SU News reached out to some of the chaplains at to ask about gratitude—what gratitude means in their faith tradition; why gratitude is important in our lives and how it can be expressed to others. Learn more about their perspectives on gratitude.

Rabbi Ethan Bair—Jewish Chaplain

Jews are all about gratitude! Yehudim, “Jews” in Hebrew, has the same shoresh or “root” as ��ǻ岹’a��, gratitude. We are called “those who are grateful.” We have so much to be grateful for throughout Jewish history and memory.

Rabbi Ethan Bair

We start every day all year with prayers and songs of gratitude to God and Shabbat is a day of rest on which we reflect on all that matters most and our gratitude: spending time with friends and family, practicing Judaism and protecting a day of rest for ourselves and our community in a hectic, capitalist world. The first prayer we say each morning as we get out of bed is “Modeh Ani Lefanecha”—“I thank you”—”for restoring my soul to me with compassion and for “Your faithfulness, God!” On Shabbat dinner tables everywhere, family members often share what they’re most grateful for from the past week.

Gratitude is in our bones and defines who we are as a people.

Sensei JoAnn Cooke, Buddhist Chaplain

Sensei JoAnn Cooke

In Buddhist practice, we try to be aware of what we call “the Three Poisons:” greed, anger and delusions. They are called the three poisons because they are the root of all of our suffering.

To end all suffering, we must wake up to our involvement with these poisons. When we express our��gratitude, we transform those poisons. We cut through greed by not wanting more but being satisfied with what we have. We cut through anger, being grateful to our adversaries and the challenges they provide for opening our hearts.�� We cut through delusion about who we are and what matters.

No matter what the circumstances are, it is impossible to be suffering when you are grateful.

Imam Amir Durić—Muslim Chaplain

Imam Amir Durić

In Islam, gratitude starts with recognizing the countless blessings we enjoy every day and not taking them for granted. Two Arabic terms,��hamd�����Ի�������ܰ��,��refer to expressing��gratitude��and praise.��Hamd��is about praising God Almighty, while��shukr��is about thanking our Creator for what He gives and expressing gratitude to others. We use the phrase “Alhamdulillah“—”All praise is due to God” frequently in gratitude when someone asks us how we are doing, when we wake up healthy, when something good happens, after meals, in each unit of daily prayers, and so on. The first verse of the Qur’an starts with the phrase “Alhamdulillah,”��highlighting the importance of gratitude. In other words, it is not just a feeling but an essential form of worship.

Gratitude is essential because it keeps our hearts connected to the source of all goodness and brings our attention to things we already possess. Rather than being desperate about something we don’t have, gratitude brings joy through appreciating and celebrating what we already have in our lives. Gratitude also fosters humility by acknowledging that we are not self-sufficient but depend on our Creator and the kindness of others around us. Gratefulness transforms our perspective and builds a positive mindset, making us more patient and resilient in challenging times.

We can express gratitude through small acts of kindness, helping others, sharing our resources, kind words, sincere thanks, smiles, praying and supplicating for those who have benefited us, and spreading good wherever we can.

Sanjay Mathur—Hindu Chaplain

Sanjay Mathur

Gratitude is difficult to define. It has been conceptualized as an emotion, an attitude, a moral virtue, a habit, a personality trait and a coping response. Gratitude is a sacred obligation (duty) that every Hindu is supposed to fulfill during their lifetime. This means appreciation for family, ancestors, cultural values, appreciation for God, appreciation for knowledge, skills and talents and appreciation for ecosystem. Gratitude is the appreciation of what is valuable and meaningful to oneself; it is a general state of thankfulness and/or appreciation.

Taking the time to feel gratitude may improve your emotional wellbeing by helping you cope with stress. It can help you learn to recognize the good things in your life despite our challenges. A good practice is to reflect on the good things that have happened. It can be as simple as enjoying a hot mug of coffee. It can also mean being grateful for a close friend’s compassionate support. Allowing yourself a moment to enjoy that you had the positive experience, no matter what negatives may exist in your life, lets positive feelings of gratitude bubble up. When we are grateful, we acknowledge the sacrifices of others and step up to make sacrifices when we are called to do so.

Simply giving thanks affects everything—the way we feel, think and act. This reminds us of all the things we have in life rather than focusing on what we lack.

Sophia Perez—Christian Protestant Assistant Chaplain, Non-Denominational

Sophia Perez

In my faith tradition, gratitude means taking a moment to pause and to thank God for what He has done for our lives. We often put praise and worship into practice to express to God how grateful we are for this gift of undeserving love.

Gratitude is important because we often live our lives in the fast lane; we wake up, go to work, sleep and do it again the next day. However, when we take a moment to be grateful and pause and give thanks to God, our friends or our family and all that they have done for us, it can often bring joy and encouragement into our lives, and motivation to do better and be better.

Gratitude can be expressed to others by simple things such as words of gratitude and/or a hug to a friend who has done something special for us or has lent us a hand in time of need. We can also be ready to help whenever our friend needs our assistance later in the future. Showing gratitude because someone has done something special for you can also be passed on to strangers whom you have not interacted with such as sharing a smile, holding the door, volunteering at a food pantry, etc.

Rev. Jee Hae Song—Christian Protestant Chaplain, United Methodist

Rev. Jee Hae Song

Every year when the holiday season for Christians is about to begin, we encounter the day of Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving lends itself to helping us name the many ways we are blessed, focusing on the source of all blessings.

Where can we find gratitude? In the United Methodist tradition, it is often encouraged to read one of the Creation Psalms on Thanksgiving Day. These Psalms remind us that all that we enjoy, all that we are blessed of, and all that we are thankful for are attributed to God who provides all. And this Creator loves us and blesses us. This theology is best embodied, as we Christians believe, in the birth, life, death and resurrection of Jesus.

We are thankful to God when we know that all we have and are blessed with is from the Creator of the Universe.

Father Gerry Waterman, OFM Conv.—Catholic Chaplain

Father Gerry Waterman

One of the Catholic Church’s favorite saints, St. Francis of Assisi, said that gratitude is the most perfect prayer since all we have is a gift from our loving God. Pope Francis said that gratitude can make the world a better place and that it can transmit hope. Gratitude can help us grow in charity, which according to St. Paul is the greatest virtue. Practicing gratitude can allow us to discover true Christian joy!

Gratitude can easily be expressed to others by acknowledging and thanking them for their presence in your life and for the difference they make in your world! Sometimes a smile does it most simply. I like to write (in cursive) thank you notes to share my gratitude.

The celebration seeks to honor the life and legacy of individuals who exemplify the spirit, life and teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. yet have not received widespread recognition or been previously honored for their efforts. These individuals represent a direct expression of ���ϲ�����’s commitment to fostering and supporting a university welcoming to all.

If you know an individual who should be honored and celebrated, please consider for recognition at the 2025 celebration. Nominations must be a minimum of 250 words and a maximum��of 500 words. The nomination should be a written explanation of how the nominee embodies Dr. King’s legacy, and what makes them an Unsung Hero. ��included ���ϲ����� community members, and ���ϲ����� faculty, students and staff.

Nominations may be made in any of the following categories:

• youth/teen from Onondaga, Madison, Oswego, Cayuga or Cortland counties
• adult from Onondaga, Madison, Oswego, Cayuga or Cortland counties
• currently enrolled student at ���ϲ����� or SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF)
• faculty or staff from ���ϲ����� or SUNY ESF

Nominations are due by Wednesday, Dec. 18, at 11:59 p.m. EST.

The 2025 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration will take place on Jan. 26, 2025, in the JMA Wireless Dome. Further information will be announced in the coming weeks at .

Questions regarding the Unsung Hero Awards can be directed to Hendricks Chapel at chapel@syr.edu.

JB Scurlock G’25, office coordinator at Hendricks Chapel and graduate student in the College of Arts and Sciences

Gary and Dave from Facilities Services stopped by Hendricks Chapel to switch out the air filters and while they were there, they were given “be kind.” shirts.

When the communications team at Hendricks Chapel came together to consider what message they wanted to highlight on their promotional items, a simple and powerful message rose to the top: be kind. The message—and the giveaways—have taken off among students and the entire University community.

“With there being so many different religious and spiritual traditions represented at Hendricks, we needed an idea that would resonate broadly, such as kindness,” says Dara Harper, communications manager at Hendricks Chapel. This is where the “be kind.” campaign was launched.

The design was intentional. All lower-case letters, finished with a period. “It helps put things into perspective,” Harper says. The Hendricks Chapel logo is also included on the items, yet the “be kind.” message takes center stage.

Student Involvement

Harper has several students who work with her as part of the communications team at Hendricks Chapel, and all have played vital roles in spreading the word about this campaign. “It serves as a little reminder throughout the day to check on yourself and the ones around you,” says Fe Kligerman ’26, a communications design student in the College of Visual and Performing Arts. “Having that sticker on your person or seeing it around campus always brings a smile to my face as it brings us together through this shared goal.”

The campaign has been taking kindness across campus since the beginning of the year and has been resoundingly successful. Thousands of T-shirts, stickers and keychains have already been distributed, with more on order. “Whenever I find someone on campus that is wearing a ‘be kind.’ shirt from afar it feels so cool,” says Asil Bascal ’25, a biotechnology major in the College of Arts and Sciences and student employee of Hendricks Chapel.

Hendricks Chapel student communications team (from left): Fe Kligerman ’26, Asil Bascal ’25 and Micah Greenberg ’26

World Kindness Day

Lucy Gonzalez ’27, Hendricks Chapel hospitality associate and Newhouse student

Want your chance to be part of this powerful message? Hendricks Chapel will be giving away T-shirts and more from 2 to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 13, in front of the chapel in honor of World Kindness Day. If you can’t make it to campus then, Hendricks Chapel is often tabling at various events around campus with their merchandise.

In honor of World Kindness Day, here are some ways to offer some kindness, including some suggestions from the staff at Hendricks Chapel:

• Smile and say hello.—Bianca Caiella Breed, operations specialist
• Ask someone how they are doing.��Then, pause and take two minutes to truly listen.—Alex Snow, director of events
• Give a compliment, whether it is to a friend, family member, neighbor or complete stranger. Additionally, relay an overheard compliment.
• Be present and be an open ear and heart.—Kaleya Scott, engagement coordinator
  

  Max Jimenez G’25 sports his “be kind.” sticker on his scooter!

• Say hello to each person you meet.—Rebecca Reed Kantrowitz, associate dean
• Strike up a conversation with someone who’s standing alone.
• Learn people’s names and commit their names to memory for when you see them again.—Dara Harper, communications manager
• Hang a sign on a bulletin board that says “Take What You Need” with tear-off tabs at the bottom for love, hope, faith and courage.
• Resolve to refrain from negative self-talk (you deserve your kindness too!).

While reflecting on the upcoming World Kindness Day, Harper shared, “just remember, as many others have said, in a world where you can be anything, be kind.”

Students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members are invited to “Holidays at Hendricks” on Sunday, Dec. 8 in Hendricks Chapel. New this year, tickets are required to reserve your individual seat.

���ϲ����� invites students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members to “” on Sunday, Dec. 8 in Hendricks Chapel, to experience one of the most popular concerts of the calendar year. New this year, due to the concert’s growing popularity and limited seating in the Chapel, to reserve your seats for the free, in-person concert, tickets are required for Holidays at Hendricks and will be made available beginning on Monday, Nov. 18 at noon EST.

The two in-person performances will take place on Sunday, Dec. 8 at 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. in Hendricks Chapel, while the recorded virtual concert will premiere on Thursday, Dec. 19, at 7 p.m. EST.

New and Important In-Person Concert Ticket Details

• Complimentary tickets for the in-person Holidays at Hendricks shows can be ordered from the , beginning at noon EST on Nov. 18;
• All guests will be invited to reserve specific seats in Hendricks Chapel;
• Through this new digital platform, guests will be prompted to create an account, select individual seats and then receive their digital tickets. While tickets will not be made available until Nov. 18, guests can create an account at any time through the Student Box Office online.

Virtual Concert Registration Details

• Registration for the Thursday, Dec. 19, world premiere virtual concert will also be available on Nov. 18 at noon EST;
• Registration is required to receive the link to the YouTube premiere;
• Visit the .

An ongoing tradition hosted by ��and the����in the��, “Holidays at Hendricks” celebrates the sounds of the season and is anchored by the����and its director��, professor of applied music and performance and assistant director of choral activities in the Setnor School.

The student-centered concert features performances from:

• ���ϲ����� Symphony Orchestra, directed by James Tapia, associate professor of applied music and performance in the Setnor School;
• The international award-winning ���ϲ����� Singers, under the direction of John Warren, professor of applied music and performance and director of choral activities in the Setnor School, and Concert Choir, under the direction of Wendy Moy, dual assistant professor of music education in the College of Visual and Performing Arts and the ;
• Student organists and University organist Anne Laver on the Hendricks Chapel organ;
• ���ϲ�����’s big band, the Morton Schiff Jazz Ensemble, directed by John Coggiola, associate professor and chair of music education in the Setnor School and the School of Education;
• The World Premiere of “Gloria in Excelsis” from Christmas Cantata, by Peppie Calvar.

Some musical selections for 2024 include “A Christmas Festival,” by Leroy Anderson, “Winter,” by Antonio Vivaldi, a setting of “Joy to the World,” arranged by Taylor Scott Davis and many more.

is free and available on a first-come, first-served basis in Irving Garage, Hillside Lot and the College Place lot. Those who require accessible parking or would like more information about the event may call Hendricks Chapel at 315.443.2901 or email��chapel@syr.edu.

Communication Access Realtime Translation, American Sign Language interpretation and AIRA will be provided at the in-person concerts. Captioning will be provided at the virtual concert. Doors to Hendricks Chapel will open 30 minutes prior to each concert start time.

For more information, visit��. Hendricks Chapel will also post regular updates about the event through its��,�������Ի������貹�����.

Imam Amir Durić (left) and Rabbi Ethan Bair, chaplains at Hendricks Chapel, received national recognition as Interfaith America Innovation Fellows.

Imam Amir Durić and Rabbi Ethan Bair, chaplains at , model how friendship and understanding can transcend and transform adversity. Through the Jewish-Muslim Dialogue Fellowship they co-founded, Bair and Durić have helped the ���ϲ����� campus community unlock the potential of religious and spiritual diversity, and their shared efforts are receiving national recognition.

Rabbi Ethan Bair

Each year, , founded by and known as one of the nation’s premier interfaith organizations, chooses exemplary leaders as Interfaith Innovation Fellows. Out of over 200 applicants across the country, both Durić and Bair were chosen. The Fellowship awards grant funding to leaders with an inspirational vision for social change. Durić and Bair will network with cohort members, learn from one another’s projects, participate in a retreat geared toward professional development and work with mentors at Interfaith America. .

After Bair and Durić first met at a Hendricks Chapel retreat in 2022, they perceived potential not just for their friendship but for the opportunities to continue the interfaith work they both valued.

“Interfaith work has always been a priority for me,” says Bair. “Amir and I really only knew each other for a year before we created this Jewish-Muslim Dialogue Fellowship and applied for our first grant from Interfaith America. I’ve been an ordained rabbi for 15 years and have dedicated myself to interfaith work in every position I’ve held. What’s new is being able to work with an ordained Muslim imam who shares so many of my values. That is a blessing.”

Imam Amir Durić

Durić completed his undergraduate degree in Sarajevo, Bosnia, which is known for its religious and spiritual diversity. In one part of the city, you can locate a mosque, synagogue and cathedral all on one city block. However, when he attended the Hartford International University for Religion and Peace seminary in Connecticut, he observed interfaith dialogue in practice.

Durić remembered visiting campus when two friends (one Jewish, one Muslim) came to speak about a summer project. Their organization in California visited the Middle East to bring together Jews, Muslims and Christians. “I was like, wow, this is really powerful. They are investing time, and resources just to invite people to have a meal together,” Durić says. “So when Rabbi Bair joined ���ϲ�����, I felt we could team up, and that was really a blessing.”

A Friend for Virtue and Creating Connections for Students

According to Bair, in Jewish tradition there are teachings about finding a mentor, acquiring a friend and giving everyone the benefit of the doubt. “There are a few different versions of friends, and the top level is a friend for virtue. I feel like Amir and I are friends for virtue,” Bair says. “Our friendship helps us become better people. We talk about our values, our vision for our own chaplaincies and also for what we can do together.”

Bair and Durić’s friendship extends into their work as chaplains in various ways. As chaplains serving minority religious groups, the pair have a unique opportunity to create more understanding between their respective communities. Bair notes that their partnership and fellowship are focused on creating intentional space between two communities that rarely meet each other. “There are so many unique similarities between Jews and Muslims, such as dietary rules and holidays that follow the lunar calendar,” Bair says. “And, of course, there are differences as well.”

What’s Next?

The imam and rabbi have already implemented the Jewish-Muslim Dialogue Fellowship, which has created support and understanding during an undoubtedly challenging year for their students. Now, the two are seeking to create a Living Learning Community (LLC) where Muslim and Jewish students can live communally in a residence hall. They hope the LLC will build the foundation for shared communities, lasting friendships, understanding and imagination.

Durić and Bair will travel to Chicago for a retreat with the other Interfaith Innovation Fellows in mid-November. In addition to the work they’ll be doing with their Interfaith America cohort, they’ll be working on their second round of Jewish-Muslim Dialogue Fellowships and creating opportunities for their students to build relationships and support their communities through kindness and service.

Both Bair and Durić are grateful for their experience at Hendricks Chapel and the support they receive from both the Chapel and ���ϲ�����. “When we enter spaces that are not Hendricks Chapel, I recognize how challenging it is what we’re doing. And yet, I am very comfortable here and I feel so much support for the kind of work and relationships that we build. The entire team of Hendricks is supportive and it’s an example of helping across the boundaries of religion, of worldviews, of race, of whatever we can think of,” Durić says. “Hendricks Chapel is an example of how it looks when we elevate ourselves and go beyond those boundaries that often limit what we can do.”

This year marks the 36th anniversary of the bombing of Pan Am 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland, on Dec. 21, 1988. The 2024-25 Remembrance and Lockerbie Scholars have planned events and activities to look back and remember the 270 people who lost their lives in the tragedy, and to educate on the ways they are acting forward.

Remembrance Week, the annual weeklong series of events, will be held Sunday, Oct. 20, through Saturday, Oct. 26. Remembrance Week events are meant to memorialize the victims and further educate the campus community about terrorism. All activities are free and open to the public, unless otherwise noted. For more information, visit .

Those who require accommodations to fully participate in these events should contact Radell Roberts at��315.443.0221 or��rrober02@syr.edu. The schedule is as follows:

��All Week��

• Empty Seats Display, Kenneth A. Shaw Quadrangle:��The Empty Seats Display is a visual representation of the ���ϲ����� students lost aboard Pan Am Flight 103. The exhibition is meant to serve as a reminder of how a loss in the past can inspire positive actions in the present. This year’s Remembrance Scholars will sit in solidarity in the chairs for 35 minutes on Wednesday, Oct. 23, beginning at 2 p.m.
• Pen-and-ink drawings of the ���ϲ����� study abroad student victims will be on display in Hendricks Chapel.
• Blue and white flags, one for each of the 270 Pan Am 103 victims, will be on display in the area between the Newhouse School and Schine Student Center. Also, the Hall of Languages, Hendricks Chapel and the JMA Wireless Dome will be lit in blue in honor of Remembrance Week.

Sunday, Oct. 20

• “Each Moment Radiant,” Hendricks Chapel 4 p.m.: The Malmgren Concert Series will feature the world premiere of “Each Moment Radiant,” a newly commissioned chamber work by composer Kurt Erickson and poet Brian Turner commemorating the Pan Am Flight 103 air disaster. Setnor School of Music faculty and guest musicians will perform Erickson and Turner’s song cycle “Here, Bullet” and Johannes Brahms’ piano trio in C minor.
• “Healing Trauma Through Poetry and Music,” National Veterans Resource Center at the Daniel and Gayle D’Aniello Building, 5:30 p.m.: Composer Kurt Erickson and poet Brian Turner will lead a reception and discussion on the genesis and creative process behind “Here, Bullet” and “Each Moment Radiant.”

These events are co-sponsored by the ���ϲ����� Symposium, the D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families, the Office of Veteran and Military Affairs, the Society for New Music, the Setnor School of Music and the Remembrance and Lockerbie Scholars. The commission for “Each Moment Radiant” was made possible through the CNY Arts Grants for Regional Arts and Cultural Engagement regrant program thanks to a New York State Senate Initiative supported by the NYS Legislature, the Office of the Governor and administered by the New York State Council on the Arts.

• , Place of Remembrance, 7 p.m.: The Remembrance and Lockerbie Scholars will begin Remembrance Week activities with a candlelight vigil to remember the 270 victims of Pan Am 103.

Wednesday, Oct. 23

• “Sitting in Solidarity,” Kenneth A. Shaw Quadrangle, 2 p.m.: The Remembrance and Lockerbie scholars will sit in the empty chairs on the Quad for 35 minutes.

Thursday, Oct. 24

• Act Forward Symposium, Huntington Beard Crouse Hall atrium (outside Gifford Auditorium), 7 p.m.: The Remembrance Scholars will present posters that share their plans to “act forward” through outreach, research, education and creative projects designed to benefit the community.
• , Gifford Auditorium, Huntington Beard Crouse Hall, 8 p.m.: An evening of music, poetry, art, dancing and more to honor the victims of Pan Am 103 and to celebrate life alongside the victims’ families and the current scholars. American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and Communication Access Real-Time Translation (CART) will be available for this event.

Friday, Oct. 25

• “In The Aftermath: Documenting and Researching Victim Support Groups,” Peter Graham Scholarly Commons, 114 Bird Library, and Zoom (), 10 a.m.: A panel discussion focusing on the collection, preservation and use of important records of the aftermath of tragedies and disasters. Organized by the Pan Am Flight 103/Lockerbie Air Disaster Archives at the Special Collections Research Center and moderated by Vanessa St.Oegger-Menn, Pan Am 103 archivist and assistant University archivist. Panelists are Jelena Watkins, co-director of the Centre for Collective Trauma in the United Kingdom and member of the Archiving Disaster Support Group Records project team, and Ezra Rudolph, research associate for Contemporary and Cultural History at the University of Göttingen in Germany. Both will talk about their work and experiences and share insights into the lasting significance and unique challenges of victim support group records in documenting the aftermath of tragic events. A question-and-answer session will follow the moderated discussion. CART will be provided. If you require accessibility accommodations, email Max Wagh at mlwagh@syr.edu by Friday, Oct. 18.
• , Place of Remembrance, 2:03 p.m.: This annual ceremony remembers the 270 people, including 35 students studying abroad through ���ϲ�����, who were killed in the Dec. 21, 1988, bombing. The ceremony also honors 2002-03 Lockerbie Scholar Andrew McClune, who died in 2002. American Sign Language interpretation will be available for this event.
• Remembrance Scholar Convocation, Hendricks Chapel, 3 p.m.: ​This annual convocation will honor the 2024-25 Remembrance and Lockerbie Scholars. ASL interpretation and CART will be available for this event. A reception in the Strasser Legacy Room, 220 Eggers Hall, will immediately follow.

A donor family’s $1 million pledge to Hendricks Chapel and a matching challenge has inspired others to give.

When an anonymous donor family pledged $1 million to Hendricks Chapel and to inspire other donors to match it, no one could foresee the extraordinary outpouring of support for what is widely known as the spiritual heart of ���ϲ�����. The donor family promised an additional $1 million if the challenge could be met. Since last March, more than 2,500 donors stepped up to meet—and exceed—the challenge, raising $1,757,496.

