Five questions with Mandel School’s Lysette Roman, Class of 2026
For students at Case Western Reserve University Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences, graduation marks more than the end of a degree—it reflects years of learning, growth and a deep commitment to making a difference. Through coursework, field education and hands-on experiences, students build the skills and perspective needed to lead with empathy and create meaningful change in the communities they serve.
As the Class of 2026 prepares to take its next steps, graduates are looking to put their education to use in social work, law, community advocacy and beyond. We spoke with several members of this year’s graduating class about their time at Mandel, the lessons that shaped them and what they hope to carry forward into the future.
Read on to learn about Lysette Roman (LAW ’20), from Olmsted Township, Ohio, a Master of Social Work (MSW) student with a focus in community practice for social change.
Answers have been lightly edited.
1. What initially drew you to CWRU?
What drew me to CWRU was the Mandel School's community practice for social change pathway, which gave me the opportunity to complement my law license/legal practice through understanding the systems and structures that shape social service delivery in the U.S.—without needing to become a licensed counselor. I also love the location of CWRU, in a highly cosmopolitan, green and active area of Cleveland—it allows for breaks between studying and moments of grounding in nature!
2. What course or campus experience shaped your education most?
The course that shaped my education was Dr. Chupp and Professor Logan's course on restorative justice. That class was not only an incredible pedagogical experience, but a largely spiritual and emotional one, as we learned and embodied the belief that all harm can be repaired through thoughtful (though often challenging) communication, relationship-building and resource allocation. I am forever changed by that course, and I approach conflict transformation through a lens of hope and relation, rather than resolution and retribution.
3. What is your favorite memory as a student at CWRU?
My favorite memory is hard to pin down. But I do recall the many moments in which I felt like a part of a group of authentic, like-minded, passionate individuals who made me feel seen, understood and supported. I will always remember the care and compassion that I felt at Mandel every single time I came to campus.
4. What’s next for you after graduation?
After graduation, I hope to continue my legal practice with new heart, awareness and relationship-oriented, person-centered approaches. Where my official place of work will be, I am not sure—but I know that I am inextricably connected to all living beings on this earth, and it is my duty to build power, safety and care in all those relationships.
5. What advice would you give to new students in your program?
Keep your mind and heart soft and open to the possibility of being changed by what you see, learn and hear from others.
