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Alaina Bartel

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As director of university communications, Alaina Bartel leads a team responsible for driving impactful university-wide communications at CWRU. 

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Recent News Articles

Cracking the glass floor

body.news-article .paragraph-content blockquote, body.news-article .article-body blockquote {font-size:3rem;} Fluorescent lights hummed above Marissa Scavuzzo, PhD, as she observed live gut tissue under a microscope—one of the many windows into the hidden world of glial cells. Her lab—among the…

7 things to do near Cleveland with your family when they’re in town for Parent and Family Weekend

As the leaves turn and days are becoming cooler, Cleveland will transform into a vibrant tapestry of fall colors and seasonal festivities. For families visiting during Parent and Family Weekend (Oct. 9-12)—which coincides with Homecoming and Reunion Weekend this year—the city offers a plethora of…

Cleveland’s fall colors forecast—and best spots to see them

After a summerlike stretch that kept the canopy stubbornly green, cooler nights are finally on the way—and with them, the rush of autumn color. By mid-October, Northeast Ohio should be glowing at its peak, but the change happens fast once temperatures dip. That means now’s the time to map out your…

Fall has arrived in Cleveland—learn how you can experience it

Fall has officially arrived in Cleveland, and in northeast Ohio, there’s no shortage of ways to soak up the season. At Case Western Reserve University, the campus lawns and quads are starting to show hints of fall, while the rest of Northeast Ohio is on track for a full display of color in the…

Golden hour: Best spots for Lake Erie sunsets this fall

As fall continues and evenings grow crisp, Lake Erie’s shoreline offers some of Cleveland’s most breathtaking views. Watching the sun dip below the horizon is free, timeless and perfect for a quick escape from Case Western Reserve University. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful solo stroll, a…

National Coffee Day: 4 coffee spots to fuel you near CWRU

National Coffee Day (Sept. 29) is the perfect excuse to step off campus and explore Cleveland’s vibrant coffee scene. Sometimes the library just doesn’t cut it, and a change of scenery—or a stronger cup of coffee—can be exactly what you need to power through assignments, write that essay, or prep…

Case Western Reserve named a national ‘Dream School’

For generations, students have arrived at Case Western Reserve University with big ambitions and bold goals—drawn by the university’s rigorous academics, vibrant research culture, and the opportunities found in a city as dynamic as Cleveland. Now, that student perspective is echoed on a national…

Game on: Meet three Spartans ahead of tomorrow’s football home opener

Football has long been a unifying force in American culture, bringing fans, players and communities together around a shared passion. The game’s impact reaches far beyond the field—fostering connection, tradition and a sense of belonging. As the Case Western Reserve University Spartans (0-1-1)…

Fresh air, low cost: Cheap (or free) ways to get outdoors this September

September in Cleveland is a time when the city begins to shift into fall. The air feels fresher, the trees start to change color, and the pace of the city invites you to step outside and explore. Whether you’re looking to take a break from studying, enjoy a weekend adventure, or simply get some…

7 local treats to try before you need a winter coat

The semester may just be getting started, but Clevelanders know what’s coming: lake-effect snow, icy winds and the kind of cold that makes you rethink leaving your bed. Before winter takes over, savor the best flavors and outdoor vibes the city has to offer. From seasonal scoops to farmers market…