That brings the total funds raised as part of this campaign to more than $3.7 million, significantly amplifying the impact of the initial pledge. “Hendricks Chapel is such an important part of the ���ϲ����� experience for not only our students and alumni, but for faculty, staff, parents and friends,” says Chancellor Kent Syverud. “This outpouring of support is the direct result of the good work Hendricks Chapel does every day to foster belonging, friendship and acceptance within our campus community. It is truly in the spirit of Hendricks Chapel that so many who benefited from its programs made gifts to support a strong interfaith community for the next generation of students.”

“For Hendricks Chapel to be on the receiving end of such transformative generosity is a remarkable blessing,” says Brian Konkol, vice president and dean of Hendricks Chapel. “The successful campaign is already making a positive difference. I am grateful for student leaders in the Interfraternity Council, campus partners in the Division of Advancement and External Affairs, and of course, the remarkable supporters from around the world who love ���ϲ�����.”

Since its dedication in 1930, Hendricks Chapel has enriched student life and learning, connected people within and across faith communities, supported those in need both on and off campus and served as a sacred setting for thousands of programs and services.

Inspired to Advance Goodness

The anonymous donor family includes University alumni and even a couple who were married at Hendricks Chapel. Their unrestricted gift was intended to inspire others who share in the chapel’s mission to build community in a spiritual and religious setting. Says one member of the donor family: “The focused effort required to learn a field of endeavor during your college years needs to be balanced with a constant reminder that each field’s ultimate purpose is to advance goodness in the world.”

The $3.7 million raised will be utilized to strengthen core programs and services through the following:

• Increasing student involvement in religious and spiritual life through programs and services that prioritize outreach and communication throughout the campus community;
• Leadership development programs for students and chaplains, through such programs as the Interfaith Leadership Summit and Parliament of the World’s Religions;
• Interfaith dialogue and cooperation, through such programs as the Student Assembly of Interfaith Leaders, Jewish-Muslim Dialogue Fellowship and Interfaith Days of Service and Learning;
• Supporting students in need through the Student Opportunity Fund, Student Veteran Support Fund and Hendricks Chapel Food Pantry; and
• Expanding the impact of sacred music and the arts by supporting the Hendricks Chapel Choir, Hendricks Chapel Organ Scholars Program and the Black Celestial Choral Ensemble.

Find out more about Hendricks Chapel’s events and programming at .

About ���ϲ�����

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

About Hendricks Chapel

Hendricks Chapel, the spiritual heart of ���ϲ�����, is the student-centered global home for religious, spiritual, moral and ethical life. Established in 1930 as a home for all faiths and place for all people, the chapel hosts 15 chaplains, more than 25 student-led religious and spiritual groups, and sponsors more than 1,900 in-person and online programs for more than 900,000 annual participants. Hendricks Chapel employs student workers, supports musical ensembles, offers support through the Student Opportunity Fund and Food Pantry, and partners throughout the campus community to advance academic excellence at a university welcoming to all. As a central contributor to holistic life and learning at ���ϲ�����, Hendricks Chapel helps to prepare engaged citizens, scholars and leaders for participation in a changing global society.

About Forever Orange: The Campaign for ���ϲ�����

Orange isn’t just our color. It’s our promise to leave the world better than we found it. Forever Orange: The Campaign for ���ϲ����� is poised to do just that. Fueled by more than 150 years of fearless firsts, together we can enhance academic excellence, transform the student experience and expand unique opportunities for learning and growth. Forever Orange endeavors to raise $1.5 billion in philanthropic support, inspire 125,000 individual donors to participate in the campaign and actively engage one in five alumni in the life of the University. Now is the time to show the world what Orange can do. Visit to learn more.

Sunday, Sept. 29 is National Coffee Day (Photo courtesy of )

Calling all coffee lovers! Did you know that Sunday, Sept. 29, is National Coffee Day? Whether you are a diehard coffee enthusiast who celebrates every day or a novice just beginning to try coffee for the first time, SU News has you covered. We put together a list of all the great spots and hidden gems on campus—and locally—to score your favorite cup of Joe.

On-Campus Finds

While there are many different spots on campus to grab your favorite brew, one of the most popular spots, which is in the heart of campus, is . Located on the lower level of Hendricks Chapel, this nonprofit coffee shop offers great food and prices, a cool atmosphere and is run completely by a friendly and outgoing group of students.

SU News caught up with two managers, Vivienne Love ’26 and Kennedy Williams ’25, to learn more about what inspired them to get involved and what are their go-to favorites at People’s Place.

People’s Place coffee shop, located in the basement of Hendricks Chapel, is the perfect spot to grab a reasonably-priced snack and coffee while meeting some of the terrific students who work there. (Photo by Angela Ryan)

What made you want to get involved with People’s Place?

Love: During my freshman year, I only had 8 a.m. classes, and I would come to People’s Place as a reward for going to class. The staff was so welcoming, and I felt appreciated when they started to remember my order over time. It was always nice to have a treat and listen to the music that People’s Place played. At the end of the semester,��I saw they were hiring and I applied! The rest is history.
Williams: Honestly, my friends—everyone I knew loved People’s Place and so did I. When one of my buddies who was a manager at the time asked if I wanted a job there, I couldn’t turn it down.

What is your favorite thing about working at People’s Place?

Love: Definitely the people. What initially drew me to People’s Place is what keeps me coming back. I’m so grateful to have friendships with the staff that have only grown as we’ve worked there over the semesters. Some of my best friends work at “Peeps” and we always make the effort to go in and visit each other during our shifts, even if it’s only for five minutes. Also, I get to choose the syrups we have each week, and I love ordering the weirdest flavors and seeing them sell!
Williams: The longstanding history of it; I love that People’s Place has been around and run by students since the ’70s. I feel like it still holds the same good energy and values when you go to the shop today as it did then.

What is your go-to coffee (or tea) order and favorite treat?

Love: My go-to coffee order is an iced coffee with oat milk and some of the crazy syrup I like to order. My favorite treat we have sometimes around Valentine’s Day is a chocolate cherry��pop tart.
Williams: My go-to coffee order is a mocha java with hazelnut syrup and half and half, while my favorite treat is the plain glazed donut we sell from Geddes Bakery.

People’s Place is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Follow them on for upcoming events, specials and all of their latest tomfoolery.

The many faces of People’s Place (Photo by Angela Ryan)

In addition to People’s Place, tucked all over campus. The locations listed below accept ’CUSE Cash, meal plan dining dollars and credit/debit cards:

• BBBistro: Brockway Hall, Basement
• The Canteen: National Veterans Resource Center
• Gerry’s Café: Eggers Hall, Room 300
• Falk Café: McNaughton Hall, 2nd Floor
• Food.com: S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, Room 244
• Junction Snack Bar: Flint and Day halls, Basement
• Life Sciences Café: Life Sciences Building, Atrium Level
• Neporent Café: Dineen Hall
• Olsten’s Café: Whitman School of Management, Room 211
• Otto’s Juice Box: Barnes Center at The Arch
• Pages Café: Bird Library, Entrance Level
• Slocum Café: Slocum Hall, Main Floor
• Starbucks West Campus: 150 Henry St.
• The Warehouse Café: 350 W. Fayette St.

Off-Campus Favorites

Heading off campus on an adventure but still looking to get your caffeine fix? Below are some of the most popular spots located not too far from campus:

Cafe Blue (Photo by Coco Boardman)

Café Blue is located at the heart of ���ϲ�����’s Inner Harbor, northwest of campus near Destiny USA.
Address: 720 Van Rensselaer Road, Suite 104B, ���ϲ�����, New York 13204
Hours: Mondays: Closed; Tuesday through Friday: 7 a.m.- 3 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m.-2 p.m.

Kubal has six locations around the ���ϲ����� area, with the closest to campus near Drumlins.
Address: S2218 E. Colvin St., ���ϲ�����, New York 13210
Hours: Monday through Friday: 7 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday: 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

Located on the ground floor of The 505 on Walnut, Peaks is located north of campus.
Address: 1200 E. Genesee St., ���ϲ�����, New York 13210
Hours: Monday and Tuesday: Closed; Wednesday through Friday: 7 a.m.-3 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday: 8 a.m.-3 p.m.��

Recess Coffee (Photo by Coco Boardman)

Located across the street from ���ϲ����� Stage, Phoebe’s brews Recess coffee.
Address: 900 E. Genesee St., ���ϲ�����, New York 13244
Hours: Monday: 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday: 9 a.m.-9 p.m.; Saturday: 4:30-9 p.m.

Recess has three locations in ���ϲ�����, with the closets to campus being in the Westcott neighborhood.
Address: 110 Harvard Place, ���ϲ�����, New York 13210
Hours: Monday through Friday: 6 a.m.-10 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday: 7 a.m.-10 p.m.

Salt City has four locations in ���ϲ�����, with the closest to campus being right off Marshall Street.
Address: 720 University Ave., ���ϲ�����, New York 13210
Hours: Monday through Friday:��7 a.m.-4 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday:��8 a.m.-3 p.m.

A native of Missouri, Phillips earned a bachelor’s degree in agriculture from Northwest Missouri State University in 1957. He earned a master’s degree in theology from Iliff School of Theology in Denver, Colorado, in 1960 and became a Methodist minister.

Phillips and his wife, Ethel, then moved to ���ϲ�����. Phillips served as associate minister at University United Methodist Church while teaching and working on advanced degrees at ���ϲ�����. He earned a master’s degree in religious education in 1963 and a Ph.D. in developmental psychology and curriculum and school programs in 1965.

After earning a Ph.D., Phillips was a member of the faculty of Baker University in Baldwin, Kansas, from 1966-75 and director of the St. Louis-based American Youth Foundation from 1975-81.

Portrait of Richard “Dick” Phillips that is displayed in the narthex of Hendricks Chapel

Phillips was installed as the fourth dean of Hendricks Chapel on April 10, 1981, during the chapel’s 50th anniversary year. His installation signaled a new era at the chapel. Up until that time, the chapel’s deans had served as the preacher of the chapel’s main service on Sunday mornings, which was a Protestant service. Phillips’ role became one of being chief administrator of the chapel, rather than being affiliated with one particular worshipping community. A report written by the late religion professor James Wiggins after a committee study of Hendricks redefined the relationship of the chapel’s dean as a representative of the whole.

Phillips worked to expand Hendricks’ role in the community, telling the ���ϲ����� Herald-Journal at the time of his installation, “We have to be out in the community doing relevant things.”

The ���ϲ����� Post-Standard reported that during his installation address, Phillips removed his shoes and placed them next to the podium as he talked about Moses and the biblical story of the burning bush.

“God instructed Moses to take the shoes off from his feet, because the ground upon which he was standing was holy ground,” Phillips said. “Theologically and vocationally, I believe the ground on which I am standing is holy ground. … You, the learners and the teachers and friends and neighbors from far and near are the sacred ground upon which I stand.”

“I think the thing to think about in Hendricks is that even though Dick operated under the new formalized structure, Hendricks Chapel really during that time came even closer to its full mission, because it was always built as an interfaith space,” says Thomas V. Wolfe, dean emeritus of Hendricks Chapel who succeeded Phillips in 1999 and served in the role until 2012. “Even in the 1930s, when mainline Protestantism was in its heyday, the chapel was always making space, as was the University, for the array of people of different faiths. Dick’s tenure was the first that had that array as part of their work. He was tasked with enriching and developing that strategy.”

Phillips was integral in the establishment of the University’s Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration on campus in the mid-1980s, a signature, communitywide event, which to this day continues to be one of the largest University celebrations of Dr. King in the nation.

Phillips was dean when 35 ���ϲ����� students were killed in the terrorist bombing of Pan Am 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland, in December 1988, and he was key in planning the January 1989 service held in the then-Carrier Dome. He took a two-year leave of absence from the chapel to serve as director of the ���ϲ����� Abroad center in Strasbourg, France, from 1995-97.

“I am profoundly grateful that I got to work with him,” Wolfe says. “There are many of us that have appreciated his faithful presence to both ���ϲ����� as an institution and to continuing to strengthen the tradition of meaningful interfaith relationships. The chapel has always stood in the middle of the Quad to represent that.”

“Dean Phillips was widely regarded as a faithful and fruitful leader, both on and off campus, and we give thanks for his remarkable life and legacy,” says Brian Konkol, vice president and dean of Hendricks Chapel. “As we reflect upon his profound impact and the countless ways he enriched our campus community, I believe we are reminded that Hendricks Chapel is far more than a beautiful building, as Hendricks Chapel is—and always will be—about wonderful people such as Dick Phillips. May the Phillips family and all who grieve his passing receive the fullness of comfort and strength.”

In retirement, Phillips wrote “Hendricks Chapel: Seventy-five Years of Service to ���ϲ�����” (���ϲ����� Press, 2005), a comprehensive look at the chapel’s history, and another book on Methodist theologian Harvey Pottoff.

Phillips was predeceased by his wife, Ethel, in June 2023. He is survived by their children, Cindy and Ken.

Donations in Phillips’ memory may be made to .

Rev. Julie Kelly

“We at Hendricks Chapel are eager to welcome Reverend Kelly to our diverse and dynamic ���ϲ����� campus community,” says Rev. Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel. “To partner with Bishop Lee Miller and the Upstate New York Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America is a joy, and I am grateful for the efforts of the Lutheran Campus Ministry Board in helping to make this all happen. Reverend Kelly will make many positive contributions both on and off campus, and I look forward to serving alongside her as we accompany our students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends.”

Kelly (she/her) is an ordained minister in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (E.L.C.A). As part of her religious practice, she emphasizes interfaith relationships and advocacy for marginalized people and communities.

A military family member, Kelly has over 30 years of experience in preparing families for military life. She has specialized in family readiness groups, suicidality prevention and family advocacy (through the U.S. Army domestic violence program). Her career with military family programs led to her growing interest in advocacy for marginalized communities.

Kelly appreciates the mystical aspects of the Christian faith, studies ancient Christo-Pagan history and development, and is committed to interfaith community and wellness. She served as a chaplain at Los Angeles County Hospital and the University of Southern California. She also served with the Red Cross Disaster Spiritual Care.

Kelly has served congregations in California including The Episcopal Church of the Saviour and St. James Lutheran�� in Hanford,�� Hope Lutheran in Riverside, Bethel Lutheran in Encino and Mt. Olive Lutheran in Santa Monica.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership and human services from Fort Hays State University in Kansas and a master of divinity degree from Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota. As the newest member of a growing and diverse group of chaplains at Hendricks Chapel, Kelly will partner with other chaplains to draw upon Lutheran traditions and practices, develop interfaith partnerships and serve as a resource for the entire University community.

“Working through Hendricks Chapel for the students of ���ϲ����� is the opportunity of a lifetime,” says Kelly. “I am energized about being part of this amazing team and supporting the spiritual welfare of students in many diverse ways.”

Kelly will be on campus starting Oct. 10. To schedule time with her, please email chapel@syr.edu to request a meeting. Those interested can also learn more on the .

Last year, ���ϲ����� and Hendricks Chapel featured a story about the friendship and unique collaboration between Imam Durić and Rabbi Bair, which showcased their efforts in uniting their respective chaplaincies through conversation and community building. The story not only resonated with students and staff at ���ϲ����� but also captured the attention of Interfaith America, a leading interfaith non-profit organization.

This recognition led to a grant from Interfaith America, funding the creation of the Jewish-Muslim Fellowship (JMF) at ���ϲ�����. This initiative provided a dialogue space for Jewish and Muslim students, alongside Imam Durić and Rabbi Bair, to discuss pressing issues and foster Jewish-Muslim relationships. As a result of its growing national reputation for interfaith engagement, ���ϲ����� received an invitation to the Interfaith Leadership Summit.

“Spending time with people from diverse backgrounds reminded me that interfaith cooperation and dialogue are about understanding not only others but also ourselves in the context of a broader, pluralistic society,” said Durić. Founded by Eboo Patel, Interfaith America aims to inspire, equip and connect leaders and institutions to harness the potential of America’s religious diversity.

Adam Baltaxe (center) and Avva Boroujerdi (far right) with students from other universities.

Over the three days of the summit, attendees participated in interfaith dialogue training alongside representatives from more than 20 universities. The event featured speakers, dancers, singers and interactive sessions. Imam Durić and Rabbi Bair were interviewed about their collaboration, the JMF, and their future goals. “Connecting with national interfaith leaders was both grounding and inspiring. Engaging with others on Jewish-Muslim dialogue was a highlight,” said Bair.

Durić participated in a panel entitled “Holy Envy: Discovering the Sacred Unexpectedly” which focused on encountering beautiful and valuable teachings and traditions through interreligious journeys. Leaders from varying traditions and geographical locations participated in the panel, shared their experiences of holy envy, and invited participants to do the same. “The Interfaith America Leadership Summit underscored the importance of interfaith cooperation, especially in an era of increasing polarization. It inspired me to deepen my commitment to building interfaith relationships. These relationships foster a positive attitude towards each other, enhance our appreciation of diverse worldviews, and help us identify shared values,” said Durić.

Baltaxe and Boroujerdi connected with campus representatives from universities of all sizes and forged strong connections with fellow students and other religious leaders. “A common theme at the summit regarded communicating effectively through difficult topics. I’ve helped others learn to engage in emotional discussions without taking things personally. Following the summit, I was selected as a student advisor for Search for Common Ground’s ‘Blueprint for Belonging’ project. We are working to implement interfaith initiatives at universities nationwide,” said Baltaxe. “I’m excited to build on the ideas from the summit and foster unity both at ���ϲ����� and across the country.”

For more information about the Jewish Muslim Fellowship and other programs, please .

Story by Adam Baltaxe ’25 and Dara Harper

From left to right: Adam Baltaxe, Rabbi Ethan Bair, Imam Amir Durić and Avva Boroujerdi

Nancy and Hank visiting the Taj Mahal in Agra, India.

A chance encounter on a snowy ���ϲ����� day sparked a love story that would span decades, bridging faith traditions and leaving a lasting impact on ���ϲ�����. Henry “Hank” Markiewicz ’71, a graduate of the Whitman School of Management, and Nancy G. Markiewicz ’73, a graduate of Falk College, share their journey from students to alumni to benefactors as proof of the enduring bonds formed at ���ϲ�����. Their recent gift to ���ϲ����� Hillel not only honors their family’s legacy but also reinforces the University’s commitment to inclusivity and interfaith understanding.

Hank and Nancy, who currently reside in Phoenix, Arizona, have long supported the efforts of the University through athletic, academic and alumni interests. In 1982, Hank co-founded the Phoenix-based ���ϲ����� Alumni Club with a fellow alumnus, Gary Mather. Recently, Hank and Nancy donated to ���ϲ����� Hillel through Hendricks Chapel in honor of Dr. Alfred Englander, Dr. Erna Englander and Bernard Englander L’73.

When Hank Met Nancy

It was one of those famously snowy ���ϲ����� winters that brought Hank and Nancy together. Nancy and her friend, also named Nancy, attempted to walk Crouse Drive toward downtown in the hopes of Christmas shopping when two young men drove up in a car and thankfully offered them a ride.

Hank later saw Nancy in the Sadler dining hall, and after chatting with her, he decided to ask her out on a date. However, there were four students named Nancy on her residence hall floor at the time, and Hank didn’t know her last name. It was a little risky, but he took a guess. “I met him, then he called me and asked for a date, and he luckily got the right Nancy,” said Nancy, more than 50 years later. “At least I hope he found the right Nancy!”

An Interfaith Marriage at Hendricks Chapel

When they decided to tie the knot, Nancy and Hank chose to be married at Hendricks Chapel in the heart of the ���ϲ����� campus, which opened its doors in 1930 as a multifaith chapel. However, they faced a unique challenge in finding a rabbi and priest to perform the wedding together. Catholic priests and rabbis in the 1970s were too often unwilling to marry people of different faith traditions.

Their first step was to speak with Father Joseph Valky, an assistant to Monsignor Charles Borgognoni from the University’s Catholic Center. Valky interviewed the couple about their relationship and faith. Then, Hank and Nancy met with Rabbi Julius Rosenthal of Hartsdale, New York. Once the priest and the rabbi agreed to co-officiate, the rabbi offered a plan for a combined interfaith ceremony.

It was raining when the families came together at Hendricks Chapel for the ceremony. Rabbi Rosenthal and Father Valky, speaking in both Latin and Hebrew, led the ceremony as planned. The couple received a start time for the wedding but not an end time. With two religious officials at the wedding, it went significantly longer than most single-faith weddings.

When the ceremony concluded, and they finally opened the Chapel’s doors as Mr. and Mrs. Markiewicz, they were surprised to see hundreds of people standing on the steps in the rain. Those gathered were waiting to hear a lecture from Buckminster Fuller, the renowned American architect, who was scheduled to speak that day in Hendricks Chapel. The crowd applauded the young couple before heading inside to hear from Fuller.

The families made their way over to Drumlins Country Club for the reception along with aunts, uncles, cousins, parents and friends. The local band was tasked with playing a polka by Hank’s Uncle Sam, who came from Israel for the wedding. Uncle Sam taught Nancy to dance to the polka, and the party was deemed a success.

A Donation to ���ϲ����� Hillel

Hank and Nancy have visited campus often over the years for football games and during family visits. When they decided to donate to the Unversity, they spoke with Pam Mulligan ’89, executive director of alumni engagement for the northeast. Mulligan introduced the couple to Jillian Juni, executive director of ���ϲ����� Hillel. “I really wanted to do this to recognize my aunt and uncle, who were Holocaust survivors, as were my parents,” says Hank. “My aunt and uncle had been in ���ϲ����� from the sixties. They were active in the community and at their synagogue, which is currently the home of the Skyler Hotel.”

New Torah scroll covers

After speaking with Juni, Hank and Nancy chose to fund the purchase of 100 High Holiday prayer books for Hillel, along with the design and fabrication of new Torah scroll covers. “Torah scrolls are made of parchment, and Jewish communities have protected these sacred scrolls for centuries with beautiful covers,” says Juni. “���ϲ����� Hillel’s new Torah covers were designed to connect the Jewish concept that the Torah is a ‘tree of life’ that nurtures and sustains us, with the orange, a symbol at ���ϲ����� that represents community and belonging.”

“We are so thankful to Hank and Nancy for their generous gift in memory of loved ones, which enables us to weave religious tradition, gratitude, and remembrance together through these covers,” says Juni. Each book and cover has a label honoring the memory of Hank’s aunt, uncle and cousin.

After several years away, Hank and Nancy will be visiting campus for the upcoming festivities and plan to visit Hendricks Chapel, ���ϲ����� Hillel and the Catholic Center.

For more information about ���ϲ����� Hillel or weddings at Hendricks Chapel, .

“I am by no means an expert on the topic of joy, but I do recognize that our personal and professional lives are intimately intertwined, and I do wonder about how to be joyful even in the midst of challenging circumstances,” says Hendricks Chapel , who leads the online session. “I suppose one of the reasons the workshop has become popular is that each participant is welcomed as an authority of their experience, together we discover how to perceive those experiences in different ways, and together we discern how professional achievement and personal joy can best grow together.”

When talking about how to find joy in professional life, Konkol begins with the image of an old-school thermostat.

Konkol uses a thermostat metaphor to teach about joy.

“I think it’s a powerful image and recognizes that each and every one of us—as leaders, as professionals—are thermostats,” he says. “A thermometer only takes the temperature, but a thermostat is about changing the conditions that offer an environment by which you and others can thrive. It’s about putting your hand on the dial and changing the temperature, to create the conditions that move a couple of degrees towards joy.”

