“I’m excited to spend some of my last moments on campus celebrating with the people who have made my college experience so special,” says Chloe Langerman ’25. “It’s going to be bittersweet, but I can’t wait to move forward as an Orange.”

Senior Sendoff Checklist

1. : Celebrate the incredible achievements of the ���ϲ����� Class of 2025 on Thursday, May 8, from 1-4 p.m. on the Quad. Spend the afternoon making lasting memories before you head into your next chapter. Enjoy lawn games, a DJ and giveaways for all graduating students!
2. : Leave your legacy and support the future of ���ϲ����� students. When combined with gifts from your classmates, your class gift of $25 or more makes a real difference.
3. : Celebrate your next adventure and complete the First Destination Survey as soon as possible. Students can find their First Destination Survey by logging into and visiting their Career Center page.
4. : A memento for graduating seniors, the yearbook is filled with senior portraits, academics, sports and much more. Visit the to purchase your 2025 yearbook from Jostens. Orders are due Friday, May 9.
5. : From preparation, a complete schedule of events, accessibility information and more, this is your one-stop for all your Commencement Weekend information needs.
6. : Graduation marks the start of the alumni experience! Be sure to stay in touch through the Alumni Association’s expansive events, services, clubs and more!

“I’m looking forward to attending the Senior Celebration alongside my best friends and soaking up every last minute we have on campus and taking them down in some lawn games,” says Maggie Anderson, ’25. “Cheers to the Class of 2025 and all of the incredible opportunities awaiting us in the future!”

Resources for Families and Supporters of Seniors
The Orange families and supporters of seniors have played an important role in the successes of the Class of 2025! Explore the helpful resources highlighted below.

• : Visit and learn more about Commencement Weekend, find campus maps, hotel and restaurant information.
• : From , , receiving communications with the , to learning what items are permitted or not to bring and the University’s Clear Bag Policy, the is available to answer .
• : Family and friends are welcomed to make a gift, share a congratulatory message and photo of their student to further celebrate the amazing accomplishment of graduation.

Santiago spring 2025 cohort in Patagonia

Beginning May 15, students can apply for spring 2026 study abroad programs through . From bustling cities to small towns across the globe, the University opens the door to over 60 study abroad destinations—ensuring every student can experience their ideal semester abroad.

For the second year in a row, ���ϲ����� Abroad was ranked No. 8 in Study Abroad by U.S. News & World Report. Students attending programs at centers in Florence, Italy; London, England; Madrid, Spain; Santiago, Chile; and Strasbourg, France, will be immersed in environments designed to foster global engagement, immersive learning and new perspectives.

Spring 2026 Program Highlights

• Engineering program in London, England:
  New in spring 2026! The spring-only program is the gateway into the U.K.’s vital and diverse economic atmosphere. Second-year students in aerospace, biomedical, chemical, civil, computer, electrical, environmental and mechanical engineering programs are invited to join this program as it covers a variety of engineering and math requirements for second-semester, second-year students in these majors.
• English immersion program in Santiago, Chile:
  The is a fun take on a classic program that allows students to experience the rich culture of Santiago while taking a range of courses in the social sciences and humanities in English. Coursework, internships and other experiential programming occur both in and out of the classroom and include travel and fieldwork opportunities. Through an established partnership of over 15 years, courses are offered at U. Catolica, a top-ranked university in Latin America offering a wide variety of study and engagement opportunities for students. Unlike traditional study options in Latin America, this program is unique because it aligns closely with a traditional U.S. semester, taking place from January to May. Visits to Buenos Aires, Argentina and Chile’s Patagonia region and Valparaiso are incorporated into the semester’s immersive travel experiences.
• Whitman Core program in London, England:
  The spring-only program offers second-year students in the the opportunity to complete nine credits of required core courses and two electives while immersed in London’s exciting business environment. Restrictions apply, see the program page for details and academic requirements.
• French language studies in Strasbourg, France:
  Students can explore French language and culture studies in Strasbourg, with the option to enroll in one of three partner universities within close proximity to the ���ϲ����� center. In addition to taking all courses in English at the center, students can enroll in courses at Science-Po Strasbourg, the University of Strasbourg or the French Language Institute (Institut International d’Etudes Françaises). Enrollment at partner universities is designed for students with intermediate and advanced French language skills. Learn more about .

.

���ϲ����� London seminar Green Britain

World Partner Programs

allow students to choose from over 50 programs through our partner institutions in cities across the globe. Students can choose from a variety of programs in locations including Australia and New Zealand, Asia, Africa, Europe, the Middle East and Latin America.

World Partner students are often independent and curious, and usually looking for a unique abroad experience—examining public health in India, studying Arabic in Morocco or exploring the global ocean on a sailing vessel. Each partner program is designed to complement and enhance the ���ϲ����� global experience.

.

Preparing to Study Abroad

The spring 2026 application cycle is open from May 15-Oct. 1 for most programs, and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with the exception of special programs. All students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, as some programs have limited capacity. For specific deadlines, students should refer to each program’s individual application page. New for spring 2026, within the application, students will be asked to submit a second, third and fourth choice program should their first choice program reach capacity.

For more information, students can with an international program advisor or make a general advising appointment to explore their options. ���ϲ����� Abroad will continue to offer virtual advising appointments throughout the summer on a limited basis.

���ϲ����� Madrid Center day trips to cities in Spain

The University’s top teaching assistants were recognized by the Graduate School with the Outstanding Teaching Assistant Award.

The important work and contributions of teaching assistants were recognized yesterday at a ceremony hosted by the .

The Outstanding Teaching Assistant Award is given to teaching assistants who have demonstrated excellence in the role through activities such as classroom teaching, laboratory or studio instruction, leading recitation or discussion sections or assisting senior faculty members with high-enrollment courses.

“Teaching assistants are vital to the undergraduate experience,” says Graduate School Dean Peter Vanable. “They bring energy and important insights to their academic disciplines and are dedicated to the students with whom they work. I thank this year’s award winners for their contributions to the University’s academic mission.”

The 2025 Outstanding Teaching Assistant Awardees, representing the top 3.5% of the TA workforce, are:

• Agathe Baggieri, languages, literatures and linguistics, College of Arts and Sciences
• Karisa Bridgelal, writing studies, rhetoric and composition, College of Arts and Sciences
• Caroline Capuano, physics, College of Arts and Sciences
• Yu-Wei Chang, psychology, College of Arts and Sciences
• Jing Cheng, mechanical and aerospace engineering, College of Engineering and Computer Science
• Gargi De, civil and environmental engineering, College of Engineering and Computer Science
• Ayşenur Değer, political science, Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs
• Julie Harnett, teaching and curriculum, School of Education
• Tori-Ann Haywood, sociology, Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs
• Elise Hegarty, languages, literatures and linguistics, College of Arts and Sciences
• Elana Israel, mathematics, College of Arts and Sciences
• Benjamin Kaufman, mathematics, College of Arts and Sciences
• Harneet Kaur, social science, College of Arts and Sciences
• Pyeonghwa Kim, information science and technology, School of Information Studies
• Hannah Kimbrell, mathematics, College of Arts and Sciences
• Amanda Kingston, cultural foundations of education, School of Information Studies
• Connor Knowlan, communication and rhetorical studies, College of Visual and Performing Arts
• Megan Koch, earth and environmental sciences, College of Arts and Sciences
• Elise Krespan, biology, College of Arts and Sciences
• Gabriella Larson, psychology, College of Arts and Sciences
• Adarsh Raghuram, geography and the environment, Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs
• Abhishek Samlodia, physics, College of Arts and Sciences
• Hector I. Sanchez, history, Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs
• Victor Sholl, philosophy, College of Arts and Sciences
• Nathalie Uwamahoro, electrical engineering and computer science, College of Engineering and Computer Science
• Josiah van Egdom, political science, Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs
• Ying Xu, human development and family science, David B. Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics

Awardees are nominated by their departments and must present a teaching portfolio as part of the review process.

• Bird Library
  • Monday, April 28-Thursday, May 8:��Bird Library will be open 24 hours a day

The Libraries is also offering the following at Bird Library during finals:

• Monday, April 28: Donuts with the Dean on the first floor from 4 to 5 p.m.
• Monday, April 28-Tuesday, May 6: Positivity station on the first floor where students can pick up study goody bags containing notes of encouragement, candy, coloring pages and snacks.
• Tuesday, April 29: Reading Day in the Libraries Wellness Room (Room 114) from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Students can participate in coloring, Zen boards, guided meditation, chair massage pillows and board games.
• As a reminder, the Libraries’ also have two MindSpa available for reservations, in addition to various .

This year’s recipients are:

• Jeffrey Adams, English,
• Akshay, computer and information science and engineering,
• Erika Arias, political science,
• Seok Wun (Shiila) Au Yong, cultural foundations of education,
• Bruce Baigrie, geography, Maxwell School
• Erin Bisesti, sociology, Maxwell School
• Eric Cochran, mathematics, Arts and Sciences
• Xiaoyu Fu, human development and family science,
• Jessica Fundalinski, teaching and curriculum, School of Education
• Michael Kelly, geography, Maxwell School
• Shanel Khaliq, sociology, Maxwell School
• Hyojeong Kim, public administration, Maxwell School
• Minseok Kim, philosophy, Arts and Sciences
• Amanda Kingston, cultural foundations of education, School of Education
• Elise Krespan, biology, Arts and Sciences
• Akit Kumar, information science and technology,
• Sanggu Lee, philosophy, Arts and Sciences
• Jinfen Li, information science and technology, Information Studies
• Tyler Logie, earth and environmental sciences, Arts and Sciences
• Abigail Long, composition and cultural rhetoric, Arts and Sciences
• Desiree Martin, mathematics, Arts and Sciences
• Fasika Melese, instructional design, development and evaluation, School of Education
• Arda Ozyenginer, English, Arts and Sciences
• Henry Potts-Rubin, mathematics, Arts and Sciences
• Samuel Santiago, English, Arts and Sciences
• Dustin Satterfield, sociology, Maxwell School
• Mahder Serekberhan, political science, Maxwell School
• Paige Spencer, religion, Arts and Sciences
• Elina (Ruiqi) Sun, social psychology, Arts and Sciences
• Benjamin Valen, social psychology, Arts and Sciences
• Jenna Walmer, social psychology, Arts and Sciences

The Student Library Advisory Board is an opportunity for students to share their ideas, needs and feedback to improve the Libraries’ services, resources, spaces and programming. Members will participate in user experience activities during once-a-month Friday meetings and will serve as ambassadors for the Libraries among their peers.

Members will also gain leadership and skill-building experience, including in areas of information literacy, communication, civic responsibility, research and creative thinking, while helping to improve the Libraries through fun and interactive engagement. Applicants can anticipate a commitment of approximately 3 hours per month. Current library student employees are ineligible to participate.

The Student Library Advisory Board is supported, in part, through a collaboration with . Those with questions can contact sscott17@syr.edu.

“This initiative ensures that a ���ϲ����� education remains within reach for every talented and driven student—regardless of financial circumstances,” says Chancellor Kent Syverud. “���ϲ����� has a long history of being a university welcoming to all. The ���ϲ����� Promise will continue this legacy for the next generation of students so the best and brightest students can choose to be Orange and thrive here.”

How the ���ϲ����� Promise Match Works

At the heart of The ���ϲ����� Promise is a transformative $10 million matching initiative that empowers donors to enhance their impact and deepen their commitment to student success. Fueled by two generous unrestricted estate gifts, ���ϲ����� will offer a 1:2 match for contributions supporting scholarship endowments. Eligible gifts include contributions of $100,000 or more that establish new endowed scholarships, and $50,000 or more to enhance and sustain existing ones. This forward-thinking program not only reinforces the University’s long-term dedication to access and affordability but also positions ���ϲ����� as a national leader in expanding student opportunity.

Meeting the Moment—and the Need

Today, 78% of ���ϲ����� students receive some form of financial aid. In recent years, the University has reduced the average student debt burden by more than 10%. To build on this progress and meet the financial and academic needs of today’s students, ���ϲ����� is increasing its commitment to growing and sustaining permanent funding sources in perpetuity. Tracy Barlok, senior vice president and chief advancement officer, says scholarships offer just that—lasting support that grows over time through investment and continued giving.

“This initiative is critically important because it allows us to attract and retain students who strengthen our academic excellence and elevate our entire community,” says Barlok. “We’re inviting our alumni and donors to be part of something transformational—to pay it forward to help future generations of students pursue a ���ϲ����� education and thrive—both as students and as future Orange alumni.”

About ���ϲ�����

���ϲ����� is a private research university that advances knowledge across disciplines to drive breakthrough discoveries and breakout leadership. Our collection of 13 schools and colleges with over 200 customizable majors closes the gap between education and action, so students can take on the world. In and beyond the classroom, we connect people, perspectives and practices to solve interconnected challenges with interdisciplinary approaches. Together, we’re a powerful community that moves ideas, individuals and impact beyond what’s possible.

Luiza Owuor

The program helps students like Owuor become involved with research efforts early on in their academic careers, and for Owuor, the experience, especially a presentation from and Professor of Biomedical and Chemical Engineering , ignited her passion for biochemical engineering.

Once Owuor officially embarked on her journey in the , she wanted to contribute to the , which strives to improve treatments for individuals living with an injury or disease. Through experimental and computational approaches, lab researchers study and apply mechanobiology in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

“I remember being especially drawn to Dr. Henderson’s presentation, and his work really sparked my interest in this field,” says Owuor, president of the Society of Women Engineers and a mentor with Catalyst Scholars, a new program for first-generation students.

“Being involved in his lab has been one of the most defining parts of my academic journey. I’ve co-authored two published papers through BioInspired [which examines complex biological systems], and it’s been incredibly rewarding to see our research make a real contribution to the field,” Owuor says. “I’ve built a strong, family-like bond with my lab members and that sense of support and collaboration has made the experience truly special.”

Owuor, a native of Kisumu, Kenya, was recently named as a 2025-26 ���ϲ����� Remembrance Scholar. She sat down with SU News to discuss her passion for biomedical engineering, her career goals, the important role of mentoring and how her time on campus has fueled her holistic development.

What sparked your interest in biomedical engineering and the STEM field?

I’ve always wanted to be part of the health care space, but not necessarily on the front lines. Biomedical engineering drew me in because it offers a way to make a real impact from behind the scenes, whether that’s through designing medical devices, developing therapeutic technologies or conducting research that leads to breakthroughs.

Once I got involved in research at ���ϲ�����, I saw how engineering could be used to solve complex biological problems, and that solidified my passion for this field. I love that I get to blend innovation with purpose every day.

What are your career goals and ambitions?

To become a medical scientist and contribute to the development of innovative therapies that improve patient outcomes. I’m especially interested in translational research, taking discoveries from the lab and turning them into real solutions for people. Pursuing a Ph.D. is part of that path, and I hope to work at the intersection of research and innovation to help address some of the biggest challenges in health care.

What role has mentoring played in your development?

Mentorship has shaped so much of my growth. From research mentors in the to peer leaders in student organizations like the Society of Women Engineers and the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), I’ve been guided and supported by people who believed in my potential. Mentoring others—whether through Academic Excellence Workshops or Catalyst Scholar mentoring—feels like a full-circle moment. It’s my way of paying it forward.

How has your time at ���ϲ����� helped fuel your development?

���ϲ����� has been instrumental in my growth—academically, professionally and personally. Through leadership roles like serving as president of the Society of Women Engineers and alumni relations chair for NSBE, I’ve developed strong communication, organizational and interpersonal skills.

The (SOURCE) program has been a major support system, funding my research projects and giving me the platform to present my work. ���ϲ����� has also connected me with the resources and guidance I needed to secure meaningful internships, including one for this upcoming summer. On top of that, my classes have equipped me with technical lab skills and data analysis that will directly apply to my field and my future career goals.

Students wearing garments from SOLACE Collective’s new line of clothing for neurodivergent individuals.

Carolyn Fernandes ’25 remembers walking out of an interview for a design internship that she ended up not getting. She wondered if fidgeting with her nails—a common, repetitive expression of her nervous energy every day—was misconstrued as a sign of not paying attention and a reason for her not getting the position.

Carolyn Fernandes

Fernandes is part of the 20% of people worldwide who are neurodivergent and live with neurological differences like autism, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, bipolar disorder and social anxiety.

Stories like the one above motivated Fernandes and fellow students Lucas d’Oelsnitz ’25, Aphrodite Gioulekas ’25 and Aidan Turner ’25 to create , which aims to provide everyone, especially neurodivergent individuals, with comfortable garments that alleviate anxiety, increase confidence and reduce distractions by providing opportunities for fidgeting discreetly or openly.

“People like me need to fidget to cope and feel comfortable, so I started researching ways clothing could be made to help neurodiverse people like myself feel more comfortable,” Fernandes says.

After an inspiring conversation with Linda Dickerson Hartsock—the retired founder and executive director of —and after taking an class focused on inclusive product design, Turner came up with the idea for SOLACE “to meet the needs of a huge portion of the population that is currently underserved,” says Turner.

Going All-In to Solve an Important Social Issue

Aidan Turner

In October, Turner set about assembling what he proudly refers to as his team of Avengers to turn concept into reality. As part of the group, Turner, a fifth-year architecture student in the , recruited Fernandes, who is studying industrial design in the (VPA) and Spanish and environmental geoscience in the ; d’Oelsnitz, who is studying finance and entrepreneurship in the ; Gioulekas, a fashion design major in VPA; Maria-Camila Molina ’25, a fashion design major in VPA; Christine Ianniello ’25, a biology major in Arts and Sciences; Bobby Anzaldua ’25, an economics major in the ; Bella Tabak ’25, a magazine, news and digital journalism in the ; and Francine��Tongol ’24, a communications design major in VPA.

Lucas d’Oelsnitz

After sharing their personal experiences with uncomfortable clothing with each other, Turner pitched creating the neurodivergent clothing line. The project’s potential impact immediately resonated with d’Oelsnitz. At Whitman, d’Oelsnitz does a lot of idea pitching but always struggles to control his fidgeting. After one of his first pitches before his peers, d’Oelsnitz nearly passed out because, unable to rely on his usual coping mechanisms like playing with his rings, he felt anxious and light-headed.

“Realizing this is something I would wear motivated me to go all-in on this project because this is not just a clothing brand; it’s solving an important social issue,” says d’Oelsnitz, who has ADHD and bouts of anxiety.

Meeting the Unique Needs of Neurodiverse Individuals

The team set out to collect data on how SOLACE could better meet the needs of neurodiverse individuals, beginning with a wardrobe analysis and personal interviews to determine what types of clothing neurodivergent people liked or didn’t like—including textures and how a garment feels.

Lucas d’Oelsnitz (right) discusses SOLACE Collective’s line of clothing with a student during one of 10 on-campus events where students could try on the clothes and provide feedback.

For the next step, Fernandes conducted a survey of 430 people ages 5 to 91 and discovered that 95% of respondents, including 97% of neurodiverse people, experienced discomfort from their clothing.

Incorporating the feedback and relying on sketches, Turner created a visual design brief that served as the blueprint for the first line of clothing, and Fernandes and others on the team used sewing machines to create prototypes from fabric samples collected from their closets and local thrift shops.

Currently there are four prototypes consisting of a matching sweatshirt or hoodie and sweatpants of assorted colors, fabrics and designs:

• Concealed fidgeting: A sweatsuit featuring textured cargo pockets with hidden interior fabrics for discreet sensory engagement
• Participatory fidgeting: A distressed, double-layered top and bottom set with tactile cutouts for visible fidgeting—turning a need into a confident form of self-expression
• Airy and light: A minimal-stitched, ultra-breathable sweat set built for those sensitive to seams and pressure, offering a loose and calming fit
• Clasp cuffs: A crewneck set with subtly exposed, adjustable elastic cuffs that let wearers control tightness for customized comfort

The clothes are tagless (product details and cleaning instructions are screen-printed on the outside), with many of the items providing its wearer a sense of grounded-ness thanks to the use of heavy fabric, while others rely on light and airy fabrics.

“Our product line serves to confirm to a lot of neurodivergent people that what they’re doing is okay and that they can be normal,” says Fernandes, who serves as SOLACE’s industrial designer. “And it’s not just neurodivergent people that want this clothing. If everyone is wearing it, then no one is going to feel like they’re sticking out like a sore thumb while they fidget.”

Aidan Turner (far right) talks with students during one of SOLACE Collective’s on-campus feedback events.

Transforming Vision into Reality

“We try to achieve a grounded feeling while providing warmth and the reassurance that you’re safe. We’re trying to find a sustainable way to produce items of clothing for everyone, no matter how your neurodiversity presents,” says d’Oelsnitz, SOLACE’s project coordinator.

