Dawn Singleton

In this role, Singleton oversees New Student Programs, the Intercultural Collective—home to the Disability Cultural Center, LGBTQ Resource Center, Multicultural Affairs and Native Student Program, 113 Euclid, 119 Euclid (which transitioned to the Student Experience division upon Singleton’s arrival), and the Center for International Services. Singleton will also work to support the experience of graduate and professional students at the University. In addition, Singleton leads the division’s efforts surrounding diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility, working closely with the Office of Diversity and Inclusion.

“Dawn’s career has been marked by an impressive track record of leading student-centered initiatives, improving outcomes and supporting diverse student populations, all guided by a strong commitment to students and enhancing their belonging, success and engagement. Her breadth of experience, leadership and passion for this work will contribute greatly to our ongoing efforts in fostering a University welcoming to all,” says Senior Vice President and Chief Student Experience Officer Allen Groves.

Singleton brings more than 15 years of higher education leadership experience at a variety of colleges and universities, with prior roles in residential life, student development, and student success and inclusion, but her passion for student affairs started even earlier during her time as a resident advisor while an undergraduate student. Throughout her experience, she has focused on building pathways for students from their first year to graduation, encouraging their persistence, retention and belonging. Her work has included launching and leading new programs to support student success outcomes, including creation of ASCEND (Achieving Success through Collaboration, Engagement and Determination) and the Center for Access, Persistence & Achievement (CAPA) at Rowan, guiding programs, services and resources to support first-generation and BIPOC students, and serving as a thought leader and operational partner for student success and diversity, equity and inclusion programs and initiatives.

This comprehensive experience has provided her with a unique perspective on the ways in which we engage students across all facets of their experience, which is one of the reasons she was drawn to this role at ���ϲ�����.

“As the Student Experience division, our work is intentionally framed in a way that considers all the ways we engage students. Creating welcoming, supportive environments across their experience is critical to creating sense of belonging, which is the core focus and passion of my work,” says Singleton. “I am looking forward to learning about and being part of Orange traditions, experiencing the vibrancy of all that’s happening on campus, meeting students and being part of this community that has been so welcoming to me, and in turn, supporting each student in feeling that sense of belonging and welcoming so that they can achieve success.”

Singleton earned a doctorate in educational leadership from Rowan University. In addition to her experience as a student affairs leader, Singleton’s research has focused on intersectional analysis related to gender, ethnicity and culture, as related to the advancement of women in leadership roles within the U.S. and South Africa. She has also taught classes on topics in higher education and women’s and gender studies.

Students in Fraternity and Sorority Affairs and staff from the Department of Public Safety teamed up for an Earth Day cleanup.

The (DPS) and partnered for an Earth Day cleanup on April 22, which brought together 10 DPS team members and 128 Greek members from 47 chapters to volunteer their time and effort to clean up the east neighborhood in ���ϲ�����. The cleanup covered Ostrom Pl., Ostrom Ave., Livingston Ave., Sumner Ave., Ackerman Ave, Lancaster Ave., Redfield Pl., Clarendon St., Maryland Ave. and Thornden Park. A full truckload of garbage was picked up and disposed of at Onondaga County Resource Recovery Agency’s refuse facility.

The idea for the cleanup event stemmed from , and DPS led the coordination of locations and details. While it was the first time organizing such an event, the turnout and end result left a lasting impression on those involved and an excitement to continue this next year.

“I was immensely impressed with the turnout for the neighborhood cleanup. Over 100 students took time out of their Saturday morning to help make a positive difference for our campus community,” said Stone. “DPS is looking forward to continuing this initiative in the future.”

“Seeing our student volunteers and members of the DPS team work together was awe-inspiring and truly indicative of what it means to be part of the ���ϲ����� community.��This is the first of many Earth Day events sponsored by DPS and we look forward to partnering with Fraternity and Sorority Affairs going forward in regard to this most worthy cause,” added DPS Sergeant John A. Stephens.

Chapter members working together during Earth Day cleanup.

Shane Corridore, a junior in the College of Engineering and Computer Science and member of Sigma Alpha Mu, reflected, “The most meaningful part was just seeing how many people decided to be there and help out. The vibe was amazing, and everyone had a good time helping the community.”

“Service is a core value of the fraternity and sorority community, so when DPS approached us with this idea, we knew our chapter members would be eager to volunteer to make a difference in the local area,” said Tiffany Dennett, director of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs. “We expect this will become a staple of the many service projects our chapters support throughout the year.”

Story by Student Experience communications intern Wanshi Zhang ’23

“Throughout their student experience, Lucio and Sofia have distinguished themselves as changemakers. They exemplify leadership, commitment to service and academic excellence in all that they do, and they strive to make a positive impact on the world around them. As Senior Class Marshals, I know they will carry forward these same attributes and serve as outstanding representatives for the Class of 2024,” says Rob Hradsky, vice president for the student experience and chair of the selection committee.

Lucio Maffei

Lucio Maffei

Hailing from West Orange, New Jersey, Maffei is a junior majoring in political philosophy and ethics in the College of Arts and Sciences and Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs. He is a member of the Renée Crown University Honors Program and has earned academic accolades spanning Dean’s List recognition each semester, selection as a Maxwell School Leadership Scholar for his academic excellence and exceptional leadership abilities, and an Invest in Success Scholarship recipient for his strong academic performance beginning in his first semester.

In his time on campus, Maffei has fully immersed himself in his academic pursuits and fostered community among those majoring in philosophy and who share an interest in philosophy. He founded and now serves as president of Phi Sigma Tau International Philosophy Honor Society and serves as vice president of the Philosophy Club. To support undergraduate students interested in research, he also founded and serves as editor-in-chief of Aurantium, an undergraduate philosophy journal.

Leading new initiatives has resonated across Maffei’s time on campus. In his first year at ���ϲ�����, Maffei launched the Helpful and Ethical Leadership Project (HELP) to address needs he recognized in the local community primarily focused on poverty and homelessness. Since founding HELP in 2020, Maffei has worked with fellow students to organize clothing drives to benefit the Rescue Mission, raise funds to support Ukrainian refugees and volunteer with Meals on Wheels. In his role as a Senior Class Marshal, Maffei says he hopes “to extend and support more efforts that help impoverished and unhoused communities in Central New York.”

Among his other leadership roles, Maffei was recently elected the president of the Mock Trial team at ���ϲ�����, and previously served as quartermaster, captain and an executive board member of the team. He is also a board member of the Mock Trial Association of America’s National Student Advisory Board, as well as a member of the Pre-Law Society.

Maffei is also a leader when it comes to his service to others on campus. In his roles as a resident advisor for the last two academic years, as well as a peer leader for the First Year Seminar, Maffei has had a chance to support first-year students in their transition to college life and build connection with the Orange community.

Similar to his other roles on campus, Maffei takes on this responsibility with great pride and deep commitment as he looks forward to representing his peers to the larger community.

“I think that students are the voice of our generation and I want to be a part of channeling and directing that voice to make our community and world a better place,” says Maffei. “I am proud to be a ���ϲ����� student, and to be able to serve my peers in this capacity means the world to me.”

Sofia Rodriguez

Sofia Rodriguez

Rodriguez is a junior majoring in communication and rhetorical studies in the College of Visual and Performing Arts from Miami Gardens, Florida. Recognized for her extraordinary academic and leadership potential, Rodriguez is a Posse Leadership Scholar who has also been recognized for her creative talent as a Gold Key recipient in the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards. While on campus, she has also earned Dean’s List recognition each semester and the Highest Academic Achievement Award as an Our Time Has Come Scholar.

Building upon her academic experiences, Rodriguez applies her communication skills to further her passion for creating connections among her peers, alumni and the greater ���ϲ����� community. As a co-host of “Shades of ’Cuse,” Rodriguez aims to expand the network of current students and Posse Scholars by sharing the stories of alumni. She has done the same as an Our Time Has Come Scholar by supporting alumni and community events that bring people together.

Supporting other students transcends every facet of Rodriguez’s on-campus experience. She has served as a resident advisor for the last two academic years and a peer leader for the First Year Seminar. To support first-generation college students, Rodriguez has also organized guest speakers, discussions and community-building opportunities through Many2Come. She is also an active member of the Black Student Union, a club dedicated to create and support spaces for the Black community.

Being selected as a Senior Class Marshal signals that she has accomplished what she set out to do when joining ���ϲ�����—“giving my all to this community and helping us do better while being better,” says Rodriguez. “I hope to use the role as a tool to foster communication and help create more equitable space for those who may be unseen or forgotten.”

Beyond her roles on campus, Rodriguez is the founder and communications director for a nonprofit organization, With Love, that serves undocumented Latine refugees with translation, housing, food and job search resources. She also spent last summer as a communication and policy intern with the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute in Washington, D.C. As a Posse Scholar, she has interned with the Posse Foundation to assist with fundraising efforts and event management to benefit scholars.

When thinking about why she applied, Rodriguez says she wanted to “make her community proud, have the best year yet, and show that an Afro-Latine womxn from Miami could represent what it means to be Orange.”

Now that she has received this honor, Rodriguez looks to those who have supported her along the way.

“Being selected as a Senior Class Marshal means that every sacrifice my mom and dad��made was worth it. I would not have made it this far without their support and dedication to my successes,” says Rodriguez, “���ϲ����� has given me purpose and support that has changed my life. I will forever be grateful and proud to be surrounded by such incredible people who have supported me—Bradley Seymour, Helen Pepin, Maria Lopez, Easton Davis, Jersey Cosantino, Posse, Gabe, Javi, my friends and my family. You are all my greatest accomplishment.”

Performace during the 2022 International Festival.

The and Student Association will host the annual on Sunday, April 2, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. in Goldstein Auditorium, Schine Student Center. Now in its third year, the festival will feature 10 student organizations and offer a wide variety of food, cultural exhibits 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 richly diverse student body,” says Juan Tavares, director of the Central for International Services. “The students have put a lot of work into preparing for the festival and we are looking forward to a great event.”

This year’s student organization participants include the African Student Union, Caribbean Students Association, Chinese Union, European Student Association, Filipino Student Association, Haitian American Student Association, Mexican Student Association, South Asian Student Association, Turkish Student Association and Ukrainian Club at ���ϲ�����.

Admission to the event is free and includes the schedule of performances and tabling exhibits. The event will also feature a full menu of food samplings from the countries, regions and cultures of the participating student organizations. The food samples are $1 each (cash only).

For more information, contact the Center for International Services at international@syr.edu or 315.443.2457.

Story co-written by Tessa Hodinger G’23, graduate assistant in Student Experience Communications.

Celebrated nationally in May, ���ϲ����� hosts the annual Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month celebration in April so all on campus can join in honoring the histories, cultural diversity, identities and contributions of AAPI communities. Coordinated by the AAPI Heritage Month Planning Committee, with support from Multicultural Affairs, the Center for International Services and Student Living, this year’s calendar features a spanning speakers, exhibits, performances and student organization events. The theme for this year’s celebration is “Community Coming Together: Strength in Unity.”

“The theme’s concept represents our diverse AAPI community uniting across our differences and to show that we are a strong voice that can face our challenges together,” says Lia Jiening Fu Margolis ’23, a student in the School of Architecture and member of the planning committee. “Our goal is to bring together the community of folx within and allies to the AAPI diaspora through diverse cultural, educational and fun events.”

The is scheduled for Friday, March 31, from 4 to 6:30 p.m. in the first floor atrium of Schine Student Center. The event will feature AAPI student organizations and campus departments tabling, Asian cuisine, a program about the month’s events, student performances and display of the annual Anti-Asian Hate Crime Exhibit. The month continues with Orange After Dark events, the featuring Sharon Lee ’14, G’15, a , a and much more. This year’s annual will also take place during AAPI Heritage Month on Sunday, April 2.

Hua Hsu

The committee will welcome Hua Hsu, a staff writer with The New Yorker and bestselling author, as this year’s on Thursday, April 20. Hsu’s memoir, “Stay True,” touches on the immigrant experience and growing up Asian American and explores grief, pop culture, being young and how friendship helps us discover who we are. Hsu weaves his story with wider questions of diversity and culture, proving that “we aren’t alone, and we never have been.” A meet-and-greet and book signing will follow the event.

“Hua Hsu is an incredible author and his newest book ‘Stay True’ encapsulates the many interwoven and complex stories and feelings of being AAPI. The memoir references the immigrant experience while also being a coming-of-age story that explores larger questions of culture and diversity,” says Margolis. “I hope attendees are inspired by seeing a fellow AAPI figure create an inclusive space for discussion about diverse experiences and find unity within an amazing community.”

For more information and complete event details, visit the .

With a focus on workplace diversity, staffing practices and work environment, the research uses a survey-based approach to examine student affairs organizations on categories, including family friendliness, salary and benefits, and professional development opportunities.

“This recognition is a testament to the division’s commitment and mission to creating an environment that fosters growth, connection, belonging and success, not only for students, but also for our diverse staff,” says Senior Vice President and Chief Student Experience Officer Allen Groves. “We are honored to receive this recognition and are proud of the talented, student-centered professionals who do important work every day to create an unsurpassed experience for students at ���ϲ�����.”

The list of recognized institutions will be published in the March 16 edition of Diverse: Issues in Higher Education magazine, the nation’s only biweekly news magazine and online daily, dedicated exclusively to diversity issues in higher education, and awarded at the March 27, ACPA annual meeting.

WellsLink is a nationally recognized leadership program for first-year students of color. The WellsLink Transitions Ceremony celebrates students who have successfully transitioned to their second year at ���ϲ����� after participating in WellsLink during their first year. Through this program, students develop multifaceted skills and connect with mentors to help them flourish at ���ϲ����� and beyond.

“The WellsLink Leadership Program provides students with a strong foundation to excel as leaders not only on campus in their first year, but in the years to follow. Our scholars have and continue to make a positive impact in their communities and we look forward to celebrating their accomplishments at the Transitions Ceremony,” says Huey Hsiao, associate director of Multicultural Affairs and the Kessler Scholars Program. “It is an honor to be part of their journey and support their growth, sense of belonging and success while in the program and as a ‘home away from home’ in Multicultural Affairs throughout their years at ���ϲ�����.”

Marcus Bullock

Focusing on the themes of perseverance and innovation, this year’s is CEO and Founder of Flikshop, Inc. and justice reform advocate Marcus Bullock. At age 15, Bullock was sentenced to eight years in an adult maximum security prison for stealing a car. Now released and determined to make a difference, Bullock created a simple app called Flikshop that allows family members to connect with prisoners who are otherwise isolated. Now more than 140,000 prisoners use this app to connect with loved ones and get in touch with nonprofits.

Bullock also founded the Flikshop School of Business to mentor and introduce every student to a curriculum to help build confidence, learn strategy and communication skills and how to plan for a life of entrepreneurship. Among his accolades, Bullock won the inaugural social justice innovation award from Morgan Stanley + Centri Tech Foundation, was named one of John Legend’s Unlocked Futures business accelerators, and is a member of the Justice Policy Board of Directors.