Konkol offers one-hour virtual workshops for members of the campus community—from faculty and staff to alumni—on how to find joy in the work they do each day. He will offer the workshop again on from noon to 1 p.m. (in partnership with the Office of Human Resources) and in January (in partnership with the Office of Alumni Engagement).

Through the teachings of various leaders, such as the Dalai Lama and the late Desmond Tutu’s collaboration on “The Book of Joy,” Konkol shows the difference between happiness and joy, and how joy can be embraced and shared even during the storms of personal and professional life. When speaking to the specifics of a workplace environment, Konkol says, “Happiness is often temporary and based on something happening to you, while joy is about sustained purpose and meaning, including the meaning we can find during difficulties. I suppose happiness is a moment and joy is more of a movement.”

During his most recent workshop, Konkol offered participants five steps for finding professional joy:

1. Stop hoping for a better past. “So many of us, including me, have watched the ‘Back to the Future’ movies and ever since have been praying for the time machine to show up, take us back in time and undo that really stupid thing we did! Because, wow, we wish we could do that over. I have yet to receive that time machine and I have found that hoping for a better past has generally been a waste of time. We can learn from our past, but we can’t change it. We can receive insights from our past while not being trapped by our past.”

2. Choose to be kind, anyway. “I think the most important part is ‘comma, anyway.’ We cannot control how others act, but we can control how we respond, and if we are only kind to those who are kind to us, then we are thermometers and not thermostats. I have come to believe that kindness, while often seen as weakness, actually requires a great deal of strength, and I think that one of the ways that we experience joy in our lives is through the choice to be kind.”

Brian Konkol

Konkol tells the story of Steve Wilkinson, the legendary tennis coach at Gustavus Adolphus College in Minnesota. Wilkinson built a whole philosophy around tennis and developed a camp called Tennis and Life. “He wraps all these messages around the game, and one of them is ‘you can’t control what people serve to you, but you can control what you return,'” Konkol says. He also references the given by , professor of English in the College of Arts and Sciences, at ���ϲ�����’s 2013 Commencement, which attracted global attention. “Never underestimate the strength of kindness,” Konkol says.

3. Replace “but” with “and.” Here, Konkol envisions an old-school gumball machine. “I think about the colors of the different gumballs representing all the different things that we experience on a given day. Things that are happy, things that are sad, things that are wonderful, things that are terrible. People that are kind, that are cruel, communities that are divided, communities that are united. Every one of those colors on those gumballs represent life,” he says.

When he counsels people who are struggling, Konkol offers this advice: “There’s no ‘but,’ it’s ‘and.’�� We can experience a whole menu of emotions all at once. We can have joy when we stop apologizing for whatever it is that we’re feeling, and instead learn how to best embrace what we are feeling and explore how to use all we are feeling to create and sustain something good for us and for others,” he says.

“If you stand on the main stage of Hendricks Chapel and look toward the front door, you see text on the rim of the chapel’s ceiling. If you look immediately to your right, there is an ampersand, the symbol for ‘and.’ And if you look immediately to your left, there is also an ampersand. When you stand at the center of the stage looking outward, you literally physically stand in between the ‘ands,’” he says. “Paradox is quite remarkable. Instead of either/or, we can embrace both/and. Division and unity, happiness and sadness, joy and despair. We can exist with the fullness of our humanity,” he says.

4. Be a role model, not a role mirror. “How do we model the type of world we want to live in and not mirror the world that we do live in? Model, not mirror. Thermostat, not thermometer. I think it’s important for us to consider our habits and ask ourselves, how are they working for us? How are we impacting others? Part of the way we experience joy professionally is modeling, not mirroring, how to exist in community. I’m convinced in our professional lives when we’re role models and not role mirrors, when we’re thermostats and not thermometers, it creates positive change, not just for a moment but for a movement,” Konkol says.

5. Call people in instead of calling people out. “Instead of pointing a finger at someone, why not use those fingers to wave people in? One of the ways I think we experience joy is by welcoming people into the conversation, especially those with whom we disagree. Oftentimes we think about people we disagree with, kind of like we think about trash, and we just want to throw them out. What I appreciate about that metaphor is, you never actually throw anything out, we only throw it out of sight. It’s never actually gone. It’s the same with people. They’re there, so why not call people into a conversation, into a relationship? Empathy is important here. Where we can engage with curiosity rather than judgment, where we can listen to understand instead of respond,” Konkol says.

“I find that these five steps are in many ways like turning a dial of joy in our professional lives,” Konkol says. “So many people are dealing with so much in their lives. I am convinced that seeking joy is one of the ways we can actually make the world a far better place, especially for those who are struggling.”

At the conclusion of his presentation, Konkol suggests not writing out a “to-do” list, but a “to-be” list. “Write out five things that say ‘who must I be today?’ Perhaps I can say I’m going to be energetic, I’m going to be kind, I’m going to be strong, I’m going to be strategic,” he says. “A ‘to-be’ list allows us to live with a sense of intention and provides us with the opportunity to see that joy is not about waiting for the rain to stop, but it’s about learning to dance in the rain. It is saying ‘here’s who I’m called to be today.’ Regardless of what the temperature is, it’s saying ‘This is how I choose to show up in the world. This is who I choose to be.'”

“I’m convinced that each and every person, in their own way can turn that dial. You can be a thermostat and not a thermometer, and bring some joy to your life, bring some joy to your world,” Konkol says. “So that all those around you can change the dials of their professional lives and turn them just a couple degrees towards joy.”

Gordon Parks, “Mrs. Jefferson,” from the series Fort Scott Revisited (Photo courtesy of The Gordon Parks Foundation)

“Homeward to the Prairie I Come” features more than 75 of Parks’ images, examining his wide-ranging artistic ideas. The exhibition not only includes Parks’ documentary photography such as the series Paris Fashions, Fort Scott Revisited and The Redemption of the Champion��(featuring images of Muhammed Ali), but also his thoughts on photography as a fine art medium and his engagement with celebrated paintings and sculptures.

Most significantly, the photographs instigate cultural change by challenging viewers to imagine a more inclusive culture than the one they know: a world where Black skin represents ideal beauty, where an African American athlete embodies the exemplary hero and where an artist of African heritage has a place within the lineage of excellent artists in Western art history.

“This exhibition leverages the power of art to catalyze dialogue about the wide range of issues that Parks engaged with in his photography, from systemic racism to the labor and ethics of the global fashion industry to ideas of celebrity and home,” says Melissa Yuen, the ���ܲ���ܳ�’s interim chief curator.

Interim director of the museum Emily Dittman says, “Gordon Parks was a visionary interdisciplinary artist whose work had a lasting impact on the world. His dedication to continually tell the stories of individuals that were—and still are—too often hidden and overlooked is clearly evident and inspiring throughout his artistic work.”

In this spirit, the museum is taking steps to creating an accessible, diverse and multilingual space for all communities and families. The interpretive text in the exhibition is bilingual, providing both English and Spanish text for visitors, large-type text will be available and a family guide is provided to help youth and families explore the exhibition. An open access digital exhibition catalog for the exhibition will be available for visitors in the reflection area, as well as reading materials on Gordon Parks and his multifaceted career. The exhibition will be accompanied by a dynamic slate of public programming, all free and open to the public.

Co-curated by Aileen June Wang, Ph.D., curator, and Sarah Price, registrar, at the Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art, Kansas State University, the tour is organized by Art Bridges. The exhibition and related programs have been made possible by generous support from Art Bridges, the Wege Foundation and the Humanities Center (���ϲ����� Symposium).

About the Artist

Parks, one of the greatest photographers of the twentieth century, was a humanitarian with a deep commitment to social justice. He left behind an exceptional body of work that documents American life and culture from the early 1940s into the 2000s, with a focus on race relations, poverty, civil rights and urban life. Parks was also a distinguished composer, author and filmmaker who interacted with many of the leading people of his era—from politicians and artists to athletes and celebrities.

Born into poverty and segregation in Fort Scott, Kansas, in 1912, Parks was drawn to photography as a young man when he saw images of migrant workers taken by Farm Security Administration (FSA) photographers in a magazine. After buying a camera at a pawn shop, he taught himself how to use it. Despite his lack of professional training, he won the Julius Rosenwald Fellowship in 1942; this led to a position with the photography section of the FSA in Washington, D.C., and, later, the Office of War Information (OWI). Working for these agencies, which were then chronicling the nation’s social conditions, Parks quickly developed a personal style that would make him among the most celebrated photographers of his era. His extraordinary pictures allowed him to break the color line in professional photography while he created remarkably expressive images that consistently explored the social and economic impact of poverty, racism, and other forms of discrimination.

Featured Events

• Opening Reception and Keynote—Sept. 6, 4-6:30 p.m.; keynote: 4-5 p.m., 160 Link Hall; reception: 5-6:30 p.m., ���ϲ����� Art Museum
• The Duke Ellington Orchestra presented in partnership with the Malmgren Concert Series—Sept. 22, 4 p.m.; Hendricks Chapel, with reception to follow at the ���ϲ����� Art Museum
• Community Screening of “Shaft” (1971), directed by Gordon Parks—Oct. 4, 7 p.m.; The Westcott Theater, 524 Westcott St., ���ϲ�����
• Community Day—Oct. 5, noon-4 p.m.; ���ϲ����� Art Museum
• Art Break: Gordon Parks with Nancy Keefe Rhodes—Oct. 16, noon;�����ϲ����� Art Museum
• Celebrating the Legacy of Gordon Parks—Nov. 9, noon-4 p.m.; ���ϲ����� Art Museum;��1 p.m.: Art Break with contemporary photographer Jarod Lew; 2:30 p.m.: screening of “A Choice of Weapons: Inspired by Gordon Parks” (2021)
• Gordon Parks Community Gathering/Showcase—Dec. 7, timing TBD;��Deedee’s Community Room, Salt City Market, 484 S. Salina St., ���ϲ�����

Visit the for event information. Members of the media may contact Emily Dittman, interim director of ���ϲ����� Art Museum, for more information or to schedule a tour.

[Featured image: Gordon Roger Alexander Buchanan Parks, “Mrs. Jefferson,” from the series Fort Scott Revisited, 1950, printed in 2017, gelatin silver print, 20 x 16 inches. Kansas State University, Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art, gift of Gordon Parks and the Gordon Parks Foundation, 2017.373. Image courtesy of and copyright by The Gordon Parks Foundation]

2023 Haudenosaunee Welcome Gathering (Photo by Angela Ryan)

The Haudenosaunee Welcome Gathering is an event held on campus to welcome all incoming and returning students, faculty and staff for the 2024-25 academic year, and for all to show respect for the Indigenous people on whose ancestral lands ���ϲ����� now stands. Schenandoah is a citizen of the Oneida Nation and a Wolf Clan Faithkeeper, as well as . The Haudenosaunee Confederacy is comprised of Six Nations: Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, Seneca and Tuscarora.

This year’s featured speaker, Wakerahkáhtste Louise McDonald Herne, is a Bear Clan Mother for the Mohawk Nation Council. Wakerahkáhtste presented at the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues and lectures regularly at universities throughout Canada and the United States on Ratinonhsón:ni philosophies and self-determination regarding the rights of women. Wakerahkáhtste has been the Distinguished Scholar in Indigenous Learning at McMaster University Institute for Innovation and Excellence in Teaching and Learning (MIIETL) and received an honorary doctorate from State University of New York at Canton. Her most recent work includes a feature in the award-winning documentary film, “Without a Whisper: Konnon:kwe” about the Ratinonhsón:ni women’s influence on the women’s rights movement.

Diane Schenandoah, Faithkeeper of the Wolf Clan, Oneida Nation, speaks at the 2023 Haudenosaunee Welcome Gathering. (Photo by Angela Ryan)

“This land is sacred. We welcome visitors to be part of this sacred place. Part of our teaching is that no one can own the land, so it’s important to remember that ���ϲ����� is part of a much bigger picture,” says Schenandoah. “It’s important to acknowledge and recognize that there are Indigenous peoples still here and we are standing in the capital of the Haudenosaunee territory.”

At the gathering, speakers and dancers will welcome a new academic year. Hot scones and strawberry drink will be offered. The hot scones are derived from traditional breads and the strawberry drink consists of strawberries, maple syrup and water. “This is significant because strawberries are the leaders of the plants and maples are the leaders of the trees. In this way we honor them,” says Schenandoah.

Schenandoah encourages students, faculty and staff to participate in the Haudenosaunee Welcome Gathering. “We are sharing our culture because the Earth is calling to us to pay attention, we require collective healing, and most importantly, we are inviting our community to live in gratitude,” she says.

For more information on this and other Hendricks Chapel programs and services visit .

Rev. Jee Hae Song

is excited to introduce Rev. Jee Hae Song as United Methodist chaplain. “I am delighted to welcome Rev. Song to our campus community,” says , dean of Hendricks Chapel. “To partner with Bishop Héctor��A. Burgos Núñez and the United Methodist Church is a joy. Rev. Song is an outstanding leader, and I look forward to our continued partnership in service to our students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends.”

Song is a first-generation immigrant from Seoul, South Korea, who moved to ���ϲ����� in 2016 to serve three United Methodist congregations in the Upper New York Conference: St. Paul’s United Methodist Church (���ϲ�����), Hope Korean United Methodist Church (���ϲ�����) and Warners United Methodist Church (Warners). Song also served as the director of Hope Christian Student Fellowship, a religious and spiritual life group registered with Hendricks Chapel from 2019-21.

Song was born and raised in Seoul and moved to the United States in 2012 to further her education. She attended The Candler School of Theology of Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, where she earned a Master of Divinity in 2015. She also resided in Seattle, Washington, and Evansville, Indiana, before moving to ���ϲ�����.

As a passionate storyteller who speaks both Korean and English fluently, she weaves biblical and modern-day stories, inviting participants to strengthen and grow their relationship with God. Song is passionate about community-building, education and assisting young adults in navigating life paths.

“I am thrilled to return to ���ϲ����� and Hendricks Chapel as a chaplain,” says Song. Students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends can meet Rev. Song during weekly Bible study, the Eat, Pray & Connect dinners, or during her weekly office hours. You can find more about the United Methodist Chaplaincy on the .

As the newest member of a growing and diverse group of chaplains at Hendricks Chapel, Song will partner with other chaplains to draw upon Methodist traditions and practices, develop interfaith partnerships and serve as a resource for the entire campus community.

This year’s SummerStart cohort, which arrived on June 29, includes 121 students from all of the University’s schools and colleges. As participants in the program, the students will earn 7-9 credits toward their degree, learn about and access campus resources, make connections with faculty and classmates, and experience a sense of community, says Kal Srinivas, director of retention and student success. The initiative brings together various University departments, demonstrating the power of teamwork in fostering a supportive and enriching environment for incoming students, she says.

121 students participated in this year’s SummerStart program to receive an early acclimation to campus life. (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

“From the moment they step onto campus, SummerStart students are met with a comprehensive network of support designed to address both their academic and personal needs,” Srinivas says.

SummerStart students also benefit from tutoring services in math and writing and resources like the . They also participate in social activities like (DPS) game nights, ropes course challenges, a resource fair and other group activities. DPS also conducts safety workshops and the offers the initiative to cultivate a culture of compassion, connection and well-being.

First-year student Tae Callam arrived at ���ϲ����� from Cleveland. The biomedical engineering major in the says the SummerStart experience has already helped her acclimate to campus life and meet new people. And her coursework, particularly in writing, has helped her develop her language skills as a non-native English speaker, she says.

“I am so glad that I have this opportunity to participate in SummerStart,” Callam says. “Even in the first week of SummerStart, I have become familiar with the campus, got a head start on my academics and made friends. What more could anyone ask for?”

Srinivas emphasizes the collaborative nature of SummerStart, which also involves , , and other administrative units.

“SummerStart is not just a program; it is a testament to what can be achieved when an entire institution works together with a common goal,” she says. “By combining resources, expertise and a shared commitment to student success, ���ϲ����� has created a nurturing environment that prepares students for both academic and personal growth.”

According to a earlier this year, almost 70% of student veterans who are patients in Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals received services for mental health care, compared to just 40% of all other veterans who received mental health care from the VA. Aside from seeking services to address concerns regarding post-traumatic stress disorder, the report shows a rising trend over a six-year period of student veterans seeking out care for depression and anxiety-related disorders more than their non-student veteran peers.

“Aside from being non-traditional students, which brings additional stresses to their academic studies, student-veterans also have unique needs that most colleges and universities are not prepared to handle. There’s a clear need to provide military-connected students with assistance beyond just information on where they may find resources,” says Ken Marfilius ’11, assistant dean of online and distance education and associate teaching professor of social work in the Falk College. “This program will help assist student veterans in not only knowing what resources are available, but also how to navigate the process to receive those services and, sometimes, providing further support to ensure they get the care they need.”

Ken Marfilius

Marfilius, a U.S. Air Force veteran, will become the associate director for the ORP where he will lead two Falk College graduate student interns, Brenic Nam G’25 and Natalie Hawes G’25, as well as leverage his extensive experience in providing mental health care services to the military-connected community to ensure the program’s effectiveness.

Both interns are military-connected students at ���ϲ����� who are pursuing master’s degrees in social work. Hawes is a veteran spouse as well as the granddaughter of two World War II veterans, and has more than five years of experience in supporting the military-connected community. For Nam, currently a sergeant in the U.S. Army Reserve after spending time on active duty, it’s an opportunity to build upon lessons learned while working at Clear Path for Veterans, a nonprofit veteran’s service organization located in Central New York.

Brenic Nam G’25

“Veterans and military-connected students undergo significant transitions as they shift from military to civilian life. Through this phase of acculturation, they endure unique challenges that often result in immense stress. A dedicated program like ORP will provide imperative support, empowering these veterans and (military-connected) students to confidently navigate these challenges while pursuing their personal ambitions and reaching their fullest potential,” Nam says.

Hendricks Chapel, alongside the OVMA, will provide a stipend for both interns and support engagement with local community programs and services that are available in the area. The program will also seek to leverage support from the ���ϲ����� VA Medical Center, which already provides medical services for many of ���ϲ�����’s student veterans.

“This initiative is a clear reflection of ���ϲ�����’s strategic vision to be recognized as the premier institution for veteran and military-connected students,” says U.S. Army Col. (Retired) Ron Novack, executive director of the OVMA. “By harnessing the strengths of its community and resources, the University is poised to not only meet but exceed the needs of this distinct student population. The ORP embodies the University’s commitment to fostering an environment of excellence and support for veterans and their families, further establishing ���ϲ����� as the best place for veterans.”

The program will officially launch on Aug. 26, the first day of classes for the fall 2024 semester, with more details to come later this summer on how to access the program. Aside from standing as a beacon for the University’s resolve to create an inclusive and supportive environment for student veterans, the ORP will support military-connected students with concierge-style support to help them thrive academically during their transition to post-service life.

For more information on the programs and services available to veterans and military-connected students at ���ϲ�����, please visit the .

A gift from Daniel D’Aniello ’68, H’20 and his wife, Gayle, will support construction of a new chapel and renovations to modernize and expand the Catholic Center at 110 Walnut Place. From left are Chancellor Kent Syverud; Daniel D’Aniello; Pete Sala, vice president and chief campus facilities officer; and Luke Radel ’26.

With a ceremonial shovel and breaking of the ground, a new chapter in the history of Catholic ministry at ���ϲ����� is being written, thanks to a transformational gift from philanthropist, life trustee and dedicated alumnus Daniel D’Aniello ’68, H’20 and his wife, Gayle.

Part of the , the D’Aniellos’ newest gift will support construction of a new chapel and renovations to modernize and expand the Catholic Center at 110 Walnut Place. Land is currently being cleared for the building of the new St. Thomas More Chapel at the corner of East Adams and Walnut Place.

“Dan continues to be a devout ���ϲ����� supporter whose kindness to our students knows no bounds,” says Chancellor Kent Syverud. “His impact is felt and visible all around our University, from our main campus in ���ϲ����� to our campus in Florence, Italy. Dan’s philanthropy has allowed us to strengthen our commitment to veterans, enhance the student experience both on campus and abroad, and now, build a more vibrant spiritual community. This new gift enhances our ability to be a University welcoming to all, including to students of all faiths, by providing an expanded and modern space to come together, worship and serve the community.”

Chancellor Kent Syverud and Daniel D’Aniello ’68, H’20

D’Aniello has often spoken about his own upbringing in an Italian Catholic family, steeped in tradition and faith. Growing up, he was an altar server and sang in the church choir, experiences that led to faith-based giving becoming a central pillar in his philanthropy.

“I admire the way in which ���ϲ����� supports the spiritual needs and nurtures the moral and ethical development of students,” says D’Aniello. “Faith in God has always been a guiding principal in my life and I am proud to support the new Catholic Center and chapel; a gathering place for our catholic students to support them and their faith while at ���ϲ�����.”

The Catholic chaplaincy is one of 15 housed in Hendricks Chapel, which also supports 25 student-led religious and spiritual life groups, and hosts more than 2,000 programs each year, many of which are responsive to student engagement at the Catholic Center.

“The ’Cuse Catholic community has grown dramatically over the last several years, with significantly increased attendance at worship services and growing student interest in activities hosted at the Catholic Center in service of the broader ���ϲ����� community,” says Fr. Gerry Waterman, who was appointed to his position as Catholic chaplain in 2016. “I am deeply grateful to Dan D’Aniello for supporting the spiritual growth of our students in an environment that serves to deepen their religious understanding, their relationship with God and their desire to help others in the community.”

Waterman notes that the unprecedented interest in Catholic ministry services has necessitated additional seating to accommodate increased attendance. “Each folding chair we’ve had to add, and the long lines at post-Mass Thursday dinners and Sunday brunch gatherings, demonstrate that our ’Cuse Catholics find strength in fellowship.”

The presence of a Catholic ministry at the University to 1908 with the formation of the first Brownson Club, the predecessor to the Newman Club. Today, the Catholic Center includes a vibrant group of servant leaders composed of students who are dedicated to service and who offer study groups, retreats and mission trip experiences to enrich spiritual development.

D’Aniello is a co-founder and chairman emeritus of Carlyle. Prior to forming Carlyle in 1987, D’Aniello was the vice president for finance and development at Marriott Corporation for eight years. Before joining Marriott, D’Aniello was a financial officer at PepsiCo Inc. and Trans World Airlines. D’Aniello served in the United States Navy from 1968 through 1971 during which time he was a Distinguished Naval Graduate of Officer Candidate School, Newport, Rhode Island, a supply officer (LTJG) aboard the USS Wasp (CVS 18); and in 2016, D’Aniello was awarded the designation of Lone Sailor by the U.S. Navy Memorial Foundation.

D’Aniello is a 1968 magna cum laude graduate of ���ϲ�����, where he was a member of Beta Gamma Sigma, and a 1974 graduate of the Harvard Business School, where he was a Teagle Foundation Fellow.

About ���ϲ�����

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

About Forever Orange: The Campaign for ���ϲ�����

Orange isn’t just our color. It’s our promise to leave the world better than we found it. Forever Orange: The Campaign for ���ϲ����� is poised to do just that. Fueled by more than 150 years of fearless firsts, together we can enhance academic excellence, transform the student experience and expand unique opportunities for learning and growth. Forever Orange endeavors to raise $1.5 billion in philanthropic support, inspire 125,000 individual donors to participate in the campaign, and actively engage one in five alumni in the life of the University. Now is the time to show the world what Orange can do. Visit����to learn more.

First-generation college students Melanie Salas (left), Jean Castilla (center) and Brianna Gillfillian discuss the challenges they faced, the lessons they learned and their plans for after graduation.