The group has received more than $32,000 in startup investment money through entrepreneurial competitions held on campus and through grants, including the��2025 School of Information Studies’ Raymond von Dran Fund for Student Entrepreneurship iPrize competition. Earlier this semester, they held 10 events on campus for students to try on the clothes and provide feedback.

After running a marketing campaign, including the launch of a website and social media channels, they hope to start accepting pre-orders in late June, with items being distributed to customers by the end of the summer. Knowing how well-received their casual prototypes have been, Turner, Fernandes and d’Oelsnitz next want to expand into business casual clothing.

“I have a passion for designing fashion, for retail and for entrepreneurship, and I was introduced to the lack of solutions that exist for neurodivergent individuals,” says Turner, SOLACE’s team coordinator. “There are a lot of opportunities for us to give this overlooked community reassurance and warmth through our clothing, and I’m proud of what this wonderful team has accomplished so far.”

Members of the campus community learn about the SOLACE Collective’s line of clothing for neurodivergent individuals.

Emma Bellai

After completing an “Intro to Artificial Intelligence (AI)” course in the (ECS), Emma Bellai ’25 was eager to apply everything she learned in class to her internship with Verizon. Joining the Global Network and Technology team as an AI intern, the timing was perfect, as the AI boom in recent years opened exciting opportunities for exploration in this field.

“One class is all it takes to make the difference and that’s what happened to me,” says Bellai, a computer science student.

In just 10 weeks, Bellai explored how prompt engineering and personas are used in AI chatbots and her background in AI research was a huge help. Prompt engineering involves writing instructions that guide AI chatbots to respond to questions or complete tasks. Personas guide the chatbot’s tone of voice or the way the chatbot speaks. Using specific personas are a great way to make AI chatbots sound more human, which helps personalize their responses.

“The chatbot would talk differently to a CEO than it would to a software engineer,” says Bellai. “The main focus of my work was seeing how to optimize personas for different people. To see the results of my work and having an application on the website that I worked on was very rewarding.”

A typical day at the office involved researching the latest developments in AI, preparing presentations on new concepts she was learning and communicating with her team and personal mentor. Interns were encouraged to engage with others in the company through coffee chats, and Bellai had the opportunity to speak with many employees, including senior leadership and the CEO.

“They wanted to hear from young voices and AI applications from my perspective,” says Bellai. “I got to speak with the CEO at least two or three times, which is great because I feel like at other companies, you don’t get that opportunity.”

Interning with Verizon connected Bellai with the company’s extensive network of professionals, including ���ϲ����� alumni. She also had an opportunity to share her experiences and insights during a live stream to the entire company. Bellai’s hard work and enthusiasm for her role paid off, as she was offered a full-time position and will return to Verizon after graduation.

“If you have a really great professor that makes you genuinely care about the topic you’re learning about, it can make such a big difference down the line,” says Bellai. “ECS gave me the confidence to go into the internship and I felt like I was put in a good position to thrive.”

Gisela von Dran, widow of Raymond von Dran, served as a judge and handed out RvD iPrize awards.

Winners of the 2025 School of Information Studies’ (iSchool) Raymond von Dran (RvD) Fund for Student Entrepreneurship iPrize competition and the Hunter Brooks Watson (HBW) Spirit of Entrepreneurship Award were announced on April 10 at the Blackstone LaunchPad in Bird Library. The award competition highlights the University’s entrepreneurial focus. Each team received a $2,000 award.

Raymond von Dran, who served as dean of the School of Information Studies from 1995 until his passing in 2007, was a longtime academic, entrepreneur and staunch supporter of student innovation.

The 2025 RvD iPrize winners are the following:

• SipSafe, founded by Lindy Elizabeth Truitt ’25 (College of Visual and Performing Arts) and Anjaneya Sanjay Padwal G’25 (School of Information Studies)
• Diabetech, founded by Tosin Alabi G’25 (Martin J. Whitman School of Management)
• InstaHelp, founded by Mirco Sascha Kunz G’26 (Whitman School)
• Game, founded by Carena Gianna Colo G’25 (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs)
• SOLACE, founded by Carolyn Fernandes G’25 (College of Visual and Performing Arts)
• Pari Beauty, founded by Aarna Taparia ’27 (School of Architecture)
• WW Productions, founded by James Oliver Welch G’28 (College of Visual and Performing Arts) and Reid Willar G’27 (College of Visual and Performing Arts)
• Palmarati, founded by Tommy Brown G’28 (S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and School of Information Studies) and Oscar Rune Goranson G’28 (Whitman School)
• RYZYN, founded by Celes Buffard ’27 (School of Information Studies)
• BetaKola, founded by Alie Savane ’25 (College of Arts and Sciences)

The Hunter Brooks Watson Spirit of Entrepreneurship Award began in 2018 through the Hunter Brooks Watson Memorial Fund and is awarded to students who best exemplify “The Spirit of Entrepreneurship.” Prizes honor the memory of Hunter Brooks Watson, a ���ϲ����� student who died tragically in a distracted driving accident. The 2025 HBW Spirit of Entrepreneurship Award Winners are the following:

• Carolina Aguayo-Pla ’27 (Whitman School and School of Information Studies)
• Waqar Hussain ’25 (Whitman School)
• Isabella Carter G’26 (Newhouse School) and Ava Lubkemann G’26 (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Ziekariba Nonr Diallo G’28 (School of Information Studies)
• Jase M Malloy ’25 (School of Information Studies)

Connor McNeil, left, holds the U.S. flag with a fellow solider just after conducting a mission in which they fended off a mock attack on snowmobiles and skis.

A student in the master of arts in international relations program in the recently returned from a unique training exercise that brought together U.S. and Canadian troops in the Arctic.

Connor McNeil participated in Guerrier Nordique (Nordic Warrior) 25 as a member of the Vermont Army National Guard. He joined troops from the Virginia National Guard, 75th Ranger Regiment, Marine Mountain Warfare Training Center and 10th Mountain Division while partnering with the Canadian Arctic Response Company Group, which hosts and organizes the event.

Over the course of three weeks in March, participants skied more than 20 miles across the frozen Lake Saint-Jean, hauling gear on pulk sleds, and ran recon missions, mock platoon attacks and other tactical operations—all while facing blowing snow and temperatures as low as -25°F.

“Despite the conditions, the training was amazing. We were able to interact with our Canadian counterparts who were delighted to teach us the institutional knowledge they had gained from decades of training in these harsh environments,” says McNeil. “From snowmobiling and skiing to setting up Arctic tents and fixing stoves, we learned exactly what it would take to sustain ourselves in the field. Conversely, we were able to share with them our tactics and operating procedures.”

McNeil says the experience was a good complement to his studies, which he began in August 2024. He said climate change and economic interests will continue to drive human activities in the Arctic, threatening Indigenous communities, wildlife and diplomatic stability.

“As a byproduct of these changes, the demand for highly capable response groups from Arctic stakeholder nations will also increase,” McNeil says. “Multinational military training exercises in the Arctic are amazing opportunities to collaborate with partner nations who are concerned about the preservation and security of the region. This common ground created a two-way exchange for every soldier to teach, learn and share what they have learned and hope to learn about the Arctic. This is the gold standard of developing collaboration between nations.”

McNeil is especially interested in the Asia-Pacific region and a career in international trade and finance. “I hope to also leverage my military connections and develop international military partnerships between the U.S. and foreign nations,” McNeil says. “I know Maxwell is the launching platform for these aspirations and I know I made the right choice by coming to ���ϲ�����. We have world-class practitioners and subject matter experts in the Maxwell School that have truly challenged my abilities.”

Lois Agnew, vice chancellor, provost and chief academic officer, was the emcee for the afternoon.

The One University Awards, an annual event to honor members of the ���ϲ����� community who are making a difference through academics, scholarship, creative work and dedicated service, was held April 11 in Hendricks Chapel.

Some scenes from the event:

The Hendricks Chapel Choir performed “I Was Glad” under the direction of graduate student conductor Ben O’Connell. (Photos by Amy Manley)

Mace Bearer Bea González prepares to pass the charter mace to incoming Mace Bearer Samuel Clemence, professor emeritus in the College of Engineering and Computer Science.

Chancellor Kent Syverud offered opening remarks.

Incoming Mace Bearer Samuel Clemence is pictured during the ceremony.

Emma Klein, a member of the women’s soccer team, was one of three honored with the Student-Athlete Award.

James “Jimmy” Taylor Jr., a staff member in Facilities Services, was honored for 50 years of service.

Bill Coplin, Laura J. and L. Douglas Meredith Professor for Teaching Excellence and professor of policy studies in the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, acknowledges congratulations from the audience upon the announcement of his 55 years of service to the University.

Craig Tucker, director of Higher Education Opportunity Program and Trio Student Support Services programs, receives the Enduring Values Award.

Howard G. Adams G’79 (center), founder and president of H.G. Adams & Associates Inc., and an alumnus of the School of Education, received the Tolley Medal from Chancellor Syverud (left) and Kelly Chandler-Olcott, dean of the School of Education.

Qingyang Liu, a doctoral candidate in the Department of Human Development and Family Science in the Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics, received the Chancellor’s Citation for Excellence in Student Research (graduate).

Emma Karp, operations assistant in Campus Dining and Catering, received the Chancellor’s Citation for Outstanding Contributions to the Student Experience and University Initiatives (support staff).

James Clark, professor and program coordinator for theater management in the College of Visual and Performing Arts, received the Chancellor’s Citation Lifetime Achievement Award.

Cydney Johnson, deputy county executive for physical services for Onondaga County and the University’s former vice president for community engagement and government relations, received the Chancellor’s Medal from Chancellor Syverud.

Bill Coplin, Laura J. and L. Douglas Meredith Professor for Teaching Excellence and professor of policy studies in the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, received the Chancellor’s Medal from Chancellor Syverud.

Students (from left) Yifan “Ivan” Shen, Mason Romero, Joshua Garvin, Jennifer LaMonica and Ryan Myers led the alma mater to conclude the program.

Tyler Gentry ’25 (right), who received funds from the Internship Funding Award, and a coworker in the Vevo office space in Los Angeles

Annually, offers the Internship Funding Award, which provides financial assistance to ���ϲ����� sophomores and juniors throughout summer internship experiences. The award covers the cost of credit or travel and living expenses. Internships can be either paid or unpaid for students to be eligible to receive the award. Other eligibility requirements include the following.

• The applicant has not previously received the Internship Funding Award.
• The internship is an external summer position.
• The internship is supervised by a professional who can help the student explore opportunities that link theory with practice in the field of the student’s interest.
• The applicant’s profile is updated and complete.

Applications for the Internship Funding Award are due June 10, 2025. The following highlighted students received the Internship Funding Award in 2024.

Making Global Connections

Gabrielle Harrison ’25 spent her summer as a consumer public relations intern at FINN Partners in London, England. In this position, Harrison was immersed in the PR world and worked on projects for clients around the world. “I had the chance to contribute to meaningful campaigns, from media relations to event planning, and learned a great deal about the industry from my incredibly talented colleagues on the consumer team,” says Harrison.

The FINN Partners office in London (Photo by Gabrielle Harrison ’25)

Harrison says that future applicants should be thorough and specific about how they would benefit from the award. “Preparation is essential, so take time to craft a compelling narrative that showcases your passion and how this experience will benefit both you and your community.”

Contributing to the Entertainment Industry

Tyler Gentry ’25 spent his summer in Los Angeles, California, as a music and talent intern at Vevo. The Internship Funding Award allowed him to experience the city and work with leading artists in the music industry. “My internship gave me the opportunity to create studio performance videos for artists such as Dasha, The Warning, Wolftyla, Chanel Tres and many more!”

Gentry says that it was a difficult process to figure out the financial logistics of his internship, but he says it’s important for students to stay determined. “Be passionate about what you want and how you will obtain it. My passion and determination helped me stay focused on creating a realistic plan for me to make the internship happen,” says Gentry.

Securing Jobs Post-Graduation

Through the support of the Internship Funding Award, Madison Deak ’25 interned last summer at Goldman Sachs Ayco in Cohoes, New York. Her experience included networking opportunities with financial professionals and immersion in the world of wealth management. “After an amazing summer I’m excited to be returning full-time to Goldmans Family Office post-grad,” says Deak.

Deak says an essential part of finding an internship is to stay open-minded; it took her over a year after she started applying to land an offer. “As long as you’re doing the right things: applying, interviewing and continuing to be involved in your academics, you will find something. It may just take time. You will end up where you’re meant to be.”

For complete information and application details, visit the on the Career Services website. Contact Erin Smith at ejsmit06@syr.edu with any questions.

Story by Student Experience communications intern Chloe Langerman ’25, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications

Students have myriad opportunities to study the history of Chinese art in the course History of Art 300: Modern and Contemporary Chinese Art��taught by , a postdoctoral researcher in the��.

Yifan Li (standing), a postdoctoral researcher of art and music histories, speaks with students in his class, Modern and Contemporary Chinese Art. The group visited the ���ϲ����� Art Museum to view a selection of China-related artworks.

Li’s courses on Chinese art and visual culture emphasize the artworks’ distinctive and intricate nature, influenced by exchanges, relationships and activities across national borders, as well as the innovative use of new image-making technologies.

A popular aspect of the class is the hands-on learning opportunities that allow students to examine objects from the��’s collections. During a visit in the spring semester, the class viewed a selection of woodcuts by the Chinese American artist Seong Moy (1921–2013). Woodcut is a printmaking technique where an image is carved into a block of wood, and the raised areas are inked and pressed onto paper to create a print.

One of the works examined by students was “Love on the Yangtse” (1951), a woodcut print by artist Seong Moy.

The women’s club hockey team celebrates its first Amateur Athletic Union national championship in Jacksonville, Florida.

Jordan Boron ’25 loved to play ice hockey, but she came to ���ϲ����� in 2022 because its in the Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics is widely considered one of the best sport management programs in the country.

����������ܲ���’s team? Not so much.

But in Boron’s three winters on campus, the club team went from having only six players in the season before Boron arrived to going undefeated (20-0) and winning the in early March, with Boron as one of the team’s leading defensemen.

Turned out, Boron really could have it all at ���ϲ�����.

“I am honored to be a part of this team and to be a part of how far it has come,” she says. “The team’s leadership has done incredible things to build out this program and our coaches, Christina Beam and Marty Sicilia, have been a huge part of that. This team is a group of deeply dedicated players that worked so hard to win that national title.

“That is what made this win so much better, the hard work that we all put into this team,” Boron says.

Jordan Boron (left) and Bryana Treon show off their national championship hats.

Boron is one of five Falk College students who played on ����������ܲ���’s first women’s club hockey national championship team. The others are Sarah Anderson ’28 (health and exercise science and premed), Sophie Lauzon ’26 (public health), Neve Padulo ’28 (exercise science) and Bryana Treon ’27 (social work).

Boron was on the ice when the buzzer sounded to end ����������ܲ���’s 4-2 win over the University of Tampa in the AAU Women’s National Championship game in Jacksonville, Florida. It was a moment she’ll never forget.

“During the last few minutes of the championship game our bench was going wild because the inevitable win was in sight,” she says. “All I was thinking was ‘I need to go hug Emma (goaltender Emmalyn Lacz) because she played so incredibly.’ The next thing I know, the whole team is on the ice, gloves and sticks thrown about and we are all screaming at the top of our lungs. We are national champions!”

‘We Had A Real Chance’

Growing up in Mount Airy, Maryland, Boron started playing hockey when she was 10. She played in youth leagues and in her senior year of high school was talented enough to play for the Tier 1 Washington Pride. In youth hockey in the United States, Tier 1 represents the highest level of competition and requires significant time and travel commitments.

Boron could have certainly tried to play hockey in college, but she focused her choice on academics and once she learned about the sport management program at ���ϲ�����, she “knew this was where I wanted to go.” While touring campus and visiting the on South Campus, she met one of her future hockey teammates, Amanda Wheeler, who was working at the pro shop. They started talking about hockey, and Wheeler encouraged Boron to try out for the team if she came to ���ϲ�����.

was founded in 2022 as a way to give club teams more structure and competitive opportunities. The league is comprised of three men’s divisions and one women’s division, and the divisions are split into regional conferences. For the women, the division includes 18 teams divided into College Hockey North and College Hockey South divisions.

The time commitment is significant—three practices a week and home and away games each weekend with the away games often involving hours of travel and some overnight stays. Guided by coaches Beam and Sicilia, the team steadily improved over the years and this past season went 14-0 before defeating Springfield and Paul Smith to win the College Hockey North.

Jordan Boron

In the national tournament in Jacksonville, ���ϲ����� defeated Springfield again before facing the Alabama Frozen Tide—the first team ���ϲ����� played from the College Hockey South.

“The 10-2 win against Alabama was the moment for our team that made us feel like we had a real chance to win a national championship,” Boron says. “Seeing that we could win against a team that had previously beat Tampa, our next opponent, gave us the confidence boost we needed.”

‘The Moment Did Not Feel Real’

With a pool-play format, ���ϲ����� qualified for the national championship after defeating Alabama but still had to play Tampa, which had also won its first two games to qualify for the final. But while ����������ܲ���’s pool-play game against Tampa didn’t decide the national title, it did set the tone for the championship game that followed the next day.

“I would argue that this was one of the most important games of the tournament,” Boron says. “We needed to play that game just like we would the next day to win the title.

“After our 3-2 win in our first game against Tampa, our excitement continued to build, and everyone was locked in and set on winning the next day,” Boron adds. “We went on to win the championship game 4-2, playing and fighting even harder than the game prior.”

For Boron, who will be graduating early in December after completing her Capstone internship this fall, the championship put an exclamation point on her stellar athletic and academic experience at ���ϲ�����. This season, she worked as a community relations intern for the ���ϲ����� Crunch American Hockey League team, assisting with community-related projects such as honoring military members and auctioning autographed game-used memorabilia for fans during games. Previously, she had internships with the ���ϲ����� Athletics communications team, the NHL’s Washington Capitals and the Premier Lacrosse League at the Championship Series in February.

Boron is a member of (WISE) in the Falk College, and for the past two years she was co-chair of the Donations Committee for the Sport Management Club’s Sports Charity Auction. The 20th annual auction in December raised $59,500 for the Rescue Mission of ���ϲ�����, and the club has now raised more than $760,000 for local charities since 2005.

As she prepares to start her professional career, Boron says she would like to work in youth hockey development to make the sport she loves “more accessible to all.” Her hope for young players is that they all have an opportunity to experience what she felt on the ice in Jacksonville, where all the hard work and sacrifice paid off in a historic championship for ���ϲ����� club hockey.

“It was incredible to share this moment with my teammates,” she says. “After the huddle dispersed, I found some of my closest friends on the team hugged them because the moment did not feel real. There is no one I would rather be on that ice with.”

To learn more about the women’s ice hockey club, follow the team on . If you’d like more information about the team or to try out, email suwomenshockey@gmail.com.

The Student Experience division is honored to announce the selection of Chidera Olalere ’26 and Silke Pion ’26 as the Class of 2026 Senior Class Marshals. As the all-University representatives for their class, in this role they will help to recommend the Commencement speaker, offer insights and suggestions to the student experience, participate in campus events and conclude their service by leading the student procession during the 2026 Commencement ceremony.

“Leading with heart, purpose and unmistakable Orange pride, Chidera and Silke have made a lasting impact on our ���ϲ����� community through their dedication to campus involvement, community service and academic excellence,” says Sheriah N. Dixon, associate vice president for the��, dean of students and chair of the selection committee. “As the Class of 2026 Senior Class Marshals, they embody the true spirit of ���ϲ�����—guiding us with vision, unity and distinction as we step boldly into the future.”

Chidera Olalere

Home is where you find community and belonging and for rising senior Chidera Olalere, her homes include Nigeria, North Yorkshire, England, and ���ϲ�����. Driven to immerse herself in learning experiences in and beyond the classroom, Olalere joined the Orange community as an international student and soon after, quickly began building a student experience unique to her passions, goals and academic pursuits.

“I have been introduced to opportunities that I would not have known existed otherwise and I have been given mentors in more spaces and fields than I could have imagined. The people at this University invest in you and as I have been thinking intently about how I want to close out my time at ���ϲ�����, I knew I wanted to pay all this forward,” says Olalere in reflection of what motivated her to apply for Senior Class Marshal. “I am also excited to represent all my different experiences at the University, my background and hopefully show other students the value of being open to the opportunities around them and pursuing the things they are passionate about.”

Within the Olalere is pursuing dual majors in biochemistry and forensic science, with a minor in economics. Highlighted scholarly accomplishments include being a member of the Renée Crown University Honors Program and a recipient of the Invest in Success and 1870 scholarships. Bridging what is learned in the classroom to future professional endeavors, Olalere has entered her second year as an undergraduate research intern within the Upstate Medical University Bourboulia Lab, working to identify potential new therapeutic agents for cancer therapy.

