pass on assets to your family while reducing or eliminating gift or estate taxes, a charitable lead trust (CLT) is an excellent option. You make a contribution to a trust that pays CSU income for a number of years. Afterward, your family receives the trust assets—plus any growth—at reduced or zero cost.

Gift Structure Options

  • Zero Tax Plan: Allows transfer of assets to your family with zero transfer taxes if trust investments outperform the required IRS rate.
  • FLP/Lead Trust Plan: Combine a family limited partnership (FLP), a lead trust, and a gift exemption to transfer assets tax-free to your family while CSU receives income.
  • Increasing Payment Lead Trust: Payments to CSU increase over time, letting your family benefit from future growth.
  • Grantor Lead Trust: Transfer assets to a trust that makes gifts to CSU for a set term. At the end of the term, you receive the assets back.

If you have questions about charitable lead trusts, please contact us. We would be happy to assist you.

Leave Your Legacy. Transform Lives.

Together, we can create lasting opportunities for our students and strengthen our community.

Constance M. Karapelou
Senior Director, Gift and Estate Planning
216.875.9838

EMAIL

Photo Gallery

1 of 22