A trio of first-generation college students have demonstrated hard work and resiliency and shown how they ultimately set themselves on the path that will culminate Sunday morning inside the JMA Wireless Dome when they become the first members of their families to earn college degrees during ���ϲ�����’s .

• Melanie Salas ’24 was inspired by a high school coach to challenge herself to realize that she could do anything she set her mind to.
• Jean Castilla ’24 worked hard to strengthen his knowledge base and earn admission into a prestigious New York City high school that would prepare him for the rigors of college.
• Brianna Gillfillian ’24 pushed the limits of her comfort zone to leave her home country of Jamaica to earn a college degree and rely on the kindness of strangers to pay her way to ���ϲ����� through a GoFundMe account.

Surrounded by the nearly 6,700 fellow degree recipients, and in front of their families and friends, Salas, Castilla and Gillfillian will join the ranks of the more than 250,000 proud Orange alumni around the world, knowing that, hopefully, their stories will inspire other would-be college students to overcome their fears and blaze their own paths.

Leading up to convocation, these talented first-generation students sat down with SU News to discuss the challenges they faced, the lessons they learned and their plans for after graduation.

Melanie Salas ’24

Melanie Salas

Path to ���ϲ�����: “When I was in elementary school, people always told me I wouldn’t be anything in life. It motivated me and forced me to grow into the person I am today. When I was in high school, my softball coach helped me discover that I could do anything in this world, and that really inspired me to go out and learn as much as I can. My parents [Juan Salas and Lorena Granados] did everything for me to get to ���ϲ����� and now I am set to graduate early, and I’m just so thankful for the mentors on campus who helped me overcome the struggles I faced.”

Academic major: Biology ()

Involvement on campus: Our Time Has Come Scholar, Ronald E. McNair Scholar, Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation, orientation leader, Research Experience for Undergraduates, research assistant with SUNY Upstate Medical University, Food Recovery Network (part of the Catholic Center)

Best piece of advice: “Always put your foot in every single door, because you never know when the opportunity will come along that could change your life. Whenever I could, I represented myself, stood up and spoke out and from those moments, I grew into the person I wanted to be, who helped make change on campus. All those people who told me I would never be anything inspired me to bring about change to my community. You truly start on the path toward your dreams once you come to campus.”

Plans after graduation: Will be enrolling in Baylor University’s cell, molecular, health and disease biology graduate program, with the goal of earning a Ph.D. and one day opening her own research lab focused on studying ways to improve the overall health and well-being of society. “I want to help those who don’t have access to opportunities I’ve had. I want to give back to those less fortunate and help make a difference in our community.”

Jean Castilla ’24

Jean Castilla

Path to ���ϲ�����: “It’s been a mission of mine to attend college since I was in middle school. When I was in the eighth grade, instead of playing with my friends or playing video games, I was studying for the Specialized High Schools Admissions Test, which is used to determine who gets into one of the top eight specialized high schools in New York City. I was admitted into the High School for Math, Science and Engineering at City College, and was on a path to college from there. The decision to focus on my studies changed the trajectory of my life and my family’s life. My mom, Rosa, made a lot of sacrifices so I could pursue an education, and knowing what she sacrificed drove me and inspired me.”

Academic major: Entrepreneurship and emerging enterprises ()

Involvement on campus: Our Time Has Come Scholar, Hendricks Chapel Scholarship, Whitman Internship Scholarship, Veteran Legacy Fund Scholarship, Lois and Martin J. Whitman Scholarship, Office of Veterans and Military Affairs Scholarship, Daniel and Gayle D’Aniello Florence Scholarship, student liaison in the Office of Veteran and Military Affairs

Best piece of advice: “Especially for my fellow first-generation students, a big thing is to have faith that everything will work out. Having faith in yourself and believing in your abilities is something we all need to practice. If you can’t believe in yourself, it won’t happen. I know I’ve gone through a lot of obstacles and adversity in my life, but every time I remind myself that I’m just being tested to see if I’m ready to move on to the next chapter in my life.”

Plans after graduation: Castilla currently serves as a crew chief in the Air National Guard’s 174th Attack Wing and has a job lined up in the military once he graduates. He’s also planning on continuing his career as an entrepreneur, “creating an established business where I’m the CEO and I can help other people in my community. That’s my ideal situation. I want to be able to give back because I’ve been helped tremendously on my journey.”

Brianna Gillfillian ’24

Brianna Gillfillian

Path to ���ϲ�����: “My high school curriculum in Jamaica emphasized math, English and information technology, so I had a lot of experience in those fields and it was something I was genuinely good at and enjoyed. My parents didn’t graduate from high school, so after I graduated, people asked me ‘why don’t you stay in Jamaica for college?’ I knew I had to come to America, but I didn’t have the money to pay for a flight to ���ϲ�����, so I personally launched a GoFundMe to get me to ���ϲ�����. Because nobody in my family went to college, I relied on my high school guidance counselors for advice, and in terms of my finances, I had to do everything on my own. I learned that I am resilient from this process. It would have been easy to just stay in Jamaica, get a scholarship and get my degree but I knew if I didn’t go away to college I would regret it. I had a vision for myself and would stop at nothing to make it happen.”

Academic major: Computer science ()

Involvement on campus: Our Time Has Come Scholar, National Society of Black Engineers, Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation, Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program, Alpha Kappa Psi (business fraternity), Delta Sigma Theta (sorority), Kalabash Dance Troupe, Scholars on a Mission, Save our Child’s Heart Foundation

Best piece of advice: “I feel being as outgoing as possible helped me connect with the University and discover my community. I love being involved in organizations, and I feel that through my involvement I was able to put myself out there and become the person and the leader I wanted to be.”

Plans after graduation: Will be enrolling in ���ϲ�����’s engineering management program in the College of Engineering and Computer Science, with the goal of one day working in product management or project management within the field of technology or engineering. “I’m a very creative person, and I’m always thinking in terms of the user experience and design when it comes to the different apps. I want to make sure that whatever product I’m helping to develop is suitable and maximizes the user experience.”

Joseph Perez meditates outside Hendricks Chapel (Photo by Micah Greenberg)

“People were lonely. They had a lot of anxiety,” recalled Cooke. She knew the need for meditation and mindfulness would increase as students returned to campus in the fall of 2020. That’s when she put together the Mindfulness Certification program. Some of the students who showed interest in the program were already invested in their meditation practice, but many others were curious about meditation and nervous to try it. While some participants identify as Buddhist, most come from other backgrounds (including faith-based and atheist/agnostic) and gather to embrace the spiritual benefits of meditation and mindfulness.

The students who came together for meditation and the weekly sangha meetings felt like they had found a sense of belonging. “When you’re in a group, you just see that you’re not the only one who feels pain,” said Cooke.

The Mindfulness Certification has three levels. The first level entails attending a beginners’ workshop that includes how to sit in meditation and how to deal with discomfort. The student must attend one or more meditations per week and keep a short journal. About 40 students have completed the first level of certification.

The Buddhist altar in Hendricks Chapel’s Small Chapel (Photo by Solon Quinn)

Why develop a certificate for meditation? “Your brain is going to tell you that you don’t have time to do ‘nothing’ for half an hour; you’re very busy and you shouldn’t do it,” Cooke says. “But if you tell your brain, ‘I’m getting a certificate!’ your brain is going to understand that you’re gaining credentials.” However, she adds that the real payoff isn’t a piece of paper, your well-being is where the real benefits lay.

Caroline Moller ’24 will receive her Level 2 certificate this semester. As a senior studying forensic science and psychology in the College of Arts and Sciences, she notes many benefits for both her personal and professional well-being. Just about a year ago, Moller’s friend asked her to attend a meditation session. Before that, other trusted people in her life had recommended meditation. “It was never something I saw myself capable of doing, because I had always been a highly anxious person,” she says. “My life has been changed ever since for the better.”

Not only did Moller feel that she received personal benefits from her involvement, but also that the entire group was collectively recovering from trauma and stress. “Being a part of this group has acted as a healing process,” she says.

University staff member Robin Summers started her mindfulness practice in 2018. Currently, as an assistant director in admissions, she is grateful for her mindfulness training with Cooke and others. She travels often to recruit future students and feels the benefit of the lessons she has learned. “I can tell when I am meditating and when I’m not. I can physically and mentally feel it,” she says. “As a parent and a caregiver for older parents, my ability to manage the noise in my life is much better.”

Avid practitioner Joe Perez, a senior at the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY-ESF), started meditation after his therapist introduced a visualization practice during a session. Perez realized that meditation would be a helpful addition to his regular therapy sessions, and he has since learned to calm his emotions and think through situations logically.

For those seeking care for mental health, mindfulness training is one of many options.* Mindfulness practices are considered a healthy supplement to medication and other modes of therapy, like .

Mindfulness, according to Cooke, is about paying attention. “Paying attention is a spiritual practice where you find joy and gratitude,” she says. “And that’s how you express compassion: paying attention to other people and their needs.”

Here are six tips for starting your mindfulness journey:

1. Bring a friend! Engaging with a community or a friend can enhance your practice and provide motivation.
2. Just pause. Use meditation as a tool to pause the hustle of daily life, offering a moment to regain control and perspective.
3. Find a teacher. If you can’t find a teacher, try a video or podcast to get started.
4. Persist with patience. Meditation is a skill that develops with practice. Embrace the process with an open heart and patience. Initial discomfort or skepticism is part of the journey.
5. Reflect on the positives daily. Every day has moments of both delight and discomfort. Note those moments, and then release them.
6. Just try it. You don’t need any prior knowledge about meditation before attending.

“You are not alone,” notes Cooke. “When we meditate as a group, we learn that we are all experiencing pain. There is pain and discomfort in the world, but it doesn’t last forever. Experiencing this together creates community and compassion, two things this world needs a lot more of.”

You can learn more about the Mindfulness Certificate program and the meditation schedule on the . Anyone from SU or SUNY-ESF is welcome to join meditations or sangha meetings. Contact Cooke at jmcooke@syr.edu to have a cup of tea and talk about your interest in meditation or in receiving mindfulness training.

*SU and SUNY-ESF students seeking mental health support can reach out to the Barnes Center at the Arch, which offers services for mental health emergencies at 315.443.8000 or barnescenter@syr.edu; faculty, staff and employee family members can contact . The Barnes Center at the Arch also has . The has��resources to support yourself and help others, as well as a��chat service to talk with crisis counselors around the clock.

Fraternities and sororities rallied their members and friends to contribute, and as the day unfolded, the remarkable generosity of these groups was made apparent. “We are all so grateful for the overwhelming response to this first-ever Hendricks Cup challenge. With over $300,000 raised, our ���ϲ����� students were the true winners,” said Alison Murray, assistant dean for student assistance at Hendricks Chapel, acknowledging the immense impact of the day’s efforts.

A staggering total of $333,192 was raised for the Hendricks Chapel Food Pantry on the 2024 ���ϲ����� Giving Day, a testament to the collective spirit of giving within the ���ϲ����� campus community. Among the 1,280 donors, 984 identified as being affiliated with Fraternities and Sororities, accounting for a significant portion of the overall contributions.

In addition to financial contributions, the Hendricks Chapel Food Pantry also received 1,484 in-kind donations as part of the Hendricks Cup challenge, which stocked the pantry shelves and made an immediate impact in support of those in need.

Reflecting on the day’s events, Rev. Dr. Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel, expressed profound gratitude for the overwhelming response: “Witnessing the energy and efforts of ���ϲ�����’s Giving Day was a spark of inspiration and appreciation. For the Hendricks Chapel Food Pantry to be on the receiving end of such extraordinary generosity—especially among our students—is an honor and joy that far exceeded my expectations.”

Following a final tally of in-kind contributions, total donors and dollars, and percentage of respective membership involvement, the inaugural Hendricks Cup trophy was awarded to Theta Chi, with Phi Kappa Psi in second place and��Delta Tau Delta in third. “I am incredibly proud of the effort that each Greek organization put into the Hendricks Cup. The Greek Community absolutely exploded with support and participation,” said Tage Oster, president of the Interfraternity Council.

Members of Theta Chi (from left to right) Tage Oster, Jake Bransfield, David Ritacco and Drew Maier with Dean Konkol.

As ���ϲ�����’s Giving Day for 2024 concluded, the importance of community, compassion and collaboration were top of mind. “I am left humbled by the outstanding leadership of campus partners in the Division of the Student Experience and the Office of Advancement and External Affairs, as their shared efforts will help us all to impact more students, which then helps students to impact our world,” said Dean Konkol.

The Hendricks Chapel Food Pantry is open to all ���ϲ����� and State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY-ESF) students who may be experiencing food insecurity. The pantry provides supplemental shelf-stable foods, produce, personal hygiene products, and more at no cost to students. For more information on how to donate to or receive food from the pantry, please visit .

Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from several student organizations who will be , enjoy a spirited awards ceremony hosted by student Nicole Aponte ’24 and mingle with honorees and each other during a reception following the ceremony.

Get to know the outstanding alumni across generations who will be honored April 12 during the ���ϲ����� Alumni Awards.

Traditionally held in the fall during Orange Central, the 2024 awards ceremony was shifted to the spring to facilitate greater interactions between award recipients and the ���ϲ����� student body. The honorees, selected by the awards committee of the Board of Directors, were selected for their achievements and success, truly highlighting what it means to be Forever Orange.

The George Arents Award is ���ϲ�����’s highest alumni honor and recognizes individuals who have excelled in their fields. In 2024, three alumni will receive the Arents Award: former NFL quarterback turned philanthropist Donovan McNabb ’98; president and chairman of Wilmorite Thomas Wilmot ’70; and former litigation attorney turned civic leader Melanie Gray L’81.

Marc Malfitano ’74, L’78 will receive the Melvin A. Eggers Senior Alumni Award for his loyalty and service to ���ϲ����� over the past 50 years. Malfitano is a member of the 50th reunion class, and both the Classes of 1964 and 1974 will celebrate milestone reunions during the weekend.

Amanda Quick ’14, G’16 will be awarded the Generation Orange Award, which recognizes graduates from the past decade for career success and community engagement, along with their overall commitment to ���ϲ�����.

Major General Peggy Combs ’85, H’21 will receive the Military/Veteran Award for exceptional meritorious service while serving in the United States Military.

New in 2024, Tracy Barash ’89 will receive the Volunteer of the Year Award in recognition of her consistent volunteerism to ���ϲ�����.

Also new in 2024, the Outstanding Future Alumni Award will highlight student Leondra Tyler ’24 for her commitment, involvement and leadership outside of the classroom.

, then make plans to .

Story by Laura Verzegnassi ’25, student intern in the Office of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving

The campus community is invited to participate in a variety of solar eclipse-themed activities on April 8.

It’s been nearly 100 years since the Central New York region experienced a total solar eclipse, but on Monday, April 8, ���ϲ����� will find itself situated along the for this once-in-a-lifetime event.

Beginning at 3:23 p.m., a new moon will find itself precisely between the Earth and the sun, creating roughly 90 seconds of pure darkness during the middle of the afternoon.

University community members are invited to participate in this rare occasion—the next total solar eclipse in ���ϲ����� isn’t predicted to happen for another 375 years—through a series of on-campus events and celebrations in ���ϲ�����. Students can pick up their solar eclipse glasses through their residence hall.

Special note: All Parking and Transportation vehicles will suspend service on Monday from 3:15-3:30 p.m., after the total eclipse, they will resume their normal service.

College of Arts and Sciences Eclipse Celebration

The Department of Physics, in collaboration with the College of Arts and Sciences, is hosting various on the Shaw Quad from 1:30-4 p.m. Physics students will lead assorted make-and-take projects and demonstrations across different locations. Telescopes will be available by Carnegie Library, and guided and eclipse-related presentations are being offered in the Stolkin Auditorium. Complimentary eclipse glasses and pinhole projectors will be provided while supplies last.

To allow blind members of the campus community a chance to participate in and enjoy our eclipse watch party, has secured a device that turns light into sound. There will be speakers on the Quad to project the sound from the eclipse, and there will be information, provided by the , on how you can make your own device.

Of course, we will all (safely) peer skyward to view the total solar eclipse between 3:23-3:25 p.m. Be sure to visit the for more helpful information.

Solar Eclipse Sound Bathing and Drumming

Join the Barnes Center at The Arch and Hendricks Chapel on the Quad from 2:30-4 p.m. for an , featuring a sound bathing experience and guided meditation, a viewing of the total solar eclipse, and a celebration of Buddha’s birthday ritual with the Buddhist chaplaincy.

David B. Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics

The Falk College is hosting a viewing party for students, faculty and staff from 3-4 p.m. outside of the Falk Complex, MacNaughton and White halls. Eclipse glasses and snacks will be provided.

College of Law

The College of Law is holding an admitted student event and will be passing out eclipse glasses to members of the College of Law community.

Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs

The Maxwell School is holding an in the Lincoln Courtyard of Maxwell Hall from 2:50-3:50 p.m. and will provide glasses to attendees.

Solar Eclipse Festival at the MOST

Enjoy tabling activities, food trucks and free eclipse glasses during the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology’s (MOST) from noon-4 p.m.

Solar Eclipse Spectacular With the Liverpool Public Library

and participate in guided learning activities starting at 2 p.m. at Onondaga Lake Park. Free eclipse glasses will be provided while supplies last.

Solar Party on Solar Street

on Solar Street of the ���ϲ����� Inner Harbor from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. There will be food trucks, live music and free eclipse glasses.

Hendricks Chapel’s chaplains gathered to offer words of hope and inspiration at the 2023 Blessing of the Students. Otto made a guest appearance at the ceremony.

A historic gift to Hendricks Chapel, the largest since its dedication in 1930, will launch a $3 million Challenge Campaign to enrich student life and learning through the spiritual heart of ���ϲ�����.

As a home for all faiths and place for all people, Hendricks Chapel hosts nine chaplaincies, more than 25 student-led religious and spiritual life groups, and sponsors over 2,000 programs for more than 600,000 annual attendees. Hendricks Chapel employs student workers; supports musical ensembles; offers support through the Student Opportunity Fund, Student Veteran Support Fund and the Hendricks Chapel Food Pantry; and also partners throughout the campus community to advance academic excellence at a university welcoming to all.

The recent anonymous gift will be used to support various chapel programs and initiatives, to prepare engaged citizens, scholars and leaders for participation in a changing global society.

Through the connection of family members who attended ���ϲ�����, two of whom were married at Hendricks Chapel, the donors are inspired by the chapel’s mission and want to support its efforts through an unrestricted gift that inspires others to give. “I like the idea of universities having an opportunity to be brought together in a spiritual and religious setting,” says a member of the family. “The focused effort required to learn a field of endeavor during your college years needs to be balanced with a constant reminder that each field’s ultimate purpose is to advance goodness in the world.”

The gift will launch the $3 million Hendricks Chapel Challenge Gift Campaign. The donors have already committed to $1 million. If ���ϲ����� alumni, parents, friends and other supporters can raise an additional $1 million by June 30, the family will give another $1 million, for a total of $3 million in support of Hendricks Chapel. All donations to any Hendricks Chapel funds by June 30, 2024, will count toward the Hendricks Chapel Challenge Gift Campaign. “For Hendricks Chapel to be on the receiving end of such remarkable generosity is an honor and a joy,” said Reverend Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel. “This gift will help us to impact more students, which help our students to impact our world.”

The initial $1 million gift has already made a significant impact:

• “We are very blessed to be receiving funds from Hendricks Chapel this year. Some of these funds are being used to bring an ASL [American Sign Language] interpreter to our 12:10 p.m. Mass on Wednesday afternoons,” says Father Gerry Waterman, Catholic chaplain.
• “It is hard to put into words the enormous impact that Hendricks Chapel’s support has on the ���ϲ����� Hillel community. We are so grateful for our partnership with the chapel. In addition to thought partnership, strategic support and the benefits of a community of practice, grants from the chapel have enabled Hillel to inspire students as they embrace Shabbat and holiday traditions here on campus,” says Jillian Juni, executive director of ���ϲ����� Hillel.
• “Hendricks Chapel has supported our many service trips. Through these trips, students have engaged in compassion-oriented service work, providing food and water filtration, and replacing roofs after the destruction of Hurricane Maria. Over 70 students have benefited from our trips to Puerto Rico, New York City and Nepal over the years,” says Rev. Devon Bartholomew, nondenominational Christian protestant chaplain.
• “Thanks to Hendricks Chapel I was able to study abroad, which has drastically shaped my ���ϲ����� experience, allowing me to learn more about myself and the world around us,” says Leondra Tyler, student coordinator for the��Hendricks Chapel Food Pantry.
• “Funding from Hendricks Chapel helps the Hendricks Chapel Choir stay connected to the campus community, and to the artistic community around our state, our nation, and our world,” says José “Peppie” Calvar, DMA, director of the Hendricks Chapel Choir.
• “Funding from Hendricks Chapel enables our group to expand its programming, makes it easier to accommodate religious observances like Ramadan Iftars, and gives our students additional opportunities to gather and connect in meaningful and creative ways without the burden of financial constraints. It was pivotal in building our community, sense of belonging, and student connections, which have increased enrollment, participation and engagement,” says Imam Amir Durić, Muslim chaplain.

For more information or to support the Hendricks Chapel Challenge Gift Campaign before June 30, 2024, please visit or contact Jeff Comanici at jjcomani@syr.edu or 315.420.9330.

Find more about Hendricks Chapel’s events and programming at .

About Forever Orange: The Campaign for ���ϲ�����

Orange isn’t just our color. It’s our promise to leave the world better than we found it. Forever Orange: The Campaign for ���ϲ����� is poised to do just that. Fueled by more than 150 years of fearless firsts, together we can enhance academic excellence, transform the student experience and expand unique opportunities for learning and growth. Forever Orange endeavors to raise $1.5 billion in philanthropic support, inspire 125,000 individual donors to participate in the campaign, and actively engage one in five alumni in the life of the University. Now is the time to show the world what Orange can do. Visit����to learn more.

Vernon L. Lee Jr.

It’s a love story that began at Hendricks Chapel, where Vernon L. Lee Jr. first met Marcia L. Heath. Both undergraduates, they raised their voices in song together, worshipped together and, six days after they both graduated from ���ϲ����� in 1954, they married. Their devotion to each other and to the Orange Community lasted a lifetime and beyond—in the establishment of the Marcia ’54 and Vernon ’54 Lee Endowed Fund for Hendricks Chapel.

The Reverend Vernon LaMont “Bonky” Lee Jr. was 92 when he passed away on Dec. 10, 2023. He had served as a voting trustee on the ���ϲ����� Board of Trustees from 1976 to 1989, when he became a life trustee. He also served on the Hendricks Chapel Advisory Board.

“Vernon was a valued trustee and supporter of ���ϲ����� for decades,” Chancellor Kent Syverud says. “I am so grateful for his life and work.”

Lee earned a bachelor’s degree in speech and drama from the College of Arts and Sciences followed by a master’s degree in theology from the Boston University School of Theology in 1957. He began as a pastor in 1957, advancing to the position of superintendent of the Elmira District of the Methodist Church in New York. Lee also had served as executive director of the church’s Central New York Conference, headquartered in ���ϲ�����. In retirement, he had been a senior consultant to the United Methodist Frontier Foundation Inc.

It is noteworthy that the Methodist leader was so dedicated to and engaged with his alma mater, a university that was initially founded by resolution of the Methodist State Convention in ���ϲ����� in 1870. “Reverend Lee embodied the dynamic relationship between faith and learning,” says the Rev. Brian E. Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel. “Through his lifelong commitment to mission and ministry, Vernon truly lived the famous quote by Methodist theologian John Wesley: ‘Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.’”