In addition to the keynote from Bullock, the ceremony will include remarks from additional speakers, musical performances and presentation of stoles and awards. This year’s ceremony will honor the following students who are part of the WellsLink Leadership Program Class of 2025:

• Shalom Acheampong (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Jessica Aimunmondion (School of Information Studies)
• Rebecca Akinwale (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs)
• Adriana Albizu-Russe (College of Arts and Sciences/ Martin J. Whitman School of Management)
• Sebastian Andrade (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Chelsey Antwi (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Ariana Arias (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Isabel Cardoso (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Monday Carter (David B. Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics)
• Isabella Chavez Miranda (College of Arts and Sciences/Martin J. Whitman School of Management)
• Annie Chen (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Jessica Chen (Martin J. Whitman School of Management)
• Leny Chiong (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Minetsa Cotto Ortiz (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs)
• Nicolas Cueba (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs)
• Yassin Elsharafi (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Jordan Ferguson (Martin J. Whitman School of Management)
• Shayla Fisher (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs)
• Mark Fortes (David B. Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics)
• Joshua Garvin (College of Visual and Performing Arts)
• Jennifer Gonzalez (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Summer Green (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Rachael Ha (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Ajmir Hassan (Martin J. Whitman School of Management)
• Nahid Kalam (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Bryce Kemp (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Jordan Leuenberger (School of Information Studies)
• Jessica Li (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Kyra Lin (Martin J. Whitman School of Management)
• Rachel Lin (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Danny Liu (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Alexa Llucemo (S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications)
• Michael Lupton Jr (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Andrea Magdaleno (Martin J. Whitman School of Management)
• Emily Mazariegos (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Angel Medina (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Ivonne Millan (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Myles Miller (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs)
• Alan Miranda (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Sophia Moore (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs/S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications)
• Briana Negley (Martin J. Whitman School of Management )
• Kaylah Newbold (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs/Martin J. Whitman School of Management)
• Kevin Nguyen (Martin J. Whitman School of Management)
• Miguel Nieves (S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications)
• Seth Obeng (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Allison Oey (Martin J. Whitman School of Management/S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications)
• Excellence Ojo (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Praise Omoregie (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Ivonne Ortega (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs)
• Joshua Ortega (Martin J. Whitman School of Management)
• Roselyn Ortiz (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Timothy Paek (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Tulsiben Patel (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs)
• Natalia Pedraza (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Amber Perry (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Kennedy Peterson (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs)
• Christopher Prestia (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Xiaoyang Qu (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Jasmine Rodriguez (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Farmchan Saechao (David B. Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics)
• Melanie Salas (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Torryn Sales (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Aaron Shinn (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Jessica Singh (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs)
• Daqwuan Smith (Martin J. Whitman School of Management)
• Ryan Sylvester (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Jenny Tang (Martin J. Whitman School of Management)
• Ryan Tsuneishi (Martin J. Whitman School of Management)
• Grace Tu-Sekine (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs)
• Nana Twum-Barima (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs)
• Samantha Valeiron (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Jose Venegas (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Ansh Verma (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Emmanuel Wahpo (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Emma Wareing (School of Education)
• Jadyn Washington (David B. Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics)

About the WellsLink Leadership Program

The WellsLink Leadership Program is a nationally recognized academic and leadership excellence program for first-year students of color. Through structured academic, social and cultural enrichment activities, WellsLink Scholars develop the leadership capital necessary for exceptional success at ���ϲ����� and beyond. The program name was chosen to honor Barry L. Wells, founding director of ���ϲ�����’s first Office of Minority Affairs in 1976 and retired senior vice president and dean of student affairs.

The WellsLink Leadership Program is sponsored by Multicultural Affairs in the Division of the Student Experience, and was designed by Director James K. Duah-Agyeman and former Associate Director Paul M. Buckley. Since the program’s inception in 2003, WellsLink Scholars have demonstrated outstanding leadership at the University with representation at the executive levels of many student organizations, task forces, committees and networks of service. They are high academic performers and balanced community citizens.

Story by Tessa Hodinger G’23, graduate assistant in Student Experience Communications

Sheriah Dixon

On Nov. 1, the Division of the Student Experience named Sheriah N. Dixon G’12 the dean of students, leading the teams in Community Standards, Parent and Family Services, Remote Programs Student Support, Student Title IX Case Management and Student Outreach.

While Dixon may be new to the role, her connection to ���ϲ����� began nearly 15 years ago when she arrived as an assistant residence director in Flint Hall. During this time, Dixon balanced working while also pursuing a master of social work degree at the Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics. She then went on to spend more than five years at Onondaga Community College in leadership roles in residence life and student conduct.

Returning to the University in 2018, Dixon was hired as an equal opportunity and Title IX investigator. Building upon her experience in student conduct and Title IX, Dixon then took on the role of director of Community Standards. For more than four years, she oversaw the University’s student conduct system, collaborated with campus partners to address student behaviors and promote welcoming, inclusive communities, and supported recruitment and training for conduct boards.

“Sheriah’s professionalism, student focus, broad experience and demonstrated leadership made her well-positioned to take on this critically important role in our division. In her first few months, her positive impact on our students and families can already be felt,” says Allen Groves, senior vice president and chief student experience officer.

Now that Dixon has settled into her new role, we asked her four questions to learn more about her and what to expect as she starts her first spring semester as dean of students.

Steven T. Herndon

In this role, Herndon will oversee all aspects of the student living program, including residential life and off-campus and apartment living. Herndon will also partner with Academic Affairs in the development and delivery of more than 20 living learning communities (LLC).

Herndon joins ���ϲ����� from the University of Dayton, where he served for nearly 20 years in progressive leadership roles within residential life and housing, most recently serving as the assistant vice president for student development and executive director of housing and residence life. Prior to that, Herndon was associate and assistant dean of students and executive director of housing and residential life.

“Steve brings deep expertise and considerable thought leadership in residential education, housing and student development to our division’s leadership team. His fresh perspective and extensive experience will help us continue to build community and keep students at the center of our work during their years at ���ϲ�����,” says , senior vice president and chief student experience officer.

Among his accomplishments at the University of Dayton, Herndon played a pivotal role in developing and implementing a transformed vision for residential learning. Under his leadership, the residence life and housing team significantly improved training, created a developmentally-sequenced residential curriculum and enhanced processes for special interest housing and living learning communities.

Throughout his tenure, Herndon prioritized collaboration with students, residential staff, university partners and faculty to positively impact students’ learning within their living environment.

“The living experience is a critical part of students’ overall experience, and the work happening in the residence halls, on South Campus, and in the neighborhoods contributes significantly to students’ overall development. I look forward to partnering with the talented staff and student leaders in Student Living, as well as colleagues across campus, to continue enhancing the development of all students as individuals and community members throughout their living experience,” says Herndon.

In addition to his residential education experience, Herndon has taught courses at the University of Dayton, University of Arizona and North Carolina State University, focusing on student development, first-year experience in higher education, and examining diversity through Spike Lee films.

An expert in residential life and education and a sought-after speaker about the future of the Student Affairs profession, Herndon has been a regular presenter, educator and leader within the American College Personnel Association (ACPA), James C. Grimm National Housing Training Institute, Association of College and University Housing Officers-International and National Association of Student Personnel Administrators. He was also recognized as a 2022 Diamond Honoree of the ACPA.

A two-time graduate of North Carolina State University, Herndon earned a bachelor’s degree in English and a master’s degree in English with a concentration in African-American literature.

“Our Senior Class Marshals are students who excel academically, demonstrate leadership and commitment to service, and exemplify what it means to be Orange. If you are a rising senior or know a rising senior who would make a great representative for their graduating class, we encourage you to apply or submit a nomination,” says Vice President of the Student Experience Rob Hradsky who chairs the selection committee.

Throughout their senior year, Senior Class Marshals meet with senior-level administrators to offer feedback, network with alumni, represent their class at Universitywide events and help recommend the Commencement speaker. The Senior Class Marshals also lead their class during Commencement ceremonies.

Current juniors can complete the application by visiting the . Faculty and staff may nominate qualifying students using the . The deadline to apply is Sunday, Feb. 5.

For more information about the role and qualifications, visit the . For questions, contact Courtney Albiker at calbiker@syr.edu or 315.443.4424.

“The results of the Sexual and Relationship Violence Survey provide important insights that inform and guide programs, services and awareness efforts in preventing, educating and responding to interpersonal violence. We appreciate the time students took to complete the survey as their feedback is critical to our collective work in continuing to foster a safe and supportive campus climate for all,” says Rob Hradsky, vice president for the student experience, interim Title IX coordinator for students and co-chair of the Chancellor’s Task Force on Sexual and Relationship Violence.

The survey administered in spring 2022 garnered its highest response rate to date, with 35% of students completing the survey. A stratified random sample of nearly 4,000 undergraduate, graduate and law students received the survey. Students and faculty and staff can access the full results of the survey by logging into MySlice and selecting the Student Resources or Employee Resources tile, respectively.

This year’s survey was designed with feedback from students, resulting in refinement of questions and adjustments to formatting.

Key findings and takeaways from the students who responded to the 2022 survey include the following:

• 70% said they knew where they could get help if they or a friend were sexually assaulted, harassed, abused or stalked.
• 72% said they had a general understanding of ���ϲ�����’s procedures for addressing sexual and relationship violence.
• Nearly 60% had a general understanding of the role of the University’s Title IX coordinator.
• Slightly more than 10% reported having experienced some form of non-consensual sexual contact (sexual assault) during their time at ���ϲ�����.
• Approximately 6% indicated they had experienced relationship abuse during their time as a student at ���ϲ�����. These behaviors included physical violence, threats, verbal abuse and coercive behavior.

The results of the survey help to inform practices, services and resources related to sexual and relationship violence. Prior survey results informed the creation of the centralized , the new structure to Title IX case management�����Ի� . This year’s results will support the task force and units across campus engaged in sexual and relationship violence efforts in continued work surrounding the national and conducting training for new and returning students.

Support and Resources

Students impacted by sexual assault, relationship violence, stalking and harassment can receive confidential counseling, advocacy and support, as well as discuss reporting options, with a member of the Sexual and Relationship Violence Response (SRVR) Team at the Barnes Center at The Arch 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The SRVR Team can be reached by calling 315.443.8000. For 24/7 confidential support and advocacy off campus, students may contact Vera House, an independent nonprofit organization, at 315.468.3260.

Reporting options include:

• Title IX: call 315.443.0211; visit 005 Steele Hall; or email��titleix@syr.edu.
• Department of Public Safety: call 315.443.2224; call or send a message via the Orange Safe app; 711 from any campus phone; #78 on your cell; or visit 005 Sims Hall
• ���ϲ����� Police Department: call 315.435.3016
• New York State Police: call 1.844.845.7269
• Anonymous ���ϲ����� Reporting:��

Education, Awareness and Prevention Programs

Students, faculty and staff interested in getting involved in sexual and relationship violence prevention efforts on campus or seeking to learn more about sexual and relationship violence, can visit the following resources for additional information:

• Join the��—open to students, faculty and staff—for updates about sexual and relationship prevention programming, initiatives and events on campus.
• Participate in training opportunities offered by the�� or attend a Barnes Center at The Arch����session related to bystander intervention, consent or healthy relationships.
• Join the�� who host programs and conduct outreach to educate fellow students.
• Connect with�� on campus who support, advocate and educate others about issues related to sexual and relationship violence, sexual health and safety.
• Participate in .

For more information about resources, support, reporting and involvement opportunities, visit the .

While the Central New York winter chill begins to creep in, South Campus residents have a new way to stay warm, enjoy the outdoors and connect with one another. Five lounging areas complete with are now available in locations across South Campus. The installation of the fire pits was made possible following planning and collaboration across staff in Student Experience, Fire and Life Safety Services and Campus Planning, Design and Construction.

“With the apartment-style living on South Campus and the plentiful surrounding outdoor spaces, installing these fire pits offers a perfect opportunity to create gathering spaces that bring students outside and provides a chance to build community,” says Senior Vice President and Chief Student Experience Officer Allen Groves.

For the Student Living staff, the fire pits add to a host of programs and events that enhance the ways students on South Campus can connect with one another, including the South Campus Welcome BBQ, a ���ϲ����� Mets baseball game outing and .

Providing students with a variety of ways to build connection to the life of the University and with one another is a priority for the Student Experience division.

“Opportunities for students to gather to meaningfully engage with one another—both informally and formally—are an important part of enhancing the student experience,” adds Groves. “We hope these new spaces create more opportunities for building new friendships and creating strong personal connections.”

LGBTQ History Month was created in 1994 by Rodney Wilson, a high school history teacher in Missouri. In 1995, a resolution passed by the General Assembly of the National Education Association included LGBTQ History Month within a list of commemorative months. October was selected to coincide with National Coming Out Day (Oct. 11), which was already established, and the anniversary of the first march on Washington for gay and lesbian rights in 1979.

LGBTQ+ History Month provides an opportunity for the campus community to learn more about and celebrate the history, culture and contributions of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex and asexual (LGBTQIA+) communities through a host of educational events, social events and discussions. With planning led by the LGBTQ Resource Center, the month supports the ongoing efforts of the center to raise awareness and offer support to queer and trans students, staff and faculty and promote a sense of belonging and inclusion on campus and beyond.

“We invite ���ϲ����� and ESF community members to engage, connect and learn through the programs and events our students, staff and campus partners have planned in honor of LGBTQ+ History Month and to celebrate queer and trans individuals and their many intersecting identities, not just this month, but year-round,” says Jorge A. Castillo, director of the LGBTQ Resource Center.

“So many of our programs allow people to be themselves and have all of their identities validated. I really enjoy helping the programs for LGBTQ History Month come to life,” adds Janeice Lopez, graduate assistant in the LGBTQ Resource Center.

The celebration includes training opportunities, affinity group meetings and the now weekly at the Intercultural Collective. The LGBTQ Resource Center will also be collecting signatures for the . The list of names will be printed in The Daily Orange and published digitally on the LGBTQ Resource Center’s website as a public commitment to supporting and advocating for LGBTQIA+ community members. If you wish to have your name published in the Daily Orange, you must sign the list by 5 p.m. on Oct. 5, 2022.

This year’s keynote will once again be hosted in partnership with Multicultural Affairs and Latinx Hispanic Heritage Month. The speaker is Paola Ramos, author, Emmy award-winning journalist and advocate for the Latinx community. Ramos is host for VICE and VICE News, contributor for MSNBC and Telemundo News, and author of “Finding Latinx: In Search of the Voices Redefining Latino Identity.” She uses multimedia platforms to uplift the voices of marginalized communities, break down stereotypes and mobilize people towards civic engagement. Her keynote and Q&A are scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 13, at 7 p.m. in the Joyce Hergenhan Auditorium, Newhouse 3.