Driven by a passion for making a meaningful impact, Olalere is deeply involved in the campus community. She supports student success as a Stevenson Education Center tutor and cultivates community connections as a residence assistant. As a student leader she has consistently sought opportunities to support her peers. Additional highlights include serving as an Office of Academic Integrity student hearing panelist, a first-responder EMT on the ���ϲ����� Ambulance team, as a college ministry worship leader and a student ambassador for the College of Arts and Sciences.

“To me, being Orange has looked like inviting people into your life and loving them well. Whether the interaction is one minute or semester long, being Orange is being enthusiastic and supportive, and using what you have learned to help those coming up after you,” says Olalere. “The legacy I have found at ���ϲ����� is one of joyful service and community and that is the same legacy I hope to leave behind.”

Silke Pion

As a California resident, contemplating leaving the West Coast for ���ϲ����� was at first a daunting decision for Pion, a junior in the and pursuing bachelor’s degrees in political science, finance and business analytics. Soon after starting her first semester, it became clear that not only did she make the right choice by pursuing ���ϲ����� but the opportunities for student success were limitless.

“I want my legacy to remain here at ���ϲ����� and remind students who may second guess themselves that they are worthy of every opportunity in front of them. Before ���ϲ�����, I would have never applied for opportunities such as being a Senior Class Marshal—out of pure fear of rejection,” says Pion. “My time here has demonstrated that rejection is not the end of the world and often leads to some other unexpected surprises.”

As a recipient of the Chancellor’s and Invest in Success scholarships, in addition to being a member of the dean’s list, Renée Crown University Honors Program and the International Business Honor Society Beta Gamma Sigma, Pion quickly dove into the student experience, facing uncertainty head-on and working to earn success both inside and outside of the classroom.

Throughout her undergraduate career, Pion has immersed herself into a variety of student experiences focusing on professional development, leadership and community service. Within the campus community she has led Alpha Gamma Delta as the director of finance, served as a Martin J. Whitman School of Management Marshall House teaching assistant and Harrison House leader, as president and service chair for Challah for Hunger: A Project of MAZON, community service chair under ���ϲ����� Hillel and as a member of Beta Alpha Psi: Finance and Accounting Professional Fraternity.

When working to build a strong launchpad for the future, Pion prioritized finding personal success just as much as finding success for others within the communities she supports. Immersing herself in professional development within the greater global community, her experience includes being a junior analyst for The Orange Value Fund, LLC, policy analyst intern within the New York State Assembly Member Pamela Hunter’s district office, communications and community coordinator for the Kenya Immersion Experience and an active member of the Goodman IMPRESS Program and volunteer in the ���ϲ����� community.

“No opportunity or experience stands alone, instead, it’s the result of the hard work and commitment of others who came before. I want to continue the tradition of paying it forward and spread the message across campus.” Pion shares as she eagerly prepares for her final chapter as an undergraduate student and looks to how she can support future generations of students. “Although my time at ���ϲ����� is quickly coming to an end, a piece of my heart will always be here. I want my legacy to remain here at ���ϲ����� and remind the students who may second guess themselves that they are worthy of every opportunity in front of them.”

Isaac Arnold is exploring every side of the ���ϲ����� experience, engaging in cutting-edge plant biology research, developing entrepreneurial ventures and excelling on the ice rink in his free time.

With climate change and severe weather expected to intensify in the coming years, developing strategies for a resilient food supply is crucial.

This involves understanding and developing crops that can withstand pathogens that cause diseases, one of the key areas of����at the College of Arts and Sciences (A&S). Combining biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, economics, business and engineering, the biotechnology program is helping find practical solutions to solving the challenges facing our food supply, global health and the environment.

A&S students like Isaac Arnold ’26 are already finding numerous opportunities to address these important questions.

Making an Early Contribution

Arnold, originally from Halifax, a small city in Nova Scotia, Canada, had never heard of biotechnology before coming to ���ϲ�����. Initially declaring as a biochemistry major, Arnold was intrigued by the cutting-edge aspect of biotech and its broad, practical applications after learning about the field of biotechnology from his biology professor and now mentor,��.

Arnold (left) with Professor Ramesh Raina (third from right) and members of the lab group.

Since joining Professor Raina’s lab, Arnold recently co-authored a study in the journal��, which explored how a set of genes (GATA21 and GATA22) are involved in regulating pathogen defense response in a plant called Arabidopsis.

“Humans share much of their genome with plants, which is why a lot of research done in the plant biology sphere is also relevant medically,” says Arnold. “We study the effects of epigenetic modifications, which are essentially reversible changes to regulate gene expression. Our research focuses on disease resistance—specifically, identifying which genes in plants regulate resistance to disease, and understanding the trade-offs involved.”

In their recent publication, the team found that GATA21 and GATA22 proteins positively regulate defense against fungal pathogens while acting antagonistically against bacterial pathogens. By understanding the mechanisms regulating these processes, researchers can develop strategies for producing crop plants with enhanced resistance against pathogens.

A key contribution by Arnold to this study stems from his long-standing interest in computer coding. In addition to assisting with the scientific research and publication writing, he developed image analysis software used during the study.

“It was inspiring to work closely with such a smart and driven team. They taught me everything I needed to know, helping me understand exactly how to utilize my skill set,” he says. “I gained a lot of great mentors through this, made tons of connections and it was just an overall amazing experience.”

Raina, professor and executive director of the biotechnology program and co-author on the study, says that Arnold’s efforts have significantly enhanced the research output of his lab.

“In addition to making some very interesting scientific observations, Isaac’s coding enabled us to rapidly analyze large datasets,” says Raina. “His work not only contributed to our most recent publication but will also be instrumental in analyzing data for several upcoming manuscripts. Isaac is an incredibly intelligent, creative and resourceful student who consistently thinks outside the box.”

Finding Purpose at Pfizer

Beyond his research contributions at ���ϲ�����, Arnold has enhanced his career readiness through internship and entrepreneurial opportunities tailored for biotechnology students. In the summer of 2024, he applied for and secured a position at Pfizer’s New York City office, working in the medical affairs department within the emerging markets sector—regions where Pfizer aims to expand its market presence.

“Being from a small city like Halifax, it was a great experience spending my summer living in Manhattan,” he says.

One of the aspects of the biotechnology major that excited Arnold was the opportunity to make a tangible difference to world health. To that end, his favorite project at Pfizer involved working with the Accord team to deliver much-needed vaccines to people in developing countries at cost (meaning without profit to Pfizer).

Leveraging his computer science expertise, he developed a database that integrates epidemiological publications (having to do with how diseases spread) from major sites into Pfizer’s internal system. This database can sort information by country or disease based on prompts and provide relevant details about the side effects of certain diseases, including considerations for patients with conditions like hemophilia or immunocompromised states.

“For a lot of the countries where there’s not a lot of publications, it’ll give you information from countries with similar demographics. I used a language model to summarize all the main facts into slide decks on command, so if you want South Sudan publications, you type in South Sudan COVID-19 immunocompromised and it would list the most recent and relevant epidemiological data through this database,” says Arnold.

Building on the success of that project, he also created an intern slide deck for Pfizer to provide new interns with essential tools and resources during their onboarding process.

“Being able to create those connections at a major company is unreal,” says Arnold. “Once they see that you care about what you’re doing and that you work hard, people really start to respect you.”

Leveraging his connections at Pfizer, Arnold arranged for a company representative to attend the��biotechnology conference��at ���ϲ����� on April 5. At the conference, industry leaders networked with students and shared insights into the latest advancements in biotechnology, innovative therapies and industry trends.

Arnold (left) with Graciela Morales, vice president, Pfizer Vaccines Lead, Emerging Markets at Pfizer’s headquarters in Manhattan

Swimming With the Funding ‘Sharks’

Pushing the boundaries of science and technology to lead to better health outcomes is a hallmark of the biotechnology field. Arnold and a group of his friends at ���ϲ����� have created a platform for students to promote their biotechnology innovations on the world stage.

The group recently founded��, a startup incubator at the University aiming to bring together students from diverse fields to launch a new biotech startup each year and compete at the����in Paris, which is attended by over 200 venture capital firms.

“Every single year we’ll pick a different project and work with students through all aspects from initial development, brainstorming, idea creation, to the actual wet bench science, which is pretty cutting-edge,” says Arnold.

While he can’t talk specifics about the products currently in development, due to confidentiality, he says they have some interesting projects in the medical device and genetics spheres. The goal of this initiative is to create a marketable biotechnology product that could be sold or introduced to the market. This prototype would be showcased at the iGem competition, where biotechnology projects are presented, primarily serving as a platform for investors. If a venture capital firm sees potential in the prototype, they might purchase the idea and scale it up to a market level.

“This initiative could create jobs for students and potentially lead to the formation of a new company,” says Arnold. “It offers significant opportunities both for career advancement and gaining real-life work experience.”

A Busy Schedule Paves the Way for Medical School

Arnold’s schedule, filled with internships, 22-credit semesters, research, startups and some hockey during his free time, sets the stage for his next ambition: tackling the challenges of medical school. What drives him? Passion.

“I truly love the work,” he says. “I love helping people. I love developing cutting edge technology and working on things that are super interesting and have real-life implications that can make the world a better place.”

By getting used to a busy schedule now, he anticipates managing the demands of medical school while continuing biotechnology entrepreneurial ventures.

“This is my way of unwinding. It’s how I take my mind off school,” he says. “I’ll always be deeply involved in the biotech industry, no matter where I end up. I love the research and the opportunities it can create for people.”

In business, Daniel A. D’Aniello ’68, H’20, can only be considered an icon, and much of his success is rooted in his respect for the U.S. military and his education at ���ϲ�����. The is proud to announce��that this devoted alumnus, ���ϲ����� life trustee and generous supporter will address the Whitman Class of 2025 at this year’s Convocation.

D’Aniello is co-founder and chair emeritus of the private equity firm, The Carlyle Group, established in 1987. Prior to that, his career included positions as vice president for finance and development at Marriott Corporation and financial officer at both PepsiCo, Inc., and Transworld Airlines (TWA).

A member of Beta Gamma Sigma, ����������ܲ���’s business fraternity, D’Aniello graduated magna cum laude from ���ϲ�����. He was drafted into the U.S. Navy, where he was a distinguished naval graduate of the Officer Candidate School, as well as a supply officer aboard the U.S.S. Wasp (CVS 18). After serving his country, D’Aniello earned an MBA from Harvard Business School in 1974.

“We could not be more excited to have Dan D’Aniello speak to our graduates this year,” says Whitman Interim Dean Alex McKelvie. “His global business acumen is unparalleled, and I am certain his words of advice, based on his own success, leadership and generous spirit, are sure to resonate with our outstanding 2025 Whitman School graduates who are eager to soak up his wisdom as they embark on the next steps in their business careers.”

In appreciation of the strong foundations he received at ���ϲ����� and his commitment to the U.S military, D’Aniello has been a highly valued partner to the leadership of the Whitman School of Management, serving on the Whitman Advisory Council (WAC) and also establishing the D’Aniello Entrepreneurship Internship Program to support business development and expand students’ experiential learning opportunities. His other commitments include chairman of the Chancellor’s Council and co-chairman of the (IVMF) Advisory Board.

Long-time supporters of ���ϲ�����, Dan and his wife Gayle gave the naming gift to the Daniel and Gayle D’Aniello Building, home to the National Veterans Resource Center in 2018. At the opening of the building, Dan announced an additional transformative endowment and naming gift for the D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families, ensuring its work will continue well into the future.

The D’Aniellos’ unwavering support for ���ϲ����� continued in 2022 when they committed a gift to support and expand the Daniel and Gayle D’Aniello ���ϲ����� Program in Florence, part of the ���ϲ����� Abroad program in Florence, Italy. The program has been able to grow student opportunities, provide more faculty support, upgrade facilities, further develop the curriculum and provide scholarship support to students to attend the study abroad experience, specifically veteran and military-connected students. Most recently, D’Aniello and his wife made a transformative gift to expand ���ϲ�����’s Catholic Center.

The Whitman School of Management’s 2025 Convocation will be held on Saturday, May 10, at 4 p.m. in the JMA Wireless Dome.

The One University Awards Ceremony, an annual event to honor members of the ���ϲ����� community who are making a difference through academics, scholarship, creative work and dedicated service, will be held Friday, April 11, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. in Hendricks Chapel.

“The One University Awards are one of the great traditions at ���ϲ�����,” says Chancellor Kent Syverud. “This ceremony highlights the incredible accomplishments, scholarship, and innovation of our students, faculty, staff, and community. Every year I look forward to celebrating the talented and dedicated people who come together to make this a great university.”

Two major awards—the Chancellor’s Medal and the Chancellor’s Citation for Excellence—will be bestowed. The ceremony will also include the presentation of the Student-Athlete Award, Judith Seinfeld Scholarship, Meredith Professorship for Teaching Excellence, Teaching Recognition Award, Enduring Values Award, William Pearson Tolley Medal for Distinguished Leadership in Lifelong Learning and Chancellor’s Forever Orange Award.

and ��will also be recognized. This year’s��University Scholars,��, and��Remembrance and Lockerbie Scholars��will also be honored.

All members of the University community are invited and encouraged to attend. A reception will follow in the lobby of the Heroy Geology Laboratory building.

American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART) will be provided at the ceremony. For questions about accessibility or to request accommodations, contact Major Events at��majorevents@syr.edu.

Award Recipients��

The��Chancellor’s Medal��is the University’s highest honor and is awarded to individuals in honor of their trailblazing and extraordinary contributions to the University, to an academic body of knowledge or to society.

This year’s recipients are Cydney Johnson, deputy county executive for physical services for Onondaga County and ���ϲ�����’s former vice president for community engagement and government relations, and , Laura J. and L. Douglas Meredith Professor for Teaching Excellence and professor of policy studies in the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs.

The��Chancellor’s Citation for Excellence��recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions in four overarching categories:

• The award for��Excellence in Student Research��recognizes students who have engaged in collaborative research that has the potential to make a deep and lasting impact on greater society. This year’s recipients are Qingyang Liu, a doctoral candidate in the Department of Human Development and Family Science in the Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics (graduate), and Abigail Greenfield, a history major in the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, a political philosophy major in the College of Arts and Sciences, and member of the Renée Crown University Honors Program (undergraduate).
• The award for��Outstanding Contributions to the Student Experience and University Initiatives��acknowledges faculty and staff who, through their work, enhance the undergraduate experience for students or make invaluable contributions to supporting and advancing the University’s mission and goals. The recipients are��, associate teaching professor in the College of Engineering and Computer Science (faculty);��, assistant dean for undergraduate programs in the Whitman School of Management (professional staff); , director of international student success in the College of Arts and Sciences (professional staff) and��Emma Karp, operations assistant in Campus Dining and Catering (support staff).
• The��Faculty Excellence and Scholarly Distinction��award is intended for faculty members who are collaborators in work of intellectual richness that has the potential for future impact. The work of these nominees offers possibilities for collaboration within the University and outside in partnership with others. This year’s honorees are��, professor of teaching and leadership and director of the Center for Experiential Pedagogy and Practice in the School of Education, and��, professor and chair of biomedical and chemical engineering in the College of Engineering and Computer Science.
• Chancellor’s Citation for Excellence, Lifetime Achievement Award. This award honors those who have made extraordinary contributions toward advancing all four pillars of excellence over the arc of their careers while at ���ϲ����� and beyond. This year’s recipient is��, professor and program coordinator for theater management in the College of Visual and Performing Arts.

The other awards to be presented are:

The��Student-Athlete Award��recognizes the top female and top male student athletes and are presented to the senior student-athletes with the highest cumulative grade point average over the course of their academic and athletic careers. This year’s recipients are Jordan Beck, a finance major in the Whitman School of Management and a member of the men’s lacrosse team, Charlotte Ebel, majoring in public relations in the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and German language, literature and culture and women’s and gender studies in the College of Arts and Sciences and a member of the women’s rowing team, and Emma Klein, a chemical engineering major in the College of Engineering and Computer Science and a member of the women’s soccer team.

Seinfeld Scholarship: Each year ���ϲ����� honors the talents of outstanding faculty or students through an��, a distinguished alumna and member of the University Board of Trustees. Awards are made to those who have been determined by their peers to have made outstanding contributions to the beauty of the world, to have added to human values and to ending human abuse anywhere in the world, and to have demonstrated passion for excellence, creativity and originality in academic or artistic fields. This year, the designation is bestowed upon Claire Ceccoli, a senior public relations major in the Newhouse School, and Elizabeth Paulin, a senior sociology major in the Maxwell School and College of Arts and Sciences.

The��Laura J. and L. Douglas Meredith Professorships for Teaching Excellence��were created in 1995 to recognize and reward outstanding teaching among faculty. The 2025-28 Meredith Professors are , associate professor in the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, and��, professor and associate dean of human dynamics in the Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics. The 2022-2025 Meredith Professors, Julie Hasenwinkel and Lauryn Gouldin, will also be recognized. In 2001, the Meredith Professorship Program was expanded to recognize teaching excellence by non-tenured faculty and adjunct and part-time instructors. Awards are given in two categories:��Early Performance��and��Continuing Excellence. This year’s honorees in the Early Performance category are��, associate teaching professor of biochemistry and director of undergraduate program in the College of Arts and Sciences;��, assistant teaching professor of political science in the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs;��, Kenneth and Mary Ann Shaw Professor of Practice in Entrepreneurial Leadership in the College of Engineering and Computer Science;��, assistant professor of public relations in the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications; , assistant professor in the School of Information Studies; and��, associate professor of law in the College of Law. The two honorees in the Continuing Excellence category are��, teaching professor and associate dean of students in the College of Law, and��, associate teaching professor of writing studies, rhetoric, and composition in the College of Arts and Sciences.

The��Enduring Values Award recognizes an individual who is integral in helping us achieve academic excellence at a university that is welcoming to all. This year’s recipient is Craig Tucker, director of Higher Education Opportunity Program and Trio Student Support Services programs.

The��William Pearson Tolley Medal for Distinguished Leadership in Lifelong Learning��is based in the School of Education and honors national or international leadership in support of lifelong learning. This year’s recipient is , founder and president of H.G. Adams & Associates Inc., and an alumnus of the School of Education.

The��Chancellor’s Forever Orange Award��recognizes individual students, faculty or staff who—by virtue of extraordinary hard work, good values and commitment to excellence—have come to embody the best of ���ϲ�����. This year’s recipient is��, founding director of the Shaw Center for Public and Community Service.

Ralf Schneider, associate professor of industrial and interaction design, works with a student in virtual reality as part of his Designing In Virtual Reality class.

On the fourth floor of Bird Library sits what Associate Professor of Industrial and Interaction Design hopes will be the interactive classroom of the future.

Walking by the , located in Room 458, this particular classroom has a rather unassuming look, with its mix of chairs, tables and white boards.

But what makes Schneider’s Designing In Virtual Reality class in the truly unique is how it blends technology with innovation and collaboration to create an interdisciplinary learning environment.

Utilizing Meta Quest 3 virtual reality (VR) headsets with Gravity Sketch, a software program that allows users to sketch and draw in virtual reality, students from the fashion, interior design, industrial design and interaction design fields come together to create three-dimensional (3D) models, helping designers and artists express and fine-tune their ideas in a virtual space while encouraging real-time collaboration.

Ralf Schneider

“This class connects the two-dimensional world with the three-dimensional world, allowing students to be creative in an immersive, collaborative, three-dimensional space. It’s an exciting way for students to learn and work with each other,” Schneider says.

By incorporating VR sketching into the design process, Schneider says his students learn to revolutionize the way they conceptualize, iterate, collaborate on and communicate their projects and ideas, streamlining the design process while producing a more immersive and engaging experience for both the designers and their clients.

“This is definitely the classroom of the future. It’s a game-changer to be able to design and work collaboratively in design fields in the same virtual space without needing to physically be in the same location,” says Sofia Hom ’27, an industrial and interaction design major in the School of Design in the College of Visual and Performing Arts.

Students wear their untethered VR headsets while engaging with Gravity Sketch, connecting and transforming their workflow from two dimensions into three dimensions while also streamlining and improving on past design processes.

Sofia Hom

Previously, designers would sketch their ideas in side views, top views, front views, orthographic projections—a way of representing a 3D object using multiple 2D views—and perspective views—creating a realistic representation of a 3D scene on a 2D surface—and, ultimately, translating those projects into a 3D model before bringing their object to life.

But unlike in the physical design space, Gravity Sketch enables students to easily make mistakes, learn from those missteps and then go back, deconstruct their project and fix it thanks to the lessons learned along the way.

Along the way, Schneider says his students learn about spatial visualization, the ability to mentally manipulate and understand the spatial relationships between objects and spaces when looking at a 2D figure and imagining what it would look like in 3D.

