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The university community, faculty, and alumni are mourning the loss of former Associate Vice President for Student Affairs, Sue Nickel-Schindewolf.
Sue joined Case Western Reserve University in 1986 as Assistant Director of Residence Life, beginning a career defined not just by leadership, but by deep care for the people she served. Over the next thirty years, she grew into roles that reflected both her talent and her dedication — Associate Director, Director of Residence Life, Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs, and finally Associate Vice President for Student Affairs when she retired in 2016.
What truly set Sue apart was the way she poured herself into the university community. She helped shape the Village at 115th, built the First-Year Experience, Residential Colleges and played a key role in establishing the Flora Stone Mather Women’s Center through her work on the President’s Advisory Council on Women. She also helped modernize the university’s sexual misconduct policy and created thoughtful programs like the nationally recognized Bathroom Poster Policy, the “little blue book,” and the birthday card program — small gestures that made students feel seen and supported.
Upon her retirement, Sue continued to support students across a consortium of Northeast Ohio institutions as an academic coach for the NOA‑AGEP grant housed in CWRU’s Office of Graduate Studies. In this role, Sue helped STEM graduate students clarify and pursue their academic and career goals.
Sue’s greatest legacy lives in the people she touched. She was a mentor, a steady presence, and a trusted confidante to countless students and colleagues. Whether someone needed advice, encouragement, or simply a kind listener, Sue was the person they turned to. Her office was a place where worries were eased, confidence was built, and people felt cared for.
Sue’s influence can still be felt across campus — in the programs she shaped, the policies she strengthened, and the thousands of lives she quietly uplifted. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, dedication, and genuine human connection.
A Celebration of Sue’s Life will be held on Saturday, October 24th, 2 PM to 6 PM, Parker Barn, 4072 Copley Road, Copley, OH 44321