Explore some of the additional highlighted events listed below:��

• : Monday, Oct. 10, 2022, 5-7 p.m. Shirts and tie-dye supplies will be provided!
• : Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2022, 7-8:30 p.m. Celebrate the day and hear from author and activist Jacob Tobia.
• : Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2022, 7-8:30 p.m. Compete individually or with a team up to four to test your queer trivia skills.
• : Saturday, Oct. 22, 2022, 10 p.m.-midnight. Join us for an eerie good time and dance with your friends.

For more information or to request accommodations, contact the LGBTQ Resource Center by calling 315.443.0228 or emailing lgbtq@syr.edu.

Story by Student Experience Communications Graduate Assistant Tessa Hodinger G’23

“In my video, including the voices of Latinx students at ���ϲ����� is one of the most authentic ways to highlight the richness, beauty and diversity in Latinx culture. I hope that one day, we look back to the efforts made by students of color and extend it to our greater community outside of ���ϲ�����. I want to see our efforts, achievements and stories become global and impact the world as we continue to advocate for justice, inclusion, diversity and equity. Change starts with us,” says Garcia-Varo, who is also public relations chair of Latinas Promoviendo Comunidad/Lambda Pi Chi Sorority, Incorporated.

Throughout the events scheduled during the month, the campus community is encouraged to learn more about and celebrate the history, culture and contributions of Americans whose heritage can be traced to over 20 Spanish-speaking countries in Latin America, including Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. The month is celebrated Sept. 15-Oct. 15, as it coincides with Independence Day for several Latin American Nations (Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, and Nicaragua).

“The many programs and events that encompass LHHM have been curated with our many campus partners as a way to invite the Orange community, where over 10% of the undergraduate student population is of Latino or Hispanic heritage, to learn about and join us in celebrating the complexity and beautiful diversity of what it means to be Latinx,” says Jorge A. Castillo, director of the LGBTQ Resource Center and LHHM Planning Committee co-chair.

This year’s keynote will once again be hosted in partnership with the LGBTQ Resource Center. The speaker is Paola Ramos, author, Emmy award-winning journalist and advocate for the Latinx community. Ramos is host for VICE and VICE News, contributor for MSNBC and Telemundo News, and author of “Finding Latinx: In Search of the Voices Redefining Latino Identity.” She uses multimedia platforms to uplift the voices of marginalized communities, break down stereotypes and mobilize people towards civic engagement. Her keynote and Q&A are scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 13, at 7 p.m. in the Joyce Hergenhan Auditorium, Newhouse III.

“We’re so excited to welcome Paola Ramos to campus this October! We hope that Ramos’ lived experience at the intersection of Latinidad and queerness will resonate with our students, and the greater campus community. Her work with the Latinx community in both journalism and politics, particularly following the 2016 election, really speaks to the diversity of our community,” says Breana Nieves Vergara, program coordinator in Multicultural Affairs and the LHHM Planning Committee co-chair.

With efforts led by the LHHM Planning Committee and Multicultural Affairs, the month’s calendar is supported by several co-sponsors, including Bird Library, La Casita, Office of Cultural Engagement for the Hispanic Community in the College of Arts and Sciences, LGBTQ Resource Center, Puerto Rican Student Association, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, and Barnes Center at The Arch.

For more information and full event details, visit the .

The Goon Squad will be on hand to help students move in to campus residence halls. Pictured are member of the 2021 Goon Squad.

In addition to the , the following offices will be open over the weekend to attend to the needs of our new and returning students:

• : Saturday, Aug. 27, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 28, 10 a.m.– (24-hour operation begins on Aug. 28)
• : Saturday–Sunday, Aug. 27– 28, 10 a.m. –5 p.m.
• : Saturday–Sunday, Aug. 27–28, 1–4 p.m.
• : Saturday, Aug. 27- closed; Sunday, Aug 28., noon–8 p.m.
• : Saturday–Sunday, Aug. 27– 28, 9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
• : Saturday, Aug. 27, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. (in person); Sunday, Aug. 28, 10 a.m.– 3 p.m. (remote); Monday, Aug. 29, 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Walk-ins welcome. Call or email questions at 315.443.3261 or profstudiesinfo@syr.edu.
• : Saturday–Sunday, Aug. 27–28, noon–4 p.m.
• : Saturday–Sunday, Aug. 27– 28, 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. (Office: 111 Waverly, Suite 220)
• : Saturday–Sunday, Aug. 27–28, 1–4 p.m.
• Saturday, August 27, 9 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 28 7:30 a.m.–Noon
• : Saturday–Sunday, Aug. 27–28, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
• – Hours vary by location.
• : Saturday, Aug. 27, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 28, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
• : Saturday, Aug. 27, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 28, 8 a.m.–10 p.m.
• : Saturday- Sunday, Aug. 27–28, noon–5 p.m.
• : Saturday, Aug. 27, closed.; Sunday, Aug. 28, 10 a.m.–11 p.m.
• : Saturday, Aug. 21, noon–5 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 27, noon–5 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 28, noon–3 p.m.
• : Saturday–Sunday, Aug. 27–28, 1–4 p.m.
• : Saturday–Sunday, Aug. 27–28, noon–11 p.m.
• Residence Halls Front Desks: Saturday–Sunday, Aug. 27–28, 9 a.m.–midnight.
• : Saturday, Aug. 27, 1–4 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 28, closed; Monday, Aug. 29, 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m. (I-9 completion is done through an online portal. Call or email questions at 315.443.2268 or cuseworks@syr.edu.
• Undergraduate/Graduate Enrollment Processing Center: Saturday–Sunday, Aug. 27–28 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; Monday, Aug. 29, 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
• : Saturday, Aug. 27, 9 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 28, 7:30 a.m.-noon.

For questions during ���ϲ����� Welcome 2022, New Student and Family Programs will be available in-person on the Shaw Quad:

• Aug. 23, noon-5 p.m.;
• Aug. 24–25, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.;

and via phone at 315.443.9187 from:

• Aug. 22–26, 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; and
• Aug. 27, 8 a.m.–2 p.m.

Questions can also be directed via email to welcome@syr.edu.

The event will feature free snacks (while supplies last), including samples from Limp Lizard, Toss & Fire and Birdsong Café food trucks, inflatables, silent disco, a 360-photo booth, tie-dying, activations from several companies and many giveaways—a variety and breadth of attractions the group is excited to bring to campus given the event space. [Please note: Unfortunately, due to a mechanical issue that could not be resolved in time for tomorrow’s event, the Ferris wheel will not be available.]

“University Union has done an amazing job creating a full line-up of activities and providing an exceptional experience for the ���ϲ����� community in celebration of their anniversary,” says Tim Johnson, associate director in Student Activities. “I encourage our campus community to support the UU students and join us in ending the semester on a high note.”

Students, faculty and staff are invited to participate in all the activities.

Shortly following the 60th Birthday Bash is the Block Party concert featuring co-headliners Baby Keem and 2 Chainz, with support from 070 Shake and A-Trak. The concert begins at 7 p.m., with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are still available for $25.

For more information about the 60th Birthday Bash or Block Party, follow University Union on , and or contact UU Director of Public Relations Quinn Schmidt.

’Cuse Works encouraged campus community members to nominate undergraduate and graduate student employees who have made an impact on campus through their work, as well as the student employee supervisors and departments who have made a difference in the student employee experience. Winners were decided by the .

“As we step back and acknowledge the profound and meaningful impact that ���ϲ����� student employees have had on their respective departments, this year’s nominees were instrumental in getting new initiatives off the ground, improving workflow processes, and championing the University’s highest priorities,” says Kate Mercer, career exploration specialist in Career Services, who served on the recognition committee.

Graduate Student Employee of the Year: Joshua Davidoff ’21, G’22, Institutional Effectiveness and Assessment

Joshua Davidoff

“Working at the IEA (Institutional Effectiveness and Assessment) office has truly been an honor. I get to come to the office and collaborate withpeople who value hard work, excellence, and strive to make the lives of the people at ���ϲ����� better. I’ve had the privilege to work for Melissa, Victoria, Trish and others and learn from them. I was and continue to be given the opportunity to grow and develop my skills far beyond what I would have ever imagined when I first took this job. Moreover, I’ve been able to take the knowledge I’ve learned in my coursework and apply it to my duties within the IEA office. I could not have envisioned a more ‘perfect match,’ between my job at IEA, my master’s degree, and the people I work with/for.

I want to thank Melissa, Victoria and Trish for the nomination, and I am humbled to receive this recognition. As well as the entire IEA office, including the students whom I work with every day, for enabling me to be successful. Mark Twain said, ‘Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life.’ The sentiment could not apply more to me.”

Undergraduate Student Employee of the Year: Tony Ruscitto ’22, Institute for Veterans and Military Families

Tony Ruscitto

“It goes without saying this, but I would like to express how truly honored and humbled I feel, to know amongst the hard working and dedicated undergraduate students at this University, that I was selected for this award. Please know, that as much as this award might reflect my own efforts, it also illustrates the dedication ���ϲ�����, its faculty and staff have towards students, especially Student-Veterans.

To my supervisors at the IVMF (Institute for Veterans and Military Families), Kim, Kristen and Kayla: thank you for always being a source of inspiration, guidance and support as an undergraduate student here at ���ϲ�����. If ���ϲ����� as a whole represents the #1 place for vets, then please know, for this student-veteran that you have been and continue to be a vital part of what makes that true for me every day I come to work. It has been and is now, an honor to work amongst all of you, as I have found nothing but success in all my endeavors under your leadership.

To Paul and ���ϲ����� Ambulance (SUA): thank you for providing a place where a student-veteran, longing for that sense of camaraderie and an adrenaline rush helping others can always be found. When I lost my military identity in the transition to student-life, SUA provided me a second life, having somewhere to belong, and a new way to help our community in the fall of 2019. One which I am particularly thankful for.

My family, who have always taught me the value of having a strong work-ethic, were clearly right all along.

Thank you all, for your consideration and for honoring me with this award. I will be sure to continue and refine my efforts, to earn this every day.”

Student Supervisor of the Year: Samantha Trumble, Assistant Director, Center for Learning and Student Success

Samantha Trumble

“I am incredibly grateful to be recognized as Student Supervisor of the Year. I am humbled that so many of my student employees felt I deserved this award. Students now know that when they come to work with me, they will always have someone to turn to during their time at ���ϲ����� and beyond.

The timing of this award comes at one of the most bittersweet times of the semester, as so many of my employees are graduating. I get great enjoyment from watching them all grow and develop into not only excellent students and workers, but amazing human beings. As they continue their journey, I hope that they know that each and every one of them has impacted my life as much as I have theirs. Thank you to all my starfish!

Student Employment Department of the Year: Food Services

“Food Services hires over 1,200 students in our dining centers, cafes, food courts and catering. Students get real-life experience learning new skills including time management and communication. Our student employees are the backbone of our operation. Their dedication and willingness to learn are a great support to our whole operation. We want to thank and recognize our staff members Deena Capria, Vera Gibbs, Anna Galanaugh, Lynne Mowers, Sydney Pajack, Lisa Garvey, Lindsley Kimball and Annie Puglisi, who put in many hours coordinating the hiring, training and scheduling for all our students,” says Jon Webster, executive director of hospitality services.

Food Services is awarded “Student Employment Department of the Year.”

–Story by Isabella Podgorski ’22, College of Visual and Performing Arts

“The event is a great opportunity to be exposed to a wide range of cultural experiences, sample food from around the world and meet and appreciate the many talents of our students,” says Director of the Center for International Services Juan Tavares.

The RSOs tabling at the event includes African Graduate Students’ Network, Caribbean Student Association, Chinese Union, European Students Association, Filipino Student Association, La Société Francophone, Latin American Student Association and South Asian Student Association.

A Recognized Student Organization tabling at the 2019 International Festival.

Admission to the event is free and, once at the event, attendees may purchase $1 food sample tickets (cash only) to try available foods. In addition to sampling the food items from each table, attendees are also encouraged to engage with each RSO at their table and view the artistic presentations given by each RSO.

For more information, contact the Center for International Services at 315.443.2457 or international@syr.edu.

Written by Student Experience communications intern Isabella Podgorski ’22, College of Visual and Performing Arts.

“Each year there is a vast amount of planning and hard work that goes into bringing these exciting opportunities to our student body. I encourage the campus community to join in the celebrating UU’s 60 years of making history, tradition, and memories through their terminus efforts in programming,” says Mike Duignan, senior director of student engagement.

Following the Birthday Bash, UU is hosting the annual Block Party concert in the Dome beginning at 7 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.). This year’s co-headliners are Gunna and Baby Keem, with support from 070 Shake and A-Trak. [Please note, University Union has announced 2 Chainz will co-headline Block Party with Baby Keem after Gunna rescinded.]

“We are looking forward to the first Block Party in three years,” share University Union Concert Co-Directors Robert “Mo” Morris ’23 and Mackenzie Glaubitz ’22. “We are excited for students to experience the culmination of the hard work and preparation we have done for this��event. This year is also University Union’s 60th birthday, and it reminds us how grateful we are to be a part of an organization with such a rich history.”

Assistant Director of Student Activities and advisor to UU Cateatra D. Mallard adds, “Block Party has been one of the most anticipated events of the school year for every student! I am so excited to see this event in-person for the first time and work alongside the University Union students who are working tirelessly and pouring their passion into this experience to create an artist lineup and day events that incorporate the student body feedback. The entire day will be filled with activities, games and attractions, aside from the concert that will certainly have a WOW-factor to commemorate the entire day!”

Tickets for Block Party are available to ���ϲ����� and SUNY ESF students only and are on sale now for $25. Students can purchase tickets via their . Please note print tickets will not be available and there is a limit of one ticket per student as guests are not permitted to attend. Tickets cannot be transferred or resold.

For questions or to request accommodations, please contact UU Vice President Molly Gross by Wednesday, April 20. For additional information, contact UU Public Relations Director Quinn Schmidt or visit the .�� For additional details on purchasing and using mobile tickets, visit the .

“Simone and MP have made an incredible impact on campus across their academic pursuits, research opportunities, campus involvement and community service. They are passionate and driven about their goals and have fully embraced the opportunities around them to shape a meaningful student experience. They will serve as great representatives for their graduating class,” says Rob Hradsky, vice president for the student experience and dean of students.

���ϲ�����’s 2023 Senior Class Marshals are Simone Bellot (left) and Michael “MP” Geiss (right).

Simone Bellot

Bellot, a rising senior majoring in communication sciences and disorders and neuroscience in the College of Arts and Sciences, is originally from Nassau, Bahamas. In her early academic career, Bellot earned the Invest in Success Scholarship for her academic accomplishments in her first semester at ���ϲ�����, which continued throughout her time here as she earned Dean’s List honors each semester. Bellot is also in the Renée Crown University Honors Program.