This semester, Hom and her classmates familiarized themselves with the possibilities of the software by creating a VR rendition of their cellphone home screens. They then designed an everyday object like a toothbrush or a tea kettle, collaborated with their peers on developing an immersive public space like a carnival, and took an existing portfolio project and used Gravity Sketch to transform it into the VR landscape.

As part of the class, design students collaborated with their peers on developing an immersive public space like a carnival.

“There’s a lot of freedom we’re given to explore and experiment with our designs. You’re able to not just draw something in a flat plane, but you can draw in three dimensions, and then you can hand over your drawing to someone else in the VR space,” Hom says. “This process allows everyone involved to look at the project and make real-time changes.”

This is the first time Schneider’s class has been taught on campus. Schneider credits School of Design Director Emily Stokes-Rees, the DSS and the University’s Information Technology Services—which provides the 22 VR headsets and ensures they are fully charged before class and cleans and charges them up afterwards—for making his class possible. He says the yearly elective will be taught again in the fall and encourages all interested students to enroll.

“This class is a predictor of what students will encounter once they graduate,” Schneider says. “It’s a very powerful skillset for students to present in their portfolio as a designer because it shows you’re curious about future technologies and the modern ways of collaborating creatively.”

Twelve seniors have been named as the 2025 ���ϲ����� Scholars, the highest undergraduate honor the University bestows.

The ���ϲ����� Scholars Selection Committee, a Universitywide faculty committee, selected the scholars using criteria that included coursework and academic achievement, independent research and creative work, evidence of intellectual growth or innovation in their disciplinary field, a personal statement and faculty letters of recommendation.

“We are proud to recognize our University Scholars for their many accomplishments. Not only have they achieved academic success, they have also embraced opportunities—like research and community service—to enhance and expand their undergraduate experience and make the most of their time here. As they prepare to graduate, we are looking forward to celebrating their future accomplishments and success,” says Interim Vice Chancellor, Provost and Chief Academic Officer Lois Agnew.

The 2025 ���ϲ����� Scholars are:

• Jonathan Collard de Beaufort, a biochemistry major in the College of Arts and Sciences and member of the Renée Crown University Honors Program;
• Charlotte Ebel, a public relations major in the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, a women and gender studies and German language, literature and culture major in the College of Arts and Sciences, and member of the Renée Crown University Honors Program;
• Abigail Greenfield, a history major in the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, a political philosophy major in the College of Arts and Sciences, and member of the Renée Crown University Honors Program;
• Yuming Jiang, a mathematics and physics major in the College of Arts and Sciences and member of the Renée Crown University Honors Program;
• Sierra Kaplan, a political science major in the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, a health humanities major in the College of Arts and Sciences, and a member of the Renée Crown University Honors Program;
• Emmy Njue, a finance and business analytics majors in the Whitman School of Management;
• Kerrin O’Grady, a biomedical engineering major in the College of Engineering and Computer Science and a neuroscience major in the College of Arts and Sciences;
• Morgan Opp, a chemistry and biology major in the College of Arts and Sciences;
• Timothy Paek, a computer science major in the College of Engineering and Computer Science and member of the Renée Crown University Honors Program;
• Skyla Ross-Graham a psychology major in the College of Arts and Sciences;
• Yifan Shen, an architecture major in the School of Architecture, a music history and cultures major in the College of Arts and Sciences, and member of the Renée Crown University Honors Program; and
• Sophia Znamierowski, a biology and neuroscience major in the College of Arts and Sciences, and member of the Renée Crown University Honors Program.

The ���ϲ����� community is invited to one of the most inspiring and unforgettable nights of the year—the . On Friday, April 4, 2025, we’ll gather to honor outstanding alumni who embody the Orange spirit through their remarkable achievements, leadership and service.

The evening will be a beautiful tribute to the power of the ���ϲ����� experience. From heartfelt videos to moments of pure Orange pride, the Alumni Awards Celebration is a can’t-miss event that brings together students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members to recognize and applaud excellence.

The celebration begins at 5 p.m. (doors open at 4:30) at the National Veterans Resource Center, Daniel and Gayle D’Aniello Building. A reception will follow until 8 p.m. !

Awardees are chosen by the ���ϲ����� Alumni Association Board of Directors.

The George Arents Award is ���ϲ�����’s highest alumni honor and recognizes individuals who have excelled in their fields.��This year’s honorees are��Paul Greenberg ’65, P’03;��Melanie Littlejohn G’97; and��Judith “Judy” C. Mower ’66, G’73, G’80, Ph.D.’84.

Chelsea Ransom-Cooper ’15��will receive the Generation Orange Award, which recognizes graduates from the past decade for career success, community engagement and overall commitment to ���ϲ�����.

Jack Kreischer ’65��will receive the Melvin A. Eggers Senior Alumni Award for his loyalty and service to ���ϲ����� over the past 50 years.

Jamieson R. Ritter ’19��will posthumously receive the Military/Veteran Alumni Award. Ritter was killed in the line of duty while serving as a police officer in Cleveland, Ohio. This award highlights his bravery and dedication to our country and community.

Kimberly Wolf Price L’03��will be awarded the Volunteer of the Year Award for her commitment to ���ϲ����� as a volunteer.

Whether you’re a student looking for inspiration, a faculty or staff member eager to celebrate the accomplishments of our alumni, or a proud alum yourself, this event is for you. Expect an evening filled with powerful storytelling, meaningful connections and an atmosphere brimming with Orange spirit.

Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to celebrate our incredible alumni and connect with the broader ���ϲ����� community. The awards celebration is complimentary, but space is limited—!

The invites the campus community to attend the fifth annual on Sunday, April 6, from 2 to 5 p.m. in the Goldstein Auditorium, Schine Student Center.

This event is a collaboration between the Center for International Services and registered student organizations (RSOs) on campus, celebrating the many global communities that make up the University community. The festival will feature a global variety of food, cultural exhibits, artistic presentations and performances.

“The International Festival creates an opportunity for our campus community to connect with student organizations, build intercultural understanding, learn more about the cultural traditions of the student organizations participating and celebrate our student body,” says . “The students have put a lot of work into preparing for the festival and we are looking forward to a great event.”

Below is a list of participating RSOs:

The festival is free to attend and includes a punch card to enjoy a selection of food samples from the participating student organizations.

For more information, contact the at international@syr.edu or 315.443.2457.

2024-25 Student Employment Recognition Awards

Students, faculty and staff are invited to submit nominations for National Student Employment Week recognition awards through Friday, April 4. Complete details are available on the .

• Student Employee of the Year: Nominate student employees who have demonstrated outstanding work, initiative, professionalism and other remarkable qualities. Complete the to nominate undergraduate and graduate student employees.
• Student Employee Supervisor of the Year: Nominate a staff or faculty member who supervises student employees for the Supervisor of the Year Award. Please email the ’Cuse Works team and include the supervisor’s name, email, department and a description of why they should be considered for the award.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more, please .

Established in 2018, the Office of the University Ombuds is an informal, confidential, neutral and independent resource that helps members of the campus community navigate difficult situations without fear of retaliation or judgement. Neal Powless G’08 serves as the University Ombuds.

The survey seeks to gather input from individuals who have utilized the office’s services as well as those who have not. Survey results will help ensure that the Office of the University Ombuds continues to be a valuable and effective presence on campus that meets the needs of our students, staff and faculty.

Questions about the survey should be directed ir@syr.edu. For more information about University Ombuds, email��ombuds@syr.edu.

[]

At the intersection of curiosity and technology sits the , a thought-provoking environment where members of the University community can come together to work on creative artistic projects while sharing interests, ideas and technological knowledge.

Mike d’Amore

It’s a space with state-of-the-art equipment where creativity thrives and where ideas become reality, and since January, the first floor of the Marshall Square Mall has become the MakerSpace’s new home on campus.

“There’s definitely this misconception about MakerSpace that it is just 3D printing, but this place is so much more than that,” says Mike d’Amore, a MakerSpace student supervisor and second-year graduate student in data science in the School of Information Studies. “It’s a free-flowing, creative spot and there are always cool projects being made. One of my favorites was this cool, see-through, futuristic body of a guitar we made that played nicely on one of our amps.”

From embroidering and laser engraving to soldering electronics and recording music using the space’s myriad instruments, the experienced, the occasional dabbler and the amateur can try their hand at the tools and equipment to bring their ideas to life.

“If you can visualize it, you can build it here at MakerSpace. There is no limit to what we can create,” says John Mangicaro, MakerSpace’s technical lab manager and a 45-year member of the University community. “We encourage students to come in, share their vision and we’ll find a way to make it work. Within half an hour of being here, you can learn how do to everything we do.”

Among the resources available at MakerSpace are the following:

• Several types of the latest 3D printers
• A 3D printing area
• Full color printers
• Embroidery and sewing equipment
• A laser engraving area
• Vinyl cutting and printing
• Dye sublimation and direct-to-garment machines that can produce stickers or T-shirts
• Soldering, electronics and other tools
• Creative software (Adobe Suite, Blender, Bambu Labs, Fusion 360, Inventor, Pro Tools, Simplify3D and Solidworks)
• A dedicated classroom area for faculty members
• A music studio, complete with an acoustic, bass and electric guitar, electronic drum set, keyboard, microphones and other musical instruments for live performances, and a recording room with ProTools Mixing Software to capture those performances.

John Mangicaro

MakerSpace is entirely student-driven, and the new location is an evolved version of the former space, says Mangicaro.

Matt Lustrino

Student workers like d’Amore, Matt Lustrino ’25 and Zoe Power ’28 make sure the facility runs smoothly. They strive to provide a seamless experience for the campus community, tracking every project, organizing and cleaning up the different creative spaces and following up with progress reports at the end of each shift.

“I’ve been a maker for some time as a hobby, doing soldering, 3D printing and music projects, so to find an environment on campus like MakerSpace that had all of those elements, it was the perfect fit for a job,” says Lustrino, who is studying information management and technology in the iSchool with a concentration in cybersecurity.

“MakerSpace is such a cool place. The potential for what we can create here is limitless. It’s also a great environment for meeting other creative people,” says Power, who is studying geology in the .

MakerSpace has evolved into an essential campus resource, one that impacts students, faculty and staff members. Leading up to the COVID-19 pandemic, MakerSpace tracked roughly 1,900 jobs per calendar year. Last year, that figure rose to 3,400 work orders. So far this year, MakerSpace has finished more than 550 projects and is on-pace for a record-setting year.

Zoe Power

The move to the new location has also helped with visibility and awareness. In just their first two weeks in the new space, Mangicaro says the number of projects being handled was up 60% compared to the same time frame last year.

“I’m a terminal tinkerer. I love fixing and building things, I love people and I love working with the creative students here. This place is truly special,” says Mangicaro, who built the first iteration of MakerSpace 12 years ago in the Kimmel Hall Computer Lab.

The campus community is invited to an , from 3 to 5 p.m. MakerSpace’s resources are available to members of the campus community with a valid SU I.D. The academic year hours are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., and from noon to 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

The award recognizes programs that represent strong partnerships between academic and student affairs in a way that supports and fosters student learning and positively contributes to the university. It was accepted by Shannon Hitchcock Schantz, director of FYS, and Jimmy Luckman, former associate director of FYS, now director of the LGBTQA+ Center at Pace University.

First Year Seminar director Shannon Hitchcock Schantz and former associate director Jimmy Luckman accepted the Collaborative Excellence Award at the ACPA–College Student Educators International conference last month

“We are so honored to receive the Collaborative Excellence Award from ACPA,” Schantz says. “It showcases what we can accomplish when we work together to impact students’ sense of belonging on campus. Without our over 35 campus and community partners, we would not have been able to accomplish the goals of the Shared Experience Week, so this award is for everyone that has helped this initiative take shape over the last four years.”

, a semester-long, one-credit course, was started in 2021 as a way to foster a sense of community among incoming first-year and transfer students. An essential part of FYS, Shared Experience Week sends students across campus and into the local community to participate in service-learning projects that ultimately benefit all. Among the campus and community partners in that effort are the Office of Student Engagement, the Shaw Center, the Barnes Center at The Arch, ���ϲ����� Art Museum, ���ϲ����� Abroad, the Rescue Mission, Ronald McDonald House and others.

FYS Information Sessions for Faculty, Students

FYS is taught by lead instructors (faculty, staff and graduate students) with assistance from peer leaders (undergraduate students). Two upcoming events will provide more information for faculty and staff who would like to get involved.

• A will be held Tuesday, March 25, from 1 to 2 p.m. at the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence, 550 Bird Library.
• A will be held Tuesday, April 8, from 4 to 5 p.m. at the Peter Graham Scholarly Commons, 114 Bird Library.

For more information about the lead instructor role or partnering with the FYS team for the Fall 2025 Shared Experience Week, contact Schantz at 315.443.9035 or sschantz@syr.edu.

All are welcome to attend and honor the important contributions of respected members of the University community. For more information about the service, contact Hendricks Chapel at chapel@syr.edu or 315.443.2901.

The names of those who have passed away will be read and candles will be lit collectively in their memory. The service will also include prayer, spoken remarks and music. Communication Access Real-Time Translation (CART) and American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation will be available.

The service is inspired by the Remembrance Scholars’ motto of “Look Back, Act Forward,” a call to action to remember those we have lost and act forward in their memory.

The Service of Commemoration provides a moment to honor those who have recently passed away. “As we honor those who embodied the spirit and soul of our campus community, our time of ritual and reflection can bring hope and healing,” says Brian Konkol, vice president and dean of Hendricks Chapel.

If you know of someone who passed away between Jan. 1, 2024, and the present who should be honored, please forward their name and affiliation to Hendricks Chapel at chapel@syr.edu by Thursday, March 13.

The recognizes new students who earned a GPA of 3.75 or higher in their first semester, completed a minimum of 15 credits and are in good standing with the University. The honor carries a $500 Invest in Success Scholarship per semester, renewable for up to four years if the student completes 30 credits a year and maintains a minimum 3.25 cumulative GPA.

Students mingle at a networking event following the Success Scholars reception Feb. 21 at Schine Student Center’s Goldstein Auditorium. (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

“As we celebrate the remarkable achievements of our Success Scholars, we reaffirm our dedication to nurturing a community of scholars, innovators and leaders who will shape the future with their commitment to excellence,” says Kal Srinivas, director for retention and student success. “This event is a testament to the hard work and determination of our students, and we are proud to support them on their academic journey.”

The Success Scholars program was started in 2019 to foster academic excellence and motivate and retain exceptional students. The recognition event also gives students the opportunity to connect with faculty and staff and learn about campus resources like the Renée Crown University Honors Program, ���ϲ����� Abroad, The SOURCE, ’Cuse Works and the Mary Ann Shaw Center for Public and Community Service.

TianYing Callam

Success Scholar TianYing Callam is a first-year student in the . The Cleveland native says she chose to attend ���ϲ����� for the competitive curriculum, numerous clubs and organizations and wide-ranging opportunities and experiences available to students, as well as the sports programs and strong school spirit. Since arriving on campus, she has worked with the , joined the and attended events. During the course of her undergraduate years, Callam plans to work in a research lab, study abroad, find internship opportunities and learn more about the city of ���ϲ�����.

“Being a Success Scholar means that I have achieved my goal of being a high-level academic student,” she says. “This achievement gives me the confidence that I have the potential to strive even further than I imagined. This achievement is a result of my active participation in and outside of the classroom.”

Shwetha Srinivasan

Success Scholar Shwetha Srinivasan, also a first-year student in ECS, came to ���ϲ����� from Bangalore, India. She is a Campos Student Fellow at the college’s , and she has volunteered with the Shaw Center’s and participated in . She plans to add a second major, study abroad and delve into research.

“I hope to establish and rediscover myself here. The best way to do this is to put myself out there and try as many new things as I can,” she says. “I am honored to be a Success Scholar. To me, this symbolizes the effort I put into my coursework last semester. It shows that working hard always has its reward.”

Students work on building bed frames under the guidance of Sleep in Heavenly Peace volunteers. (Photos by Angela Ryan)

More than 200 members of the University community came together on Feb. 21 at the Skybarn on South Campus to build 88 beds for children in the local community. The space was a hive of activity, as volunteers sanded, tapped, drilled and assembled wood bed frames under the watchful guidance of SHP volunteers.

SUVO, which is supported by the Mary Ann Shaw Center for Public and Community Service, collaborated with seven campus student groups to raise more than $16,500 to cover the cost of all materials needed. In addition, SUVO partnered with the Student Association’s “Spring Into Action Community Service Initiative,” which funded an additional $5,500. Each bed costs $250 to produce.

The seven student groups that contributed to the fundraising efforts included Alpha Phi Omega, Delta Sigma Pi, Franklin Supply Chain Club, Kappa Theta Pi, Alpha Kappa Delta Phi, Oxfam and the Winnick Hillel Center. Members of those organizations, along with many other student organizations, participated in the build.

Odette Sherk, vice president of the Franklin Supply Chain Club, said the build was the perfect opportunity for the club to give back to the ���ϲ����� community while also learning more about their area of study.

Students drill boards during the build.

“In class we learn a lot about assembly lines and the challenges that can arise when working on an assembly line,” said Sherk, a junior supply chain management and marketing management major in the Whitman School of Management and an environment, sustainability and policy major in the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs. Sherk is also a Shaw Center intern. “Participating in the bed build gave our student volunteers real life experience on an assembly line where we could witness some of these things we learned about in class occurring.”

Thousands of Beds

SHP is a national nonprofit organization with the mission of “No Kid Sleeps on the Floor in Our Town.” The ���ϲ����� chapter of SHP delivers an average of 30 beds a week and delivered its 6,000th bed in the community last weekend. There is still a list of more than 400 applicants in the area waiting for a bed.

Dave Hoalcraft ’85, a University retiree, is co-president of the ���ϲ����� chapter of SHP. On Friday, he was orientating new volunteers to the build and making sure that things were running smoothly.

“I grew up one mile from here,” Hoalcraft said on Friday as he looked out over the build. “This is what it’s all about … community. Students giving back to our town. It’s amazing.”

‘Building the Build’

Ceccoli, a senior dual public relations and psychology major in the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and the College of Arts and Sciences, said the process of “building the build” was challenging. She had to pivot and find new ways of raising funds this year. As the project developed, a wave of support from students materialized on both logistics and fundraising. “I’ve been so impressed by the way the students have stepped up and rallied around this because it takes a village,” she said. “People I barely knew were reaching out to me saying ‘how can I help?’ I’m just so grateful to go to a university with others who step up in this way.”

A student sands a board during the bed build.

Volunteer spots were filled quickly, mainly by word-of-mouth. “As soon as sign-ups went out, everyone was jumping in to sign up, which is such a great problem to have,” she said.

Ryan Edwards, a junior computer science major in the College of Engineering and Computer Science and a Shaw Center intern, moved lumber from a truck to the building space. He also participated in last year’s build. “People forget that a bed is a basic necessity, and some kids don’t have that,” he says. “I am happy to be here helping to make a difference.

Dayton Kandrovy, a sophomore in the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, is philanthropy chair for the rugby club team and arranged for some of his teammates to volunteer. “I received only positive feedback on the event and everyone was wondering when the next one is,” he said. “I will definitely be seeking out more ways to volunteer and create more opportunities for my team to give back.”

Purpose-Driven Work

A year and a half ago, Ceccoli had not heard of Sleep in Heavenly Peace. Now, after leading the last two bed builds, she plans to be engaged in nonprofit work after graduation. “My whole life, I’ve been searching for purpose-driven, mission-driven work. I want something where I’m able to use the gifts that I have to help and empower others and bring communities together,” Ceccoli said. “The Shaw Center has really helped me learn how to do that and given me the leadership skills to take on an event like this.”

“The most important thing to me is I want students to walk away from this with a positive experience because I want to show them that volunteering is fun and they can do it and it’s accessible,” she said.

Ceccoli has been on deliveries and sees the excitement of children when they see their bed—and bedding—for the first time. She keeps a wood chip in her pocket, taken from one of the builds, to remind her of the importance of this work.

“When I reach in my pocket, I feel that wood. It’s a reminder of the privilege I have, and the work that still needs to be done and is happening in this community,” Ceccoli said. “It’s just really, really powerful.”

To volunteer for a bed build, bed deliveries, donate bedding or make a monetary donation, visit .

The Barnes Center at The Arch is once again partnering with Institutional Research to administer the Student Health and Wellness Survey to all students. (Photo by Marilyn Hesler)

The future of Barnes Center at The Arch health and wellness related programs, services and resources is constructed on a foundation of frequent student feedback. ���ϲ����� students and Barnes Center staff work side-by-side daily to strengthen this foundation and every two years, the University launches the Health and Wellness Survey to gather an overarching understanding of the student experience.

