CSU Grad Jane Matousek is Prepared for Success at Progressive

Jane Matousek didn’t leave with just a degree when she walked across the graduation stage at Cleveland State University (CSU) in December 2025. She took with her the confidence, leadership experience, and professional skills needed to launch a career in public relations. 

Matousek, who majored in Journalism, Public Relations and Communications with a minor in Digital Content Production from the School of Communication within CSU’s Levin College of Public Affairs and Education, joined Progressive in June 2026 as a Public Relations Representative I. She now helps manage media inquiries and assists with reviewing communications content while preparing to take on larger media relations projects as her role expands.

CSU wasn't just a step on Matousek’s journey. It was the perfect calling for the Lakewood, Ohio, native. 

"Cleveland State was everything I needed and wanted," said Matousek, who transferred to CSU from Bowling Green State University. "I had just decided to take a semester off to work full time in marketing. The transfer process was painless, and I was supported by a great admissions team that made me feel at home right away. CSU was convenient because it was close to home and the coursework was flexible."

Matousek made the most of every opportunity on campus. She immersed herself in student leadership, serving as president of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) Cleveland State Chapter and editor-in-chief of The Cleveland Stater. Those experiences helped transform her into a confident communicator and leader.

"Those roles shaped me as a young professional and made me feel confident in networking, leading, and working with others," Matousek said.

Matousek pointed to COM 430, the Digital Content Production Capstone taught by Dr. Beth Thomas, for providing the opportunity to work directly with the City of Cleveland and the Cleveland Division of Police on a campaign highlighting positive police stories. Producing real-world social media content for a community partner reinforced the practical skills employers value and gave her confidence entering the workforce.

"The Digital Content Production minor made me feel confident with my skills in the real world with its hands-on approach to coursework," Matousek noted.

Many faculty members at CSU influenced Matousek’s journey, but Dr. Thomas made the greatest impact.

"When I arrived at CSU, I was a quiet student looking to complete my courses and focus on work," Matousek recalled. "Dr. Thomas saw something in me. She pushed me outside my comfort zone, encouraged me to join PRSSA, and inspired me to build lasting friendships. Her support, belief in me, and guidance truly shaped me into who I am today."

"I remember meeting Jane for the first time to advise her on choosing classes in the communication department," Dr. Thomas said. "After she talked about her communication work in the restaurant industry, I knew she had lots of potential in her abilities to lead. In the public relations field, building relationships and a strong portfolio of work is imperative to succeed after graduation. Jane didn’t hesitate to take on a leadership role for PRSSA and in her classes with me."

"I wasn’t surprised when she landed the role at Progressive," Dr. Thomas added. "Her success is a direct reflection of the effort she invested in her academic work, leadership experiences, and involvement in student organizations."

Matousek is now building her career at Progressive, a company whose culture and values closely align with her own. Although still early in her professional journey, Matousek has already found an environment where she feels welcomed, supported, and surrounded by experienced professionals eager to help her grow.

"My position is rooted in my PR interests and is full of opportunities for growth," Matousek said. "I get to learn about so many aspects of the industry from incredibly experienced and talented people."

Matousek credits CSU's communication faculty with preparing her not only for her first job, but for a successful career.

"They’re a reason in and of themselves to choose Cleveland State," Matousek said. "They truly care about every student. They're experts in the field, and they'll invest the time needed to set students up for success because they genuinely want them to succeed in life and in their careers."

Matousek’s path from CSU to Progressive demonstrates the power of combining rigorous academics, hands-on learning, dedicated faculty mentorship, and meaningful student leadership. Those experiences went beyond a degree. They prepared Matousek to confidently enter the workforce and begin making an impact from day one.