Harlan M. Sands

Harlan M. Sands serves as Professor of Law at Cleveland State University's Cleveland-Marshall College of Law, following his tenure as President of Cleveland State University from June 2018 through April 2022. His career bridges legal practice, military service, and transformative higher education leadership with expertise in institutional finance and student success frameworks.

Education:

• JD, Antonin Scalia Law School, George Mason University
• MBA in Finance, George Washington University
• BS in Economics, Wharton School of Business, University of Pennsylvania

Professor Sands' scholarly focus centers on systemic transformation in higher education, driving initiatives in student progression, resource optimization, and strategic partnerships. His CSU 2.0 Plan redefined Cleveland State's urban research mission through aggressive growth targets in enrollment, faculty recruitment, and program development. Complementing this, his foundational work in criminal justice—evident in prior teaching of constitutional law and juvenile justice—provides interdisciplinary depth to his educational leadership philosophy.

Professional recognition:

• Two Naval Commendation Medals for service during Operation Desert Storm

His administrative legacy spans budgetary oversight at elite institutions including Wharton School (managing $70M academic building projects) and University of Louisville, while his classroom experience encompasses criminal procedure and judicial policy courses at Florida International University. Sands integrates operational discipline from his U.S. Navy Surface Warfare Officer service with academic innovation to advance engaged learning models.