“As the hub for student wellness, the Barnes Center at The Arch works to support our students at ���ϲ����� and empower them to be well beyond graduation,” says Cory Wallack, Ph.D., Barnes Center at The Arch associate vice president of student health and wellness. “This starts with weaving in the voices of and feedback shared from of our students into everything we do.”

Student Feedback Fuels Health and Wellness Enhancements

Shortly after the last Health and Wellness Survey closed in 2023 and fueled by anonymous yet comprehensive student feedback, the Barnes Center team was quickly able to start implementing actions to enhance the student health and wellness experience.

“A trend that quickly emerged when analyzing the 2023 Health and Wellness Survey results was one that shared a story of our students seeking an increased sense of belonging in their experiences at ���ϲ�����,” explains . “Answering our student’s needs for increased belonging, the Barnes Center team alongside campus partners implemented expanded belonging initiatives, including growing the to encompass academic units, hiring new staff in support of recreation belonging programming, alongside hosting faculty and staff trainings on topics of belonging, thriving, suicide prevention and trauma informed care.”

Cultivating a University Community Supportive of Student Wellness

Findings from the 2023 Health and Wellness Survey and recommendations were presented to the Board of Trustees, academic deans and their leadership teams, provosts and their leadership teams, Athletics, Student Association and numerous other University constituents.

“The Barnes Center is driven by an understanding that student wellness cannot be achieved in a vacuum or silo—it takes a community to achieve this, so the step we’ve taken alongside incorporating student feedback is sharing our findings and recommendations with our campus partners and helping them enhance support in their spaces that students experience,” says Wallack.

Amplify Student Voices With the 2025 Health and Wellness Survey

Continuing the momentum of success and as part of ongoing efforts to design and deliver health and wellness-related programs, services and resources, the Barnes Center is once again partnering with Institutional Research to administer the Student Health and Wellness Survey to all students. Highlights are shared below and complete details are available on the .

• The survey is available in students’ ���ϲ����� (@syr.edu) emails.
• The survey takes 10 minutes or less to complete and responses are recorded anonymously.
• The survey closes Saturday, March 22, 2025.
• Students who complete the survey will be entered into a drawing to win one of 20 $75 Amazon gift cards, one of five early class registration spots or one of four $25 Barnes Center Pharmacy gift cards.

Jack Wren (center) is pursuing a dual degree in finance and business analytics from the Martin J. Whitman School of Management. He’s also a member of the University’s club men’s ice hockey team and an entrepreneur who launched his own hat company, Happy Duck Co. (Photo by Maria Kaffes ’26)

The entrepreneurial seeds that Jack Wren ’26 planted as a 5-year-old would eventually grow into a full-fledged career running his own small business producing hats.

Even at that young age, Wren possessed a savvy business acumen. He would purchase seed packets for growing assorted plants and flowers in bulk for 10 cents apiece and would sell them to his green thumb-inclined neighbors for $2 a pack.

It would come as no surprise to anyone who knew Wren growing up in Saratoga, New York, that, as he pursues a dual degree in finance and business analytics from the , he’s successfully launched his own hat company,

“I’ve always had entrepreneurial endeavors and aspirations. This summer, after two good externships with BNY Mellon and Fenimore Asset Management, I realized I wanted to launch a company based on something I’m passionate about,” Wren says. “And I’m definitely passionate about athletics and hats, so out of those passions I started Happy Duck, which is marketed as a brand for athletes.”

The idea for the brand: “When I was little, I was rambunctious, and my mom used to tell me that I would quack a lot and she would call me a happy duck,” Wren says. “I’m very close with my parents and I thought that would be a great name for the brand.”

Jack Wren with his mom, Karin, who bestowed the happy duck nickname on Jack as a child

Wren, a lifelong hockey player and member of the , has built the company from the ground up, including setting up as a limited liability company (LLC), designing his website, creating a comprehensive social media strategy, hiring employees and taking out a personal loan to cover the startup costs.

The business venture has all been worth it for Wren, who is currently working with Rachel Duffy, director of the Office of Trademark Licensing, on an official licensing agreement between Happy Duck and the University.

Jack Wren (Photo by Maria Kaffes ’26)

“I’m focusing on being an athletic brand and I’ve brought on former ���ϲ����� student-athletes to help run social media, set up photoshoots with our product models and streamline the process with the athletes we’re targeting,” Wren says. “Our goal is to get people to see themselves wearing our brand and our hats while they workout.”

Wren sat down with SU News to reflect on his journey to ���ϲ�����, reminisce about his Orange hockey career and discuss his career ambitions once he graduates.

Involvement on campus: Member of the club , the and , an international business fraternity.

What made ���ϲ����� the right school for you?

I knew the Whitman School was ranked as one of the best business schools in the country, and I knew I wanted to study business and finance. After I got in, I met the guys on the hockey team, came for my accepted students’ day tour and got to hang out with and skate with the team and meet the coach. They offered me a position, and after seeing everything in person and getting a feel for the campus, the academics and the club hockey team, I knew that ���ϲ����� was home for me. I’ve been eternally grateful to be here.

What has that experience been like, playing for the club hockey team?

People often hear club sports, and they have this misconception that a club sport isn’t that serious of an activity. But club hockey is intense.

We start skating in late August, begin practicing in September and have our first games in the middle of September, and if we qualify for nationals, we’re playing into the middle of March. It’s a grueling schedule. We have games every weekend. The competition level is extremely high.

But if I had everything to do all over again, coming off of playing junior hockey and transitioning to college life, I would 100% go this route and be a student-athlete at ���ϲ�����.

Favorite memory from the hockey team?

I’ve had a lot of great memories on and off the ice. My favorite memory would probably be when we went to go play Liberty University down in Lynchburg, Virginia [Jan. 19-20, 2024]. We played in front of a sold-out crowd of 6,000-plus people and our games were televised nationally on ESPN+. It was a really cool experience that I’ll never forget.

What are your career ambitions?

One of my friends told me that the journey is the destination, and I’ve really embraced that mentality. A lot of people get concerned with where they’re going or where they need to be, but you need to have that ability to pivot and change course.

My whole reason for starting Happy Duck was to understand how to start and grow a company. My goal is to be a stock trader once I graduate, and I would like to eventually run my own finance company. But as of right now, my goal is to take this company as far as I can. We’re trying to make a name for ourselves in a niche market and then expand from there. But having that ability and vision to be able to pivot and change on a dime for whatever may come my way is important. I’ve learned to embrace the unexpected.

Seventeen students from the University were selected for Fulbright research, study and teaching awards for academic year 2024-25 to Andorra, Argentina, Germany, India, Italy, Kenya, Korea, Mexico, Poland, Spain, Tajikistan and the United Kingdom.

The Fulbright competition is administered at��. This is the fifth time—and third year in a row—the University was named a Fulbright Top Producing Institution. The University was previously recognized for the 2012-13 cohort (under campus Fulbright advisor and professor emerita Susan Wadley) and the 2019-20, 2022-23 and 2023-24 cohorts (under CFSA).

Thirty-eight faculty and staff members from across the University served on the campus Fulbright committee supporting the 2024-25 applicants. The committee is convened by CFSA; members interview applicants, provide feedback and complete a campus endorsement for each applicant. “Preparing our students to be strong Fulbright applicants, and supporting them through the application process, is an all-campus effort. Faculty and staff are crucial,” says Jolynn Parker, director of CFSA.

Alec Rovensky ’21, a School of Architecture alumnus, received a research/study grant to Germany. He has been pursuing a master’s degree in architecture typology at the Technische Universität Berlin. There, he is researching Berlin’s urban restructuring efforts through the adaptive reuse of buildings as a strategy to address the city’s housing crisis, with a focus on housing migrants and refugees. He is working with the Habitat Unit, a research center developing new approaches for urban change processes.

Alec Rovensky ’21, an alumnus of the School of Architecture, received a research/study grant to Germany in the 2024-25 Fulbright cycle.

Rovensky’s architecture cohort consists of students from all over the world, and his school offers courses that explore urban issues in a variety of global locations, including courses focused on Arab urbanisms and hand-crafting techniques in China. Next week, Rovensky will participate in a seminar hosted by Fulbright in Luxembourg and Brussels, where he and his cohort will visit the headquarters of the European Union and NATO.

He is also embracing life in Berlin. “I have been using the past seven months to explore my new home city’s museums, cafes and cultural centers. Berlin is one of the most bikeable cities I’ve ever visited, and I’ve been using my bike as much as I can to explore around. I’ve also been learning more about the many layers of history in Berlin, and visiting sites like the Berlin Wall Memorial to get a glimpse into what life was like in a formerly divided city.”

Rovensky says his Fulbright experience has also been a time of much personal growth.“By challenging myself to move to an unfamiliar place, meeting people with diverse perspectives, and embracing the differences in culture and attitude, I’ve placed myself in a position where I am learning and growing every day,” he says. “This experience has been eye-opening and will help me become a more well-rounded and globally aware designer and researcher in the future.”

Students apply for Fulbright awards in the fall and awards are made in the spring. In the current competition for the 2025-26 cohort, 29 of the University’s 44 applicants have been named as semifinalists. Awards will be announced this spring.

Fulbright is the U.S. government’s flagship international educational exchange program. It is also among the largest and most diverse exchange programs in the world. Since its inception in 1946, more than 400,000 participants from all backgrounds and fields—including recent university graduates, teachers, scientists, researchers, artists and others, from the United States and over 160 other countries—have participated in the Fulbright Program. Fulbright alumni have returned to their home countries to make an impact on their communities thanks to their expanded worldview, a deep appreciation for their host country and its people, and a larger network of colleagues and friends.

Fulbright alumni work to make a positive impact on their communities, sectors and the world and have included 41 heads of state or government, 62 Nobel Laureates, 89 Pulitzer Prize winners, 78 MacArthur Fellows and countless leaders and changemakers who carry forward the Fulbright mission of enhancing mutual understanding.

More information about the��.�� Students and alumni interested in applying for a Fulbright award in the next cycle should contact CFSA at cfsa.syr.edu.

Eight graduate students will be honored with the Graduate Dean’s Award for Excellence in Research and Creative Work at an annual hosted by the Graduate School on Wednesday, March 5. The event will also include brief presentations from the awardees about their research or creative work. The campus community is invited and encouraged to attend.

This year’s honorees, selected by members of the Graduate Faculty Council from a pool of nearly 60 applicants from across the University, are:

• Caroline Charles, English, : “Black Family Photography in ���ϲ�����: Assembling a Community Collection with Family Photo-Sharing”
• Bramsh Khan, social science, : “Gendered Politics of Infrastructure Violence in Balochistan, Pakistan”
• Natalie Petryk, bioengineering, : “Biodegradable and Bioactive Polyurethane Foams to Improve Traumatic Wound Healing”
• Frank Sicong Chen, computer and information science and engineering, Engineering and Computer Science: “Enhancing Security and Health Monitoring on Wearable Devices through Multi-Modal Continuous Monitoring”
• Lily Holloway, creative writing, Arts and Sciences: “Always I Am Wanting and Wanting: A Literary Reading”
• Benjamin Valen, social psychology, Arts and Sciences: “Health Disparities Among Transgender, Nonbinary and Cisgender Undergraduate Students”
• Jersey Cosantino, cultural foundations of education, : “Resisting Pathologizing Discourses: (Re)claiming Mad, Neurodivergent and Trans* Narration via a Mad Trans* Studies Oral History Method(ology)”
• Yasmine Tiana Goring, television, radio and film, : “222 Macon Street”

“The depth and breadth of our graduate students’ portfolios are truly impressive,” says , dean of the Graduate School. “We are proud to honor them, and look forward to hearing more about their work during their presentations at the awards ceremony.”

The awards recognize overall academic excellence and outstanding research and creative activities by master’s and doctoral students. Honorees receive a certificate of recognition and a $500 award.

Student who earned honorable mention were:

• Azadeh Ghanizadeh, composition and cultural rhetoric, Arts and Sciences
• Pardha Sourya Nayani, electrical and computer engineering, Engineering and Computer Science
• Tevvon Hines, film,
• Elina Ruiqi Sun, social psychology, Maxwell School
• Tosin Alabi, business administration,

The will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. in 312 Lyman Hall. A reception will follow. For more information, contact Holly Johnson at hjohns02@syr.edu.

During “The Ideas Exchange,” students eager to explore the frontiers of innovation, entrepreneurship and creativity can engage with experts and resources.

is more than just a networking event—it’s an incubator for ideas, where students can find inspiration, seek guidance and connect with the right resources to bring their projects to life. The event features two simultaneous components: The Resource Emporium and Ask the Experts. Sponsored by SU Libraries, the ���ϲ����� NSF I-Corps and the Orange Innovation Team, this event is for aspiring entrepreneurs, innovators and those simply curious about the creative and startup ecosystem on campus.

At the heart of The Idea Exchange is the Orange Innovation Team, including Orange Innovation Scholars Ava Lubekmann, Jair Espinoza, Aidan Turner and Thomas O’Brien and Intelligence ++ Scholars Isaac Munce and Trey Augliano. These student leaders have curated an experience that fosters collaboration, encourages curiosity and provides direct access to some of the most valuable resources available on campus.

The Resource Emporium: Your Gateway to Innovation

On the first floor of Bird Library, a diverse lineup of organizations will host information tables to provide students with resources to help develop their ideas, start businesses and enhance their creative projects. Whether students are looking to create a prototype, launch a creative idea, secure funding for an idea or learn more about innovation on campus, The Resource Emporium will offer access to the right tools and people to take their ambitions further. Participating groups include:

• Blackstone LaunchPad–Campus hub for entrepreneurship
• CASE–Center for Advanced Systems and Engineering
• Couri Hatchery–Student venture incubation
• D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families
• E-Club–Entrepreneurship student organization
• FADS–Fashion and design society
• Innovation Law Center–Legal guidance for startups
• Intelligence ++–Inclusive design and assistive technology
• Invent@SU–Rapid prototyping and invention resources
• Maker Space–Hands-on creative workshops and prototyping
• NEXIS–Emerging technology research
• NSF I-Corps at ���ϲ�����
• The ���ϲ����� Office of Undergraduate Research and Creative Engagement (SOURCE)–Undergraduate research support
• Startup Garage–Early-stage startup mentoring
• ���ϲ����� Center of Excellence in Environmental and Energy Systems
• TEDx ���ϲ�����–Platform for innovative ideas and storytelling
• WISE–Women Igniting the Spirit of Entrepreneurship

Ask the Experts: Conversations That Ignite Ideas

In a format inspired by “Human Library” events, the��Ask the Experts��session will feature more than��20 confirmed peer specialists��and professionals across various fields engaging in small-group conversations. These sessions, held in the��Peter Graham Scholarly Commons (Room 114 in Bird Library), will provide students with the chance to ask questions from student and alumni thought leaders, receive tailored advice and gain valuable insights into the skills needed to thrive in innovation, creation and entrepreneurship.

Each discussion will be an opportunity to learn from expert peers and experienced professionals while sparking innovative ideas through engaging conversations. The curated topics and expert insights are designed to empower students with practical knowledge and the confidence to move forward with their ventures.

The expert insights will be in the areas of content creation, pitching, brand development and many more.

Mix It Up: Networking and Refreshments

To wrap up the event, attendees can mingle and network from 4:30 to 5 p.m. in the Peter Graham Scholarly Commons. Light refreshments will be provided, creating a casual and welcoming environment for students to connect with peers, experts, and resource representatives.

Why Attend The Idea Exchange?

The Idea Exchange presents an unparalleled opportunity for students to tap into the University’s vast network of innovation resources. Whether you have a business idea, a research project, or a creative endeavor, this event will help you take the next step by:

• Gaining access to key innovation resources: Meet representatives from leading campus programs.
• Engage with experts: Learn from professionals who can provide real-world insights.
• Build your network: Connect with fellow students who share your passion for innovation.
• Find inspiration: Discover ideas and opportunities to explore.

For more information, visit Bird Library 123, home of “The IDEA Studio,” or email OrangeInnovation@syr.edu.

More than 50% of students explore the world through a center, says Nicole Collins, director of strategic partnerships and outreach with ���ϲ����� Abroad. With over , there’s a unique opportunity for every student.

Nicole Collins

While the spring has traditionally been when the majority of students study abroad, Collins says there’s been a in recent years. Among the reasons why Collins says students should consider studying abroad in the fall:

• More likely to get into the program and secure the housing type you want.
• More scholarships and grants available, including $2,000 per student grants for Central Europe and Santiago, Chile.
• Special fall-only programs and events, including Oktoberfest and Christmas markets.
• Experiment with locations that aren’t easy to visit later in life.
• Unique cultural opportunities for food lovers who study in Florence, Italy, including truffle hunting, chestnut harvests and festivals, olive oil harvesting and tasting, grape harvesting, and more.
• Easier for parents and family members to visit.

“Our students are realizing the amazing opportunities available in the fall,” Collins says. “We have great need-based and merit-based scholarship opportunities available for students in the fall, plus there’s less demand.”

On this episode of the , Collins and Sophia Moore ’25, who enjoyed a life-changing ���ϲ����� Abroad experience in the Fall 2023 semester, discuss the many benefits of studying abroad in the fall. A transcript [PDF]��is also available

Thinking of studying abroad in the fall? The is March 15.

The below Q&A spotlights how, through their semesters abroad, students Moore and Anna Meehan ’26 underwent transformative experiences by immersing themselves in a new country.

Sophia Moore ’25

Sophia Moore visited the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu.

Academic majors:��Television, radio and film (); sociology ().

Semester Abroad: Fall 2023 at the in Santiago, Chile.

Why was Santiago the destination for you? I figured that I would have an opportunity at some point in my life to be able to travel to Europe, but to travel to South America, that was a rare opportunity. And I really wanted the chance to immerse myself in a culture that I was completely unfamiliar with in a country that I was completely unfamiliar with, with the safety net of doing it through ���ϲ����� Abroad.

Sophia Moore

What role did your host family play to help you get acclimated? My host family encouraged me to go out and do everything that Santiago had to offer. Every day, my host mom would check in and offer up a couple of places to check out. She was always pushing me to get out of the house and go explore the city because it’s important to take advantage of every moment. I wouldn’t have had access to that kind of cultural ambassadorship to Chile if I wasn’t living with a host family.

How close did you become with your peers in the Santiago program? We lived something so life-changing together, experienced so much culture and were exposed to this lifestyle that’s so different from the U.S. In five months, we all became very close, and that’s something that just is a bond for life.

What did you learn about yourself from your time studying abroad? Studying abroad somewhere where the language spoken is not my first language was a real challenge. Every day, I would wake up and push myself to just do a little bit more, speak in Spanish a little longer, think a little harder and get myself a little more comfortable with the language and with the space. But as time went on, just coaxing myself into doing a little bit more showed me that I have a level of resilience that I wasn’t aware of before I went abroad.

Anna Meehan ’26

Anna Meehan poses at Piłsudski Square (Plac Piłsudskiego) in Warsaw, Poland.

Academic majors:��International relations (); Russian language, literature and culture, and music history and cultures ().

Semester Abroad: Fall 2023 through the program (based in Wroclaw, Poland). Meehan visited Poland, Slovakia, the Czech Republic and Germany.

Why was Central Europe and Poland the destination for you? My aunt studied abroad in Poland when she was about my age, and after hearing her stories, it just made sense that I study abroad here too. This program covered World War II history. The Holocaust and Judaic studies. The Soviet Union. My research is on the political culture in former Soviet countries, so this was a really good opportunity to go live in and get a great educational experience studying something relevant to my degrees.

Anna Meehan

How did you acclimate and adjust to life in your new home? I remember getting off the bus after flying into Wroclaw and feeling calm and comfortable. Part of that is because I spent so much time in my childhood and at ���ϲ����� reading about and studying Poland, and I knew one day I would get there. When I did, it just felt right. I had a revelation while I was studying abroad and now my plan is to go back to Poland for the long-term after college.

How close did you become with your peers in the Central Europe program? If you go through the experiences of visiting those three concentration camps like we did, it’s inevitable that you will grow close to these people. Sure, at first we were all shy and getting to know each other, but within the first two weeks, I saw people who didn’t know each other at all before the program supporting each other and helping everyone go through and process these really difficult concepts and emotions from the difficult places we visited. We still keep in touch, and we all got back together for a reunion this fall that was really special.

How did your semester abroad complement your academic goals and aspirations? I wanted to dedicate my studies to understanding the politics and history of Eastern Europe so I could learn more about my field of international relations and Russian language, literature and culture. I thought going to Poland would be a good way to see Eastern Europe in a more modern sense. But when I got there, I saw so many non-governmental organizations who used culture as the basis for healing the tensions of the refugees from Ukraine who have crossed the borders, and how art and music can really play a central role in that process. This drove me to eventually declare my music history and cultures major.

