Cleveland State University (CSU) has been more than a place to earn a degree for Hannah Gates. It has been the launching pad for a life of purpose, leadership, and resilience.

Gates, 25, is majoring in political science with a pre-law focus, while minoring in communication at CSU’s Levin College of Public Affairs and Education. She also serves as Editor-in-Chief of The Cauldron, CSU’s student publication, where she has used her writing and advocacy to shape campus dialogue. Her path to success, though, has been anything but ordinary.

Growing up without a supportive family situation, Gates was homeless between the ages of 18 and 22. She earned her high school diploma at age 21 from K12 Ohio Digital Learning School while living in a shelter and graduating with a perfect 4.0 GPA. Athletics became her outlet and coping mechanism. She swam, ran track, and eventually created her own volleyball highlight reel, which helped her secure a scholarship to Hannibal-LaGrange University in Missouri.

Gates transferred to CSU in 2022, but her transition wasn’t easy. “A few weeks before classes started, I was living out of my car with my dog, Clementine,” she recalls. “With the support of Dr. Nicholas Petty and Dr. Tachelle Banks in CSU’s Division of Student Belonging and Success, I was able to find housing and connect with financial aid resources that allowed me to continue my studies.”

Although Gates had to medically withdraw during her first semester, her determination never wavered. A meeting with then-Cauldron editor-in-chief Jaden Stambolia opened the door to student journalism. Starting as a feature writer, Gates climbed the ranks to become editor-in-chief, crediting her team as a vital support system.

Gates leadership extends beyond CSU. She serves as a board member for A Place 4 Me, a nonprofit helping young adults facing homelessness. Gates also interned with former U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown’s office, which reinforced her confidence in her decision to study political science and pursue her career goal of earning a dual J.D./MPA degree at CSU after completing her undergraduate degree in 2026.

Gates has found a family at CSU. She met her fiancé, nursing student Kaiden Cairns, while playing ultimate frisbee, and found guidance from mentors like Dr. Richard Perloff, faculty advisor to The Cauldron.

“Faith is most important to me,” Gates says. “I spend a lot of time praying. And I’m proud of the fact that I have a voice that helps shape and impact CSU as a whole.”

From overcoming homelessness to becoming a campus leader, Gates has not only found academic success at CSU. She has found her voice, her family, and her future.