“To be on the receiving end of Rev. Lee’s kindness and wisdom was an honor. Though ���ϲ����� is no longer affiliated with the Methodist Church, leaders such as Vernon help to ensure that the spirit and soul of our campus community will remain strong for generations to come,” says Konkol. Lee’s ministry mentor was Charles Noble who was the dean of Hendricks Chapel when he and Marcia were students. The endowed fund set up by the couple was created “to initiate, support and/or enhance programs that fulfill the mission of Hendricks Chapel.” Konkol says it provides support for students in need, and creates opportunities for student engagement.

As a Methodist pastor in the Central New York Conference, Lee served churches in Watkins Glen, ���ϲ�����, Auburn, Geneva and Elmira. In later years, he became district superintendent for Elmira, and subsequently conference executive. He completed his active ministry at the United Methodist Church in Fayetteville, New York.

Lee was a member of the United Methodist Frontier Foundation’s Board of Directors, serving New York and Connecticut. He was past president of the Board of Directors of the Folts Foundation Inc. in Herkimer, New York; past chair of the Board of Trustees of Alban at Duke Divinity School (formerly The Alban Institute in Herndon, Virginia); and past president of The Rotary Club of ���ϲ�����.

He and his wife Marcia, who received a bachelor’s degree from the School of Education, were also generous supporters of the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, ���ϲ����� Athletics and ���ϲ����� Libraries.

He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Marcia, two children, four grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

As imam and Muslim chaplain, Amir Durić fosters community and togetherness. His research focuses on supporting and enhancing the Muslim student experiences on college campuses across the country.

As a faith leader, an imam is the one who proceeds, the one who stands in front and leads the mosque’s worshippers as a role model.

A deeply religious man, Amir Durić knew he was meant to serve as a faith leader when he was a child and his grandfather called upon him to lead his family’s daily prayers during the holy month of Ramadan. It is a time when observant Muslims around the world come together in hopes of increasing their consciousness, self-awareness and empathy through fasting daily from dawn to sunset and worship that elevate their spirituality.

Durić gathered the courage to deliver the prayers, and soon after accepting the responsibility, he started noticing a newfound love and passion for the spiritual life. Durić had found his calling.

Amir Duric

“With faith, I am on the receiving end of timeless and divine wisdom that really broadens my horizons beyond this temporary world. My faith motivates me to be a better citizen of this world, because I have a role to play, and that role is not just about me, but about those around me as well,” says Durić, the imam at . In his role, he is responsible for fostering a sense of community and togetherness among the students who practice Islam on campus.

Since 2017, Durić has led efforts to enhance and improve the Muslim student experience on college campuses across the country. He is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in ��through the .

With the holy month of Ramadan underway, Durić stopped by to share his thoughts on the role an Imam plays on campus, describe the core tenets of Islam and address the biggest misconceptions surrounding the religion. He also discusses his groundbreaking research on the Muslim student experiences on college campuses across the country and explains how an interfaith collaboration with Rabbi Ethan Bair brought together Muslim and Jewish students to learn more about each other’s beliefs and values.

Check out podcast featuring Durić. A transcript [PDF]��is also available.

This powerful African proverb emphasizes how, after someone learns to read or write, they have an obligation and a responsibility to pass that knowledge on to someone else, thus spreading wisdom and education throughout their city or town.

Employing the same principles of uplifting and educating one’s community, the (MCI) began in 2020 with four ���ϲ����� students who were seeking to support and empower each other as they navigated their college journeys.

Through word of mouth, engaging programs and peer mentorship, MCI has developed into an impactful student organization and a true brotherhood for its members. The growth is impressive: The first class boasted 18 members. Four years later, during Friday’s annual —the culminating event of the inaugural Men of Color Initiative Week—approximately 64 students will be recognized as campus leaders during a ceremony inside the Regency Ballroom of the Sheraton ���ϲ����� Hotel & Conference Center.

“Groups like the Men of Color Initiative are necessary for every person of color, to have a support system filled with people who are going through the same journey as they are and who can offer advice and guidance on their journey. Because I was able to help cultivate my leadership skills during my time with MCI, I’ve been able to influence and help other students of color who need advice,” says Ibraheem Ayinde ’24, a senior biology major in the .

Through word of mouth, engaging programs and peer mentorship, the Men of Color Initiative has developed into an impactful student organization and a true brotherhood for its members.

“The induction ceremony is a special moment. We’re given our special MCI jackets and it’s a great feeling for everyone to be acknowledged and brought into this network of individuals striving for a better tomorrow. I know my induction ceremony was a pinnacle moment for me. Every single person who left that space was happy. For many of them, it was the first time their name was recognized in the presence of others for their accomplishments,” says Ryan Nkongnyu ’25, a junior studying communication and rhetorical studies in the (VPA).

MCI’s programs explore issues unique to the experiences facing men of color in higher education. Through peer, faculty and staff mentorship, MCI promotes leadership development, academic support and service-learning opportunities while cultivating the next generation of leaders by creating spaces where everyone feels seen, heard and valued. Meetings often center on topics like financial literacy, self-branding, personal advocacy and what it means to be a man of color.

“Our meetings are big picture. We talk about how we interact with our community, how there are specific challenges facing men of color and how we can overcome those challenges, and about the long-term changes we want to see for our respective communities. We get to the root of these issues, and it’s been rewarding knowing I’m not alone in any of this,” says Zac Chavez ’26, a sophomore studying film in VPA.

Leading up to the ceremony, get to know Ayinde, Nkongnyu and Chavez, three of the group’s passionate student leaders.

Ibraheem Ayinde ’24

Ibraheem Ayinde

When Ayinde transferred to ���ϲ����� in 2021, he had never heard of colleges offering programs like MCI. It wasn’t until his first week, as he was walking around getting acquainted with campus, that he came across Open House and discovered MCI. It was a life-changing event.

Ayinde hopes to become a physical therapist after he graduates. Perhaps it’s his commitment to helping people that made Ayinde a natural fit as one of MCI’s peer mentors and leaders.

“This group was born from that desire to want to do more for ourselves and for this campus. We’re all like-minded individuals that, regardless of our career interests, want to see people that look like us succeed. I just love helping people. If there’s somebody who leaves our meetings feeling empowered and like they’re not alone, I know I am doing well as a leader,” says Ayinde, who helped orchestrate the recent Black History Month MCI Basketball Classic on campus.

Recently, the first cohort of MCI alumni came back and spoke with students about their experiences—both on campus and in the real world. Ayinde is looking forward to maintaining a lifelong camaraderie with his fellow MCI alumni and says he’ll always make time to mentor current students.

Ryan Nkongnyu ’25

Ryan Nkongnyu

Nkongnyu is an involved student leader, serving as vice president of the , event coordinator for the , ambassador and peer mentor for the (J.U.M.P. Nation) at ���ϲ����� and chaplain for the .

A first-generation college student and an , Nkongnyu admits he initially struggled some adjusting to life on campus. But earning a college degree has been his lifelong dream, so Nkongnyu was committed to overcoming any obstacles he faced.

During his second semester, Nkongnyu found himself seeking out spaces where he could meet and connect with “like-minded individuals who wanted to shape and mold the future.” He was introduced to MCI and inducted in February 2023.

“I was looking for great personal connections in a space where I felt like I belonged. MCI has helped make me gain confidence and be a better person. I’m inspired by this group. We’re always talking about how we can support each other and build a community where we lift each other up. These people have my back, and we help each other out with the problems we’re facing. We’re a true brotherhood,” says Nkongnyu, who hopes to work in the entertainment industry, either as an anchor or a producer.

Zac Chavez ’26

Zac Chavez

Chavez is no stranger to peer mentoring groups. When he was in middle school, Chavez began dedicating himself to his studies. The goal: getting into the college of his choice.

Before he committed himself to a career in film, Chavez first envisioned becoming a lawyer, and he joined a local program called Legal Outreach, where, with the help of public and private law firms across Manhattan, he participated in legal debates based on real cases on the Supreme Court docket.

But while the mentorship opportunities were meaningful, Chavez says he “struggled finding a mentor who looked like me.” That all changed when he joined MCI during his first year at ���ϲ�����.

“It was a breath of fresh air to know there is a space and a program like MCI at ���ϲ�����. It became a safe haven for me. Everyone has something positive or constructive to say, and there are different perspectives from people who have been through what you’re going through. It’s great to figure out how to navigate those issues from a multilayered perspective, and this experience has helped with my professional development,” says Chavez, who is also a member of the .

Chavez has also used the group to further his filmmaking skills, producing a documentary on both MCI’s basketball tournament and its upcoming induction ceremony.

Military-Connected Students

Marine Corps Sergeant Levi “L.J.” Guerra ’27 and student-veteran Danny “Rem” Bellitt ’27 first met while stationed in Japan. Guerra is currently a student in the military visual journalism program in the ��and Bellitt is a U.S. Air Force veteran enrolled in the as an undergraduate student.

“Being in different branches that have no business working together definitely had its challenges,” says Bellitt, who served as a crew chief on C-17s and C-5s. “Being an aircraft maintainer meant working twelve-plus-hour shifts at night, and L.J. being a Communications Strategy and Operations (COMMSTRAT) Marine meant she would go on exercises for months at a time.”

The pair were married in March of last year, and two days later Guerra was in the Philippines. They say that during the first six months of marriage they only spent a total of 45 days together due to back-to-back exercises.

“���ϲ����� has been amazing because it has given us both a chance to not only be together everyday, but also go to school together as students,” says Guerra, who was named a in September of last year.

“Coming to ���ϲ����� has been a blessing. We have been able to make up for lost time, and we can actually go out and enjoy each other’s company. Not only is it a nice break from the high op tempo that you experience in the military, it has just been nice to see each other and share a cup of coffee every morning,” says Bellitt.

L.J. Guerra (left) and Danny Bellitt

Marine Veterans Turned University Staff

While Marine veterans Michael and Colleen Drum didn’t meet in the military, their shared experience of being Marines meant they had a lot in common already when they met while working for the (IVMF).

Colleen works as the Onward to Opportunity installation manager for Fort Drum in upstate New York. Michael is currently the national program coordinator for the Onward to Opportunity program but will soon take on a new position as the operations officer for the (OVMA).

“We met in person for the first time at the IVMF all hands meeting in 2019, we had first met on a virtual meeting before since I was remote at the time,” says Colleen, who previously worked for the IVMF in southern California prior to relocating to Central New York. “We were both veterans and we had a lot in common so it helped, especially as a female veteran it can be tough to date men who haven’t been through those same experiences, and some find the role reversal challenging.”

“As veterans we were both pretty used to tough scenarios and I think that made it a lot easier for us both to move in together finally,” says Michael.

The pair also expressed their appreciation for the IVMF’s leadership–particularly Maureen Casey, IVMF chief operating officer–for supporting their relationship. They married in Skaneateles, New York, in fall 2022 and are now expecting their first child later this year.

Colleen (left) and Michael Drum

Veteran Alumni Who Bleed Orange

One look at retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonels Dwayne ’97 and Allison Murray ’01 and it’s obvious the married couple exudes school spirit. Dwayne graduated from ���ϲ����� with undergraduate degrees in sociology and information studies, Allison graduated from the University’s School of Nursing. The Murrays were married in 2009 and continued to serve on active duty in the Army together, with careers spanning more than 20 years each.

They were both student athletes while earning their undergraduate degrees at ���ϲ�����. Dwayne was a member of the track and field team while Allison was a member of the cheerleading squad. Amazingly, however, they didn’t connect while on campus.

“We met while we were both in South Korea,” says Dwayne, deputy director of the OVMA. “She told me she went to a school in upstate New York, and I was like, ‘Really? Which one?’ and then she told me she went to ���ϲ�����.”

Allison, who currently serves as assistant dean for student assistance at , was a little skeptical at first when Dwayne told her he had also graduated from her alma mater. Upon producing his student ID card as proof, the two realized just how much they had in common.

Their time together in the military was no easy feat, however. They have had to overcome deployments, being stationed apart from one another for years at a time, and dealing with the military’s archaic record-keeping systems that aren’t exactly accommodating for dual-military couples.

“There are certain systems and processes that aren’t necessarily set up for dual-military couples,” says Allison, who was a cadet with the U.S. Army ROTC detachment at ���ϲ����� while she was a student. “There were so many times that someone would say, ‘Oh you’re Mrs. Murray!’ and I would have to say, “No, I’m Major Murray, or Lieutenant Colonel Murray, I’m in the service too!’ It wasn’t just the person who couldn’t grasp the concept, sometimes it was the data-entry system for things like keeping track of our children in the system and making sure they were under both of our names.”

The pair said they deliberately made the decision to not be geographically separated if at all possible, that means sacrificing potential assignments that could be better for their career progression. For two highly-ambitious people determined for success, that was a challenge in of itself.

“Thankfully we both had great mentors, people who were rock stars in the military and who were highly supportive of us,” Allison says.

“At the end of the day our goal was less about our own individual ambition, and more about the goal of keeping the family together,” says Dwayne.

The couple now have three children together: Dwayne, who is a junior in the , as well as Caleb and Malachi.

Allison (left) and Dwayne Murray

Read more love stories from students, staff and alumni by checking out the 2024 #OrangeLove photo gallery!

Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of the Christian season of Lent, is Wednesday, Feb. 14.

Ash Wednesday is Feb. 14, marking the beginning of the Christian season of Lent. Lent is a 40-day period of reflection that guides people of Christian faith to the “Triduum,” or Sacred Three Days, that begins on the evening of Maundy (Holy) Thursday and closes on Easter Sunday.

Ashes will be distributed at both Hendricks Chapel and at the Catholic Center, located at 110 Walnut Place.

The noon ecumenical service at Hendricks Chapel will include clergy from a diversity of Christian traditions. The service will be held from 12-12:30 p.m. in the Main Chapel.

The complete schedule for the distribution of ashes is as follows:

• 8 a.m.: Catholic Mass and Distribution of Ashes at the Catholic Center
• Noon: Ecumenical Worship Service with Distribution of Ashes in the Main Chapel at Hendricks Chapel
• 1:30 p.m.: Catholic Worship Service and Distribution of Ashes at the Catholic Center
• 4 p.m. Catholic Worship Service and Distribution of Ashes, Hendricks Chapel
• 5 p.m.: Catholic Worship Service and Distribution of Ashes, Hendricks Chapel
• 7 p.m.: Catholic Worship Service and Distribution of Ashes, Catholic Center

For more information, contact Hendricks Chapel at 315.443.2901,��chapel@syr.edu, or the Catholic Center at 315.443.2600.

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

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

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

The Service of Commemoration provides a moment to honor those who have recently passed away. “We hope this time of ritual and reflection will nurture the spirit and soul of our campus community and beyond,” says Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel.

If you know of someone who passed away between Jan. 1, 2023, and the present who should be honored, please forward their name and affiliation to Hendricks Chapel at chapel@syr.edu by Thursday, Feb. 22.

Hosted by the chaplains of Hendricks Chapel, participants can attend Jumuah prayer, a Buddhist meditation, Catholic Mass, Shabbat dinner and more. The week will conclude with a special Interfaith Dinner and Conversation with the Student Assembly of Interfaith Leaders on Sunday, Feb. 11, from 5 to 6 p.m. The full schedule and details are available on the .

Here are seven reasons you may want to explore:

1. Learn about other faith communities. You may have a Jewish friend who you met in the residence hall, but you don’t know a great deal about Judaism. Interfaith Exploration Week is a ideal time to learn about your friends and their beliefs.
2. Deepen your sense of religious and spiritual diversity. If you have been raised in a particular faith community, attending university may be the first time you’ve met Buddhists, Muslims, Baptists, etc. One of the best ways to create understanding is to observe another’s practice.
3. Find your own community of faith. Leaving home also means leaving your home place of worship. Finding a faith community at school can offer a home away from home. Additionally, you may find yourself ready to create new opportunities as you expand your center of understanding.
4. Have fun.��It’s just fun to be with new people in new places!
5. Meet the chaplains. Did you know that our chaplains are confidential resources? If you are in crisis or just need someone to talk to, you can meet with any of our chaplains. Each chaplain is here to support our entire student body, regardless of your spiritual, religious or non-religious practice.
6. Make friends! In these programs, you will meet new people. Perhaps you’ve seen them in your residence hall or in class but have never had a chance to connect. Now you’ll have an experience in common!
7. Experience a “home for all faiths and a place all people.” With 15 chaplains and more than 25 student and religious groups, Hendricks Chapel celebrates and observes many traditions. At Interfaith Exploration Week events, you can ask questions, learn and experience concepts new to you!

“Interfaith Exploration Week is an opportunity to create and sustain curiosity, understanding and expression,” says Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel. “We hope that all participants can learn about others, and also learn about themselves, all in service to our common good.”

Interfaith Exploration Week is organized by the Student Assembly of Interfaith Leaders (SAIL), chaplains, religious and spiritual life group advisors, and the staff of Hendricks Chapel.

To learn more about Interfaith Exploration Week, , call 315.443.2901 or email chapel@syr.edu.

This annual event, attended by nearly 2,000 people, is the largest of its kind on any college campus. The program seeks to honor the message and mission of King and is a direct expression of the University’s commitment to advancing academic excellence at a university welcoming to all. This year’s theme was “The Reach of the Dream.”

Talithia Williams, big data expert, math professor and host of “NOVA Wonders,” was the event’s keynote speaker. She spoke on “Becoming an Agent of Change for Inclusive Education”�� and addressed how to close achievement gaps and serve as inclusive agents of positive and profound change.

The program included student and community group performances, and the presentation of this year’s . An art gallery featuring works from local Black artists was also part of the celebration.

Images from the evening:

Cjala Surratt of the Black Artist Collective talks to guests in the celebration’s art gallery. (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

Artist London Ladd, instructor in the School of Art in the College of Visual and Performing Arts, shares his work with a guest. (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

Students make crafts during the celebration event. (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

Community youth attended the celebration to support Unsung Hero recipient Murjan Abdi, pictured second from right. (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

Guests enjoy the traditional MLK Celebration dinner. (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

MLK Celebration guests (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

Members of the Adonfo Ensemble perform during the celebration. (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

Pictured left to right, the 2024 Unsung Hero recipients are Elbethel Berhane (community youth), Murjan Abdi (community adult), Sharon Dotger (���ϲ����� faculty) and Mia-Marie Fields ’24 (���ϲ����� student). (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

Keynote speaker Talithia Williams, big data expert, math professor and host of “NOVA Wonders” addresses the audience. (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

Cora Thomas leads the MLK Community Choir. (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

The 39th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Planning Committee is proud to announce the 2024 Unsung Hero Award winners: Murjan Abdi, Sharon Dotger, Elbethel Berhane and Mia-Marie Fields ’24.

The Unsung Hero Award is given to community members, students, faculty and staff who have made a positive impact on the lives of others but are not widely recognized for their contributions. The awards were created to honor Dr. King’s vision of creating positive change in a troubled world. There were a record number of nominations for this year’s award.

The award winners will be recognized at the 39th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration. The 2024 celebration will be held on Sunday, Jan. 21, with the art gallery opening at 4:15 p.m., dinner at 5 p.m., and the event at 7 p.m. featuring keynote speaker Talithia Williams. Tickets for the celebration are available .

The Unsung Heroes are:

Sharon Dotger (���ϲ����� faculty)

Dotger is the faculty director of teacher education and undergraduate studies in the School of Education. Over the past year, she has been tasked with redesigning the teacher education program, ensuring that preservice teachers are equipped with the skills, knowledge and compassion necessary to both enter the workforce and thrive in it. This shift will ensure that graduates of the University’s education programs are prepared to work alongside students with disabilities in schools across the nation, bringing the world closer to full inclusion.

Mia-Marie Fields ’24 (���ϲ����� student)

Fields, majoring in biomedical engineering and neuroscience in the College of Engineering and Computer Science (ECS), exemplifies the values of scholarship, service, social justice and inclusion. In her time at ���ϲ�����, she has helped to develop a portable breast cancer detection device addressing healthcare inequities in resource-limited countries; assisted in updating the Dean’s Advisory Panel in ECS; worked with a team to re-design the interior of 119 Euclid; and introduced Kevin Richardson of the “Exonerated 5” at the Black Excellence Gala. Fields is known to be both selfless and humble in her many pursuits.

Elbethel Berhane (Community youth)

Currently a senior at Jamesville-DeWitt High School, Berhane began her work with the Umoja/Kente Club as a first-year student and has continued her service by becoming the co-student advisor in her senior year. Last summer, she became certified and trained through the Student Coalition on Race and Equity, an initiative that accesses the talent and skills of students to eliminate racism in their community, starting in their school district. She currently works with People In Action and teaches Bible stories and lessons in the Amharic language to elementary school children at the Ethiopian Orthodox Church in Baldwinsville, New York.

Murjan Abdi (Community member)

A dedicated leader, Abdi uplifts his community with tremendous commitment. A proud graduate of the ���ϲ����� City School District, he joined the Manufacturers Association of Central New York (MACNY), serving in the field of workforce development. Prior to his work at MACNY, Murjan was an integral part of Onondaga Community College, significantly impacting the Educational Opportunity Program and the Collegiate Science Technical Entry Program. As a former peer financial mentor at CNY Works, Murjan’s unique ability to connect with young people catalyzed positive transformations in ���ϲ�����. His commitment to community development inspires hope for a more inclusive future in ���ϲ�����.

To assist individuals and families who are in need of winter outerwear, ���ϲ����� is again partnering with and for .

The coat collection drive will take place at the ���ϲ����� men’s basketball game on Saturday, Jan. 27, versus North Carolina State. As attendees arrive for the 7 p.m. tipoff, they can bring with them new or gently used (like new) coats. Donation bins will be placed strategically around the JMA Wireless Dome at gates A, B, C, D, E, F, M and N.

“No one should go without the warm clothing they need for the winter months,”��says Dr. Ruth Chen, professor of practice in the , who helped establish the Operation Orange Warmup initiative. “���ϲ����� is proud to partner with Interfaith Works and Hendricks Chapel to ensure not only the needs of our campus community but also the broader ���ϲ����� community are met.”

Student volunteers from groups across the University will help with the collection effort. Additionally, members of the JMA Dome staff will manage the sorting and laundering of the donations.

If you are not planning on attending the game but want to donate, starting Tuesday, Jan. 23, through Friday, Jan. 26, at Hendricks Chapel, the Schine Student Center on main campus, Goldstein Student Center on South Campus and the Nancy Cantor Warehouse.

Members of the campus community who have a personal need for donated winter coats may contact Hendricks Chapel at 315.443.2901 or��chapel@syr.edu.

Through the generosity of Orange fans and the entire ���ϲ����� community, we can share the warmth with those in need this winter!

To express the celebration theme of “The Reach of the Dream,” seven local artists were selected to show their works in the specially designed gallery, which will be open to the public on Sunday, Jan. 21, before and during the celebration dinner. The art gallery will open at 4:15 p.m. and the dinner will begin at 5 p.m. For more information, visit .

“Resilience” by London Ladd

The exhibition will spotlight artists Sharif Bey, London Ladd, David MacDonald, Brandan Meyer, Rochele Royster, Melquea Smith and Iris Williams. Curators for the exhibition include Qiana Williams, Jaleel Campbell and Cjala Surratt of the Black Artists’ Collective; Ken Harper, associate professor of visual communications and art curator in the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications; Ajajielle Brown of the Department of African American Studies, Emily Dittman of the ���ϲ����� Art Museum and Dara Harper of Hendricks Chapel.