I also ended up going to an entire week of cultural festivals in support of Belarusians who had to flee Belarus and relocated to Poland. I went to plays, gatherings and concerts and left feeling like I understand my mission from a different perspective. I still want to promote how art, music and culture promote healing, but now it’s on a much more personal level.

On Jan. 7, wildfires erupted in the greater Los Angeles area. Two fires in particular—the Palisades fire and the Eaton fire—burned for more than three weeks, destroying thousands of homes and causing billions of dollars in damages.

Newhouse Los Angeles Program Director Robin Howard and students Emily Schultz, Eli Katz and Jarod Struminger at a donation center

The nearly 70 ���ϲ����� students in Los Angeles were safe throughout the situation. “We were quite far from both of the fires, so we were fortunate in terms of both where the center is and where the students were living,” says Anna Proulx, visual and performing arts program director for the Dick Clark Los Angeles Program.

Although it was an unsettling time, the students were amazed and moved by how local communities came together to support each other—and they wanted to be a part of that. Students and staff were soon working alongside community members in the wildfire recovery efforts.

Lending a Helping Hand

Donation centers began popping up around the community, collecting clothing, diapers and baby items, pet supplies, furniture and other things that families would need to reestablish a home. Proulx and Newhouse LA Program Director Robin Howard had already discussed ways students could help, especially since community engagement and volunteering is an important part of the LA experience for students.

Student Tommy Tyree assists at a donation center

“We’ve always, since the beginning, made community engagement a requirement of the program,” says Howard. “Students have to give back to the city, and they choose what they want to do. In the past, they’ve read to kids, cleaned up beaches and put boxes together for military families. It’s in the DNA of what we do here. It was not a far reach to mobilize and help these families.”

Proulx took a group of students to work at a donation center. The amount of donations was overwhelming, so the first step was to help organize the donations into categories and then develop a cohesive distribution system.

Howard then took a group to a follow-up event where families came to choose items they needed. Students acted as personal shoppers, helping to carry and organize the items. Beyond offering physical help, they provided emotional support, too—a reassuring smile for those impacted by the tragic fires. Students also volunteered at another donation event on Jan. 20, Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Reflecting on the Experience

Emily Bosco, a junior television, radio and film major from Verona, New Jersey, says the fires made the first few days of her LA semester a little concerning. “Coming from the East Coast, I had never experienced wildfires before and did not really have any knowledge of how fast they spread,” she says.

Students Emily Bosco and Isabella Giacoppo ready to lend a helping hand

“I volunteered because I wanted to be able to give back to the community in which I am living for the next few months,” Bosco says. “While I was fortunate enough to not be impacted, I knew that many people in the area were, and I wanted to help out in any way that I could.”

In her volunteer work, Bosco managed a bag station, where she helped organize and sort handbags, purses, backpacks and tote bags. She also worked as a personal shopper.

“I will carry this experience forward with me,” Bosco says. “It felt really good to be able to help people who were in need and help to make their day a little bit easier when they were already going through so much. I will always try to volunteer to help others in need in the future.”

Isabella Giacoppo, a junior television, radio and film major from Long Island, New York, volunteered to better understand the situation and learn how she could assist those impacted.

“I wanted to help because people lost everything, so it was the least I could do,” she says. “I’ll carry this experience forward with me by being more grateful for the things I have. As I have seen through this experience, everything can be lost in an instant.”

Howard and Proulx say the recovery from the fires will stretch well into the future, and they will continue to look for ways for students in the LA program to be involved. They are proud of how the students succeeded in their academic studies and internships while simultaneously showing care and concern for their adopted community.

“A few of the students have mentioned it brought them together as a community. I think it will be a defining experience for this semester for them. Obviously, it’s been a defining experience for us as a city,” Proulx says. “Los Angeles has a beautiful, wonderful community and this has highlighted that for sure. The students have seen and felt that.”

Howard agrees, noting how students saw a need and were inspired to support their new community. “It’s really a tribute to our students, their resilience and their kindness,” Howard says.

The 2024 One Show Young Ones student competition had thousands of entries from over 50 countries. Newhouse students picked up a Silver Cube Award, a Portfolio Award, two Merit Awards and 14 Shortlist Awards, earning the Newhouse School among U.S. undergraduate programs.

All of these award-winning campaigns were created in portfolio courses taught by professors of practice and in the advertising creative track at the Newhouse School.

“The students that won these 18 awards demonstrated fresh thinking and came up with original ideas that simply blew me away,” says White.

Brooke Hirsch One of Five Winners of a Cube Award in the New Artificial Intelligence Category

Brooke Hirsch ’24 was one of only five students to win an ADC Cube Award in the newly introduced artificial intelligence category of the One Show Young Ones ADC competition. Hirsch won the Silver Cube for her digital idea ““; silver is the highest award given in this category. Her idea, created for The New York Times, combats misinformation by using AI to detect and notify people of false AI content in real-time. The idea is simple yet groundbreaking: use AI to fight AI.

Hirsch was also named the in North America in the 2024 One Show Young Ones ADC competition. In addition to winning the Silver ADC Cube in the AI category, she won a Merit Award in the ADC Advertising Integrated category for “.” Read more about Hirsch’s award-winning “AI vs. AI” idea.

Ryan Garret Conner’s Portfolio One of Nine Awarded in Advertising Category

Ryan Garrett Conner won a Portfolio award for work that included his print campaign “Once is Enough” for Tums.

Ryan Garret Conner ’23 was one of just nine global winners in the advertising category of the One Show Young Ones Portfolio competition. Conner’s portfolio, which included a series of impactful campaigns, earned recognition across multiple categories. His “Once is Enough” campaign for Tums uses a striking visual approach to communicate the core message: “Only taste it once.”

Another one of Conner’s featured campaigns was his digital AI idea for Volvo called “” (OTL). Conner addressed a pressing real-world problem: many women walking home alone at night can be put in dangerous situations. The OTL app, a collaboration with copywriter Mackenzie Murphy ’23, would use generative AI to create personalized fake calls to provide women with a sense of security in potentially dangerous situations.

Conner’s other featured campaign, “” for the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), creatively addresses animal extinction by tying the loss of Instagram followers to endangered species statistics.

Hirsch earned a Shortlist Award in the Portfolio competition as well.

Quincy Whipple and Ella Fiegner’s Dove Campaign Won a Merit Award

Quincy Whipple and Ella Fiegner won a Merit Award in the One Show Young Ones Brief category for their integrated campaign “Skin Stories” for Dove.

Quincy Whipple ’24 and Ella Fiegner ’24 won a Merit Award for their integrated campaign “” for Dove. This campaign highlights the stories behind wrinkles on a woman’s face, showing wrinkles are something to be proud of rather than something to be ashamed of.

Dove would sponsor female celebrities attending the Met Gala. Before the Met Gala, they would be on Vogue’s “Get Ready With Me” video series, where stars put on makeup for the red carpet. The twist? The celebrities apply no makeup and instead focus only on applying skincare products. The campaign extends to a digital movement with celebrities posting bare-faced selfies under the hashtag #MySkinStories.

The campaign would also include an art gallery in the Met displaying large photographs of real women and the stories behind their wrinkles.

Newhouse Creative Ad Student Work Won Shortlist Awards

Newhouse students also won 14 Shortlist Awards for a range of creative campaigns. Some of the highlights include the following:

“Ease of Assembly” Campaign

Ikea print campaign “Ease of Assembly“

Avery Schildhaus ’24 created the “Ease of Assembly” print campaign for Ikea, with catchy headlines that capture the brand’s DIY instructions.

“You Can’t Beat a Search Dog” Campaign

National Disaster Search Dog Foundation print campaign “You Can’t Beat a Search Dog”

Katelyn Hughes ’24 and Lang Delapa ’24 created the “You Can’t Beat a Search Dog” campaign for the National Disaster Search Dog Foundation, highlighting the skills of search dogs.

“Whiff of Terror” Campaign

Listerine Strips print campaign “Whiff of Terror”

Lara Molinari ’24 and Marlana Bianchi ’24 created the “Whiff of Terror” campaign for Listerine. The campaign was inspired by the idea that certain foods cause bad breath and can be a monster in social situations.

Newhouse Creative Advertising Students Won 10 Shortlist Awards

• Meiling Xiong ’24, art director, and Maggie Mellon ’24, copywriter, won a Shortlist Award in the Integrated category for their integrated campaign for Duolingo titled “.”

• Remi Tsunoda ’24, art director, and Avery Schildhaus won a Shortlist Award in the Experiential category for their experiential campaign for Velveeta titled “.”

• Remi Tsunoda and Avery Schildhaus won a Shortlist Award in the Integrated category for their integrated campaign for Velveeta titled “.”

• Ryan Garret Conner and Mackenzie Murphy’s print ad campaign for WWF, titled “,” won a Shortlist Award in the Advertising Out of Home & Print category.

• Jack Wojtowicz ’24, art director, and Mikaela Kraker ’24, copywriter, won a Shortlist Award in the Advertising Integrated category for their integrated campaign for Duolingo titled “.”

• Ryan Garret Conner and Mackenzie Murphy’s integrated ad campaign for Volvo, titled “,” won a Shortlist Award in the Design for Good: Interactive category.

• Olivia Valcourt ’25, art director, won a Shortlist Award in the Design for Good: Advertising category for her print ad campaign for the Trevor Project titled “4X More Likely.”

• Ava Schefren ’24, art director, and Alex Lund ’24, copywriter, won a Shortlist Award in the Advertising Integrated category for their integrated campaign for Duolingo titled “.”

• Livvy Doe ’24, art director, and Emily Saad ’24, copywriter, won a Shortlist Award in the Advertising: Art Direction category for their print ad campaign for Tile titled “Creepy Crawlings.”

• Ella Fiegener and Quincy Whipple won a Shortlist Award in the Design for Good: Advertising category for their integrated campaign for Dove titled “.”

A check was presented to the ���ϲ����� Rescue Mission on behalf of the Falk College Sport Management Club on Feb. 28 at the JMA Wireless Dome. From left, Falk College Assistant Professor Jeremy Losak, senior Adelaide Gilley and Rescue Mission Chief Executive Officer Dan Sieburg.

During the ���ϲ����� men’s basketball game on Dec. 10, supporters purchased items and placed bids on sports memorabilia, electronics, jewelry, gift baskets, experiences, books, and trips, among other items. In addition to the in-person event, an online auction was held where online supporters placed bids on hundreds of items.

strives to end hunger and provide hope to those in need. served as the title sponsor for the 2024 auction.

Adelaide Gilley ’25 (sport analytics), Livia McQuade ’25 (sport management) and Tynan Weathers ’25 (sport management) served as co-chairs for the event.

The SPM Club is a student-run organization in the Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics’ . Since its founding in 2005, the club has raised more than $760,000 for local charities. Previous beneficiaries of the club’s annual charity auction include Tillie’s Touch, Boys & Girls Clubs, Golisano Children’s Hospital, the Ronald McDonald House Charities of CNY, the Central New York SPCA, the Upstate Cancer Center, Special Olympics New York, Food Bank of CNY, the Salvation Army, American Diabetes Association, Make A Wish CNY, Meals on Wheels, the Jim and Juli Boeheim Foundation, McMahon/Ryan Child Advocacy Center and Vera House.

“The students have outdone themselves with this year’s Charity Sports Auction, and I couldn’t be prouder,” says Jeremy Losak, sport analytics assistant professor who serves as the organization’s faculty advisor. “While the public sees the excitement of the live event on game day, the real work happens behind the scenes, with students spending months planning every detail.

“From marketing and sales to sponsorship activation, analytics, event management, and fundraising, this event gives students a hands-on opportunity to apply classroom knowledge while making a real impact on the greater ���ϲ����� community,” Losak adds. “This is scholarship in action at its finest.”

The Sport Management Club meets weekly during the academic year. For more information about the annual Charity Auction, visit , , , or the website. To promote the auction, student organizers appeared on WSYR’s�� .

“Students tell us time and again that having a peer mentor… makes all the difference in their transition to college.”

Kal Srinivas

Research consistently shows that mentorship is a powerful driver of student success. A study by Gallup-Purdue found that college graduates who had a mentor were two times more likely to be engaged in their careers and increased overall well-being. Additionally, the National Mentoring Partnership reports that students with mentors are 55% more likely to enroll in college and 130% more likely to hold leadership positions.

“Students tell us time and again that having a peer mentor—someone who has been in their shoes, faced similar challenges and successfully navigated them—makes all the difference in their transition to college,” says Kal Srinivas, director of retention and student success. “Mentorship isn’t just about advice—it’s about having a trusted guide who helps new students build confidence, access resources and feel at home in the ���ϲ����� community.”

More than just a connection, Orange Mentor Connect is a transformative experience. “Mentorship strengthens students’ sense of belonging, expands their networks and builds essential skills for success,” says Julie Hasenwinkel, associate provost for academic programs. “This program is not just about helping new students—it’s also an incredible leadership opportunity for mentors, who gain valuable experience in coaching, communication and problem-solving.”

Administered by the , the program uses Mentor Collective’s smart-matching technology to pair students based on shared goals, interests and experiences. From there, mentors and mentees can connect through the platform in a way that works best for them—whether by text, video calls or in-person meetups.

For more information, visit the website or email mentoring@syr.edu.

Liesel Odden (Photo by Alex Dunbar)

Liesel Odden ’24, G’25 knows all too well the challenges of being a student-athlete. One minute she’s in the research labs of Link Hall; the next minute, she’s boarding a bus for an away game in a different state. As the co-captain of the University’s women’s soccer team and a student in the College of Engineering and Computer Science (ECS), Odden juggles these responsibilities much like she juggles soccer balls on the field.

“One of the hardest parts about being a student-athlete is traveling. In the fall semester, over the course of nine days, I was in Texas, Virginia and Florida,” says Odden. “But I’ve learned a lot more about time management since being in college.”

Playing soccer for as long as she can remember, Odden was thrilled to learn that ���ϲ�����’s team was in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), widely recognized as the top conference for women’s soccer. And the chance to play her favorite sport while pursuing her research interests was appealing.

“My coaches made this place feel like home, and treated me like family,” she says. “I also saw ���ϲ����� had environmental engineering and that, along with research opportunities, was exciting.”

Odden is enrolled in the 4+1 accelerated program for environmental engineering, a combined degree where students complete both a bachelor’s and master’s at the same time in five years, though she will complete both degrees early.

She credits Civil and Environmental Engineering Professor Cliff Davidson with helping her discover this accelerated program and though the courseload is rigorous, it’s also been helpful. Online lectures make catching up on work much easier, especially when she’s on the road.

As a research assistant, Odden collaborates with Davidson to analyze survey data on how different organizations respond to extreme weather events caused by climate change. Using information gathered from survey data, they’re attempting to find patterns between locations, organizations and strategies to respond to extreme weather events.

“With climate change, we’re going to be seeing a lot more flooding, droughts, heat waves and other extreme weather events so we need to have better ability to respond,” Odden says. “I think that we can be prepared and respond better if we know how different people and organizations strategize.”

Displaying leadership qualities both on and off the field, Odden has traveled to Mixco, Guatemala, for several summers, leading volunteer teams for Hogars Helping Hands, a nonprofit organization founded by her parents. The nonprofit focuses on supporting orphaned children and the local community, with volunteer groups building stoves, installing concrete floors and painting village homes among other tasks.

With the help of professors Elizabeth Carter and John Trimmer, Odden also aims to establish a student chapter of Engineers Without Borders at the University.

As Odden continues balancing her life as a student-athlete, she relies on her strong support system to achieve her goals and stay ahead of the game.

“I’ve always felt very encouraged by Dr. Davidson. He’s been an incredible mentor to me and I feel like I’ve learned a lot from him. Dr Trimmer and Dr. Carter have also both been super supportive of me as a student-athlete,” says Odden. “In ECS, I have felt very supported and love how much I’ve grown as a student and my passions have been fueled and cared for. After I’m done playing soccer, I’ll have a great environmental engineering background that I can have a career in.”

The School of Education’s freshman class being welcomed to campus during orientation in August 2024.

The School of Education will celebrate Alumni Week 2025 in February by launching EdMentor Connect, a pilot student-alumni mentoring program. EdMentor Connect will pair current undergraduate students with alumni to foster professional growth, enhance career readiness and provide students with insight into their future professions.

The program’s launch begins with —on Feb. 19 and 20—and culminates with a on Feb.y 21 at 5 p.m. in Huntington Hall’s Sharon H. Jacquet ’72 Education Commons. The invites School of Education undergraduates to build a profile to make the best match with an alum.

EdMentor Connect was developed by student leaders in the Deans’ Undergraduate Advisory Panel, with help from Assistant Dean for Student Success and Career and Certification Counselor and with support from Assistant Dean for Advancement and the School of Education .

“Everyone can benefit from a mentor, but those students who are in a teacher program and maybe realize they don’t want to only work in the classroom—and specifically our students—can learn about other real-world experiences,” says Gill, who will be the program’s point of contact and pair alumni with undergraduates. “A lot of students don’t realize the opportunities available for an education degree graduate, and our alumni have such a wide variety of backgrounds.”

“We have an extensive Orange network, and we help each other like a family,” says Hsiao, referring to the school’s more than 23,500 alumni, and especially Advisory Board members and School of Education , who have signed up to advise undergraduates. “Any and all students can benefit from EdMentor Connect, and mentors can offer students different perspectives on their futures.”

As she prepares to graduate, selected studies in education student Sofia DaCruz ’25, a member of the Undergraduate Advisory Panel, says she is “excited to connect with someone in the field for career advice.”

“As a senior, I think this program will be especially useful for students like me who are trying to figure out what they can do with the major after graduation,” DaCruz says.

Advisory Board Member Emily R. Ades ’89, P’21, P’23 says she is excited for the launch of the pilot program, ready to take on a mentee, and believes that mentoring programs can help students of any age.

Ades, currently director of The Kinnect Foundation, the nonprofit arm of fashion brand Kith, recalls how informal advisers have helped her throughout her career. “I started as an elementary school teacher had a mentor for nine years,” Ades says. “I then worked for the New York City Department of Education for Mayor Michael Bloomberg and found someone there, and for the past 12 years a mentor has helped me work in the nonprofit sector.”

Like Ades, Gill says mentors helped her early in her career. In fact, her host teacher from when she was a student teacher became her coach when she was hired into her placement school. “She stayed with me into my post-graduate life and shared teaching practices that I also used,” Gill says.

Madison Zeltzer ’25 contributed to this story.

The grant is funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) through its Computer and Information Science and Engineering directorate and more specifically, the Human-Centered Computing funding arm. It is for research into the project, “Mind Perception in AI Companionship: Testing the Assumptions of Social Theories.”

Jaime Banks

As principal investigator, Banks, who in April 2024 was named the , will lead an investigation into how language and social cognition shape the understanding of artificial intelligence. She will work with Caleb Carr, a professor of communications at Illinois State University, as co-principal investigator. iSchool Ph.D. student Zhixin Li will support their work.

The funding marks a significant milestone after two years of dedicated work in securing the grant, paving the way for a deep dive into social AI’s role in human lives. Over the next four years, Banks and her interdisciplinary team will explore the psychological and social dimensions of AI, addressing pressing questions about how people humanize and relate to the technologies.

Companies like����and�� are relatively new technologies, designed to stave off loneliness in people through the development of AI companions. Recent news regarding AI has been about internet tools that students and workers can use to help lighten their workloads or how they optimize algorithms to capture attention in all kinds of insidious ways. Less attention is given to Social AI—machines designed to quench humans’ inherent need to connect with others. That is a critical gap in scientific knowledge and technology literacy because social AI are increasingly integrated into everyday social media use, and, as thought to have been driven by the COVID-19 pandemic, adopted as standalone technologies to help with loneliness.

The study looks at the social-cognitive processes involved in companion machines, from the way they are even referred to as “companions,” to the way they are designed to interact with users, to how they make users feel, Banks says. “We want to understand the subjective experience of seeing an AI companion as someone, and how that experience links to the positive or negative effects,” she says.

As Banks embarks on this research project, her work promises to contribute insights into the . By investigating the psychological and social factors that influence interactions with these technologies, Banks and her team aim to conduct rigorous scientific work—insights that may inform future developments in AI design as well as policy, practice, and ethics.

Pictured from left to right: JaSheika James, Stacy Ike, JaNeika James and Ta’Rhonda Jones on the set of “Empire.”

JaNeika James G’05 and her twin sister, JaSheika, grew up watching television and “fell in love with TV” and the possibilities it could mean for them.

JaNeika James

Today, the two are accomplished TV writers and producers of several shows, including JaNeika’s role as supervising producer on FOX’s groundbreaking hit show, “Empire,” among others.