As an aspiring professor of speech language pathology, Bellot has immersed herself in research and academic opportunities. Working in the Voice and Swallowing Lab, Bellot is an undergraduate researcher studying treatment techniques for muscle tension dysphonia, as well as a research lab assistant supporting a Ph.D. candidate conducting a comparative study on the swallowing patterns of adults with dysphagia. In addition, Bellot is currently conducting independent research through the Diversity in Language and Literacy (DILL) Lab evaluating the morphosyntax and vocabulary production in Bahamian Creole English-speaking preschool-aged children, a research opportunity funded through the ���ϲ����� Office for Undergraduate Research and Creative Engagement (SOURCE).

Bellot has also embraced experiential opportunities to gain hands-on experience in her field. She has served as an intern with the Doctor’s Hospital Rehabilitation Center, assisting in post-traumatic brain injury speech therapy sessions, as well as an intern with Bahamas Plastic Surgery, scrubbing in on cleft lip and palate repair surgeries and supporting patient rehabilitation. She also interned for the Renee O’Neil Center for Childhood Development, assisting in therapy sessions with speech-language pathologists and applied behavioral analysis therapists.

In addition to her experience in the classroom, lab and field, Bellot has fully engaged in campus and community service. She serves as the vice president of external affairs for the Caribbean Student Association, an executive board member of the College of Arts and Sciences Dean’s Team, an international student peer leader for the College of Arts and Sciences and Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, and a First-Year Seminar 101 peer facilitator.

Bellot’s leadership and drive to support other students extends to her role as a student research mentor and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) peer leader with SOURCE. In this role, Bellot is part of the first class of DEI peer leaders who will help educate students on the intersection and importance of DEI in research.

Bellot is also a member in the Women in Science and Engineering (WiSE), Women of Color in STEM Career Preparation Program, the Black Honors Society, Iota Upsilon Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and the National Student Speech Language and Hearing Association. She was also a member of the WellsLink Leadership Program as a first-year student.

Outside of campus, Bellot volunteers with the Refugee and Immigrant Self-Empowerment Program, assisting with tutoring, fundraising activities and promotional materials.

“Serving as a Senior Class Marshal has been a dream of mine since freshman year. Having this come to fruition given the unconventional journey I have had at ���ϲ����� is a display that when I navigate the University with intention and passion, my goals can be realized,” says Bellot.

“I placed a great focus on using the tools available to me to become a holistic student. My engagement, coupled with my perspective as a black woman international student has afforded me the ability to have a diverse perspective on the student experience. Putting this perspective into practice and having the opportunity to enhance the student experience as a Senior Class Marshal is a service I am honored to give back to the student body that has crafted my unsurpassed undergraduate experience,” adds Bellot.

Michael “MP” Geiss

Geiss, a ���ϲ�����, New York native, is a rising senior in the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs and the College of Arts and Sciences majoring in policy studies and physics and minoring in biology and economics. He is also a member of the Renée Crown University Honors Program and is a Maxwell Leadership Scholar recipient.

Academically, Geiss has excelled with the opportunity to combine his interests in the natural sciences and policy. He is part of the Maxwell School’s accelerated bachelor’s/master’s program and has been conditionally accepted to SUNY Upstate Medical University’s Early Assurance Program to pursue an M.D. degree.

Geiss has dedicated himself to pursuing his intellectual interests outside the classroom through long-term research projects. He joined Dr. Teng Zeng’s water chemistry group in the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department in 2018 to characterize organic micropollutants (OMPs) in Central New York lakes through ���ϲ�����’s Summer High School Research Internship Program and has continued related work as an undergraduate.

Geiss earned a SOURCE research grant to study how varying land-use practices and onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS) impact the concentrations and frequencies of OMPs and their transformation products (TPs) in Suffolk County groundwater. Earlier this month, he presented the project’s progress as a ���ϲ����� representative at the 2022 ACC Meeting of the Minds Conference at the University of Virginia.

Geiss has also earned SOURCE funding to work as a research assistant for Dr. Robert Bifulco for the Municipal Finance Journal paper, “Assessing How COVID-19 Impacts NYS Fiscal Practices and Pending State Economic Struggles,” and to test synthetic hydrogel drug delivery systems for encapsulating Osteoarthritis�� inflammatory inhibitors with the Jain group in the ���ϲ����� BioInspired Institute. This summer, Geiss is interning this summer at SUNY Upstate’s Center for Vision Research with Dr. Samuel Herberg’s group to study how YAP (Yes Associated Protein) mechanotransduction and epigenetic chromatin remodeling modulate glaucomatous trabecular meshwork cell dysfunction.

As a SOURCE student research mentor, Geiss has worked to grow the campus undergraduate research community by serving as a peer mentor and is outreach coordinator for the ���ϲ����� Undergraduate Research Yearbook’s first edition.

Following a four-year varsity high school career at Christian Brothers Academy in the ���ϲ����� area, Geiss has continued to play on the University’s club baseball team and will represent the University at the Baseball Hall of Fame’s Symposium on Baseball and American Culture in June. There, he will present about baseball’s rich history at ���ϲ����� and honor its legacy 50 years after the varsity program ended.

In addition, Geiss has served as a summer camp unit leader and treasurer for the Camp Kesem chapter at ���ϲ�����, a teaching assistant for the Urban and AI Policy Smart Cities course sequence, and an ophthalmic technician at Eye Associates of Central New York (CNY).

Geiss looks forward to representing his class as a student liaison to the administration and greater Orange community as a Senior Class Marshal.

“As a ���ϲ����� native and lifelong Orange fan, I am deeply humbled to receive this honor to serve our campus community over the next year,” says Geiss. “���ϲ�����’s collaborative and innovative community has inspired me to challenge myself academically while trying new things that have helped grow my perspectives. As a Senior Class Marshal, I aim to give back by working with my peers and administrators to tangibly improve each student’s Orange experience. I cannot wait to get started!”

This year’s is scheduled for Friday, April 1, in Schine Student Center from 4 to 6:30 p.m. AAPI student organizations and campus departments will table from 4 to 5 p.m., and a program beginning at 5 p.m. where attendees can learn about the month’s events, enjoy student performances and have an opportunity to engage with each other. This will be followed by the Anti-Asian Hate Vigil, bringing attention to the Anti-Asian Hate Crime Exhibit displayed in Bird library for the month.

Michelle Zauner

Events continuing throughout the month include an , the with musician and New York Times bestselling author Michelle Zauner, a , , and many more. The planning committee aimed to include events that represent the diverse needs of the campus community and center on intersectionality, explains AAPI Planning Committee Co-Chair Merci Sugai G’22, a graduate student in the School of Education. “We had students and staff create artwork, podcasts, performances and large-scale events to celebrate AAPI identity,” says Sugai.

The theme for this year’s celebration is “Regrounding: Celebrating Our Identity,” which focuses on sharing and celebrating the pride, strength and joy of the AAPI community, especially after a challenging two years in light of the pandemic and rise in anti-Asian hate and bias.

“I hope people take away the joy of celebrating AAPI students, staff and faculty at SU, but also take time to learn about ongoing racism, acts of violence, xenophobia and discrimination impacting the AAPI community and other minoritized communities in America,” says Sugai. “We can simultaneously express joy in our identities as AAPI individuals while taking time to mourn the lives we’ve lost and the growth we can make on campus and in our local communities.”

One of the month’s signature events is the with Zauner, taking place on April 7, from 7 to 9 p.m. in Huntington Beard Crouse Hall, Gifford Auditorium. A meet and greet and book signing will follow.

Zauner is best known as a singer and guitarist who creates dreamy, shoegaze-inspired indie pop under the name Japanese Breakfast. She has won acclaim from major music outlets around the world for releases like Psychopomp (2016) and Soft Sounds from Another Planet (2017). Her most recent album, Jubilee (2021), earned two GRAMMY nominations for Best New Artist and Best Alternative Music Album. Her first book, Crying in H Mart, now a New York Times Bestseller, is an unflinching, powerful memoir about growing up Korean American, losing her mother and forging her own identity. She’s currently adapting her memoir for the screen for MGM’s Orion Pictures. Campus community members are invited to join a of Crying in H Mart on April 5, from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

“Michelle Zauner’s life experiences, as she has shared in her memoir, will resonate with many of our students, especially our AAPI students, as she touches upon food, culture, grief and finding pride in one’s own identity,” says AAPI Heritage Month Planning Committee Co-Chair Huey Hsiao, associate director of multicultural affairs and the Kessler Scholars Program.

Visit the full for all events scheduled and additional information. Follow AAPI Heritage Month events and updates using the hashtag #CuseAAPIHM.

Story by Division of the Student Experience communications intern Isabella Podgorski ’22, College of Visual and Performing Arts

All students who receive the survey are encouraged to complete it to help the University gain a comprehensive understanding of the student experience. Survey results will inform services, programs and awareness efforts to help prevent and respond to sexual and relationship violence.

“It is really important for all students on campus who receive the survey to provide their own experiences on SU’s campus, whether you think the topic applies to you or not. Your contribution will help provide an accurate understanding of the data to provide a safer and more equitable campus community,” says Clare Peppler, a senior in Falk College and Barnes Center peer educator.

Students helped with refining and finalizing questions and format for this year’s survey. This included student representatives from Stand with Survivors SU and Peer Educators Encouraging Healthy Relationships (PEEHRS). In addition, students in Newhouse School Professor Rebecca Ortiz’s advertising classes spent their fall semester conducting research to develop recommendations on how to communicate the importance of survey completion to students.

“My students found that SU students are motivated to complete surveys when they know the information will be used to improve the student experience and address such an important issue as sexual and relationship violence. It just takes a few minutes to complete and will have a major positive impact,” says Ortiz, who is also a member of the Chancellor’s Task Force.

Results of the survey will be used across the campus community to strengthen student experiences, improve campus climate and enhance programs and services. The previous survey results led to the creation of a comprehensive, centralized and materials that help describe the reporting process in a variety of mediums.

For more information on the Sexual and Relationship Violence Survey, contact healthpromotion@syr.edu.

Nic Stone

The WellsLink Leadership Program, a nationally recognized academic and leadership excellence program for first-year students of color, invites the campus community to the on Friday, Feb. 11. The ceremony is scheduled from 4 to 6 p.m. in Hendricks Chapel and will feature a keynote address from Nic Stone, author of New York Times bestselling books “Dear Martin” and “Dear Justyce.”

The WellsLink Transitions Ceremony celebrates students who have successfully transitioned to their second year at ���ϲ����� after participating in the WellsLink Leadership Program during their first year. In addition to the keynote from Stone, the ceremony includes remarks, musical performances and the presentation of stoles to the WellsLink Scholars.

“Throughout their experience in the WellsLink Leadership Program, our WellsLink Scholars embody what it means to be Orange—making the most of the opportunities on campus that support them in pursuing academic excellence, personal and professional development and campus and community leadership. We look forward to celebrating their achievements and recognizing the impact they have and will continue to make on campus and beyond,” says Huey Hsiao, associate director in Multicultural Affairs and the Kessler Scholars Program.

Following the ceremony, a reception will take place in the Noble Room of Hendricks Chapel. A book signing will also take place with Stone.

The WellsLink Leadership Program Class of 2024

• Nykara Agosto (College of Visual and Performing Arts)
• Maram Ahmed (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Mira Ahuja (S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications)
• Faith Akoachere (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Aaron Alakkadan (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Rohail Alvi (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Ana Aponte (College of Visual and Performing Arts)
• Anayancy Barajas (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Maile Barry (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Juanitta Bekoe (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Kyra Brown (School of Architecture)
• Thomas Cahill (School of Information Studies)
• Christopher Calderon Suarez (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Timothy Chao (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Nina Chen (College of Visual and Performing Arts)
• Pich Chet (Martin J. Whitman School of Management/S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications)
• Joshua Carl Cully (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Arren Cuyler (S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications)
• Afua Danso Dankwa (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs)
• Dennis Dao (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Kamran Darabi (College of Visual and Performing Arts)
• Hamere Debebe (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs)
• Valentina Diaz (College of Arts and Sciences/S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications)
• Samantha Esparza (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Akweshie Fon-Ndikum (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Dylan France (Martin J. Whitman School of Management)
• Astrid Gedeon (Martin J. Whitman School of Management)
• Guerdyna Gelin (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs)
• Yash Godiwala (Martin J. Whitman School of Management)
• Miguel Gomez Fernandez (Martin J. Whitman School of Management)
• Erickson Gomez Fernandez (Martin J. Whitman School of Management)
• Ralph Graham (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• David Griffin Jr (Martin J. Whitman School of Management)
• Mia Gutarra (David B. Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics)
• Ka‘ai I (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs)
• Ena Izawa (Martin J. Whitman School of Management)
• Lexie Johnson (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs)
• Leah Jones (College of Arts and Sciences)
• MaryKate Keevins (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs/S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications)
• Nicola Kim (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs)
• Maya Lee (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Jacob Leisawitz (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Dao Ming Lin (School of Information Studies/Martin J. Whitman School of Management)
• Kevin Loza Montiel (Martin J. Whitman School of Management)
• Hayley Melendez (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Lizmarie Montemayor (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Jalen Morales (Martin J. Whitman School of Management)
• Anna Nguyen (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Lisa Nguyen (School of Information Studies)
• Zikora Nnam (David B. Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics)
• Nicole Nunez (Martin J. Whitman School of Management)
• Alejandro Parra (David B. Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics)
• Destiny Pearson (College of Arts and Sciences/School of Education)
• Fabiana Perez (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• LJ Perry (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs/Martin J. Whitman School of Management)
• Ejay Ramos (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs)
• Jose Reyes Soto (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs)
• Fidel Rivera (School of Information Studies)
• Tamara Rodriguez (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Julia Ruiz (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Elliot Salas (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Julian Serrano (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Jeffrey Sims (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs)
• Kailani Small (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Ryan St Jean (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs)
• Tasfia Sultana (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Melissa Tang (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Marivi Urdaneta (College of Arts and Sciences/School of Education)
• Lizbeth Vidal (College of Arts and Sciences)
• Nathan Viramontes (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Nia Williams (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Michael Wong (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Myra Wong (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs/S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications)
• Reyad Yassin (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Yulun Zeng (College of Engineering and Computer Science)
• Grace Zhang (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs)
• Andrew Zheng (Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs)

About The WellsLink Leadership Program

The WellsLink Leadership Program is a nationally recognized academic and leadership excellence program for first-year students of color. Through structured academic, social and cultural enrichment activities, WellsLink Scholars develop the leadership capital necessary for exceptional success at ���ϲ����� and beyond. The program name was chosen to honor Barry L. Wells, inaugural coordinator of ���ϲ�����’s first Office of Minority Affairs in 1976 and retired senior vice president and dean of student affairs.