The artists

Sharif Bey is associate professor of studio arts (ceramics) in the School of Art in the College of Visual and Performing Arts (VPA). Shortly after the fall of the Soviet Union, Bey studied sculpture at the Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Bratislava, Slovakia. Later, he earned his B.F.A. from Slippery Rock University, his M.F.A. from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and Ph.D. (in art education) from Penn State University. His awards include the United States Artist Fellowship, the Pollock-Krasner Fellowship and the New York Foundation for the Arts Fellowship. Bey’s works are featured in numerous public collections including the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s Renwick Gallery, the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston, the Carnegie Museum of Art, the Columbus Museum, the Dallas Museum of Art, the Mint Museum and the Nelson Atkins Museum, among others.

“Untitled” by Brandan Meyer

London Ladd, instructor of illustration in the School of Art in VPA, has had his work featured in critically acclaimed picture books, newspapers, magazines and community-based murals. His artwork is a mixture of acrylic paint, cut paper and tissue paper, creating rich, vibrant textures. Ladd’s illustrations can be found in the books“Black Gold,” “Oprah: The Little Speaker,” “Under the Freedom Tree” and “March On!: The Day My Brother Martin Changed the World.”

David R. MacDonald, professor emeritus in VPA, is an acclaimed and celebrated ceramic artist. MacDonald joined the faculty of the School of Art and Design in 1971. During the late 1970s and early 1980s, MacDonald’s work received most of its creative inspiration from his investigation of his African heritage. MacDonald draws much of his inspiration from the myriad examples of surface decoration that manifests itself in the many ethnic groups of sub-Saharan Africa. MacDonald’s work spans the complete spectrum of ceramic forms of a utilitarian nature.

Brandan Meyer is a ceramicist from ���ϲ�����. Studying at SUNY Oswego, his primary focus is on evolving his craft as a ceramic artist and exploring his capabilities through the medium. This is expressed through his pottery, as well as his experimentation with clay instruments. Finding inspiration from his political ideologies, familial heritage and personal connections, he creates work that not only reflects his roots, but sparks conversation that revolves around culture, empathy and unity.

“Fractured Expectations” by Rochelle Royster

Rochele Royster, assistant professor of art therapy in VPA,�� is a seasoned artist, community psychologist and educator who finds inspiration from people and community. Her upbringing, immersed in the rhythms of the South, was a fertile ground for creativity, where she learned the importance of the connection to land, rituals, and customs, and people. Proficient in quilting, printmaking, and various dye and resist techniques, Royster breathes new life into discarded materials, crafting narratives that echo themes of blackness and the resilience of ordinary individuals navigating worlds where patterns become as integral as the people they adorn. Through a meticulous examination of life’s rhythms, Royster invites viewers to reflect on the resilience and beauty that persist amidst life’s clutter and chaos.

Melquea Smith is a Black, Queer, multi award-winning children’s book illustrator based in New York. Known as a certified kid at heart, she adores illustrating magical stories with animals, mythological creatures and dragons. She specializes in illustrating Black children of all shapes, colors and sizes. When not illustrating, you’ll find her watching the newest animated movies, learning about Japan, studying Spanish with her cat Kilala, and giving love to her other cat, Bumblebee.

“The Biggest Gift” by Melquea Smith

Iris Williams is a visual artist born and raised in ���ϲ�����. She has a passion for bringing her creative ideas to life. She is heavily influenced by the Black community and finds it important to find innovative ways to include, empower and represent it in her projects. She experiments with various art forms, refusing to limit herself to just one. However, her authentic and creative expression has led her to develop a particular interest in digital art.

“We’re excited to highlight the talents of these extraordinary Black artists and champion the richness of ���ϲ�����’s artistic community,” says Cjala Surratt, co-founder of the Black Artists Collective and member of the MLK Art Gallery Committee. “This exhibition recognizes both established and emerging talent within ���ϲ�����’s artistic landscape and promises to be a source of inspiration for individuals of all ages. We hope to spark creativity, ignite curiosity and foster a deeper connection with the arts.”

“Wrapped in Iris” by Iris Williams

More information on the celebration

Tickets for the dinner and program, which will include student and community group performances, presentation of the Unsung Hero Awards and a keynote address from Talithia Williams, .

For more information about the MLK Celebration or to request accommodations, contact Hendricks Chapel at��chapel@syr.edu��or 315.443.2901. Learn more about this and other Hendricks Chapel events by visiting .

Talithia Williams

Talithia Williams, Ph.D., big data expert, math professor and host of “NOVA Wonders,” will serve as featured speaker at the 39th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration on Sunday, Jan. 21, in the JMA Wireless Dome.

This year’s theme is “The Reach of the Dream.”

Tickets for the dinner and program��.

This annual event is the largest of its kind on any college campus. The program seeks to honor the message and mission of King and is a direct expression of the University’s commitment to advancing academic excellence at a university welcoming to all.

“We are honored and delighted to welcome Dr. Talithia Williams to ���ϲ����� as our featured speaker for the 39th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr event. As we prepare to remember and honor the roots of a dream that continue to inform and inspire, Dr. Williams serves as a living reminder of how far the dream can reach,” says Dean Brian Konkol of Hendricks Chapel. “Through her groundbreaking research and steadfast commitment to community impact, Dr. Williams is transforming the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. At our upcoming event, I am confident that learners of all ages will be left inspired to dream big and strive to make such dreams come true.”

Williams, associate professor of mathematics and Mathematics Clinic director at Harvey Mudd College in Claremont, California, is an innovative statistician, co-host of the PBS series “NOVA Wonders” and a speaker whose popular TED Talk, “Own Your Body’s Data,” extols the value of statistics in quantifying personal health information. Williams demystifies the mathematical process in amusing and insightful ways to excite students, parents, educators and the larger community about STEM education and its possibilities.

Williams graduated from Spelman College and Howard University, and then later received a Ph.D. from Rice University. Her research involves developing statistical models that emphasize the spatial and temporal structure of data and applying them to problems in the environment. She’s worked at NASA, the National Security Agency and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and has partnered with the World Health Organization on research regarding cataract surgical rates in African countries.

At ���ϲ����� Williams’ topic will be “Becoming an Agent of Change for Inclusive Education.” By showing how educational systems are microcosms of our increasingly diverse society, Williams will address how to close achievement gaps and serve as inclusive agents of positive and profound change. In her keynote presentation, Williams hopes to inspire educators and learners or all ages by showing how data can be utilized to promote diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility.

“As a neurodivergent nontraditional student, I am excited to hear Dr. Williams speak about the importance of diversity and inclusion within education,” says Leondra Tyler ’24, co-chair of the 2024 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration. “I believe it is important to shed light on how we can pave the way for future academics and leaders who will bring positive change to our world.”

The 2024 program will include an address from Williams, student and community group performances, and a presentation of this year’s .

The newly introduced art gallery that features works from local Black artists will open at 4:15 p.m. The traditional dinner will open at 5 p.m. Halal/Kosher, gluten-free and vegetarian options will be available. Dinner will be held near the JMA Dome’s west end zone, entry at Gate A. The main program with Williams and performers will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the east side. For program-only attendees, doors open at 6 p.m.

Ticket purchase options are as follows:

• ���ϲ����� staff, faculty and the general public (dinner and program): $30
• Students (dinner and program): $15
• Main program only: Free

Registration is required for all ticket purchase options.

All dinner tickets will be assigned a table number at the time of purchase, which will be included in the mobile tickets. Guests interested in sitting with friends are recommended to purchase tickets together to ensure the same table assignment.

Guests may order up to 10 dinner and program tickets online. To purchase one full table (10 seats), select 10 total tickets and proceed to checkout. To purchase more than one table or more than 10 individual tickets, or if experiencing difficulties, please call the JMA Dome Box Office at 1.888.DOME.TIX (315.443.2121), option four.

All dinner guests will be seated in the 100 level of the stands for the program following dinner. All guests attending the program only will be seated in the 200 level. Seating is general admission in those areas for the program.

Buy tickets online at��, in person at the Dome Box Office inside Gate B at 900 Irving Ave. (Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) or by phone (888.DOME.TIX or 315.443.2121, option four). Tickets will be mobile and will be uploaded directly to your MyCuse account to manage upon purchase. View the for more information.

Free parking is available in the Irving Avenue Garage and in lots west of the JMA Dome. Visit the University’s for maps and directions. American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART) will be available at the event. Accessible seating is provided on the concourse level of the JMA Dome.

For more information about the MLK Celebration or to request accommodations, contact Hendricks Chapel at��chapel@syr.edu��or 315.443.2901. Learn more about this and other Hendricks Chapel events by visiting .

Remembrance Scholar Jovanni Mosca lays a rose on the Wall of Remembrance during the Rose-Laying Ceremony on Oct. 20. (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

The service will honor the 270 people, including ���ϲ����� study abroad students, who were killed when Pan Am Flight 103 was destroyed by a terrorist bomb over Lockerbie, Scotland, on that date and at that time 35 years ago. Chaplains will offer prayers and reflections. The event will also be offered virtually;�� to receive the Zoom webinar link.

Personal reflections and memories, which can be submitted upon registration, may be included in the ceremony. Closed captioning will be provided.

Requests for additional accommodations can be made by contacting Hendricks Chapel at��chapelevents@syr.edu.

This service is offered in partnership with the Remembrance and Lockerbie Scholars, Hendricks Chapel, and the Office of Alumni Engagement.

A memorial service at the Pan Am 103 memorial cairn at Arlington National Cemetery, organized by the Victims of Pan Am Flight 103 families group, will also be held that afternoon.

Free and open to the public, the concert features the (SUBE) and the , led by artistic director James T. Spencer and co-directors Sky Harris ’06, G’08 and Alicia Caron, respectively.

Both groups are joined by emcee Bruce Paulsen, an on-air host for and the “Voice of SUBE”; Harmonic Collective, an award-winning men’s a cappella chorus (founded by Harris); and pianist Jon Bergman.

���ϲ����� Brass Ensemble

Audience members are invited to donate food and personal care items to the Hendricks Chapel Food Pantry. For more information, contact Hendricks Chapel at chapel@syr.edu or 315.443.2901.

In addition to free, convenient on-street parking, complimentary parking is available in the Irving Avenue Garage and the Quad Lot on North Campus.

“Music is a gift of the holiday season,” says Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel and a professor of practice of . “The ���ϲ����� Brass Ensemble and the Spirit of ���ϲ����� Chorus help connect campus and community, truly bringing some much-needed joy to our world.”

Now in its fourth year, “Horns and Harmonies” features individual and joint performances by SUBE and the SOS Chorus. The evening culminates in a group performance of Leroy Anderson’s “A Christmas Festival” and a candlelight singalong of “Silent Night.”

Spirit of ���ϲ����� Chorus

SUBE will present chestnuts like “The 12 Days of Christmas” and “Carol of the Bells” along with film music from “The Nightmare Before Christmas” and “A Muppet Christmas Carol.” In turn, Associate Director Craig Elwood ’89 will conduct his arrangement of “Joyful, Joyful,” popularized by the Christian rock group GLAD.

“I love the brilliance and beauty of brass music,” says Spencer, a professor who has conducted, written for and performed with SUBE for more than 35 years. “Combine it with four-part a cappella harmonies in a historic space like Hendricks Chapel and you have a musical gift for the whole family.”

Indeed, the 70-member SOS Chorus covers the creative continuum—from the traditional (“Do You Hear What I Hear?”, “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” and “Sleigh Ride”) to the contemporary (“Warm and Fuzzy,” “Let There Be Peace on Earth” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”).

The singers are particularly excited to perform “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas,” for which they’re sharing the stage with some 50 stuffed hippos. Afterward, the handmade toys will be donated to the Elmcrest Children’s Center. “They’re incredibly cute and filled with love,” says Caron, one of many members who lovingly sewed the animals together.

Handmade stuffed hippos that will share the stage with the Spirit of ���ϲ����� Chorus during the chorus’ performance of “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas.”

Harris, who also helped, is thrilled to return to her alma mater. “This concert is fast becoming a campus tradition,” says the and alumna. “The sense of connection that occurs onstage and throughout the audience is mesmerizing.”

WCNY Classic-FM will broadcast “Horns and Harmonies” on Saturday, Dec. 23, from 8-10 p.m. WAER��also plans to broadcast the concert. Date and time are TBA.

A nationally recognized brass band, SUBE is the University’s ensemble-in-residence. The group has enjoyed a rich relationship with the and Hendricks Chapel, spanning many concerts, commissions and a 12-year association with . Last June, the 35-piece ensemble returned to the international stage with a performance at the Gettysburg Brass Band Festival in Pennsylvania.

Founded in 1957, the SOS Chorus is one of the oldest U.S. chapters of Sweet Adelines International (SAI)—a global organization committed to advancing barbershop harmony through education, performance and competition. Next fall, the award-winning chorus travels to Kansas City, Missouri, for the 76th annual SAI International Competition and Convention.

Following a meal and time for interfaith conversation, the students traveled to the East ���ϲ����� headquarters of the We Rise Above The Streets Recovery Outreach nonprofit organization, where they worked together to fill bags with hygiene items, warm socks and snacks to be distributed during the organization’s Thanksgiving outreach event that would be held later that week.

Students and Hendricks Chapel chaplains and staff members engage in interfaith dialogue. (Photo by Micah Greenberg ’26)

The idea for an interfaith day of service and learning started this past summer with the Muslim Student Association and ���ϲ����� Hillel, due in part to the strong relationship of Rabbi Ethan Bair and Imam Amir Durić. While the original plan was for a Muslim and Jewish partnership event, over the past weeks Bair, Durić and their respective student leaders felt it was important to broaden the event to include more than the Muslim and Jewish campus communities.

“To share the experience with other groups was, in my view, a most wonderful idea,” says Hendricks Chapel Dean Brian Konkol. “We then invited all 25 religious and spiritual life groups associated with Hendricks Chapel to attend, and the Interfaith Day of Service and Learning was supported by representatives of various traditions and identities.”

During the luncheon conversation in the Hendricks Chapel Noble Room, students gathered into smaller groups of three to four people for discussion, including things about others’ faith traditions that they admire. “It was a wonderful way to embrace connections by embracing conversations,” Konkol says.

Finished bags packed by students from Hendricks Chapel. (Photo by Micah Greenberg ’26)

When the students arrived in East ���ϲ�����, they were warmly welcomed by Al-amin Muhammad, founder and executive director of We Rise Above The Streets. The nonprofit organization provides assistance to the unhoused and underrepresented in the community, particularly through its “Sandwich Saturday” program and other initiatives.

Muhammad shared his personal experience of being unhoused for a decade. He was able to turn his life around, embrace his faith and graduate from college. He is now a full-time advocate and activist, and, since moving to ���ϲ����� in 2015, has led outreach efforts to thousands of individuals and food-insecure families.

In speaking with the students about his experiences and his work, Muhammad encouraged them to “attach empathy” to all that they do.

Krutartha Nagesh ’25, a computer science major in the , identifies with the Hindu tradition. “The culture and tradition that I come from places Mukti (liberation) as the highest goal in one’s life,” Nagesh says. “The ancient yet timeless wisdom of the Rishis (enlightened beings) recognizes Karma Yoga as one of the paths to achieving this ultimate goal. It is the path of service and selfless action for the upliftment and well-being of all life.”

Participants in the Interfaith Day of Service at We Rise Above the Streets gather for a group photo. (Photo by Micah Greenberg ’26)

Nagesh says the day was a chance for all of those participating to walk the path of Karma. “It allowed me to keep myself aside; my likes and dislikes, my identifications and biases, to do something that will positively impact the local ���ϲ����� area. I got to experience how seva (selfless action) can not only make a difference in the community but can also bring people from diverse backgrounds together.”

“Attaching empathy to everything that we do, in my opinion, can only happen when our sense of inclusion expands. To have an expanded sense of inclusion, we need to keep our differences aside and see how we can relate with each other,” Nagesh says. “To me, Al-amin Muhammad is a Karma Yogi. I wish to be one myself and also hope to inspire others around me to also take up the responsibility of selflessly serving others so this planet can thrive.”

Julia Ronkin ’24, an inclusive elementary and special education major in the , identifies with Jewish tradition. She took part in the day of service mainly for two reasons. “The first being that I believe interfaith work is so important for students on campus to take part in. In a time where there is so much divide, we as young people can show that there is unity and support for one another on our campus. My second reason for participating is the positive impact of connecting with other students in the broader context of the ���ϲ����� community,” she says.

Mian Muhammad Abdul Hamid ’25, an information management and technology major in the , is of the Muslim tradition. He participated in an interfaith community service event last year with Hillel packaging diapers.

“I know we all share a common interest and goal; to serve the community for the greater good. … During and after the event, I was thinking in my head, ‘this seems like something I can do.’ Just packaging items for the community whilst having a conversation with a peer from another faith was definitely a fun way to bond and was therapeutic.”

Al-amin Muhammad’s encouragement to “attach empathy” to all that they do struck a chord with Hamid. “I was thinking of packaging everything with love and care. ‘The juices I was packing in every bag are going to someone who will really enjoy it—someone who is in need,’ I thought,” Hamid says. “Hence, whilst packaging every item, I made sure to be packaging everything with love and for the sake of God. In my faith, ‘Sadaqah’ or charity, is a notable act that one can do to increase the consciousness of God. Moving forward, I am thinking about ways to help the community—not just from a faith standpoint, but to those who are less fortunate.”

The day was also an important one for the chaplains who participated. “I was grateful to serve our community alongside my friends. I admire the work that each of our chaplains puts into supporting and mentoring their faith communities,” says Christian Protestant Chaplain Devon Bartholomew. “This service opportunity gave me time reflect on the incredibly important work that I get to be part of at ���ϲ�����.”

Konkol was inspired by watching the students engaging in service and learning. “I believe the students chose to model the type of world they wish to live in, rather than mirror the type of world they currently live within, and in doing so they are indeed an example for others to follow,” he says. “They showed that one can be both committed and compassionate, devout and curious, faithful and hospitable. Once again, I am left honored to witness such outstanding students choosing to lead in service to our common good through religious and spiritual life.”

Students can reduce their library fines while doing good for others during the “Food for Fines” program, which runs Dec. 4 through the end of the Fall 2023 semester.

“Food for Fines” will run from Monday, Dec. 4 through the end of the Fall 2023 semester. All Libraries patrons with overdue circulation fines can reduce their fines by donating healthy, nonperishable food and hygiene items. Donations will be accepted at the circulation desks of Bird, Carnegie, Law, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and King + King Architecture Libraries.

All food items will be donated to the . Fine reductions exclude interlibrary loan and lost book fees. Don’t have a current fine? You can still contribute!

Contributions should not be open or expired and single-use items are preferred. Students can have their fines reduced by $1 per item for:

• Toilet paper, lip balm, rice, pasta, canned vegetables/fruits/beans and pasta sauce.

Fines will be reduced by $2 per item for:

• Liquid soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, cereal and canned meats/fish.

Fines will be reduced by $3 per item for:

• Lotion, oatmeal, canned soup/baked beans, peanut butter/jelly, tea, hot chocolate, ramen noodles and granola.

Fines will be reduced by $4 per item for:

• Shampoo/conditioner, deodorant and coffee.

For more information about “Food for Fines,” contact Nick Olivieri at naolivie@syr.edu.

On Sunday, Dec. 3, performances will take place in Hendricks Chapel at 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. The recorded virtual concert will premiere on Sunday, Dec. 10, at 7 p.m. EST.

These performances are free and open to the public.����for both the in-person and virtual concerts. Guests for the in-person concerts can select which section they will sit in for the performance.

An ongoing tradition hosted by����and the����in the��, “Holidays at Hendricks” celebrates the sounds of the season and is anchored by the ��and its director��, associate professor of applied music and performance and assistant director of choral activities in the Setnor School.

The student-centered concert features performances from:

• ���ϲ����� Symphony Orchestra, directed by James Tapia, associate professor of applied music and performance in the Setnor School;
• The international award-winning ���ϲ����� Singers, under the direction of John Warren, professor of applied music and performance and director of choral activities in the Setnor School, and Setnor Sonority under the direction of Peppie Calvar.
• Student organists and University organist Anne Laver on the Hendricks Chapel organ;
• ���ϲ�����’s big band, the Morton Schiff Jazz Ensemble, directed by John Coggiola, associate professor and chair of music education in the Setnor School and the School of Education; and
• The World Premiere of “O Magnum Mysterium” from Christmas Cantata, by Peppie Calvar.

Public parking is free and available on a first-come, first-served basis in Irving Garage, Hillside Lot and the College Place lot. Those who require accessible parking or would like more information about the event may call Hendricks Chapel at 315.443.2901 or email chapel@syr.edu.

Communication Access Realtime Translation and American Sign Language interpretation will be provided at in-person concerts. Captioning will be provided at the virtual concert. Doors to Hendricks Chapel will open 30 minutes prior to each concert start time.

For more information, visit��. Hendricks Chapel will also post regular updates about the event through its��,�������Ի������貹�����.

As part of the MLK Jr. Celebration, several community members who embody the spirit of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. receive the Unsung Hero Award.

The award seeks to honor the life and legacy of individuals who exemplify the spirit, life and teachings of Dr. King yet have not received widespread recognition or been previously honored for their efforts. These individuals represent a direct expression of the University’s commitment to fostering and supporting a university welcoming to all.

If you know an individual who should be honored and celebrated, please consider nominating them for the 2024 celebration.

included University staff member Nichole Henry, student Thomas Wilson ’23, ���ϲ����� community members and more. Nominations may be made in any of the following categories:

• youth/teen from Onondaga, Madison, Oswego, Cayuga or Cortland counties
• adult from Onondaga, Madison, Oswego, Cayuga or Cortland counties
• currently enrolled student at ���ϲ����� or the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF)
• faculty or staff from ���ϲ����� or SUNY ESF

The Unsung Hero Award nominations are due by Wednesday, Dec. 6, at 11:59 p.m. Nomination forms can be found��on the .

The 2024 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration will take place on Jan. 21, 2024, in the JMA Wireless Dome. Further information will be announced in the coming weeks at .

Questions regarding the Unsung Hero Awards can be directed to Hendricks Chapel at chapel@syr.edu.

Tibetan Buddhist lama Singha Rinpoche will pay a rare visit to ���ϲ����� this weekend. A native of Singapore, he will participate in ’s weekly Buddhist sangha meeting on Sunday, Nov. 12, from 6:30-8 p.m. in the Chaplain’s Suite.

The event, which includes meditation, tea and discussion, is led by Sensei JoAnn Cooke, a ���ϲ����� chaplain at Hendricks Chapel who also directs the .��The program is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Cooke, at jmcooke@syr.edu or 315.559.7013.

The Rev. Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel and professor of practice of , is thrilled to host the ordained lay teacher. “To welcome such a respected leader to Hendricks Chapel is an honor and a joy,” says Konkol. “I am thankful to the Buddhist Meditation Association for their efforts in nourishing the spirit of ���ϲ�����.”

Rinpoche is founder and spiritual director of Thekchen Choling, a Buddhist temple in Singapore with international branches in Malaysia and the United States. He’s currently serving a six-week residency at Thekchen Choling ���ϲ����� in Minoa. Known for his dynamic speaking style, Rinpoche has a gift for making traditional teachings accessible to modern people, explains Babette Teich-Visco, president and acting director of Thekchen Choling ���ϲ�����. “He’s jovial but sincere.”

On Sunday, Rinpoche will address different branches of Buddhism, including Vajrayana, which combines study and meditation to overcome suffering and realize one’s potential. “Regardless of your level of interest in Buddhism, you’re likely to benefit from what Rinpoche has to say. Being in his presence can produce a sense of love, compassion and wisdom,” says Teich-Visco.