“Our story is an example of how dreams can be manifested. A lot of people think that you have to know every single step to get to where you want to be,” JaNeika says. “The truth is, if you’re clear and have a vision for what it is that you want to do with your life, all you have to do is declare it.”

On Feb. 7, JaNeika will bring her message to young scholars as the keynote speaker at the . The ceremony, which is open to the entire University community, honors from the previous year who have successfully transitioned to their second year on campus. Those who would like to attend are encouraged to .

“Allowed Us to Dream”

As youngsters, the James twins lived on an Air Force base in Wiesbaden, Germany, where their mother was stationed. Access to television was limited, and the offerings available were predominantly in German.

Thankfully for the sisters, their grandparents in the U.S. mailed them VHS tapes of popular U.S. TV shows like “A Different World,” “The Cosby Show,” “Cheers,” “The Golden Girls” and “Empty Nest.”

Watching television became “a source of comfort” for the sisters, and JaNeika says it provided hours of entertainment and it “allowed us to dream of what was possible for ourselves,” says JaNeika, who earned a master’s degree in television, radio and film from the .

It was an unlikely way to start their lifelong love affair with television, but today, JaNeika and JaSheika are accomplished TV writers. JaNeika was supervising producer on FOX’s groundbreaking hit show, “Empire,” co-executive producer on Netflix’s limited series, “True Story” and HBO Max’s reboot of “Gossip Girl,” and an executive producer on Peacock’s hit show, “Bel-Air.”

JaNeika and JaSheika co-authored a book, “Living Double,” describing their experiences working in the ultra-competitive TV industry in Hollywood. It outlines how, no matter the obstacles, the sisters were determined to turn their dreams into reality.

Pictured on the set of “Bel-Air” are (from left to right): JaNeika James (writer and executive producer), Jabari Banks (who plays Will Smith) and JaSheika James (writer and executive producer).

James sat down with SU News to discuss ���ϲ�����’s impact on her life, her successful career, the importance of giving back to current students and her message for the WellsLink students during their Transitions Ceremony.

What impact has ���ϲ����� has had on your life and your career?

The Newhouse School instills in those who decide to work in media an understanding of the importance of the media and how it shapes our world and culture. Knowing the responsibility we hold—not just as storytellers in Hollywood, but also those who deliver information through journalistic integrity.

There is a huge responsibility that comes with putting content out into the world for all to see and hear. That responsibility was embedded in me at ���ϲ�����. It’s had an incredible impact on my career.

What show had the greatest influence on you?��

“Living Single.” The stars were Queen Latifah, Erika Alexander, Kim Fields and Kim Coles. When that show first aired, it was the first time I saw a show with Black women of all different shapes and sizes, who were best friends living their best lives as single, independent women. “Living Single” allowed me and my twin sister to see a future version of ourselves, and what was possible for our careers.

When did you realize you had made it as a producer?

That first time I was on set for “Empire.” I was flown out to Chicago to produce my first episode of television. I had been a fan of the show since season one and became a writer during season two. To go from being a fan of the show to walking into the studios and seeing where all the scenes were filmed was pretty incredible for me as a huge television fan.

One of the best feelings I’ve had as a writer is seeing actors I know and love—from Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson to Demi Moore, Forrest Whitaker and Alfre Woodard, among others— say words that literally came from my head. To witness them bring my words to life is when it started to settle in that I was actually living my dream.

JaNeika James poses with the cast of “Bel-Air.”

How can your success inspire future generations?

Representation is extremely important. If it wasn’t for representation, I personally would not be in this business. I was truly inspired by “Living Single,” but what really stood out was when I read an article about Yvette Lee Bowser being the first African American woman to create and run her own TV show. That planted this idea in my head that I could one day be an African American woman who created and ran her own TV show.�� It’s been a goal of mine and my sister’s to be a source of inspiration and an example that anything is possible when you put your mind to it.

Why is it important to give back to our students through the Our Time Has Come Scholarship Program?

I hope I’ve had an impact in helping students who didn’t think going to school was a possibility for them. I know what it’s like to want to go to college but not know if it’s something you can afford. I know what it feels like to have financial burdens when you’re deeply in pursuit of a dream. By supporting , I hope to help students feel free to pursue their dreams without being distracted by financial responsibilities.

What’s your message for WellsLink students during their transitions ceremony?

A lot of people have been disillusioned into thinking we are powerless through our circumstances. What I learned as an artist, writer, producer and African American woman is that there is a lot of power that we hold within that we, unfortunately, have been made to believe is not there. I really want to encourage and remind them of the power they hold to essentially move mountains—in their own lives and in the lives of everyone they encounter.

WellsLink Leadership Program Class of 2027

This year’s ceremony will honor the following students:

• Kaitlyn Arzu (S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications)
• Mouctar Barry (Martin J. Whitman School of Management)
• Angelie Serrano Báez (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Umar Bilgrammi (Arts and Sciences)
• Nashaly Bonilla (School of Architecture)
• Sydney Brockington (Arts and Sciences)
• Frances Brown (Whitman School)
• Samantha Chavez (Newhouse School)
• Karrington Clay (Arts and Sciences)
• Eliora Enriquez (College of Visual and Performing Arts)
• Matthew Esquivel (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Kiara Reyes Estevez (Whitman School)
• Khalil Foreman (Whitman School)
• Edward Garcia (School of Information Studies)
• Ryann Gholston (Information Studies)
• Samayee Gupte (Arts and Sciences)
• Lindsay Hiraoka (Engineering and Computer Science)
• Monica-Lillie Jacobs (Information Studies)
• AJ (Angie) Jaramillo (Visual and Performing Arts)
• Hayden Jones (Arts and Sciences)
• Amy Kim (Information Studies)
• John Lasso (Whitman School)
• Bryant Lin (Engineering and Computer Science)
• Valarie Lin (Arts and Sciences)
• Kelly Lopez (School of Architecture)
• Nehru Madan (Newhouse School)
• Emely Marte (Visual and Performing Arts)
• Rosmery Martinez (Whitman School)
• Ariana Mithu (Visual and Performing Arts)
• Sophie Navarrete (David B. Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics)
• Dylan Okamoto (Whitman School)
• Kaylin Pagan (Arts and Sciences)
• Jiya Patel (Whitman School)
• Nayeli Perez (Information Studies)
• Simeon Sheldon (Falk College)
• Paris Smith (Arts and Sciences)
• Aramata Trawalley (Engineering and Computer Science)
• Jasmine Trenchfield (Newhouse School)
• Orezimena Ubogu (Arts and Sciences)
• Alexandra Vassel (Visual and Performing Arts)
• Aaron Wang (Whitman School)
• Yuki Zhang (Whitman School)

Molly Egan, left, and Marlana Bianchi beam with excitement as they hold their 2024 Cannes Future Lions Grand Prix trophies, moments after being announced as the winners. (Photo courtesy of Mel White)

“���ϲ����� Creatives Win Future Lions Grand Prix with Spotify Sign Language Project,” read the Ad Age headline on June 19, 2024—a prestigious recognition for the S.I. Newhouse School in one of the top trade publications in creative advertising.

Earlier that day, Molly Egan and Marlana Bianchi won the Cannes Future Lions Grand Prix for their artificial intelligence idea for Spotify, created in their Portfolio III course in the Newhouse School, taught by Professor .

“Winning the Grand Prix in the Cannes Future Lions competition is the most significant award the advertising department at Newhouse has ever received,” says , professor and chair of the Newhouse advertising department. “We couldn’t be prouder of Marlana and Molly’s huge accomplishment, along with their professor, Mel White.”

“We are dedicated to being the best undergraduate advertising program in the country and world, and this is clear evidence we are well on our way,” Russell says.

, dean of the Newhouse School, says, “What wonderful news! I’m excited for our students and very grateful for the talented faculty that helped guide them toward this achievement.”

Egan and Bianchi’s Portfolio III instructor, White, guided them through the creation of “Break the Sound Barrier,” and her support was crucial to their success. She helped them refine the concept from 10 initial ideas they presented in class and sharpen its final execution.

In class, before providing her students with the competition brief, White taught them how to create innovative campaigns using emerging technologies. In particular, she teaches them to utilize deepfake technology in positive ways to create impactful ideas that connect brands with their audiences.

The Innovative AI Idea Chosen by Spotify: “Break the Sound Barrier”

Marlana Bianchi (from left), Tye M. Comer, Chloe Wix, Molly Egan and Gemma Redgrave gather on stage after Bianchi and Egan received their Grand Prix trophies. (Photo courtesy of AKQA)

Egan and Bianchi addressed the competition brief from Spotify, which asked students how Spotify could spread positivity using technology to bring listeners closer to the creators and communities they love. The brief encouraged entries to use new technology and uplift underrepresented communities.

While brainstorming how to answer the brief, they realized music streaming platforms lacked features for the deaf community, making them less inclusive.

To solve this problem, they created an idea that adds deaf sign language performers like Justina Miles to all songs on Spotify, spearheading a music revolution.

They applied deepfake technology to scale deaf performances into all the 300-plus different sign languages for each song on the platform. This idea makes music streaming fully accessible to the deaf community, and it will only be available on Spotify.

Musicians would also have a choice to opt into “.” When a musician opts in, Spotify will generate them signing with deepfake technology. This will let musicians perform in all the world’s sign languages for the first time, bringing deaf fans closer to their favorite artists than ever before.

In��the first article of this two-part series, Egan and Bianchi share the inspiration behind their digital AI idea for Spotify.

“There’s terrific craft to this execution. The name [‘Break the Sound Barrier’] is provocative. The writing in the case, sharp. And you tied it to culture in a way that lets Spotify know: the time to do this is now,” says Avi Steinbach ’14, creative director and writer at Ogilvy. Steinbach is an alumnus of Newhouse’s creative advertising program and is also a first-time Cannes Lions Grand Prix winner this year for “,” for which he was involved in every aspect of its creation.

Spotify Chose “Break the Sound Barrier” to Win Future Lions Grand Prix

“The idea that this feature could bring [the deaf community] closer to the artists that they love meets the brief perfectly,” says Tye M. Comer, creative director of Spotify advertising. “Also, the use of deepfake technology—genius. Because I don’t know about the rest of you, but everything that I’ve heard about deepfake technology absolutely terrifies me, right?”

“To take that and to turn it on its head to create something that puts positivity in the world was just wonderful. And that’s the whole point of Future Lions,” Comer said.

Spotify chose the Grand Prix winner based on which idea they want to explore producing. They will collaborate with Egan and Bianchi to find ways to bring “” to life on their platform.

And the Winner Is…��

Marlana Bianchi and Molly Egan (top row, left) hold their Grand Prix trophies with the three other Future Lions winning teams from schools in England, Italy and Germany. (Photo courtesy of AKQA)

On the morning of the ceremony, Egan and Bianchi eagerly joined the three other winning teams to await the announcement of the Grand Prix winner on Spotify Beach at Cannes Lions.

Gemma Redgrave, global marketing director at advertising agency AKQA, presented the award with Comer and Chloe Wix, global director of product marketing at Spotify. Redgrave has overseen Future Lions since 2019, advocating for student creativity.

Until that moment, Egan and Bianchi had been sworn to secrecy about their status as Cannes Future Lions winners. With anticipation building, the defining moment of their Cannes experience arrived.

“The Grand Prix goes to… ‘Break the Sound Barrier.’”

“We ran onto the stage, floating on cloud nine. In that moment, our dreams came true,” Egan says.

Story by Molly Egan, a senior in the Newhouse School

Examining Black life and culture through time and space, this year’s theme, “African Americans and Labor,” explores work and working of all kinds, free and unfree, skilled and unskilled, vocational and voluntary within the collective intersecting experiences of Black life and culture.

“This year’s Black History Month planning has been a labor of love,” says Cydavia Patterson, program coordinator and member of the Black History Month Committee. “The committee has put in long hours, lots of emails and phone calls and many back-to-back meetings. We hope this month inspires you to celebrate your heritage, revel in your history, practice cultural wellness and look for those who you can reach out to and reach back to.”

Calendar of Events

The campus community is invited to join these programs, events and discussions that began on Jan. 22 and continue through March 2.

“Black history is deeply ingrained in the foundation of this country, not just this month but year-round,” says Lael Pierce, assistant director of . “We honor the bravery, talent and contributions of the men and women who’ve excelled and enacted change in our society. Black history is American history.”

A complete listing of Black History Month events is available on the . Among the highlights:

• Friday, Jan. 31, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.:��
• Friday, Jan. 31, 7-9 p.m.:��
• Monday, Feb. 3, noon-2 p.m.:
• Wednesday, Feb. 19, 7 p.m.:��
• Saturday, Feb. 22, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m.:��
• Sunday, Feb. 23, 7 p.m.:��
• Sunday, March 2, 6-9 p.m.:��

For questions or to learn more, contact by emailing BIPOCSS@syr.edu or calling 315.443.0228.

Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to provide feedback on the value of the resources and services offered by the Libraries.

is conducting two awareness and perception surveys: one directed to all ��and one directed to .�� The surveys, launched on Jan. 15, will remain open through Feb. 10.

Both surveys will allow the Libraries to benchmark against results and feedback received in 2020, when similar surveys were implemented. The surveys, which take about 10 minutes to complete, provide a gauge of the University community’s perception of the value of various resources and services offered by the Libraries, and an opportunity to gather open-ended responses about ways the Libraries can meet the changing needs of its users.

Information gathered from the surveys will be shared with the Libraries’ leadership and staff and will inform strategic direction.

On Jan. 29, we bid farewell to the Year of the Dragon and usher in the Year of the Snake, which, according to the Chinese Zodiac, represents harvest, spirituality and good fortune. Lunar New Year celebrations last up to 15 days and include such various customs as gathering with family, preparing traditional foods, artistic performances and the gifting of red envelopes to pass on good fortune and blessings to the younger generations.

Students enjoy the 2024 Orange After Dark/Center for International Services Celebration

For international students on campus looking for a taste of home or for anyone who simply wants to celebrate a new beginning based on the lunar calendar, check out the following selection of Lunar New Year events being held on campus.

Tuesday, Jan. 28—Asian American Journalists Association Celebration

The will hold a Lunar New Year Celebration in Newhouse 1 Room 303 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. There will be fun activities, delicious food and an amazing night planned for all!

Wednesday, Jan. 29: Food Services Pop-Up

Campus Dining centers will host pop-up events in all dining centers at dinnertime, with a build-your-own stir fry station featuring noodles, rice and extra toppings; dumplings and spring rolls.

Wednesday, Jan. 29: Newhouse International Students Association Tabling Event

The will host a tabling event in food.com, located on the second floor of Newhouse 3, from noon to 1 pm. Stop by to get your lucky red envelope and Asian treats to celebrate the Year of the Snake.

Friday, Jan. 31: School of Architecture Lunar New Year Celebration

A will be held in Slocum Hall from 5 to 7:30 p.m., organized by international students in the and Dean Michael Speaks.��Students can engage in a wide range of activities, such as knot tying, calligraphy, fortune scratch-offs, Chinese horoscopes and a photo booth. There will also be musical and vocal performances and a dancing dragon. Food, chocolate coins and traditional candies, and tea with Dean Speaks will be served.��A series of short faculty presentations on East Asian culture and architecture will begin at 5:30 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 31: Orange After Dark/Center for International Services Lunar New Year Celebration

��The campus community is invited to celebrate the Lunar New Year with Orange After Dark and the from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. in 304 ABC Schine Student Center.��There will be a light Chinese buffet and activities, including making a Chinese lucky knot, creating PaperCut, origami, Wish Tree, chopstick bean relay race and calligraphy. Tickets can be obtained through the .

Friday, Feb. 7: Chinese United Student Association and Chinese Student and Scholars Association Chinese New Year Party

The and the will host a Chinese New Year Party at 6 p.m. in the Schine Student Center’s Goldstein Auditorium. There will be programs relating to Chinese culture, dance, martial arts and music.

Share Your Lunar New Year Photos With Us!

However you decide to celebrate—whether at the events mentioned above or elsewhere—send your photos to SU News! Email��newsphoto@syr.edu��and we’ll share a selection of Lunar New Year pictures in the weeks to come.

Choolaah Makes Campus and New York State Debut��

Opening at food.com in the Newhouse Complex and at the Goldstein Food Hall in the Goldstein Student Center, Choolaah brings delicious, fast-casual Indian BBQ to campus. Guests can build their own power bowl or naan wrap, choosing a savory protein and fresh toppings, with options to add flavorful sides and specialty drinks. There are plenty of selections for vegans, vegetarians, and those who need gluten-free options. South Campus’ Food Hall location will be open for dinner from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. The food.com location will be open for lunch and dinner from Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Gluten Free and Halal Options Available in Every Dining Center

New this semester is the expanded availability of options for . Campus Dining’s registered dietitian, Ashley Leone, worked with dining center staff to create an area for Halal meals in each dining center. At Brockway, Sadler, Ernie Davis, Shaw and Graham, students needing Halal meals will find a protein, starch and vegetable option daily. At the Orange dining center, Halal meals will be made to order. Students can order ahead by calling 315.443.9750 or emailing Orangehall@groups.syr.edu to have their Halal meal prepared and ready when they arrive.

Gluten-free entrees and sides will still be available at every dining center. After experimenting with a made-to-order system last semester, Leone heard plenty of feedback from students with gluten sensitivities. While gluten-free meals can still be prepared made-to-order (and will continue to be prepared on an as-needed basis at the Orange dining center), Brockway, Sadler, Ernie Davis, Shaw and Graham dining centers will now have gluten-free options on the line, prepared ahead of time for students who need a faster option.

Residential Dining Adds New Selections, Pop-Ups, Longer Weekend Brunch

Following up on suggestions from students, the six residential dining centers will expand the number of special pop-up events they host each semester. Dining center visitors can expect special dinners to celebrate the Lunar New Year, Earth Week, Valentine’s Day and St. Patrick’s Day, among others.

Breakfast has also changed: every day, every dining center now offers self-made-to-order Belgian waffles, with a custom ���ϲ����� design built into the waffle iron. Weekend brunch hours have been extended: dining centers will open at 9 a.m. and will offer a full brunch menu through 3 p.m.

During the first week of the semester, Ernie Davis dining center debuted a Southern fried chicken concept, which has already proven popular with diners. Perfectly Southern, which features mac n’ cheese, mashed potatoes and fried chicken—both breast and tender option—is available Monday through Wednesday for lunch and dinner. Campus Dining will look to expand this offering to other dining centers if this option continues to be well received.

Limited Time Offers and Extended Hours

Panda Express in the Schine Student Center is set to unveil three enticing, limited-time entrees throughout the spring semester. Firecracker steak and shrimp will debut on March 5, wok-fired shrimp will launch on May 28 and hot orange chicken will be available on July 9. The Schine Dunkin’ is currently serving the brown sugar shakin’ espresso, featuring a double-shot of espresso, oat milk and brown sugar syrup that is hand-shaken to create a light and frothy texture. Additionally, Yella’s at food.com is extending its hours and will now be open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

Inn Complete

The University’s campus pub (located on Skytop Road on South Campus) will be open nearly every Thursday and Friday evening from 3 to 8 p.m. during the semester. Its features made-to-order small bites, handhelds and flatbreads.

All campus community members are invited to visit for happy hour, when the pub will offer a rotating selection of wine and beer to guests ages 21 and over, along with plenty of board games, game tables, seating for dining and socializing and cozy spots to sit by a fireplace. As the weather warms, outside patio and deck seating will also be available.

In addition to its regular hours, the Inn Complete will continue to host catered events and departmental gatherings. To book an event, please contact the at 315.443.3605 to learn more.

Weijia Jiang

CBS News and Stations is partnering with the to explore the growing challenges of navigating misinformation and disinformation.

Two days of programming that focus on questions about how to discern truth from falsehood begin Jan. 30, when journalists will take part in the “An Eye on Misinformation and Disinformation.” Among those scheduled to attend are CBS News’ senior White House correspondent����G’06, congressional correspondent����’98, reporter����’15 and CBS News Confirmed executive editor��.

Scott MacFarlane

The and workshop mark the start of a new partnership with CBS News and Stations that will provide more distinctive opportunities for Newhouse students to engage with alumni and learn from leaders in the field. Plans include collaborative content creation with the network and student engagement with CBS News and Stations journalists in New York, Washington, D.C., and other cities.

Ali Bauman

“We are thrilled to work with Newhouse’s talented students and faculty, leveraging this relationship to foster meaningful discussions and prepare future journalists to navigate the complexities of reporting locally, nationally and globally,” says Laurie Orlando, SVP of Talent Strategy and Development, CBS News and Stations.

The collaboration highlights Newhouse’s enduring commitment to excellence in journalism education as the school��, says Newhouse Dean .