The WellsLink Leadership Program is sponsored by Multicultural Affairs in the Division of the Student Experience, and was designed by Director James K. Duah-Agyeman and former Associate Director Paul M. Buckley. Since the program’s inception in 2003, WellsLink Scholars have demonstrated outstanding leadership at the University with representation at the executive levels of many student organizations, task forces, committees and networks of service. They are high academic performers and balanced community citizens.

The campus will celebrate Black History Month with a variety of events and speakers. Presenters include, clockwise from top left, Melody M. Brown G’17; Emmanuel Hudson; Reighan Alston ’19; Shyla Powell and Jaleel Campbell.

As the month of February begins, the campus community is invited to celebrate Black History Month. The Black History Month planning committee, comprising students, faculty and staff, and led by Multicultural Affairs, Barnes Center at The Arch, Student Activities and the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, have planned a centered on the theme of “Black Health and Wellness,” the national theme for Black History Month.

The month kicks off with a two-part opening celebration on Tuesday, Feb. 1. The Schine Student Center atrium will feature a from noon-2 p.m., and from 7-9 p.m., a featuring student groups and performers will take place in Goldstein Auditorium, Schine Student Center. Emmanuel Hudson, TV personality and comedian featured on “Wild ’N Out,” will emcee.

“As we honor Black History Month, the planning committee has organized a robust calendar of events that focus on the multifaceted components of wellness. From creative expression, to recreational activities, to mental health, the schedule encourages our campus community to reflect, celebrate, connect and practice self-care. I encourage all students, faculty and staff to get involved throughout the month,” says Cerri Banks, vice president and deputy to the senior vice president.

Some additional events scheduled during the month include:

• “State of the Black…” Series featuring sessions focused on creative work, professional experiences and hair experience, including one event with local artist and Black Artist Collective founder Jaleel Campbell
  

  London Hill and Alexis James

• A weeklong Black Health and Wellness Expo, including a MOVE-IT Workout with group fitness instructor Reighan Alston ’19; an event with Barnes Center therapists London Hill, Alexis James and Shyla Powell on Supporting Black Mental Health Through Self Care; and a session with Karina Anderson, assistant director of the financial literature program in the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarship Programs, on The Challenge of Debt for Black Students and How to Manage It

• Karina Anderson

New this year, the committee has also organized a recognition to share appreciation with faculty and staff who identify as Black/African American and have made significant contributions to campuswide diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility work and to the betterment of the Black/African American community.

Campus community members may now until Feb. 18. Roses will be presented at the Celebrating Black Excellence Ceremony on Feb. 25.

For more information about the Black History Month celebration, complete event details and additional events, visit the .

In addition to representing their class throughout their senior year, Senior Class Marshals participate in events, meet with University leaders and lead the Commencement procession.

“The Senior Class Marshal position is a fantastic opportunity to represent your senior class. You work with University leadership and other students to implement positive changes to the school, and you can really make the position your own,” says Class of 2022 Senior Class Marshal Ava Breitbeck, a senior in the College of Arts and Sciences and Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs.

Class of 2022 Senior Class Marshal Morgan Storino, a senior in the College of Arts and Sciences and Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, adds, “Being a 2022 Senior Class Marshal has been one of the highest honors and privileges I’ve experienced here at the University. Serving in this role has allowed me to connect with the campus community in deeper and more impactful ways by opening doors to special events, committee meetings and campus support networks I previously would not have been aware of. I’m incredibly grateful to have served in this position, as it has left a lasting impression on my SU experience, an impression which I will carry with me through my last few months at the University and beyond.”

All current juniors who will be graduating in May 2023 and on campus throughout their senior year are eligible to apply. Faculty and staff may also nominate qualifying students for this honor.

Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. ET on Sunday, Feb. 13.

For more information, visit the . For questions regarding the application process, please email Courtney Albiker at calbiker@syr.edu.

Photo credit: Toni Horrace Photography

Recognizing the challenges ahead, Head Coach Bob Wilson, Coach David DeSalvia and the players took an early focus on pre-season recruitment and training. President of Men’s Club Rugby Nicholas Merriam credits the team’s success to the amount of time spent practicing, doing off-field conditioning and reviewing film with great attention to detail. The coaches focused heavily on building basic skills and bringing newer players up to speed.

All the preparation paid off with the team placing first in the Empire Division of the Liberty Conference—the largest Division 1A men’s league—with an undefeated season. The team closed out the season with a fourth-place finish among 20 teams during the Liberty Conference Championship in November.

“As the competition stiffened, the games became closer, but the young team demonstrated some grit, determination and spirit to overcome inexperienced mistakes to finish the league season undefeated,” says Wilson, who has been connected to the team since 1970 when he first joined as a player. He has been the head coach for the last 38 years.

While everyone looks forward to the wins, the coaches and players stress two other important facets of playing this game: learning and community.

“I’m glad the season went the way we hoped, and it caps off for me a rugby career that exceeded even my own expectations for myself. I’ve learned so much about myself and others from this game, and I only hope to learn more,” says Merriam, a senior in the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications.

“To finish top of our division and be undefeated in division play as such a young team was amazing. We put so much work into this season to come out with some big wins throughout the season was huge for us,” says Brady Thomson, a first-year student in the School of Education. “To go up against some of the top teams in our conference is always a good learning experience, even if we lose. We don’t have a losing culture here at ���ϲ����� rugby, we only win or we learn.”

As one of the offered through the Barnes Center at The Arch, there are many options for students to engage in competition while building friendships and community, much like the members of the rugby team have experienced.

“My favorite part about being on the ���ϲ����� rugby team is the brotherhood I’ve gained from it. Being a freshman from England, I was scared I wasn’t going to really fit in anywhere, but the rugby team gave me friends and a collective sense of ‘home away from home’ that I know the other teammates feel, too,” adds Thompson.

“Mentoring has a deeply meaningful impact on the student experience for both mentees and mentors, providing peer-to-peer connection, encouragement and support as they navigate campus, learn from one another and build their skills,” says Kal Srinivas, director of student retention and success. “Through our partnership with Mentor Collective, we will be able to grow the number of mentorship opportunities on campus and offer students a mentorship program that begins virtually.”

Highlighting the impact of mentoring to the student experience, Vice President for Student Success and Deputy to the Senior Vice President for Student Experience Cerri Banks adds, “I am so excited about this initiative and what it means for our students and the connections they will make that will keep them engaged and increase their sense of belonging.”

Managed by the team in Student Outreach and Retention, a unit within Student Experience, the pilot program uses the Mentor Collective platform to match mentees and mentors based on goals, interests and experiences. Throughout the spring semester, mentors and mentees can connect over the platform via their preferred communication channel.

While mentor and mentee applications will be accepted on a rolling basis, sophomores and juniors are encouraged to complete the by Dec. 10, to complete training and begin matching with mentees in time for the start of the spring semester. Eligible mentees are encouraged to complete the by Dec. 17.

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

Students received a unique link to complete the Orange Survey directly to their ���ϲ����� email address. Those who complete the survey will be entered to win one of 20 $50 Amazon gift cards and early fall 2022 course registration. Additional incentives will be announced as the survey remains open through Dec. 10, 2021.

All full-time and part-time currently enrolled degree-seeking undergraduate students who are 18 years of age or older are invited to complete the Orange Survey. For questions, contact Institutional Research at ir@syr.edu.

“Native Heritage Month serves as an opportunity to engage our campus community in learning about and celebrating the deeply rich history and traditions of Indigenous people, as well as to raise awareness about the issues that impact Indigenous people today,” says Regina Jones, assistant director of the Native Student Program.

Included in the monthlong celebration are activities spanning , , presentations and discussions, as well as the annual Canandaigua Treaty Day Commemoration on Nov. 11 and participation in the annual “Rock Your Mocs” national movement from Nov. 14-20. The month also includes new activities, such as the Moon Ceremony with Honwadiyenawa’sek Diane Schenandoah from the Barnes Center. The month closes with a social dance on Nov. 29 at the Skybarn.

“Native Heritage Month serves as an opportunity to engage our campus community in learning about and celebrating the deeply rich history and traditions of Indigenous people, as well as to raise awareness about the issues that impact Indigenous people today. We encourage students, faculty and staff to participate in the events and activities we have planned to explore topics of art, law, history and social justice, and participate in community-building, knowledge-sharing and dialogue,” says Regina Jones, assistant director of the Native Student Program.

Additional information, including the full event schedule, will be posted on the and the . For questions, contact Jones at rajones@syr.edu.

The Hall of Languages is illuminated in purple to recognize October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

“With our ongoing work and outreach to educate our campus community about all forms of interpersonal violence, the Chancellor’s Task Force on Sexual and Relationship Violence is eager to share this new centralized resource with our campus community,” says Vice President for the Student Experience and Dean of Students Rob Hradsky, who co-chairs the Chancellor’s Task Force with Dean of Falk College Diane Lyden Murphy. “The website reflects the collaboration, coordination and commitment of many partners who do this important work every day to support those impacted by violence and promote a welcoming and safe campus environment.”

The website serves as a hub for sexual and relationship violence-related services, response, educational opportunities, policies and reporting options. It also demonstrates the vast network of teams across campus working to prevent and respond to sexual and relationship violence, including the Barnes Center at The Arch; Office of Equal Opportunity, Inclusion and Resolution Services (including Title IX); Department of Public Safety; Community Standards (formerly the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities); and Dean of Students, among many others, as well as off-campus resources such as Vera House. Critical to its development was feedback from students. Student peer educators from the Barnes Center at The Arch, along with student representatives from the Chancellor’s Task Force, provided input that helped shape the website.

“The launching of this website is a huge step in the right direction for survivors and allies on our campus. When it comes to delivering education, resources and reporting options, it is crucial material is as accessible as possible,” says Kinley Gaudette ’23, a peer educator at the Barnes Center. “Having key information, contacts and policies all in one place helps us ensure that if a student or someone they know is impacted by sexual and relationship violence, they are confident in their ability to access the information they need to make an informed decision as to how to proceed. The more students become well-versed in prevention, support and reporting options, the safer our campus will be.”

Campus community members are encouraged to visit the for more information, to about sexual and relationship violence, and for additional opportunities to support interpersonal violence prevention and education. Upcoming opportunities for Domestic Violence Awareness Month include:

National Wear Purple Day on Thursday, Oct. 21

The community is encouraged to “Wear Purple” on Thursday, Oct. 21, as part of the National Wear Purple Day to show solidarity with those impacted by interpersonal violence. Community members can post photos on social media, tagging @BeWellSU and using #SUGoesPurple, sharing why they wear purple to end interpersonal violence.

Office Decorating Contest

The Barnes Center invites campus offices to decorate their spaces purple for the month to raise awareness. Additional details will be posted to the University Events Calendar.

Workshops

During the month of October, the Barnes Center at The Arch will host two workshops in its series focused on violence prevention and supporting those impacted by violence:

• Oct. 19 –
• Oct. 26 –

With planning efforts led by New Student and Family Programs, the includes information sessions spanning topics such as study abroad, career development and off-campus living, meet-and-greets with campus departments and units, and events hosted by each school and college. The weekend also includes signature Orange After Dark programs, including a Family Fun Trivia Night and Slice It Up Family Fun Night, and the Orange football game against Wake Forest.

“Family Weekend provides parents and supportive family members with a glimpse into their student’s day-to-day life on campus as they settle into the new academic year. With opportunities to learn more about academics, social connections, campus resources and much more, the schedule features a host of ways to learn about the breadth of the student experience,” says Missy Mathis Hanlon, director in New Student and Family Programs.

Based on the success of virtual programs offered during Family Weekend 2020, the weekend will also include virtual sessions for families who cannot attend in person.

is still open. Visit the University Events Calendar for the full

As a reminder, all visitors on campus must adhere to the .

“The Intra-University Transfer Fair provides students with a one-stop-shop to explore the hundreds of majors and minors available and learn about the intra-University transfer process if they are considering transferring to another school or college within the University,” says Kal Srinivas, director of student retention and success. “With each school and college available, students also have the opportunity to connect and discuss their particular academic interests directly with school and college advisors.”

The IUT Fair is scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 30, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., both in-person in Bird Library’s main atrium, and virtually via Zoom.

Shihan Van Clief

Van Clief will be recognized for his contributions to the art of spoken word poetry and his long-standing commitment as an artist, activist, educator and honorary member of Nu Rho Poetic Society. Van Clief is noted as a dynamic spoken word artist of this generation, winning multiple individual and group national poetry slam competitions. He has been featured on a variety of media outlets and his talent on the international stage transcends cultural and generational boundaries, capturing the attention of people worldwide.

The Spoken Word Poetry Institute, which runs Thursday, Sept. 23, through Saturday, Sept. 25, will consist of from members of the Nu Rho Poetic Society and Van Clief on Sept. 23 at 7:30 p.m. in Schine Student Center, Suite 304ABC, an on Sept. 24 at 6 p.m. in 132 Schine Student Center, and a on Saturday, Sept. 25, beginning at noon in Schine Student Center, Suite 228. Pre-registration is required for the workshop.

“Having the opportunity to engage and interact with professional spoken word poets helps students learn firsthand how they can give voice to social issues through spoken-word poetry and contribute to greater society,” says Cedric T. Bolton, coordinator of student engagement in the Office of Multicultural Affairs. “Through the Spoken Word Poetry Institute and the incredible poets we bring to campus like Shihan, our community sees how scholarship and arts intersect and have no boundaries. We hope that through the weekend’s activities, student performers will stretch their imagination and create a new world through dramatic wordplay.”

For more information or to register for the workshop, contact Cedric Bolton.

About Verbal Blend

, ���ϲ�����’s premier spoken word poetry program, is designed to enhance students’ confidence in writing and performing original poems. Coordinated by the Office of Multicultural Affairs, Verbal Blend members participate in a writer’s workshop series, performances and peer reviews.

Goon Squad members during ���ϲ����� Welcome 2021

���ϲ����� Welcome, the University’s new student orientation program for incoming undergraduates, has officially begun. Following their move-in to on-campus housing, new students will participate in a full schedule of social, academic and parent/family activities and programs. Visit the for the full schedule.

