With the university on more stable footing after federation, President David V. Ragone (presidency years: 1980–1987) had room to experiment with new programs and frameworks. This resulted in the formation of The Colleges—which included undergraduate schools from the former Case Institute of Technology and Western Reserve College—as well as membership in the University Athletic Association and the creation of the Cleveland Free-Net computer communication system.
Ragone was responsible for the first university-wide commencement convocation since federation, held in May 1985, and implemented new diploma standards. Before then, each school and college held its own ceremony, and diplomas still reflected ties to predecessor institutions.