Raised in a family of Buddhists and Daoists, Rinpoche was drawn to Buddhism at a young age. He later experienced several dreams in which he was instructed to teach Buddhism to those who couldn’t be taught.

At the end of November, the former chef and restaurateur will be joined by the Venerable Kyabje Jhado Rinpoche, one of the world’s most esteemed lamas of the Geluk tradition—a school of Tibetan Buddhism founded by the 14th-century philosopher Tsongkhapa. Jhado Rinpoche has served as the abbot of Namgyal Monastery (the personal monastery of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama) and Gyuto Tantric Monastery, both in India.

“Rinpoche” (pronounced “RIN-po-chay”) is Tibetan for “precious one” and is usually bestowed upon the reincarnate of a great Buddhist teacher.

For a complete list of events involving Singha Rinpoche, visit .

Members of SAIL (Photo by Micah Greenberg ’26)

Twice per month, a group of students gather in for dinner and meaningful interfaith conversation. From Muslim to Christian, Hindu to Jewish, and many others in between, these students who make up the gather to learn and listen. Their mission is to deepen their understanding of each other’s faiths, as this knowledge is the foundation for building bridges of unity, empathy and shared purpose. The group chooses various discussion topics throughout the semester, including themes like lunar and solar calendars, holidays, symbolism, food, sacred texts, religious tools and altars, myths, core values and more.

To develop a foundation for the current academic year, SAIL chose the recent introductory topic of fostering mutual familiarity. “We aim to be in the process of promoting understanding, respecting and building knowledge between individuals and groups of different religious backgrounds,” says Mian Muhammad Abdul Hamid ’25, convener of the group and a student in the School of Information Studies. “We embark on this journey of discovery and mutual respect. Please come prepared to share, listen, and learn from one another’s faith experiences. Together, we will continue to build bridges that connect us in the spirit of harmony.”

Hamid explains the purpose of the SAIL meeting. (Photo by Micah Greenberg ’26)

Hamid, a leader in the Muslim Student Association (MSA), credits his fellow SAIL member Ren Morton with the introductory topic of fostering mutual familiarity. Morton is pursuing a Ph.D. in social science at the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs. She is a co-leader for ���ϲ�����’s Pagan Association. Hamid was concerned that the students would be afraid to share their beliefs and opinions, so he was grateful to see that multiple students spoke up repeatedly and were excited to learn and share their own traditions. “By introducing this topic, students will be able to be aware of different faiths, and we can later jump into deeper topics and gain a better understanding of one another’s faith,” says Hamid.

Morton is a Ph.D. graduate student and the only parent in the group. She feels that creating a safe space is important and she hopes that the group will continue to connect SAIL members, especially when there are global concerns. “I believe strongly in the axiom that there is more that unites us than divides us. Familiarity and friendship, practicing respect for other people’s beliefs, and understanding the nature of religious conflict and religious trauma can go a long way in de-escalating tensions. Tensions can be from the past, in the present, or may arise in the future,” said Morton. “It is my hope that all those who participate in SAIL will leave with more compassion and appreciation for other religions, going on to embody that appreciation in their spaces and practices.”

Those gathered at SAIL recognize how their own judgements can sometimes stunt the ability to connect with those outside of their own worldview. To this, Hamid quoted a companion of the Prophet Muhammad, Umar Ibn Al-Khattab: “We judge by what is apparent and we leave their inner secrets to Allah (God).”

Yapan Liu, who represents the Chinese Christian Fellowship, offers his perspective to the group. (Photo by Micah Greenberg ’26)

With Al-Khattab’s statement and his participation in SAIL, Hamid is extra cautious because people follow different faiths for many reasons. He goes on to say, “After participating in SAIL, I am more open-minded to hearing interfaith peers and their outlook on life. I believe SAIL influenced me to not be judgmental and to be more open.”

Kayla Cuttito ’25 is one of the newest members of SAIL. Cuttito is a double major in Political Science and Environment Sustainability & Policy with minors in Geography and Policy Studies at the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs. She is excited to be part of the group and notes, “It’s very inspiring to be part of this community of individuals who are empowered by their experiences to share their faith with others.”

Through the years of SAIL’s existence, Hendricks Chapel’s associate dean Rebecca Reed Kantrowitz has enjoyed seeing the spiritual progress and thoughtfulness of so many students. As the advisor to SAIL, Kantrowitz oversees each meeting and brings wisdom as an advisory board member for Interfaith Works of CNY. “It brings me immense joy to commune with these incredible student leaders,” she said. “We grow and grow during the meetings. I learn something new each time we meet.”

SAIL is comprised of representatives from the 25 religious and spiritual life groups of Hendricks Chapel and seek for participants to develop as interfaith leaders and to function as a student advisory committee for the dean of Hendricks Chapel, Rev. Brian Konkol. Those who are interested in participating are encouraged to connect with convener Mian Muhammad Abdul Hamid or advisor Rebecca Reed Kantrowitz to gain more information.

Members of the ���ϲ����� Wind Ensemble and Hendricks Chapel Choir perform at St. Paul’s Church in London. (Photo by Jennifer Klock)

These performances had a special meaning for the musicians and their directors—they were a way to pay tribute to the 270 people lost in the bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie on Dec. 21, 1988. Among those lost were 35 students returning home after a semester abroad through ���ϲ�����’s Division of International Programs Abroad (now ���ϲ����� Abroad).

The tour, planned by the College of Visual and Performing Arts (VPA) in the lead up to the tragedy’s 35th anniversary, was meant to honor those who were lost in the bombing, strengthen the bonds that have grown between ���ϲ����� and Scotland in the ensuing years, and give the student musicians the experience of an international tour.

Milton Laufer, associate professor and director of the Sentor School of Music in the College of Visual and Performing Arts, offers welcoming remarks prior to the Wind Ensemble concert at St. Paul’s Church in London. (Photo by Jennifer Klock)

Planning and curating the remembrance tour began in the summer of 2021 with a conversation between Milton Laufer, associate professor and director of VPA’s Setnor School of Music, and Bradley Ethington, professor of applied music and performance (conducting) and Timothy Diem, assistant professor of applied music and performance (conducting), about meaningful performance experiences for the wind ensemble.

“They suggested curating a performance centered around the 35th anniversary of the Flight 103 bombing during 2023—that the numeric significance of the year and the number of students we lost that fateful day should be memorialized somehow,” Laufer says.

Anne Laver, associate professor of applied music and performance (organ) in the Setnor School and University organist, and Joseph-Ossei Little, Hendricks Chapel Organ Scholar, rehearse at the organ at St. Paul’s Church in London. (Photo by Jennifer Klock)

After conversations with college and University leadership and with Hendricks Chapel Choir Director Jose “Peppie” Calvar and Dean Brian Konkol, and extensive planning by Setnor School administrators Michelle Taylor and Megan Carlsen, the tour was born. The trip was made possible with the support of Chancellor Kent Syverud; Vice Chancellor Provost and Chief Academic Officer Gretchen Ritter and Trustee Judith Greenberg Seinfeld ’56.

Student musicians and Michael Tick, dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts, pose for a photo outside of Buckingham Palace in London. (Photo by Jennifer Klock)

“Two concurrent tours of two distinct ensembles; six concerts in three cities at five venues culminating in Lockerbie over the course of eight days. After nearly two years of planning, the day finally came for us to depart,” Laufer says. “I was overcome with emotions throughout the trip—from hearing these incredible students perform beautifully in venues of historical consequence to experiencing the Remembrance Garden alongside them. It was one of the most deeply personal and beautiful, gratifying experiences of my life. I could not have been prouder.”

The Hendricks Chapel Choir, 35 members strong, was led by Calvar, associate professor of applied music and performance (conducting) and assistant director of choral activities in the Setnor School. The Wind Ensemble, 65 members strong, was directed by Ethington and Diem. Anne Laver, associate professor of applied music and performance (organ) and University organist, and Joseph Ossei-Little, a graduate student and Hendricks Chapel Organ Scholar, provided organ accompaniment to the choir.

Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel, was the guest preacher at Tundergarth Church prior to the Hendricks Chapel Choir performance.

Laufer; Michael Tick, dean of VPA; Dean Konkol; Elisa Dekaney, professor of music education and VPA associate dean for research, graduate studies and internationalization; and Taylor, assistant director for operations in the Setnor School and “tour mom,” also accompanied the group. Travel arrangements were facilitated by Kipling Tours.

The musical selections performed on the tour were carefully chosen. “Energy and Light,” a celebration of and a reflection on life, was specifically composed for the Wind Ensemble by Natalie Draper, assistant professor of music composition, history and theory in the Setnor School. The St. Paul’s performance was the piece’s European premiere.

“Such Splendor,” performed by the choir, was created by U.K.-based composer Cecilia McDowall, based on a poem written by Pan Am 103 victim and ���ϲ����� student Nicholas Vrenios.

Peppie Calvar, associate professsor of applied music and performance (conducting) in the Setnor School and Hendricks Chapel Choir director, leads the choir performance at Tundergarth Church. (Photo by Jennifer Klock)

“The text happens to evoke significant meaning when contextualized with Pan Am 103,” says Calvar. “We are grateful to Elizabeth Vrenios, Nicholas’ mother, for her graciousness in allowing us to use this text. We hope the piece and our performance serve as a lasting monument to the Remembrance Scholars Program mission to ‘Look Back and Act Forward.’”

“Angels Rising,” a piece commissioned by the Setnor School and performed by the Wind Ensemble, was composed by prominent American composer Frank Ticheli.

“This work is composed as a deeply moving tribute to the memories of those whose lives were lost on that tragic day in 1988,” says Ethington. “It is a work of sorrow and of hope, a transcendent musical portrayal of the human condition and the beauty and fragility of life itself. This remarkable work will be forever associated with ���ϲ����� as it is performed around the world in the years to come.”

Bradley Ethington, professor of applied music and performance (conducting) in the Setnor School of Music, offers remarks prior to the Wind Ensemble performance at the Lockerbie Town Hall. (Photo by Jennifer Klock)

“Such Splendor” and “Angels Rising” were performed by the Hendricks Chapel Choir and Wind Ensemble, respectively, at the annual Remembrance Scholar Convocation, held in Hendricks Chapel on Oct. 20.

For Ronald Ditchek ’23, a member of the choir, the trip was especially poignant. Ditchek was one of three Remembrance Scholar alumni, including Micayla MacDougall ’22, G’23 and Tyler Youngman ’20, G’21, a Ph.D. student in the School of Information Studies, who performed as part of the Hendricks Chapel Choir (MacDougall also played the bassoon with the Wind Ensemble). During his year as a Remembrance Scholar, Ditchek represented Nicholas Vrenios and continues to do so.

A piper plays outside the Remembrance Room at Tundergarth Church in Lockerbie, Scotland. (Photo by Jennifer Klock)

One of Ditchek’s best memories of the trip is signing the book that was kept in a dedicated Remembrance room at Tundergarth Church. “Signing it meant so��much to me because it represented how a piece of me was left in Lockerbie. It signified a vow as to my commitment to looking back and acting forward for the 270 lives lost on Pan Am Flight 103,” he says.

Ditchek says visiting the Pan Am Flight 103 memorial in Dryfesdale Cemetery in Lockerbie was another major moment. “I saw a new way of remembering. I was able to lay stones for people who were just like us and learn new stories about the SU students and other passengers who were on the flight,” he says. “When I paid tribute to the victims at the garden, I did everything: said prayers for the lives lost, told stories to other SU students about those who were on the flight and thought about how my experiences in Lockerbie should be told to others, so the legacies of those on the flight are not lost.”

Student musicians outside Edinburgh Castle (Photo by Jennifer Klock)

Ben O’Connell, a graduate student in choral conducting in the Setnor School, says the trip left him speechless. “I can’t put to words the kindness and embrace we experienced from the people in Lockerbie. It is truly inspiring how welcoming and gracious the people are after all these years,” he says. “Seeing the memorials in person in the environment where the tragedy occurred put a true humanistic aspect that was missing from my experience with Remembrance Week, one that I wish all people could experience.”

O’Connell even found a personal connection to one of the victims, Colleen Brunner, who grew up in the same town as his mom.

Alie Fitt, an oboist in the Wind Ensemble, says she gained a deep appreciation for Remembrance Week and for the ���ϲ����� students who represent the lives that were lost.

“When Dr. Ethington and Dr. Diem were preparing us to go abroad, we had many conversations about the importance of why we were going and the impact that this had on the ���ϲ����� community. The true weight of the attack, though, didn’t really hit me until I was standing in front of the memorial in Lockerbie,” she says. “In that moment, I realized that these victims were the same age as me, enjoying college life and friends, and had goals and dreams just as I do. … Taking part in this Remembrance Tour was such a moving experience and one I will never forget.”

Peppie Calvar leads the choir at St. Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh. (Photo by Jennifer Klock)

Joseph Ossei-Little, graduate student, Hendricks Chapel Organ Scholar and member of the Hendricks Chapel Choir, says the trip connected him on a personal level with the incident that happened nearly 35 years ago.

“Singing in Tundergarth Church, which overlooks the field where the nose cone of the plane fell that day, signified a true connection for me. I was able to share in their grief and comfort everyone present with my voice and music,” he says. Performing “Such Splendor,” he says, brought him to tears.

“It gave me that resolve, in my heart, that never again should such acts of violence be allowed to happen and how I, can in my small way, share kindness and love to make the world a better place,” Ossei-Little says.

Ben Vermilyea, a graduate student, trombonist and graduate associate conductor with the Wind Ensemble, says the whole week was an extremely powerful and moving experience. “I was fortunate enough to conduct one of the pieces at the concert in the Lockerbie Town Hall. It was amazing to feel the connection between the students and the audience in the room,” he says. “Even though we had never met before, we were bonded by the music being made in remembrance to the events of 35 years earlier. I have never had as powerful of a music making experience than I had performing in the Lockerbie Town Hall, particularly when we performed ‘Angels Rising.’”

Timothy Diem, assistant professor of applied music and performance (conducting) in the Setnor School and Michelle Taylor, assistant director of operations in the Setnor School and “tour mom,” are pictured with members of the Wind Ensemble in St. Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh.

The trip was the first experience of traveling outside of North America for percussionist�� and graduate student Alex Talerico G’24.

“The thing that stood out to me the most was just how accepting and friendly the people of Lockerbie were when we visited. The positive relationship between the town and the University was palpable and I was approached and accepted with open arms despite being a stranger to every person I met,” he says. “Performing musical works in Lockerbie Town Hall��specifically dedicated to the tragedy was incredibly poignant and evoked feelings I’m not sure I’ll ever experience again.”

Allison Pasco, a graduate student in orchestral conducting and music education and a flutist, has long felt a connection to Remembrance. She grew up in Oswego, New York, with Remembrance Scholar alumnus Tyler Youngman. “The trip was one of the most special and memorable opportunities throughout my years at ���ϲ�����,” she says.

Pasco had two prominent solos in “Angels Rising.” “It made me think of all of the Remembrance Scholars I have known throughout the years and of Lynne Hartunian and Colleen Brunner, the two SUNY Oswego students who were victims in the tragedy,” Pasco says.

“The ���ϲ����� Wind Ensemble’s concert tour of the United Kingdom with the Hendricks Chapel Choir was a remarkable and memorable experience for our students,” says Ethington. “The concerts in London, Lockerbie and Edinburgh were once-in-a-lifetime performances before enthusiastic audiences.”

“Our hosts in Lockerbie were gracious and welcoming, and our shared history in remembering the tragic events of December 1988 resonates from generation to generation,” he says.

Video by Nick Dekaney ’26, a broadcast journalism major in the Newhouse School and a member of the Hendricks Chapel Choir

The Hendricks Chapel delegates included Dean Brian Konkol; Buddhist Chaplain JoAnn Cooke; Muslim Chaplain Amir Duric; Baptist Chaplain Devon Bartholomew; Hindu Chaplain Sanjay Mathur and students Elan Fullmer ’24, Olivia Matz, Joseph Patrick Zoll G’23 and Mian Muhammad Abdul Hamid ’25, who serves as convenor of the Hendricks Chapel Student Assembly of Interfaith Leaders.

Brian Konkol and the chaplains led a workshop for those engaged in religious and spiritual programs and services alongside young adults and university communities.

The Parliament of the World’s Religions is widely known as the premier interfaith global convening of civic, spiritual and grassroots changemakers. The organization was founded through a mission to cultivate harmony among the world’s religious and spiritual communities and to foster their engagement with the world and its guiding institutions to address the critical issues of our time. The Parliament was incorporated in 1988 to carry out a tradition and��legacy that dates back to the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago, where the historic first convening of the World’s Parliament of Religions created a global platform for engagement of Eastern and Western religions.

Modern Parliament convenings have attracted participants from more than 200 diverse religious, Indigenous and secular beliefs to its international gatherings in Chicago (1993), Cape Town (1999), Barcelona (2004), Melbourne (2009), Salt Lake City (2015), Toronto (2018) and virtually (2021). These Parliament convenings are regarded as the world’s oldest, largest and most inclusive gatherings of the global interfaith movement. Nearly 60,000 people across the world have convened at a Parliament in an enduring commitment to justice, peace and sustainability through the lens of interfaith dialogue and cooperation.

Global leaders such as His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, United Nations Messenger of Peace Jane Goodall, Nobel Peace Laureates Desmond Tutu and Shirin Ebadi, and President Jimmy Carter have addressed the Parliament convenings throughout its history.

Chaplains Amir Duric and JoAnn Cooke and students enjoy dinner during the Parliament of the World’s Religions.

“To participate in the most recent Parliament of the World’s Religions was truly an honor, and to share the experience with chaplains and students was a tremendous joy,” says Konkol. “I believe we from ���ϲ����� contributed a great deal to the gathering. We definitely learned a great deal, and I am fully convinced that we are ready and committed to apply our learning into the future.”

Cooke says that from her perspective, the best part of the gathering was the people she encountered. “If you closed your eyes and imagined a world where a diverse group of people could come together peacefully with a deep appreciation and respect for each other, and then opened them only to see that what you had imagined had come true, you would be at the Parliament of World Religions,” says Cooke. “It was an inspiration of hope to move about and feel complete freedom to be who you are.��There were many good workshops and programs, but where I learned the most was in the small conversations with the person sitting next to me, or a kindred spirit searching for the same room as me, or someone sitting on the ground across from me at the wonderful lunch so generously offered by the Sikh community.”

Konkol and the chaplains led a workshop for those engaged in religious and spiritual programs and services alongside young adults and university communities. “As university chaplains, our rootedness to our individual faiths provides a broad reach of care and support for our university community,” says Bartholomew. “I really enjoyed the time that I got to spend with my colleagues.”

Duric, Hendricks Chapel’s Muslim chaplain, says this year’s theme, focused on freedom and human rights, was critically important. “In the time when we learn about and witness injustices in our surroundings and around the world, the theme of freedom and human rights is pivotal,” he says. “Sessions, panels and activities at the Parliament inspired us to reflect on our role, individually and collectively, as humanity to address issues of injustice and contribute to freedom and fundamental human rights.”

“I am glad that a group of our ���ϲ����� students attended the Parliament and witnessed the world in all its diversity in one place. I am also grateful and honored that I was a part of our Hendricks Chapel team that contributed to this Parliament by putting together a panel discussion and sharing with others what we at ���ϲ����� do to prepare and educate the next interfaith generations,” he says.

Mian Muhammad Abdul Hamid, a junior in the School of Information Studies, immersed himself in the experience and partook in all the Parliament had to offer, from prayer services to informational booths to communal meals. “What really amazed me during the time I was there was the fact that we were all like-minded people (in terms of having a passion for faith and religion) in one big convention, all respecting one another,” he says.

“By participating in the Parliament, we at Hendricks Chapel are better equipped to accompany students of diverse religious, spiritual, moral and ethical identities and experiences,” says Konkol. “Through our collective commitment to advance academic excellence at a university welcoming to all, we at the spiritual heart of ���ϲ����� are now better empowered to build community, explore belief, offer guidance, lead rituals, facilitate cooperation and provide care.”

Established in 1930 as a home for all faiths and place for all people, Hendricks Chapel has witnessed significant increases in student engagement in recent years and has responded with the placement of new chaplains and development of new chaplaincies to advance academic excellence at a university welcoming to all.

The Rev. Brian E. Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel since 2017, says diverse and dynamic chaplains are of great importance for the University community: “As confidential and trusted advisors, University chaplains accompany students of diverse religious, spiritual, moral and ethical identities and experiences. While drawing from their distinctive traditions and practices, chaplains are called upon to serve all people by building community, exploring belief, offering guidance, leading rituals, facilitating cooperation and providing care.”

Hendricks Chapel is now host to 15 chaplains and 27 religious and spiritual life groups. To connect with a chaplain, please visit the Chaplains Suite on the lower level of Hendricks Chapel, call 315.443.2901 or visit .

About the New Chaplains

Daren Jaime

Pastor Daren C. Jaime, Christian Protestant Chaplaincy, Historically Black Church

Pastor Daren C. Jaime moved to ���ϲ����� 17 years ago and hails from Harlem, New York. His ministerial journey began in 1994, when he acknowledged his call to ministry at the Saint Frances A.M.E. Zion Church in Port Chester, New York. He is currently the senior pastor at People’s A.M.E. Zion Church in ���ϲ����� and is very active in the local community. Pastor Jaime has also been privileged to reach a global community as an award-winning journalist, educating minds across the world through his former radio show “Power Perspectives” and his weekly live television broadcasts of “Perspectives” and “Open” on Bronxnet. You can reach Pastor Jaime at dcjaime@syr.edu.

William Payne

Rev. William Payne, Christian Protestant Chaplaincy, Fellowship of Christian Athletes

In March 2018 Rev. William Payne was appointed as campus director of the University’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). Payne started playing baseball at an early age, sustained a love of sports throughout his youth in Maryland, and continues to blend athletics and ministry. After graduating from Liberty University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology in 1996, he went on to graduate from Baptist Bible Seminary in Pennsylvania in 2004. He served as a pastor in Michigan and ���ϲ����� before joining the FCA. Payne is enthusiastic about ministering alongside students of the campus community. You can reach him at wmpayne@syr.edu.

Dave Schubert

Reverend Doshin David Schubert, Buddhist Chaplaincy, Zen Center of ���ϲ�����

Reverend Doshin David Schubert was ordained as a Rinzai Zen Buddhist monk in 1994. He is currently the head monk at the Zen Center of ���ϲ�����. Schubert was born in ���ϲ����� and graduated from the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY ESF) with a degree in environmental and forest biology and later received a master’s degree, also from SUNY ESF, in forest entomology. After years of working at Beaver Lake Nature Center and Burnet Park Zoo, he retired in 2023 to join the Hendricks Chapel team and spend more time with his wife, two daughters, four dogs, three cats and two guinea pigs! You can reach him at dschub01@syr.edu.

Cydney Johnson, vice president of community engagement and government relations, invites not only the campus community, but also the broader ���ϲ����� community to get involved. “You never know who might be struggling with food insecurity, which is why we hope to bring awareness to this issue by supporting the important and ongoing work that many are doing to combat hunger,” Johnson says.

Hendricks Chapel Food Pantry (Photo courtesy of Hendricks Chapel)

To kick off the events, on Thursday, Sept. 7, at 8 a.m., the Office of Community Engagement will host its , featuring guest speakers Rev. Brian Konkol, dean of , talking about the chapel’s , and , professor of food studies in the , will discuss her research and work in food studies.