In addition to the full schedule of events, the following offices will be open over the weekend to attend to the needs of new and returning students:

• : Saturday, Aug. 28, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 29, 10 a.m.-24-hour operation
• : Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 28-29, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Bursar Operations: Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 28-29, noon-4 p.m.
• : Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 28-29, noon-8 p.m.
• Center for Disability Resources: Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 28-29, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
• Center for International Services: Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 28-29, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
• : Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 28-29, noon-4 p.m.
• Dean of Students Office: Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 28-29, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
• Financial Aid and Scholarship Programs: Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 28-29, noon-4 p.m.
• : Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 28-29, 9 a.m.-11 p.m.
• : Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 28-29, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
• : Hours vary by location
• Housing, Meal Plan and I.D. Card Services North Campus: Saturday, Aug. 28, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 29, closed
• Housing, Meal Plan and I.D. Card Services South Campus: Saturday, Aug. 28, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 29, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
• I.D. Card Services Quad Distribution Trailer: Saturday, Aug. 28, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 29, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
• :Sunday, Aug. 29, 8 a.m.-noon
• : Tuesday-Saturday, Aug. 24-28, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 29, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
• : Saturday, Aug. 28, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 29, 10 a.m.-11 p.m.
• : Saturday, Aug. 28, noon-5 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 29, noon-3 p.m.
• Office of the Registrar: Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 28-29, noon-4 p.m.
• :Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 28-29, noon-11 p.m.
• Residential Halls Front Desk:��Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 28-29, 9 a.m.-noon
• Student Employment:��Saturday, Aug. 28, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 29, closed; Monday, Aug. 30, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (Walk-in for I-9 completion at 210 Steele Hall. Call or email questions at 315.443.2268 or cuseworks@syr.edu.)
• Undergraduate/Graduate Enrollment Processing Center:��Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 28-29, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Monday, Aug. 30, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
• College of Professional Studies (formerly known as University College): Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 28-29, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Monday, Aug. 30, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. (Walk-ins welcome. Call or email questions at 315.443.3261 or ucinfo@syr.edu.)
• :Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 28-29, 10 a.m.-noon

Students, faculty, staff, parents and families with questions are encouraged to connect with the Office of New Student and Family Programs. They can be reached in-person on the Quad from Aug. 24-26, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., or via phone at 315.443.9187 during the following hours:

• Aug. 23- 27: 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Aug. 28: 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

Questions can also be directed to newtosu@syr.edu.

Otto and students help with new student move-in at Flint Hall in 2019.

A variety of volunteer times are available for staff and faculty starting Tuesday, Aug. 24, through Thursday, Aug. 26. Those interested in volunteering are asked to complete the .

“Along with the entire ���ϲ����� community, we are thrilled to welcome new students to campus with a traditional ���ϲ����� Welcome experience,” says Carrie Grogan Abbott, director of FYTP. “Through the support of volunteers and cross-campus partners, we can continue the tradition of welcoming our next class of students and enhancing their experience through ���ϲ����� Welcome.”

Volunteers will also be a part of the , an initiative that provides the Class of 2024 with an opportunity to experience traditional ���ϲ����� Welcome events. Through this program, students can register to attend events throughout the week of Aug. 23. “We are thrilled with the number of rising sophomores who have registered to participate in Sophomore Welcome Back,” says Abbott. “The program offers a wonderful opportunity for students to not only participate in signature ���ϲ����� traditions, but also make new connections.”

As��the launch of��the ���ϲ�������student��experience,����is��the required new student orientation program. To aid students in their pursuit of success, ���ϲ����� Welcome encompasses academic and social programs in addition to traditions unique to the University.

For additional information,��please��contact FYTP by emailing��newtosu@syr.edu��or calling 315.443.9187.

“As student employment resources continue to evolve and modernize, we are pleased to implement a new tool for our students that enhances the process for time reporting and makes it easier for students to capture their hours using any device,” says Camille Donabella, director of student employment and operations.

To prepare for the implementation, the Comptroller’s Office conducted trainings with supervisors of student employees throughout April and May to demonstrate and review TimeClockPlus. Through this new system, students and supervisors will be able to manage and record time, enhance accuracy, and facilitate employee scheduling more efficiently. Staff interested in receiving training can contact the Office of Student Employment at 315.443.2268 or cuseworks@syr.edu to schedule.

Students can learn more about using TimeClockPlus by visiting the or contacting their supervisor. Additional questions can be directed to the Office of Student Employment at 315.443.2268 or cuseworks@syr.edu.

Thursday, May 20

• Schine Student Center, Goldstein Auditorium, 3-7 p.m.
• Manley North Lot, 3:30-7:30 p.m.

Friday, May 21

• Manley North Lot, 3-7:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 22

• Manley North Lot, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Schine Student Center, Goldstein Auditorium, 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
• Manley North Lot, 12:30-4 p.m.
• Manley North Lot, 3:30-7:30 p.m.

Volunteers are welcome to select more than one shift if their schedule allows. To volunteer, complete the��. Please note, volunteers must be fully vaccinated to participate. A required training will be held via Zoom on Monday, May 17 at 4 p.m.

For questions, please contact Carrie Grogan Abbott at newtosu@syr.edu.

Winners of the 2021 44 Stars of Excellence Awards are:

Award for Diversity and Inclusion
Presented to a student and RSO who have demonstrated a sincere commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion by serving as advocates for awareness on campus and in the community. Nominees intentionally recognize and incorporate intersectionality in their work to better support people in making meaning of their lives, perspectives, and experiences.

• Karen Chow
• Diversity and Inclusion Student Athlete Board

Award for Excellence by an Organization/Chapter Advisor
Presented to RSO advisors who demonstrate outstanding commitment to an organization by providing mentorship to the organization and its leadership, supporting organizational programs and events, as well as ensuring successful leadership transitions within the organization.

• Jimmy Luckman (OrangeSeeds)
• Mark Trumbo (Student-Athlete Advisory Board)

Award for Excellence by an Organization/Chapter President
Presented to RSO presidents or chapter/council presidents who have demonstrated outstanding dedication and service to their organization. Presidents not only have enhanced their individual organization, but also the ���ϲ����� community through their leadership and involvement.

• Kristen Siermachesky
• Chelsea Stern

Award for Outstanding Senior Leadership
Presented to graduating seniors who have demonstrated dedication to developing themselves, others and the University through their involvement and leadership in the classroom and student organizations. These students are strong academically, active in the community and serve as role models to their peers.

• Grace Asch
• Hunter Gorick
• Kimberly Ng
• Victoria Vega

Award for Positive Advocacy and Awareness
Presented to a student and RSO who have been the most effective in promoting social justice and raising awareness for a cause, whether on campus or in the greater community, in a timely and relevant manner. Nominees demonstrate a commitment to continuous self-awareness and broad societal awareness, especially in working with people with marginalized identities.

• Tessa Pulgar
• Asian Students in America (ASIA)

Award for Public and Community Service
Presented to an RSO that has exhibited exceptional effort in planning and implementing significant service projects within the University and ���ϲ����� community.

• Diversity and Inclusion Student Athlete Board

��Best New Event or Initiative
Presented to a student and RSO who have implemented a brand new event/initiative for the first time in the 2020-21 academic year. They have made a conscious effort to promote, plan, implement and introduce innovative programs/initiatives that have not been addressed by previous planning.

• Gustavo Eumana
• Traditions Commission

Greek Man of the Year/Woman of the Year
The Greek Man of the Year and the Greek Woman of the Year awards are presented to extraordinary individuals within the Greek community.

• Greek Man of the Year: Rolando Cabral
• Greek Woman of the Year: Victoria Vega

��Irma Almirall-Padamsee La Fuerza Community Enhancement Award
Presented to graduating students in recognition of their outstanding contributions and commitment to diversity. These individuals have used their energy, spirit and leadership in initiating and implementing actions that help our campus community go beyond tolerance to create dialogue among people from diverse cultural groups.

• Justine Hastings
• Kimberly Ng

Outstanding Media or Publication
Presented to an RSO that consistently produces publications or media that represent the organization in a positive manner, appeal to their intended audience and fulfill a specific niche on campus.

• Globalists

Rising Leader Award
Presented to a student who has exhibited significant potential in their work and leadership within the last academic year, and improved their overall time management and follow through, or the organization’s normal operations and overall programming.

• Desjah Altvater

��SU Spirit Award
Presented to a student who has demonstrated pride in ���ϲ����� by promoting, attending and being involved in a variety of student organizations and events, demonstrating to other students the importance of being part of the Orange Nation.

• Megan Nguyen

Unsung Hero Award
This award is presented to an individual who has helped their organization achieve success. Recipients may not be in a formal leadership position, but have gone above and beyond what is typical for a general member.

• Eve Miserlian

The Vitamin C Scholar and Leadership Award
This award recognizes a student who demonstrates excellence in both scholarship and leadership, a positive attitude and an above and beyond commitment to their organization and its activities.

• Alec O’Del

Managed through the Office of Multicultural Affairs, engages participants in meaningful, challenging and vital conversations about race and ethnicity. Throughout six weeks, participants will be challenged to explore their own racial and ethnic identity, understand the experiences of others, and critically identify social systems of oppression, working toward living a more socially just life.

After gathering feedback on availability from the summer interest form, C.A.R.E. will announce the signup and schedule for the summer sessions. All sessions will be held virtually.

Questions can be directed to Robin Maxile, graduate coordinator for C.A.R.E. Programs.

Senior Class Marshals are selected each year based upon their academic achievement, campus and community involvement, and commitment to service. Upon beginning their senior year, the selected students will participate in a number of activities, including meeting with senior University leaders to share their insight on the student experience, participating in alumni and celebratory events, and serving on committees.

“Among a highly competitive pool of candidates, Ava and Morgan have distinguished themselves as leaders throughout their undergraduate experience, embracing all that ���ϲ����� has to offer. Their academic, co-curricular and extra-curricular involvement embodies all there is in being Orange and making the most of your student experience,” says Rob Hradsky, vice president for the student experience.

Ava Breitbeck

Ava Breitbeck

Originally from Cicero, New York, Breitbeck is a rising senior in the College of Arts and Sciences and Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs majoring in physics and political science. A member of the Renée Crown University Honors Program, Breitbeck’s academic accolades include Dean’s List, the Invest in Success Scholarship for high achievement in the first semester and the Erastus O. Haven Scholarship Award. She was also honored as a National AP Scholar by the College Board, a two-time Aspirations in Computing state award winner by the National Conference for Women in Computing and the recipient of New York State’s Leaders of Tomorrow Award.

Beyond her own academic accolades and achievements, Breitbeck also strives to support other students in their academic pursuits as a tutor and office assistant with the Center for Learning and Student Success (CLASS). In her three years with CLASS, Breitbeck has earned level 2 College Reading and Learning Association certification, provided mathematics and physics tutoring to dozens of students, and coordinated programs for the office. She has also served as an academic coach for the SummerStart program and regularly contributed to The Peel, providing study tips and advice to students.

Breitbeck is passionate about science and enjoys igniting others’ interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields. For more than six years, she has been a leader with the New York State Science Olympiad, serving as a regional and state supervisor. Working with hundreds of students from more than 120 middle and high schools to oversee competitions that support students in their exploration of science, Breitbeck supervises, runs and judges events at the regional and state level.

This passion and energy transcends Breitbeck’s role as a member of University 100, where she gives prospective and admitted students, as well as their families, tours of campus and shares her experience and love for all things Orange. Breitbeck also holds ambassador roles with the College of Arts and Sciences as a member of the Dean’s Team and with the Honors Program. She looks forward to continuing this ambassador role as the Senior Class Marshal.

“As a student I have witnessed first-hand the vibrancy and spirit of SU,” says Breitbeck. “I love to share my love of the Orange with prospective students and families as a tour guide, and this is an outstanding opportunity to continue to do so. ���ϲ����� has the best students, alumni and fans in the country, so representing the University means a great deal to me. I am incredibly grateful and appreciative of this responsibility.”

Morgan Storino

Morgan Storino

Storino, who is from Easton, Pennsylvania, is a rising senior in the College of Arts and Sciences and Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs majoring in chemistry and citizenship and civic engagement. She is a member of the Renée Crown University Honors Programs and a recipient of the prestigious Archbold-Day Scholarship Award, recognizing students who show exceptional leadership potential and the promise of changing the world for the better. Among her academic honors are also Dean’s List recognition and the Invest in Success Scholarship.

Along with her academic pursuits, Storino has built a foundation in research as an undergraduate research assistant in the Steinhardt Lab, which combines organic synthesis, molecular biology and soft materials synthesis to investigate a variety of relevant problems. She has also earned a ���ϲ����� Office of Undergraduate Research and Creative Engagement (SOURCE) grant for her research project assessing interactions of the viral nonstructural protein NSs with TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1) using a biological and chemical laboratory technique.

A program that has significantly shaped Storino’s college experience is the WellsLink Leadership Program in the Office of Multicultural Affairs. Joining the program as a first-year student, Storino earned the program’s Leadership Capital Series Certificate and Academic Achievement Award. After her first year, she continued as a WellsLink program leader and mentor to support first-year students in their transition to college life.

Storino’s campus leadership involvement also extends to numerous student organizations and groups. She currently serves as the vice president of the Filipino Student Association and a “big sister” in Asian Students in America. An advocate for creating environments free from interpersonal violence, Storino has served as the fundraising chair and treasurer for Students Advocating Sexual Safety and Empowerment, a member of the Take Back The Night Planning Committee and an intern with Vera House Inc. She is also a member of the Rebecca Lee Pre-Health Society and an active volunteer with hospitals.

In reflecting on her involvement, accolades and academic achievements, Storino expresses gratitude to her parents, advisors and mentors who have encouraged and supported her, and looks forward to the ongoing opportunities to make an impact on the student experience.

“I reflected on how meaningful my journey at ���ϲ����� has been so far, and I am so excited to step into this role and share with others my ���ϲ����� story, for which I am so grateful. I hope that my experiences will provide me with perspective when acting as a liaison between the Class of 2022 and other important members of the University community from whom I can learn and with whom I can collaborate to make lasting, impactful and positive changes looking into the future,” says Storino.

Moderating the roundtable is College of Law Professor and Director of the Children’s Rights and Family Law Clinic Suzette Meléndez. The panelists include:

Lillie Head

Head is the daughter of Johnnie Mae Neal Tyson and Freddie Lee Tyson, one of the 623 men who was a victim in the United States Public Health Service Syphilis Study (USPHS) in Tuskegee and Macon County, Alabama, from 1932-1972. She is the president of , an organization formed by descendants in 2014 to remember, celebrate and honor the 623 men that were unethically treated in the USPHS Syphilis Study.

Karen Nardella, M.D.

Nardella is the medical director at the Barnes Center at The Arch, a position she has held for the last seven years. Prior to coming to ���ϲ�����, Nardella was in private practice in Manlius, New York. She is a family physician. In addition to her role as medical director, Nardella serves on the University’s Public Health Team.

Susanne Rios, LMFT

Rios is a staff therapist at the Barnes Center at The Arch. In addition, she facilitates the Daring Way and COVID-19 Grief Group Therapy offerings. Rios’ therapeutic style is driven by the goal of creating safe spaces to explore what holds us back from happiness, connection, acceptance and balance. She has a strong trauma-informed background and utilizes a systemic lens. She obtained a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of Washington and a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from Pacific Lutheran University.

American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART) will be provided. The discussion will also include time for Q&A with the panelists. is now open.