“This is a tremendous opportunity for Newhouse students to learn from some of the best reporters, editors and producers in the country, starting with our timely and intensive discussions about maintaining journalistic integrity while combatting disinformation,” Lodato says.��“On behalf of ���ϲ�����, let me express our deep gratitude to the CBS News and Stations team for sharing their time and insights about these critical topics.”

Rhona Tarrant

, senior associate dean at Newhouse, and��, a research professor, will work alongside the CBS News team during the masterclass to help students navigate the tools and techniques available to analyze misinformation and disinformation. The session will include interactive case studies, analysis of real-world examples and a hands-on interactive session where participants learn and apply practical techniques to combat misinformation and disinformation.

The 25 Newhouse students participating in the masterclass have been selected from an application process, which was open to Newhouse juniors, seniors or graduate students. As part of the visit to Newhouse, members of the CBS News and Stations team will also review student reels.

Pictured from left to right: Steven Blatt, Sarah Reckess and Suzette Meléndez.

The College of Law is adding the ���ϲ����� Medical Legal Partnership (SLMP) to its Office of Clinical Legal Education starting with the Spring 2025 semester. Professor Suzette Meléndez will be the co-director of the new clinic along with of Upstate University Hospital and Professor of Upstate Medical University.

The SMLP is an interdisciplinary collaboration between the pediatric unit at SUNY Upstate Medical University and ���ϲ�����’s College of Law. SMLP provides legal advocacy to improve the overall health and well-being of vulnerable patient populations. SMLP also works to achieve systemic change through the multidisciplinary education of law students, medical students, residents and other professionals whose expertise is important to this goal. Doctors and lawyers will learn to work collaboratively to attain favorable outcomes for patients. Through this partnership, patients receive critical legal assistance while professionals learn about using community resources and employing cooperative strategies to benefit patients and clients in their practices.

“The main goal of the SMLP is to educate law students about the role lawyers can play in positively affecting the lives of children facing significant medical and sociological obstacles,” says Meléndez. “Likewise, we hope to educate medical and social work professionals in how to best work with legal representation to deliver the best patient outcomes.”

The SMLP combines a clinical offering and the Child Health Policy and Legal Practice course for students interested in developing legal skills and policy analysis in children’s health. Students will provide non-litigation legal services (intake, advice, research and referrals) for a busy pediatric clinic in ���ϲ����� around legal issues that impact healthcare access and outcomes. This may include children’s access to education, safe housing, medical equipment, family court issues, government aid programs, transition-age youth and more. Special populations served by SMLP will be patients who have complex medical needs and patients who are aging out of pediatric health care and social services and need to preserve their legal rights.

“The SLMP is a unique approach to bridging the legal and sociological gap among a vulnerable population that is often faced with navigating the complicated systems during a crisis,” says Dean Terence Lau L’98. “Likewise, ���ϲ����� Law students will gain critical skills such as interviewing clients and researching legal and policy solutions that are invaluable to their legal careers.”

Students can register for the clinic when they select classes for the Spring 2025 semester. Students enrolled in the SMLP must be co-enrolled in Child Health Policy and Legal Practice as the classroom component of this experiential course.

The College of Law now offers students the opportunity to participate in eight clinics: Bankruptcy, Betty & Michael D. Wohl Veterans Legal Clinic, Criminal Defense, Disability Rights, Housing, Sherman F. Levey ’57, L’59 Low Income Taxpayer Clinic, ���ϲ����� Legal Medical Partnership and Transactional Law.

The liberal arts offerings through the (A&S) and the have always equipped students with the critical and creative thinking skills needed throughout their lifetimes.

Today, thanks to an important revision of the foundational (LAC), the two schools will offer a reimagined, robust and contemporary curriculum that will prepare students for adaptability and success in a constantly evolving world. The new LAC, slated to be implemented in the Fall 2025 semester, will apply only to those students matriculating beginning in the fall of 2025.

The College of Arts and Sciences and the Maxwell School will offer a reimagined, robust and contemporary curriculum that will prepare students for adaptability and success in a constantly evolving world.

Executive Director of Esports Joey Gawrysiak addresses the crowd during the grand opening of the Gaming and Esports Center on campus. (Photo by Tiancheng Tang ’26)

Continuing to innovate as a leading higher education institution for and gaming in the United States, ���ϲ����� has officially opened its new, state-of-the-art Gaming and Esports Center—an exciting arena for competitors and those new to the action to take part in this ever-growing, evolving sports field. The community gaming space elevates the esports offerings at the University in support of student engagement opportunities and first-of-its-kind academic programming.

Pictured from left to right are Chancellor Kent Syverud, Braeden Cheverie-Leonard ’26, Gabriel Goodwin ’28, and Brianna Nechifor ’26.

“This new best-in-class esports center is an important milestone in a project that is still underway to make us the best university for esports and gaming,” said ���ϲ����� Chancellor and President , during its opening celebration Friday. “No other university of our stature is investing in esports like we are. This gives ���ϲ����� a unique opportunity to level up while others aren’t even in the game.”

The 5,800-square-foot center inside the Schine Student Center is the second recreational gaming and esports facility on campus. The esports gaming room at the Barnes Center at The Arch has attracted more than 100,000 visits by students since opening in 2019.

The new facility will allow even more students the opportunity to try their hand at esports and gaming while strengthening the University’s commitment to leading the way in esports through the creation of a space that sets the University apart from its peer institutions.

Joey Gawrysiak

The Gaming and Esports Center offers something for every member of the University community, says , executive director of esports, including the first-of-its-kind esports communications and management degree program, offered jointly by the����and the��.

The center will house the University’s competitive esports varsity teams and feature a long, elevated stage with 10 computers where teams square off in competition. Each computer has a camera attached to the top for live streaming, and there are two long, video boards running in front of and behind the stage, perfect for displaying match stats, graphics and video replays to the crowd of spectators seated in front of the stage.

The facility is also meant for gamers of all levels and interests. There are 24 high-end personal computers and assorted console gaming on systems like Nintendo, PlayStation and Xbox, along with virtual and augmented reality offerings, two racing simulators, classic arcade games and tabletop gaming.

“We’re setting a new standard for what esports and gaming can be, and ���ϲ����� is embracing the impact esports and gaming can have at an institution of higher education,” Gawrysiak says. “This space shows that we’re innovative and that we have an eye on the future of gaming and esports. We’re using esports and gaming as an educational opportunity, and this facility is a showcase of all things gaming for all members of our campus community.”

A member of the University community tries out one of the racing simulators housed in the new Gaming and Esports Center. (Photo by Cathleen O’Hare)

The University and global esports and gaming organization have collaborated on a multi-year partnership designed to enhance student engagement opportunities and support the University’s esports degree program. Along with an opportunity to participate in an intensive, three-week study abroad program in South Korea, the partnership will bring Gen.G’s Campus Takeover conference and program to ���ϲ����� to celebrate the University’s Gaming and Esports Center.

The center also features a production area—where students can receive real-world experiences live streaming varsity and club esports competitions—and a space for student broadcasters to provide play-by-play and color commentary from the matches.

Will Delgado ’26 has been involved with esports since his first year on campus, first as a broadcaster and then as a content creator for the esports program’s social media channels. Delgado shot, edited and produced the esports promotional video that was shown during Friday’s grand opening.

Will Delgado

“This space is going to have a huge impact on the campus community. It will help educate and inform our students on the potential career opportunities presented by esports,” says Delgado, who is studying both supply chain management in the and television, radio and film in the .

“By getting involved with esports, students can walk away with career skills and experiences that will serve them well in this industry.�� I should know, as I want to merge my passions for gaming, esports and content creation into an esports career when I graduate,” says Delgado, who is a resident advisor for an esports-centric Living Learning Community in Haven Hall.

During the ceremony, ���ϲ�����’s Counter Strike 2 varsity team, which claimed a national championship from the National Association of Collegiate Esports, was honored with a trophy presentation that will proudly be displayed in the center. It’s the first of what Gawrysiak hopes is many trophies to come.

Later this summer, the University is launching construction on a competitive esports arena inside the Marley Building. The third esports venue on campus will provide real-world, professional experiences to esports student-athletes and to members of the esports academic degree program.

The Gaming and Esports Center will be open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week and is located immediately next to the campus bookstore. All games and experiences are free to play for members of the University community.

Members of the University community watch a competition featuring members of the ���ϲ����� esports team. (Photo by Cathleen O’Hare)

Merit scholarships that retain top first-year students. Fellowships that allow faculty to pursue their interests and bring emerging knowledge back into the classroom. Physical improvements to the , including Flaum Grand Hall, a centralized gathering place welcoming students and the entire Whitman community.

These are some examples of the impact made by the newly launched Whitman Leadership Circle (WLC), a philanthropic giving society created to transform the educational experience by harnessing the power and support of the Whitman School community.

The WLC was created as an opportunity for alumni, parents and friends to directly support Whitman through multi-year leadership commitments. In return, WLC members receive a personalized stewardship experience that includes special recognition, exclusive communication from the dean, invitations to speak at events and attend receptions, seminars and virtual meetings, unique gifts and apparel and opportunities to interact with students and faculty that not only thank them for their generosity but continue to enhance their commitment to the Whitman School’s mission and vision.

Alex McKelvie

“The launch of the Whitman Leadership Circle coincides with an exciting transformational time in our history,” says Alex McKelvie, interim dean of the Whitman School. “The energy around the Whitman School is palpable, as we have seen our rankings reach the highest level in over 15 years, and, more importantly, have witnessed our students and faculty continue to succeed in the classroom, in their careers and in their communities.”

The official rollout of the WLC comes one year after the Whitman School restructured its advancement and external engagement team, including hiring Assistant Dean of Advancement and External Engagement Michael Paulus. The team’s goal over the past year? To recharge alumni, parents and others to raise the level of support for the Whitman School through new strategies and initiatives. The WLC is one example of how these new initiatives are coming to life, as it targets three essential pillars at the Whitman School: enhancing the student experience, providing faculty support and improving the learning environment and facilities.

Commitments to the WLC begin at $25,000 or more ($5,000 per year over five years) and can be designated to any restricted or unrestricted fund, ensuring a genuine connection to the area of education each chooses to support. The program encompasses six levels of commitment and extends up to $1 million or more.

“As I have had the opportunity to meet with more alumni, parents and other supporters from across the country, I am struck by the important role the Whitman School has played in their lives and how much they value Whitman as such a special place,” says Paulus. “The goal of the WLC is to harness that value into providing outstanding programs, as well as initiatives that make Whitman stand out and ensure that our students continue to get the best possible educational experience both in and outside of the classroom.”

To date, 70 donors have been recognized in the WLC cohort, including 32 who have pledged their support in the last six months during the silent phase of the WLC’s launch. Together during this time, these donors have generated over $4.7 million in new support for Whitman.

“Our goal for the future is to build a storied legacy and create an environment that is as vibrant as the students who enroll at Whitman and the faculty who teach here,” says , vice chancellor for strategic initiatives and innovation and executive dean of the Whitman School. “Our objective is bold, but our plan of action is specific, measurable and achievable. To ascend to excellence in business education will take a united Whitman community ready to commit to our shared vision— and the Whitman Leadership Circle is a vital component to that success.”

Visit the website to learn more about opportunities to make an impact, or complete the to learn how to become an essential part of the legacy of the Whitman School.

“Senior Class Marshals embody the spirit of academic excellence, personal growth and community engagement, representing the vibrant and inclusive experience of being Orange,” says Sheriah N. Dixon, associate vice president for the , Dean of Students and chair of the selection committee. “We encourage juniors to explore the process and apply to serve as representatives of the Class of 2026.”

In addition to leading their graduating class during Commencement, Senior Class Marshals help to recommend the Commencement speaker, participate in alumni networking, meet with a senior University administrator to discuss their student experience and offer insights and suggestions, represent their class at University-wide functions and more.

For more information about the role, including qualifications and instructions on how to apply, please visit the . The deadline to apply is Monday, Feb. 10.

For questions, contact Tracy Pierce at tmstark@syr.edu or call 315.443.3514.

A ���ϲ����� senior and an alumna were recently chosen for prestigious graduate fellowships that prepare students for careers in the Foreign Service.

Linda Baguma ’25, an international relations and political science major in the and , has been named a 2025 Rangel Fellow. Alexandria Johnson ’24, an international relations graduate from the Maxwell School and College of Arts and Sciences, has been selected as a 2025 Pickering Fellow.

The Charles B. Rangel Graduate Fellowship aims to attract and prepare outstanding young people for careers in the Foreign Service of the U.S. Department of State where they can help formulate, represent and implement U.S. foreign policy. The Rangel Program supports fellows through two years of graduate study, domestic and overseas internships, mentoring and professional development activities.

Funded by the U.S. Department of State, the Thomas R. Pickering Fellowship awards recipients two years of financial support, mentoring and professional development to prepare them for a career in the Foreign Service. Fellows will also complete a domestic internship at the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C., and an overseas internship at a U.S. embassy.

Linda Baguma

Baguma, a 2024-25 Remembrance Scholar, participated in a Public Policy and International Affairs Junior Summer Institute (PPIA) at Carnegie Mellon University over the summer. Her interest in the Foreign Service started with her desire to build stronger relationships between the U.S. and Africa, especially in diplomacy and international security.

Baguma was born in Africa and raised in the United States and feels a strong connection to both places. “Growing up in a refugee camp and then resettling in the U.S. gave me a unique perspective on the importance of diplomacy in building stronger global relationships,” Baguma says. “It helped me understand how important it is to foster cooperation and support across nations and communities to create positive change in the world.”

In addition to her PPIA experience, Baguma spent the Fall 2024 semester studying in South Africa. “Studying abroad allowed me to see how international relations works in a country with a very different history and set of challenges. I learned about South Africa’s policies and how they impact local communities. This experience has made me even more excited about pursuing a career in the Foreign Service, particularly focused on improving U.S.-Africa relations,” she says.

“The Rangel Fellowship will give me the resources, mentorship and hands-on experience to deepen my knowledge of foreign service and diplomacy. It will provide me with training, internships and access to a network of professionals, all of which will help me develop the skills I need to navigate U.S. foreign policy,” Baguma says. “The chance to work in the U.S. Foreign Service will allow me to directly address global issues and contribute to solutions that benefit people around the world. With the Rangel Fellowship, I believe I will be in a stronger position to pursue my goal of working in international affairs, peace and security for Americans and the rest of the world.”

Alexandria��Johnson

Johnson’s interest in the Foreign Service was sparked in high school in Cleveland, Ohio. “I had the privilege to hear from a retired ambassador through the global studies program, which changed my perspective,” Johnson says. “The conversation helped me understand that there are more opportunities beyond my immediate community and it led me to research and learn more about U.S. foreign affairs and the Foreign Service.”

In the summer of 2022, Johnson interned at the Cleveland Council on World Affairs, acting as a liaison between visiting professionals and professionals in her local community. “I learned a lot more about international relations and diplomacy, multilateral issues such as human rights and rule of law, my own city, and ultimately about myself. It was a challenging experience that I will never forget,” Johnson says.

In the spring of 2023, Johnson studied abroad in Strasbourg, France, where she interned with the Arab Center for International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights Education. She was also a 2023 Rangel Scholar, which funded a short-term summer program that gave her a comprehensive introduction to professions in U.S. foreign affairs. “I was surrounded by a cohort of 14 like-minded peers and I loved my experience. It inspired me to contribute my perspective as a Black woman from the Midwest to the field of diplomacy,” Johnson says. “The Rangel Summer Enrichment Program ultimately affirmed my commitment to pursuing a career in the Foreign Service to bridge global divides and advocate for inclusive and impactful diplomacy.”

“All of these experiences have taught me about diplomacy in different ways and have allowed me to make an impact. They all speak to a commitment to service in the field, which I will continue to strive for,” Johnson says.

Johnson currently works with the Truman Center for National Policy, a national security think tank in Washington, D.C. There, she focuses on subnational diplomacy and democracy building.

“The Pickering Fellowship will help me to attain my goal of public service. When I reflected on what I wanted out of a career, it had to be public service first and foremost. Coupled with my passion for foreign affairs, it is a perfect fit,” she says. “I hope to make positive change and to bring more awareness to what Foreign Service Officers do.”

Baguma and Johnson worked closely with the Center for Fellowship and Scholarship Advising (CFSA) on their applications and to prepare for their fellowship interviews. Students interested in learning more about the Pickering Fellowship and the Rangel Fellowship should contact CFSA.

The entire campus community is invited to participate in these four virtual events, which focus on key areas of the plan:

• Monday, Jan. 27, 3 to 4:15 p.m.: , facilitated by , associate provost for strategic initiatives, and��, associate vice president for academic operations
• Monday, Feb. 17, 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.: , facilitated by , vice president for research,��, associate provost for academic programs, and Dekaney
• Friday, March 21, 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.: , facilitated by Brown, Eiffe and Hasenwinkel
• Tuesday, April 29, 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.: , facilitated by Brown and��, professor of women’s and gender studies in the College of Arts and Sciences and director of the ���ϲ����� Humanities Center

The town halls are designed to create an inclusive environment that promotes the sharing of diverse viewpoints, opinions and ideas, reflecting the participatory nature of the plan’s development during the 2022-23 academic year. Following an introductory presentation about the town hall topic, moderators will facilitate conversation centered on five key questions.

“These events will allow our community to come together to discuss progress on the plan and what it means for the future of the University,” says Interim Vice Chancellor, Provost and Chief Academic Officer in a message to the campus community. “We look forward to hearing from all of you.”

All events will be held on Zoom. To register, .

• Bird Library (open to all ���ϲ����� and SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry affiliates with a valid user ID):
  • Monday through Thursday: 24 hours
  • Friday: Closes at 10 p.m.
  • Saturday: Open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Sunday: Reopens at 10 a.m.
• The Special Collections Research Center (located on the sixth floor):
  • Monday through Friday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended hours Wednesday until 7 p.m.

• The Libraries will operate under reduced hours during Spring Break week (March 8-15) and extended hours during final exams (May 2-4).

As a congressionally designated depository for U.S. government documents, Bird Library is open to the public on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and on weekends beginning at 10 a.m.

The student-run ’Cuse Baja organization participates in rugged, off-road vehicle competitions.

Assuming the position as the club’s leader, Storrs worked hard to rebuild ’Cuse Baja from the ground up, focusing on recruiting and training the next generation of engineers to take the wheel. Today, ‘Cuse Baja is a thriving student organization that actively competes across the country and the off-road vehicle that was nothing more than a simple frame is now breaking records.

“The development of our current car has been a long road. With a large amount of reverse-engineering and scrappiness, we managed to cobble together a functional car,” says Storrs.

Despite challenges in their early competitions, ’Cuse Baja didn’t let any roadblocks slow them down. In September 2024, the club would set new records at the Baja Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) competition held in Michigan. After undergoing rigorous inspections, the team competed at different events that tested their vehicle’s acceleration, maneuverability, suspension and traction as well as rock-crawling ability.

The final event on the last day of the competition was the endurance race, where each team that passed inspections strives to complete as many laps as possible in 4 hours. ’Cuse Baja completed 15 laps, far exceeding the six laps they completed in a previous competition, making history with the best result from a University Baja team in more than 20 years.

“We had gone from having never been to a competition to being legitimately competitive in only one year,” says Storrs. “Prior to us, a Baja team from SU had not raced at a competition in 20 years, so we are enormously proud of our accomplishments.”

“This year was filled with many great successes allowing our team to meet multiple goals,” says aerospace engineering student Laney Price ’27. “However, when I look back at Michigan, I will not remember our scoring. I’ll remember the excitement our team felt and expressed during that week when we worked through many obstacles to reach that success.”

Through ’Cuse Baja, Storrs has connected with other students who share his passion for designing and building off-road vehicles and gained hands-on experience in engineering through machining and welding. As president and chief engineer, he has also developed valuable leadership skills that have strengthened his team-building and project-management abilities.

“Throughout my leadership, I have made it my number one priority to recruit and train the next generation of ’Cuse Baja members who will be able to grow the team after I have graduated,” says Storrs. “Our current success is due to the large influx of passionate and interested members over the past year, who have shown great initiative in learning and leading the team.”

“I became a member at the beginning of the 2023 school season and have witnessed ’Cuse Baja grow so much since I’ve been on the team,” says mechanical engineering student Riehen Walsh ’27. “With a new generation car being designed and an ever-growing connection with the local ���ϲ����� community, I look forward to seeing what the team can become in the upcoming years.”

Even as Storrs prepares to graduate, he believes the club will continue to thrive. “Baja and the other engineering teams are an invaluable addition to the ECS community, and are, in my opinion, undervalued. We provide practical and hands-on experience to students, which is something that cannot be taught in class. I hope that through our continued success and growth, we can further prove our value to the engineering community.”

A student works on an off-road vehicle as part of the ’Cuse Baja club.