The living learning community and theme housing options for current students next year are:

• Indigenous LLC (sophomores, juniors and seniors)
• International LLC (sophomores, juniors and seniors)
• LGBTQ+ LLC (sophomores, juniors and seniors)
• MORE in STEM LLC (sophomores only)
• Substance Free Housing (sophomores only)
• Upperclass Multicultural LLC (sophomores, juniors and seniors)
• Whitman Leadership LLC (sophomores only)

To participate, students must first indicate on their housing contract that they would like to participate in the learning community selection process. They will also be able to indicate which living learning community they are interested in. This must be completed by Monday, April 12. On April 14, students will participate in the LLC round of the housing selection process. Full application details are available on the .

Students do not need to have previously lived in an LLC to participate in their sophomore, junior or senior year.

Students visit with ’Cuse Works at the Success Scholars reception.

More than 900 first-year and transfer students earned the Invest in Success Scholarship this year, an award recognizing first semester high-achieving students.

Along with the merit-based, renewable scholarship award, the Success Scholars were honored at socially distanced receptions where they connected with staff and faculty, as well as a host of resources that can support their continued success on campus and beyond. In attendance were the Blackstone LaunchPad & Techstars, Career Services, Center for Fellowship and Scholarship Advising, Center for Learning and Student Success, College of Law, ’Cuse Works, First-Year and Transfer Programs, First-Year Seminar Program, Renée Crown University Honors Program, Shaw Center for Public and Community Service, ���ϲ����� Abroad, ���ϲ����� Office of Undergraduate Research and Creative Engagement (The SOURCE) and ���ϲ����� Libraries.

“Together with our colleagues in Academic Affairs and across the schools and colleges, the Division of Enrollment and the Student Experience recognizes the incredible achievement of our newest cohort of Success Scholars,” says Rob Hradsky, vice president for the student experience. “Not only did this year’s Success Scholars demonstrate academic excellence, but they did so under unprecedented circumstances while starting their college careers during a pandemic. We congratulate them on their many successes this year.”

This message of perseverance and success resonated with the new Success Scholars as they reflected on what this award means to them now and into the future.

Students visit with ���ϲ����� Abroad at the Success Scholars reception.

First-year student in the David B. Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics Tracey Edson says, “It was an honor to be recognized as a ���ϲ����� Success Scholar. In what was such a hard first semester as a freshman, adjusting to college in a pandemic, each day had its ups and downs. There was no telling what any day would be like because of the uncertainty the pandemic has brought and continues to bring. Despite those challenges, I’m proud that myself and others were able to persevere, and that the University recognized us for that. Although it has been a tough year, this was a positive and I’m grateful for it.”

“It is a great honor for me to be selected as the ���ϲ����� Scholar. Receiving a scholarship and being a member of this program inspires me to keep up the hard work. In the future, I want to share my experience with my upcoming classmates that the ���ϲ����� appreciates the effort of each student and all the hard work will eventually pay off,” says Xinyi Wei, a first-year student in the School of Information Studies.

“I am extremely grateful for being recognized by ���ϲ����� for my achievements in the fall semester, in an especially challenging time. The University’s efforts to commend the academic performance of students during a global pandemic speaks volumes to the devotion of the University and gives students the opportunity to make important connections on campus,” says Tomas Bublis, a first-year student in the David B. Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics.

For more information on the Invest in Success Scholarship, contact the Office of Student Success at orangesuccess@syr.edu.

All events will follow public health guidance, and students are reminded to adhere to their commitment to the .

For the full schedule of events, visit the .

Check out the list below for a sampling of the activities:

• The Barnes Center at The Arch has a available on Tuesday. Register in the (registration opens six hours before each class).
• If you have ever considered joining the pet therapy team at the Barnes Center, participate in an .
• As part of the , the Office of Student Activities and Traditions Commission are hosting a panel discussion with the Homecoming Court and de-stress paint night. (Students Only)
• Visit to participate in sled hockey, curling or skating lessons.
• Reserve a spot at the Crowley Family MindSpa on the .
• The Health Hub will pop-up at Flint and Day halls. Follow day-of for the announced time.
• Take part in the . (Students Only)
• The welcomes Nyle DiMarco as its final speaker for the spring semester.
• Hendricks Chapel and the chaplaincies will offer such activities as service projects, crafts and Ultimate Frisbee.
• ���ϲ����� Libraries has compiled a , outlining University and local resources for health, well-being and personal care for mind and body.
• Practice self-guided mindfulness and meditation techniques through your free access to the number one mobile app for stress, anxiety and depression management, .
• The is also sponsoring for faculty and staff. These activities are in addition to the resources that are .

In January, Interim Vice Chancellor and Provost John Liu announced two Wellness Days in the Spring 2021 semester for all main campus courses (whether in-person, hybrid or online) to support the well-being of the community. On Tuesday, March 23, and Wednesday, April 21, no classes will be held, no class work will be due and no exams will be administered. Rehearsals, music recitals, productions, filming or other hands-on activities may still take place.

The significant growth in applications follows an entirely virtual recruitment period as the Office of Admissions team quickly adapted its programming to a remote environment to support public health best practices. The team offered a series of virtual engagement opportunities including general information sessions, academic interest sessions, theme-based sessions, sample classes, virtual tours and personal interviews.

Dean of Undergraduate Admissions Maurice Harris shares, “While the recruitment experience looked different this year, prospective students and families continued to show—in record numbers—the value they see in a ���ϲ����� education. The quality of and enhancements made to the academic and student life experience continue to distinguish ���ϲ����� in the college selection process.”

In addition to the record-setting application numbers, the applicant pool is once again academically competitive and increasingly diverse. Students of color represent 39 percent of the applicant pool, an increase from 37 percent last year, and students from outside the Northeast region marked substantial growth in application numbers.

“This year’s applicant pool reflects ���ϲ�����’s deep and ongoing commitment to inclusion, opportunity and academic excellence, as we attract and admit students of talent and promise from all over the globe,” adds Harris.

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 close 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.

“SummerStart will offer new programmatic elements that engage a broad community of incoming students,” says Kal Srinivas, interim executive director for student success. “While we will be implementing new pieces to the program, one thing will remain consistent—the incredible collaboration among many University partners to provide our SummerStart students with an exclusive, unsurpassed summer experience that sets them up for success here on campus and beyond.”

Serving as a new student success program, SummerStart provides incoming students with an opportunity to start their college experience early, getting a head start on taking classes, building community with fellow SummerStart students, and connecting with faculty. The program will also provide students with opportunities to further connect to activities and offerings across campus that will enhance their experience, including the Barnes Center at The Arch, Student Activities and the four cultural centers. First-year students in the Higher Education Opportunity Program and Student Support Services program will continue to be supported through SummerStart.

Alison Fredericks

In addition to new programming, SummerStart will also welcome Alison Fredericks as its new program manager. Fredericks brings firsthand experience of working with the SummerStart program in her current role as an academic advisor at the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications. She has been part of the ���ϲ����� community for nearly 20 years, including as an undergraduate student, graduate student and staff member in the School of Education, College of Visual and Performing Arts and University College. Fredericks begins her new role on March 16.

“As a first-generation student, I remember how challenging the transition from high school to college can be. I am thrilled to collaborate with my colleagues across campus to enhance the SummerStart program experience for our incoming students. The skills and community they will gain over the summer will lay that solid foundation for them to build upon moving forward,” says Fredericks.

“Through her experiences as a student and a staff member, Alison has a deep understanding of the many opportunities and resources available to support students in achieving their academic, personal and professional goals. She will be a great partner to our SummerStart students and campus collaborators,” adds Srinivas.

Additional information about SummerStart 2021 is forthcoming. To connect with the SummerStart program, email summerstart@syr.edu

The survey, administered every three years, is distributed across more than 100 colleges and universities. By completing the survey, students provide helpful information about their academic, social and co-curricular engagement.

Students who participate will be entered into a drawing to win Amazon gift cards worth $50.

Questions about NSSE can be directed to Edward Kiewra in the Office of Institutional Research at eakiewra@syr.edu.

Outlined below is important operational information, as well as public health guidelines in place to support the well-being of the campus community, while visiting Schine Student Center this spring. Immediate compliance with written and verbal guidance and directives will go a long way in ensuring this space is available for the campus community to use this entire semester.

Entrances and Exits

To support traffic flow and monitor capacity throughout the building, the accessible entrances located on Waverly Avenue and the Einhorn Family Walk will be the designated entranceways to access the building. All other doorways will be exits only. To help with traffic, it is recommended that you use the Einhorn Family Walk entrance for convenient access to dining options and the Campus Store. Signage at the Waverly entrance, as well as stairways and an elevator, can help direct you to other spaces in the building.

Hours of Operation

For the Spring 2021 semester, Schine Student Center will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Dining and food options will be available spanning the hours of 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., with varying hours based on the vendors and day of week. Dining hours will fluctuate during the first few weeks of the semester due to staffing and training needs.

Campus Store in Schine Student Center

Access the building for complete hours of operation. Hours of operation and dining options may be adjusted at any time due to such conditions as weather or public health best practices.

Space Reservations

With the reopening of Schine Student Center, Registered Student Organizations, academic units and administrative departments and offices now have additional meeting and events spaces available. To make a room reservation, complete the . When using a space, all social distancing policies and capacity limits must be followed.

Please note that at this time, tabling reservation requests will be limited to allow for social distancing.

COVID-19 Precautions and Guidelines

In alignment with public health guidance, Schine Student Center will be implementing to reduce density, adhere to social distancing and promote well-being. This includes the following precautions and guidelines while accessing the building:

• Only ���ϲ����� and SUNY-ESF students, faculty and staff with valid I.D. are permitted to access the building. Non-SU and SUNY-ESF-affiliated individuals must have expressed permission to enter. You must present a valid ID when requested by a University official.
• Food and drink will be permitted in the designated dining and café areas only.
• Catering services are not permitted during the Spring 2021 semester.
• If occupancy limits are met, entrance into spaces and rooms may be suspended for a limited time. We ask for your cooperation if you are asked to return to the building or a particular space at a later time to allow for the building capacity to remain at recommended levels.
• Use of spaces should be limited to no more than two hours. This will allow for more students to have access to the building.
• Seating and occupancy limits should be followed at all times. Only congregate in spaces designated for seating. Keep all pathways (tiled areas) clear so that people may safely pass through the building.
• Those who do not comply with the health and safety protocols may lose building privileges.
• Visitors to office spaces must comply with all visitor management guidance provided upon entrance to those spaces.

Please note that capacity guidelines, hours, dining options and more are subject to change in accordance with public health guidance throughout the spring. Adhering to all directives will be critical to ensuring use of the space throughout the spring semester.

“We are excited to host a series of virtual and in-person events throughout Black History Month to celebrate the contributions, history and traditions of the African Diaspora. Our calendar includes activities that highlight the many achievements and significant contributions African Americans have made and continue to make in such areas of education, medicine, art, entertainment, politics, human rights, economics, culture, spiritual, public service, business and armed forces,” says Cedric T. Bolton, coordinator of student engagement in the Office of Multicultural Affairs and chair of the planning committee. “We encourage the campus community to be ‘all in,’ and continue learning and exploring all the events hosted by our cultural centers this year.”

The Black Lounge

Eric Roberson

One of the most highly anticipated events each is year is the music celebration, , scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 6, at 7 p.m. via Zoom. This year’s event will feature headliner Eric Roberson, opening performance by J Shai, and music by DJ Maestro. In advance of the Black Lounge, Roberson will facilitate on Friday, Feb. 5 at 6 p.m. Registration for these events is available online through the University Events Calendar.

During The Black Lounge event, the Office of Multicultural Affairs will also present the annual Trailblazer Award and Distinguished Alumni Excellence Award. This year’s awardees are Syeisha M. Byrd ’12, director of engagement programs in Hendricks Chapel, and Karen Davis ’83 ’90, assistant dean for inclusive excellence at the College of Engineering and Computer Science, respectively.

Commemorative Lecture

This year’s commemorative speaker is Jamila Lyiscott, Ph.D., a community-engaged scholar, nationally renowned speaker, and the author of “Black Appetite. White Food. Issues of Race, Voice, and Justice Within and Beyond the Classroom.” The is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 9 at 7 p.m. and will be offered to view online in-person and virtually.

About Jamila Lyiscott

Jamila Lyiscott

Jamila Lyiscott currently serves as an assistant professor of social justice education at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where she is the co-founder and co-director of the Center of Racial Justice and Youth Engaged Research. Jamila is most well known for being featured on TED.com where her video, “,” has been viewed over 4.5 million times. Lyiscott’s scholarship and activism work together to explore, assert, and defend the value of Black life globally. As a testament to her commitment to educational justice for youth of color, she is the founder and co-director of the Cyphers for Justice (CFJ) program, apprenticing NYC high school youth, incarcerated youth, and educators into research and activism through hip-hop, spoken word, and media literacy.

Additional events throughout the month include:

• “Stories My Grandmother Told Me” exhibit featuring Lavett Ballard: Feb. 1-March 20, By appointment at
• Choices, Careers, & Living Black History Conversation Panel: Thursday, Feb. 11, 5 – 6 p.m., Zoom
• BHM Esport 2K Tournament: Saturday, Feb. 20, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., Barnes Center at The Arch
• Racial Equity Academic Symposium: Wednesday, Feb. 24-Saturday, Feb. 27, Zoom

For the full list of events and details during Black History Month, visit the or contact Bolton at 315.443.9676. To keep up with events on social media, use #CuseBHM.

“Our senior class marshals represent all it means to be Orange in and out of the classroom. They are bright, talented and engaged leaders here on campus and beyond,” says Vice President of the Student Experience Rob Hradsky.

As senior class marshals, the students serve as the representatives for their graduating class throughout their senior year, including participating in events, meeting with University leaders, and leading the Commencement procession.

To apply, current juniors must by 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 31. [Update: The deadline has been extended to Sunday, Feb. 14.] Faculty and staff can also for students.

For more information, visit the . For questions regarding the application process, please email the Division of Enrollment and the Student Experience.

• Barnes Center fitness areas (including cardio and weight machines and indoor track): 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Esports gaming room: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Lap pool: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. (Dec. 14-18 only)
• Climbing wall: Closed for maintenance
• Tennity Ice Skating Pavilion: Noon to 6 p.m.

The Barnes Center and Tennity Ice Skating Pavilion will close on Thursday, Dec. 24, for Orange Appreciation Days and will reopen Monday, Jan. 4. Additional information about operations and hours during the winter break are available on the .

“The information provided from students who completed the survey in 2018 and 2020, as well as from other data and feedback surrounding programs, services and resources, provides important insight to guide and direct our continuing work to prevent and address sexual and relationship violence,” says Rob Hradsky, vice president for the student experience and co-chair of the Chancellor’s Task Force on Sexual and Relationship Violence.

This year’s survey garnered a 29 percent response rate from the stratified random sample of nearly 4,000 undergraduate, graduate and law students. The responses offer themes and key learnings that can inform the ways in which the University addresses sexual and relationship violence on campus. The full results of the survey can be accessed by students, faculty and staff by logging into MySlice.

Key findings from the students who responded to the 2020 survey include the following:

• Nearly 70 percent of respondents said they knew where they could get help if they or a friend were sexually assaulted.
• About 65 percent said they had a general understanding of ���ϲ�����’s procedures for addressing sexual and relationship violence.
• About 19 percent of respondents reported having experienced sexual contact without their consent since coming to ���ϲ�����.
• About 24 percent of respondents indicated that they had been affected by dating violence since coming to ���ϲ�����.

Support and Resources

Students impacted by sexual assault, relationship violence, stalking and harassment can receive confidential counseling, advocacy and support, as well as discuss reporting options, with a member of the Sexual and Relationship Violence Response (SRVR) Team at the Barnes Center at The Arch 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The SRVR Team can be reached by calling 315.443.8000. For 24/7 confidential support and advocacy off campus, contact Vera House at 315.468.3260.

Reporting options include:

• ���ϲ����� Title IX Coordinator (in the Office of Equal Opportunity, Inclusion and Resolution Services): call 315.443.0211; visit 005 Steele Hall; or email titleix@syr.edu
• Department of Public Safety: call 315.443.2224; call or send a message via the LiveSafe app; 711 from any campus phone; #78 on your cell; or visit 005 Sims Hall
• ���ϲ����� Police Department: call 315.435.3016
• New York State Police: call 1.844.845.7269
• Anonymous ���ϲ����� Reporting:

Opportunities for Involvement

Students, faculty and staff interested in getting involved in sexual and relationship violence prevention efforts on campus are encouraged to learn more about the following options:

• Join the��—open to students, faculty and staff—for updates about sexual and relationship prevention programming, initiatives and events on campus.
• Participate in training opportunities offered by the or attend a session related to bystander intervention, consent or healthy relationships.
• Join the who host programs and conduct outreach to educate fellow students.
• Connect with on campus who support, advocate and educate others about issues related to sexual and relationship violence, sexual health and safety.

For more information on resources and support, visit the��. For more information on the Chancellor’s Task Force on Sexual and Relationship Violence, including membership and information on the group’s charge, go to the��.

“We encourage our campus community to be ‘All In’ during Native Heritage Month as we explore and celebrate the many facets of Native culture and contributions of Native peoples to the world,” says Regina Jones, assistant director of the Native Student Program in the Office of Multicultural Affairs.

This month’s celebration includes two keynote lectures, as well as the national “Rock Your Mocs” movement and Native Outreach Day hosted in partnership with the Office of Admissions. Some highlights of the month’s celebration include:

Nov. 6:��

Angel Rose Artist Collective production of “SIJSIWAYULU,” written by Xemi Tapepechul and with songs by Nantzin Paula Lopez and Nantzin Anastacia Lopez Lopez.

Nov. 11: “Indigenous Futurisms: Speculative Genres and Native Tomorrows”

A lecture by Danika Medak-Saltzman, Ph.D., Department of Women’s and Gender Studies, College of Arts and Sciences

Nov. 18: “Indigenous Stewardship in Haudenosaunee Country”

A lecture by Neil Patterson, assistant director of the Center for Native Peoples and the Environment at SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry. Patterson is a member of the Tuscarora Nation.

All event details for Native Heritage Month will be available on the .

Local funk and hip-hop act Sophistapunk will perform virtually on Oct. 23.

Through a partnership with Enrollment and the Student Experience, Office of Community Engagement, and , the University is pleased to offer students, faculty and staff an exclusive virtual concert series this year. The CNY Jazz concert series will feature local acts across a variety of musical genres. Each Friday from 8 to 10 p.m. ET, the virtual concert will stream via YouTube and then remain available for additional viewings for up to five days.

The lineup of musicians during the Fall 2020 semester includes:

• Oct. 23 – Sophistafunk
  A trio rooted in funk and hip-hop who explores electronic dance grooves while infusing soul and positively charged lyrics.
• Oct. 30 – Mark Nanni and The Intention
  Jam/classic rock, soul and roots music of all kinds, with a collective improvisational process.
• Nov. 6 – Akuma Roots
  A reggae, afrobeat and dance hall band.
• Nov. 13 – Count Blastula
  A music collective performing eclectic music likened to classic jam artists such as Phish, The Allman Brothers, and The Grateful Dead.
• Nov. 20 – Quatro
  An Americana music group performing original songs and compositions.

To access the concerts, visit the , where the direct link to the YouTube stream will be listed for each event.

For more information, contact the Division of Enrollment and the Student Experience at studentexperience@syr.edu.

“In the wake of the hate crimes last November, our students made it clear that anti-Semitism training for the broader campus community is a top priority. We are grateful to bring this important work to fruition in��partnership with STOP Bias and Hendricks Chapel,” says Jillian Juni, executive director of ���ϲ����� Hillel.

Facilitated by Rabbi Joel Goldstein, Bias Education and Response Manager Deka Dancil and a student representative from Hillel, the training will be a 90-minute informative and interactive session where students can engage in a safe space and learning opportunity to gain understanding of anti-Semitism, its impact on our campus and the ways in which we can all foster a more inclusive campus culture. By participating, students will critically analyze incidents and images to understand how anti-Semitism has persisted and is perpetuated in society, the harm it causes and how to help build a more just community.

“Over the last few months, a cross-campus team has worked together to design a training program that will help students recognize anti-Semitic rhetoric and actions, encourage appropriate action when intervening if they witness this behavior and provide resources for support,” says Dancil. “The training also incorporates the feedback and suggestions we received from students with ���ϲ����� Hillel who reviewed the training structure and content to make it relevant to students today.”

Hendricks Chapel Associate Dean Rebecca Reed Kantrowitz, who is leading the group working on these efforts broadly, says the training is just one piece of the collaborative effort to address anti-Semitism and support a welcoming, inclusive campus for all.

“I am grateful for the expertise, experience and passion of those who have developed this pilot. Their good work will allow us to offer a dynamic training and make an important and needed impact on the University community and beyond,” says Kantrowitz.

The pilot training is scheduled for Oct. 21 from 2-3:30 p.m. ET and is limited to 25 registrants. Students can for the training. The training will provide an introduction to the topic and students of varying awareness levels, background and experiences are welcome to participate. The learning outcomes, feedback and experience from those who participate in the pilot will help inform the training program moving forward.

Whenever faced with tragedy such as this, campus community members have access to resources and support to aid in addressing grief and coping with loss. Services include:

• Barnes Center at The Arch: Students can access confidential counseling support 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling 315.443.8000.
• Dean of Students Office: Students seeking additional support can reach the Dean of Students Office Monday through Friday by calling 315.443.4537.
• Hendricks Chapel: Students, faculty and staff can reach Hendricks Chapel at 315.443.2901 or for support.
• Carebridge: Staff and faculty can reach trained clinicians 24 hours a day, seven days a week through , the University’s Faculty and Staff Assistance Program, at 800.437.0911.

A picture-perfect moment from Family Weekend 2019.

Beginning Oct. 16, parents, families and students are invited to join in the Family Weekend 2020 celebration. With planning led by the Office of Parent and Family Services, in coordination with schools, colleges and departments across campus, this year’s Family Weekend will offer a host of virtual events and activities between Oct. 16 and 18.

The schedule spans panels and receptions hosted by the schools and colleges, small-group virtual meals, featuring faculty from the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, Orange After Dark events and this year’s keynote event: .

“Family Weekend 2020 will look a little different this year, but we are just as excited to welcome parents and families virtually and engage them in events and activities that showcase all the facets of the student experience at ���ϲ�����,” says Missy Mathis-Hanlon, director of parent and family services.

The calendar of events is available on the and will be updated as more information is available. Registration is now open to parents, family members and students for each event.

A prestigious honor for two seniors, Senior Class Marshals exemplify academic achievement, campus and community involvement, and Orange spirit. The selection process, managed by ESE, includes an application, recommendations, an essay and an interview. The Senior Class Marshals not only lead the Commencement ceremony, they spend their senior year serving as representatives of their class at University events and on committees, as well as meet with senior leaders to share their experience.

“Alaba and Paige are exemplary students, scholars, leaders and community members. Their accomplishments across all facets of the student experience in and out of the classroom, in and beyond ���ϲ�����, are prime examples of what it means to be Orange,” says Rob Hradsky, vice president for the student experience. “They will be excellent representatives for their class throughout their senior year.”

Alaba Anna Tam Danagogo

A rising senior in the College of Arts and Sciences, Danagogo is majoring in biology and minoring in English and textual studies. Among her academic accomplishments are dean’s list honors, distinction in biology and the 1870 Scholarship, the highest recognition offered by the Office of Admissions. Danagogo was born and raised in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, and came to the United States to pursue her interest in becoming a physician and a writer. At ���ϲ�����, Danagogo feels that she has lived the best of both worlds by being able to gain the necessary scientific skills to provide care for those in need while also learning about literature and creative writing.

Danagogo’s studies in biology have also included experience as an undergraduate researcher, performing routine laboratory experiments and analyzing experimental data in support of graduate students’ research. Her current independent research focuses on the precise mechanisms of Cited2, a transcriptional co-regulator that is expressed during a phase of neocortical development in the brain. Through this research, Danagogo hopes to increase the knowledge surrounding development of the neocortex, which could act as the basis of a possible medical model for understanding and rescuing phenotypes of related neurodevelopmental disorders.

In addition to her research and academic pursuits, Danagogo has been an active volunteer and aide in the clinical field. She has worked with Crouse Hospital, first serving as a medical imaging patient care aide and now as a medical and surgical unit patient care aid. She also volunteered at the Ophthalmic Specialist Clinics in Port Harcourt, assisting nurses with administering visual acuity tests.

Beyond her work in biology and the clinical field, Danagogo has also found a passion for service through her involvement activities. She is the event coordinator for the Food Recovery Network, planning and organizing events to increase awareness of food waste on college campuses and raising funds for local shelters. She also serves as an international student mentor through the Connections Program with the Center for International Services. In this role, she assists first-year and transfer international students with adjusting to life at ���ϲ����� and connecting with relevant resources. Danagogo also works with the Center for Learning and Student Success as a tutor providing academic support to other students. Among her many involvement activities, Danagogo also found a new passion through the aikido sport club. Now serving as vice president, Danagogo enjoys practicing aikido and is on the sixth kyu.

Much like all of her experiences at ���ϲ����� over the last three years, Danagogo looks forward to how her involvement and growth will evolve next year by taking on a new role as Senior Class Marshal.

“Being selected as a Senior Class Marshal makes me appreciate just how different my SU story is shaping up from how it started,” she says. “I feel honored and excited to be able to hold this position and communicate with people on important issues that pertain to University life and so much more.”

Paige Koss

Hailing from Hilton, New York, Koss is a rising senior in the Whitman School majoring in finance and supply chain management and minoring in information management and technology in the School of Information Studies. A member of the Renée Crown University Honors Program, Koss has earned dean’s list honors, was named a Whitman Leadership Scholar, and was inducted into the Beta Gamma Sigma honors society.

Building on her studies in finance and supply chain management, Koss has held two internships so far during her time at ���ϲ�����. First, as a service partner with Paychex Inc. and then as a financial management program intern at General Electric-Corporate. These experiences have helped her build professional skills in customer experience, financial walk-throughs and financial data analysis. This summer, she is working with Crowe in their financial services consulting group, continuing to build on her business and technology background.

In addition to her professional experience, Koss has been an active member of the campus community through her leadership roles. Koss currently serves as one of the Honors Learning Community resident advisors through the Office of Student Living, providing 65 first-year students with support, assisting them in acclimating to University life and building community and connections. Her role in helping younger students is also exemplified as a Whitman Ambassador, for which she helps prospective and incoming students learn about Whitman and the ���ϲ����� experience.

Koss also holds leadership positions in her student organizations, including as senior vice president of Delta Sigma Pi, the world’s leading professional fraternity for future business leaders. She is also a founding member of the Spanish Club, in which she also served as secretary. Reflecting on all her student organization experiences, Koss says one of the most memorable has been through her work with Enactus, a student-run organization that aims to create long-lasting economic, social and environmental improvements by assisting and empowering partners through entrepreneurship and service. Koss traveled to Guatemala this year to meet the women who make the products sold by Enactus and their daughters, who receive scholarships through the profits raised by Enactus. Seeing the impact of their collective effort on the lives of so many women, Koss says, was an amazing experience.

A resounding theme throughout her time as a student is finding opportunities to meet people and make lasting change on campus and beyond. This is something she relishes the opportunity to continue in her role as Senior Class Marshal.

“I look forward to continuing to meet and interact with individuals from all different backgrounds while serving in this role,” Koss says. “The single best part of this university is the people who make it up, and I look forward to meeting more of them. Most importantly, I am excited to learn.��I am excited to expose myself to new situations in which I can grow, interact with people who have more wisdom than me, and continue to affect change on a meaningful level.”

Current Student Association President Mackenzie Mertikas stresses the importance of students taking time to vote as we work to address important issues and make positive change on campus.

“This week, the undergraduate student body will elect a new group of Student Association leaders,” Mertikas says. “The students elected will have the opportunity to meet with top University leaders and work on initiatives that will affect your time at ���ϲ�����. With important issues currently facing our campus, it is more important than ever for student voices to be represented.”

Here is how students can vote:

• Log into MySlice using your SU NetID and password.
• Click the “Vote Now” link under “Student Services.”
• Vote for Student Association president, vice president, comptroller and assembly members from your home school or college.

For questions, contact Student Association at studentassociation@syr.edu.

Success Scholars connect with the ���ϲ����� Abroad team during a recent reception.

“The Success Scholarship Program was created to support our continued commitment to opportunity, excellence and success. Through this scholarship, we recognize the strong academic achievement of students in their first semester at ���ϲ����� and support their continued success here,” says Amanda Nicholson, interim deputy senior vice president for enrollment and the student experience.

The Invest in Success Scholarship Program launched last year, awarding high-achieving new students with a renewable, merit scholarship. This year’s cohort of more than 850 first-year and transfer students joins last year’s Success Scholars cohort, which currently consists of more than 700 students.

Newly named Success Scholars shared their reflections on the scholarship award and receptions:

“Being selected as an Invest in Success Scholar means the University has recognized our merits as first-year students. I feel honored to have such amazing resources, faculty and opportunities available to make my ���ϲ����� experience the best it can be. I can’t wait to make the most of it,” says David A. Barbier Jr., an international relations major in the College of Arts and Sciences and Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs.

Jacqueline Young, a first-year student majoring in biology shared, “For me, personally, it was really nice to be recognized as an Invest in Success Scholar because it was a recognition of all of the work I put into my first semester classes. Additionally, the reception opened my eyes to a bunch of new opportunities on campus that could enhance my education throughout the next couple of years.”

About the Invest in Success Scholarship Program

The Invest in Success Scholarship is awarded to first-year and transfer students who in their first semester at ���ϲ����� completed 15 or more credits, earned a 3.75 GPA and are in good standing. For more information on scholarship programs, visit the .