The next event on Friday, Sept. 8, will be hosted by the . From 10 a.m. until noon, the Food Pantry staff will host an open house to raise awareness about food insecurity, share about their work to serve students and receive donations from those seeking to contribute. The Food Pantry will also be open from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. to provide food for those experiencing food insecurity.

If you are unable to attend the open house but would still like to contribute to the Hendricks Chapel Food Pantry, donations are accepted both at the food pantry and at a .

Volunteers accept donations during the 2022 food drive. (Photo courtesy of the Office of Community Engagement)

Finally, on Saturday, Sept. 9, before the ���ϲ����� Football team takes on Western Michigan at 3:30 p.m. in the JMA Wireless Dome, the Office of Community Engagement and the Salvation Army will host a food drive. Those planning on attending the game are asked to bring with them non-perishable foods to donate. The items that are needed the most include the following:

• Rice
• Cereal
• Pasta sauce
• Canned fruit
• Peanut butter
• Macaroni and cheese
• Juice

“The food pantry at has been serving approximately 1,200 individuals each month, and the need continues to rise,” says Deanna Delmonico, public relations and donor relations manager. “Partnerships such as this one with ���ϲ����� are extremely important to bring awareness to this issue, and to help ensure that we can keep our shelves stocked and never have to turn away a hungry neighbor. We are so grateful to our community for helping us do the most good in ���ϲ�����.”

There will be ten different drop-off locations strategically placed around campus and in several��parking lots:

• The Quad
• Ernie Davis Statue
• Front of Carnegie Library
• Gate G
• Corner of Forestry Drive and Irving Avenue, near Sadler Hall
• In front of the Irving Garage on Irving Avenue
• Corner of the Quad lot near the Physics building and across from Falk College
• Comstock Lot
• Colvin Lot
• Skytop Lot

In addition to the food barrels, the Salvation Army will be on hand with red kettles accepting monetary donations. No cash? No problem! The Salvation Army also now offers a tap and go payment option to make donations.

Finally, during the halftime of the football game, J. Michael Haynie,��vice chancellor for strategic initiatives and innovation, will be presenting Konkol; Kaleya Scott, engagement coordinator at Hendricks Chapel; and Leondra Tyler, student coordinator at Hendricks Chapel, with a certificate to recognize the hard work of the food pantry. Simultaneously, the video board in the JMA Wireless Dome will recognize additional community organizations working to combat food insecurity.

For questions about any of the events during this three-day period, contact Jake Losowski, community engagement coordinator, at jjlosows@syr.edu or 315.443.4137.

Tucked away on the University’s South Campus, on a plot of land off of Skytop Road, is a photogenic garden full of life.

Pete’s Giving Garden and the University’s two food pantry locations bring together students, faculty, and staff to combat food insecurity through environmentally conscious practices. As part of this flourishing community garden, students are not only provided with fresh produce, but also a sense of collective responsibility for the wellbeing of the University community as a whole.

“It’s definitely something that they (SU students) can incorporate into their diet and takes a little bit of stress off their grocery bill,” says Justus Holden-Betts, student manager at Pete’s Giving Garden and a dual major in the Falk College. As the student manager at the garden, she plants the crops and harvests them to be sent to the pantries. “Something I am very intentional about is the planning process,” says Holden-Betts, “in terms of vegetables, growing ones that people will know how to use and enjoy eating.” After harvesting the produce, Holden-Betts brings the produce to the South Campus food pantry, located in the Carriage House at 161 Farm Acre Road, rinses it and leaves it for the students to grab during their visit.

Sustainability Coordinator Melissa Cadwell worked with Hendricks Chapel and joined the team when it first opened at the Carriage House in 2017. Cadwell warmly welcomes ���ϲ����� and SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) students in and manages the South Campus pantry. Her goal to help all students get the most out of ���ϲ����� is vital to the mission of the pantry itself. “All students should have the same experience at ���ϲ�����,” says Cadwell. “That experience includes going out with your friends for coffee, going to the farmer’s market, joining clubs. If you don’t have the funds to get the whole student experience, then you should come to the food pantry. It’s here to catch you and help you.”

Student coordinator for the South Campus pantry Leondra Tyler stresses the benefit that the pantry has on the University community. While the COVID-19 pandemic was just beginning, so was Tyler’s history with the pantry. During the pandemic, Tyler witnessed the true impact of her work. “I noticed not only the impact of having food but also a social impact. A lot of people would come here and stay here for hours to talk to me. I really enjoyed that and that’s what made me love the pantry a lot.”

The food pantries are open to any ���ϲ����� or SUNY ESF student. The South Campus food pantry is open from 1 to 4 p.m. on Wednesdays during the summer. For anyone who wants to help with Pete’s Giving Garden, there are open volunteer hours on Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

For more information about sustainability initiatives on campus, please visit the .

Story by Angelina Grevi, ���ϲ����� City School District communications intern

Participants from last year’s Haudenosaunee Welcome Gathering (photo courtesy of Angela Ryan)

The Haudenosaunee Welcome Gathering is an event held on campus to welcome all incoming and returning students, faculty and staff for the 2023-2024 academic year, and for all to show respect for the Indigenous people on whose ancestral lands ���ϲ����� now stands. Schenandoah is a citizen of the Oneida Nation and a Wolf Clan Faithkeeper. The Haudenosaunee Confederacy is composed of Six Nations: Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, Seneca and Tuscarora.

“It’s important to acknowledge and recognize that there are Indigenous peoples still here and that we are all standing in the capital of the Haudenosaunee territory,” says Schenandoah. “This land is sacred. We welcome visitors to be part of this sacred place. Part of our teaching is that no one can own the land, so it’s important to remember that ���ϲ����� is part of a much bigger picture.”

At the gathering, speakers and dancers will set the stage for the new academic year. Hot scones and strawberry drinks will be offered. The hot scones are derived from traditional breads and the strawberry drink consists of strawberries, maple syrup and water. “This is significant because strawberries are the leaders of the plants and maples are the leaders of the trees. In this way we honor them,” says Schenandoah.

Schenandoah encourages students, faculty and staff to participate in the Haudenosaunee Welcome Gathering. “We are sharing our culture because the Earth is calling to us to pay attention, we require collective healing, and most importantly, we are inviting our community to live in gratitude,” she says.

For more information on this and other Hendricks Chapel events, visit��.

During this ever-popular Central New York festival, musical members of the University community will perform as part of the lineup: the Black Celestial Choral Ensemble (BCCE), the Orange Juice advanced jazz combo and the ���ϲ����� Jazz and Commercial Music Faculty Ensemble. The University will also host a special gospel event, with a welcome luncheon.

Black Celestial Choral Ensemble

will present “Return to Community: A Sunday Gospel Jazz Service” to close out Jazz Fest on Sunday, June 25, at 3 p.m. The public will hear performances from the , the Dillard University Concert Choir (New Orleans) and a community choir. The first-of-its-kind program will offer a dynamic and inclusive spiritual experience that fuses and celebrates gospel and jazz music. A luncheon will be held beginning at 12:30 p.m. on the Shaw Quad. The and are both free of charge; the luncheon is available for the first 1,000 attendees.

“To host the Sunday Gospel Jazz Service on the campus of ���ϲ����� is an honor and joy, as ���ϲ����� Jazz Fest is widely known and respected, and we at Hendricks Chapel hope to contribute in ways that celebrate music and build unity in ways that are memorable and meaningful,” says Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel. “The Dillard University Concert Choir, Black Celestial Choral Ensemble and ���ϲ�����-area Community Choir will unite to provide a wondrous and welcoming experience that acclaims the splendor of gospel and jazz music, sparks spiritual renewal and blesses our beloved community.”

Founded in 1977 by Seretta C. McKnight to provide a spiritual home for Black students at ���ϲ�����, the BCCE ministers through Gospel music that fosters and supports academic excellence at a university welcoming to all. Led by student director Gabrielle Pinkney ’24 and supported through The Alumni Group (TAG) of the BCEE, the choir has performed at numerous venues throughout North America.

“What an absolutely amazing time for ���ϲ����� Jazz Fest to close with a Return to Community: A Gospel Jazz Service Experience at Hendricks Chapel. As we all know Hendricks Chapel is the heart of ���ϲ����� and the Black Celestial Choral Ensemble is its soul,” McKnight says. “As we look and see all the challenges we are facing in our communities and around the country, this music experience, merging the Gospel—good news—and jazz—a smooth groove—is just the balm needed for such a time as this.”

Dillard University Concert Choir

To honor the gospel service theme of “Return to Community,” a diverse community choir composed of ���ϲ����� area residents will be led by Cora Thomas, known locally as the “First Lady of Gospel Music.” Born and raised in ���ϲ�����, Thomas supports numerous community organizations and hosts “Sunday Morning Gospel” on WAER.

“This is the premiere year for us to celebrate gospel music through the ���ϲ����� community at large and renowned talents of Dillard University Choir,” Thomas says. “I want to see the city come alive, people come together as a community with BCCE and Dillard University and be enthralled by this epic event.”

The nationally renowned Dillard University Concert Choir features vibrant student voices from across North America. The choir recently performed for the Historically Black College and University All-Star Game and the National Association for Law Placement Annual Education Conference.

Earlier in the Jazz Fest festivities, the Orange Juice advanced jazz combo, made up of students in the , will , at the Visit ���ϲ����� Stage in Hanover Square.

Orange Juice advanced jazz combo

An advanced jazz combo featuring instrumental and vocal performers, ���ϲ����� Orange Juice performs regularly in concerts on campus and at University and community events. The group is vocalist McKenna Fenimore ’25, Joseph King ’25 on saxophone, Xaden Nishimitsu ’26 on trumpet, keyboardist Sam Ronan ’23, Luke Brady ’25 on bass and Grady Collingbourne ’24 on drums.

The student musicians are looking forward to performing—and being part of an event that includes Grammy Award-winning jazz artists Herbie Hancock and Gladys Knight and other national and international artists.

“We’re excited to hear the big jazz greats coming to the ‘Cuse!” Nishimitsu says.

The ���ϲ����� Jazz and Commercial Music Faculty Ensemble . Both groups are housed in the Setnor School of Music in the .

���ϲ����� Jazz and Commercial Music Faculty Ensemble

���ϲ����� Faculty Ensemble are members of the Setnor School of Music Jazz and Commercial Music department faculty and alumni. Their performances will feature new arrangements and compositions. The group is musical director and saxophonist Mike Dubaniewicz, John Hasselback III on trumpet, Daniel Mach-Holt on trombone, Nick Abelgore on keyboards, Rick Balestra on guitar, Matt Vacanti on bass and Allan Ward on drums.

The headlining performers are Grammy Award-winning jazz artists Herbie Hancock and Gladys Knight. Other national and international artists and a collection of local acts will also play as part of the free five-day festival.

Lutheran pastor Rev. Gail Riina stands with fellow chaplains in her white pastor’s robe.

After 15 years of service as Lutheran Chaplain at Hendricks Chapel, Rev. Gail Riina has announced her retirement, effective at the end of July.

Pastor Gail (as she is often known by students) served in numerous campus contexts throughout her years of ministry, including George Washington University, Cornell University and The State University of New York at Buffalo before arriving at ���ϲ����� in 2009. Through her focus on vocational discernment and pastoral counseling, Pastor Gail was committed to sharing a Lutheran expression of Christianity in ways that met the evolving needs of a diverse student body.

“Throughout her years of ministry at ���ϲ�����, Pastor Gail Riina embodied her Christian faith through a genuine care for students and principled commitment to inclusive community impact,” says Rev. Dr. Brian Konkol, Dean of Hendricks Chapel. “Through a remarkable ability to both proclaim her own beliefs and also learn from the beliefs of others, she empowered countless students to grow and flourish as leaders, and she now leaves a foundation for others to build upon and appreciate. I am personally grateful for her friendship and wish her the fullness of God’s blessings for the next chapter in her journey.”

In addition to her on-campus presence, Pastor Gail also championed many community initiatives, such as “Success Saturdays” that involved tutoring New American students, providing support and building cultural competency. “Pastor Gail has shaped both the Lutheran Chaplaincy and Hendricks Chapel’s Chaplains’ Council in countless ways by infusing the values of loving-kindness, social justice and care for the earth in all that she does, says Associate Dean, Rebecca Reed Kantrowitz. “Gail’s work with area refugees, coupled with numerous community service projects, has made a lasting impact not only on the Central New York community but also on the hundreds of students, staff and faculty with whom she has worked.”

“My greatest joy has been to be a part of building relationships of trust and dialogue, and to witness how community is the catalyst for students’ growth,” says Riina. “My experience has deepened my faith in the power of God to heal and transform and my hope for greater peace throughout the world.”

In partnership with Dean Konkol and Hendricks Chapel, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) Upstate New York Synod will launch a search for the next Lutheran Chaplain.

It started when colleagues and friends Imam Amir Durić and Rabbi Ethan Bair had an idea for strengthening their chaplaincies through bringing students into their circle of friendship. Both Bair and Durić have a history of interfaith collaboration. Bair’s earliest family memories include sharing Dec. 25 with Iranian Sufi Muslim neighbors.

Imam Amir Durić (left) and Rabbi Ethan Bair had an idea for strengthening their chaplaincies through bringing students into their circle of friendship. Both Bair and Durić have a history of interfaith collaboration.

“We had a tradition of getting together on the 25th since it wasn’t either of our holidays and we would have dinner together,” says Bair. “I love the idea of not just knowing your neighbors but becoming friends with your neighbors.”

At , known as the spiritual heart of ���ϲ����� since 1930, friendships between chaplains aren’t new territory. In the mid-1990s the Jewish and Muslim chaplains shared an office in the lower level of the chapel.

The rabbi and imam no longer share an office, but Durić and Bair wanted to engage their groups in both sharing meals and partnering on service opportunities. Bair discovered a special funding opportunity through Hillel International in partnership with��the Arthur Vining Davis Foundation, allowing the two groups to sponsor a meal and a service project.

If we all just live in our own bubbles, we will just end up being limited and having limited impact. Connecting and collaborating with others is really what makes us better. — Imam Amir Durić

When the two religious leaders met at Hendricks Chapel’s annual staff and chaplain retreat in August 2022, Durić and Bair gravitated toward one another, discussing their chaplaincies and students. They immediately recognized commonalities and identified a path toward collaboration.

Rabbi Ethan Bair (left) and Imam Amir Durić.

Durić joined Hendricks Chapel and the Muslim Student Life organization at ���ϲ����� as chaplain in 2017. Durić previously served as the Imam, Khatib, and Mu’allim for ten years: three years in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Hercegovina, and seven years in the United States, Delaware Valley-Philadelphia region.

Rabbi Bair began his tenure at ���ϲ�����’s Hendricks Chapel and ���ϲ����� Hillel in July of 2023, after having served as congregational rabbi in Miami Beach and as campus rabbi at the University of Southern California’s Hillel center, among other positions.

As a multifaith chapel for over 90 years, Hendricks Chapel is a place where religious leaders are encouraged to work together and share common spaces, and a genuine friendship adds an extra realm of possibility. So, when the grant from Interfaith America was acquired, Durić and Bair knew they could make their ideas of bringing the students together into a reality.

A Holy Overlap

Students from the Muslim and Jewish chaplaincies gather for a catered meal at sundown as ���ϲ����� Hillel hosted a Muslim iftar (dinner) in the Hillel building.

It’s not every year that the Muslim Holy Month of Ramadan and Jewish Passover holy days overlap. During the Spring Semester of 2023, this was a unique opportunity for ���ϲ����� Hillel to host a Muslim iftar (dinner) in the Hillel building. With Muslim students fasting from dawn to dusk, a catered meal at sundown was a welcome invitation. The Muslim and Jewish chaplaincies each invited 60 students to the dinner, and each had one or more student leads to help the groups connect with each other. Sadie Roberts ’27, a student in the School of Architecture, worked closely with Mian Muhammad Abdul Hamid ’25, who attends the School of Information Studies.

“If you show respect and you’re genuine, then you’ll be able to make good friends,” says Hamid. In that spirit, the two students created conversation starter questions for the dinner tables and a digital quiz:

1. How does fasting work��in each��of your religions?
2. Do you find it difficult to balance your religion with school-related obligations��in college?
3. Based on the climate we live in today; how do you think religion plays a part in your own��life or the lives of others?
4. What keeps you grounded in your faith?
5. What��are��some challenges you have faced��due to��your��faith?

Students from the Muslim and Jewish chaplaincies gather for a catered meal at sundown as ���ϲ����� Hillel hosted a Muslim iftar (dinner) in the Hillel building.

During the dinner, those in attendance discussed how their respective fasting practices differed, and how they were similar. They discussed discriminations that they’ve faced because of their identities and beliefs. The students discovered more similarities than differences in their lives. Rev. Dr. Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel, says the chapel aspires to be “a both/and place in an either/or world,” and that is what the students seemed to realize at the dinner.

For Bair, the coming together and collaboration of their chaplaincies will hopefully strengthen their students’ personal faith and the entire University community.

“A big part of the purpose for me of having a strong Jewish community is to be able to partner with others: to share our culture and learn from other cultures. The values of diversity that we aspire to live with on campus can only happen when we take that extra step and reach out to co-plan events with other groups. I think that’s where the magic happens,” says Bair. “That night at the iftar hosted by Hillel, I walked around and saw people having some awkward conversations, some funny conversations, and seeing students getting out of their comfort zones a little bit, or maybe leaning just at the edge of their comfort. That’s what it’s all about for me.”

The other revelation of the evening included continued dialogue around an important word that is found in both traditions. While spelled differently in Hebrew and Arabic, tzedakah/sadaqah has a similar meaning and importance to both groups. Tzedakah/Sadaqah is the concept of the responsibility of charitable giving that are tenets of both the Ramadan and Passover holy days.

“During Ramadan we are expected to boost our empathy and to strengthen our compassion,” says Durić. “Community service helps with that. It is a concrete action that easily becomes part of Ramadan observance.”

In Muslim texts, sadaqah holds high religious importance, as it is a term that refers to a wide spectrum of giving and compassion. The term encompasses love, friendship, kindness, generosity and religious duty.

And, according to the Talmud, tzedakah is as important as all the other commandments combined. The Jewish law describes the act of giving tzedakah as mitzvah, which means a religious duty to perform a good deed.

“Passover has a message around food justice stating that all who are hungry, can come eat,” says Bair. “There are also messages of inclusivity and making sure everyone of every socioeconomic status has a meal to attend.”

Teaming Up to Bring Tzedakah/Sadaqah into Action

In addition to the iftar, the two groups wanted to embark upon a service project. They collectively chose to support the . With hundreds of dollars’ worth of diapers, Durić and Bair gathered ten Muslim and ten Jewish students to package bags of diapers for parents in Central New York.

On the drive to the facility, Bair connected with Adam Baltaxe ’25, a dual enrolled student in the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs and the College of Arts and Sciences. As a Jewish student with many Muslim friends, Baltaxe has chosen to fast during the entire month of Ramadan in solidarity with his friends.

“People forget that we’re all human. We’re way more similar than we are different. Rabbi Bair is really bringing a new perspective toward the way we look at other cultures and other people and that takes away from the divides that are currently keeping us apart,” Baltaxe says. “I mean, right now there’s enough in this world that is trying to keep different groups of people apart. Imam Durić and Rabbi Bair are trying to connect multiple communities that have long histories of battling, arguing, conflict and that is really healthy. I’m very happy to reenter this space of Judaism under Rabbi Bair’s leadership.”

The Work Isn’t Over

Both Bair and Durić have been asked about future collaborations between their groups. They plan to keep up the momentum by continuing to share events and service projects. The two friends continue to pave the path forward. “I think the more common ground we create together, the safer our students may feel to engage in diverse friendships and meaningful topics down the road,” Bair says.

Through Easter, Passover, Ramadan, Ram Navami and more, all students, faculty and staff are invited to learn of these opportunities and support ���ϲ�����’s commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility.

The following is a summary of upcoming opportunities. Visit the for a full listing of Hendricks Chapel programs and services.

Baptist Chaplaincy

• April 7: Good Friday
  11:30 a.m.-; Christian chaplains will be offering blessings at this service (Hendricks Chapel)
• April 9:��Easter
  11 a.m.-Easter Sunday Service (Hendricks Chapel)
  12:15-1:30 p.m.-Easter lunch

Buddhist Chaplaincy

• April 15: Buddha’s Birthday
  6 p.m.-Celebrate the Buddha’s birthday! Contact JoAnn Cooke for more information at jmcooke@syr.edu

Catholic Chaplaincy/SU Catholic Center

• April 6: Holy Thursday
  7 p.m.-Mass of the Lord’s Supper (includes washing of the feet) followed by dinner available until 9 p.m. (Catholic Center)-Eucharistic Adoration**
• April 7: Good Friday
  11:30 a.m.-; Christian chaplains will be offering blessings at this service (Hendricks Chapel)
  3 p.m.-Celebration of the Lord’s Passion (Catholic Center)
  4:30 p.m.-Stations of the Cross (Catholic Center)
• April 8: Holy Saturday
  7:30 p.m.-Easter Vigil Mass (Catholic Center); includes baptisms, first communions, confirmations and renewal of baptismal promises
• April 9: Easter Sunday
  10:30 a.m.-Easter Sunday Mass (Catholic Center)
  1 p.m.-Easter Sunday Mass** (Hendricks Chapel)

**Mass is live-streamed on the SU Catholic Center YouTube page,��and will be posted to its Facebook page��at the conclusion of Mass.

For additional information, or to request accommodations, contact Campus Minister Danielle Drop at dadrop@syr.edu��or 315.443.2651.

Evangelical Chaplaincy

• April 6 : Maundy Thursday
  Noon-1:15 p.m.-Friendship Luncheon; includes chat about the significance of Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday (Noble Room, Hendricks Chapel)
  Noon-Foot Washing (example) before the Friendship Luncheon, jointly sponsored by the Evangelical Chaplaincy and Lutheran Campus Ministry
• April 7 : Good Friday
  11:30 a.m.-; Christian chaplains will be offering blessings at this service (Hendricks Chapel)

Hindu Chaplaincy

• April 7: Ram Navami Pooja and Welcome to Hindu Chaplain, Sanjay Mathur
  4-5:30 p.m.- (Hendricks Chapel)
  5:30-6:30 p.m.- (Noble Room, Hendricks Chapel)

Historically Black Church Chaplaincy

• April 7 : Good Friday
  11:30 a.m.-; Christian chaplains will be offering blessings at this service (Hendricks Chapel)

Jewish Chaplaincy/���ϲ����� Hillel

• April 5: First Night Seder
  6 p.m. (Goldstein Auditorium, Schine Student Center)
  
• April 6: Second Night Seders
  6 p.m. (���ϲ����� Hillel, Winnick Center for Jewish Life)
  
  • Inclusive Multicultural Passover Seder
    Experience Passover with ���ϲ����� Hillel, Jewish and non-Jewish peers from diverse backgrounds for a Passover seder with special attention to social justice themes.
  • Pajama and Coloring Passover Seder
    Come in pajamas for a comfy, fun-filled seder that will channel your inner child. (Think make-your-own puppets, color and sing with guitar).
  • Host Your Own Seder
    ���ϲ����� Hillel will support you to host your own with a per-person reimbursement once you send us pictures!
• April 6-13: Kosher for Passover Meals
  ���ϲ����� Hillel will offer two K-for-P meals per day throughout the holiday (Winnick Center for Jewish Life)
  Lunch:��11 a.m.-2 p.m.; no RSVP needed!
  Dinner:��4-7 p.m.; no RSVP needed!
• April 10: Special Mid-Week Passover Meal
  5:30-7 p.m.; no RSVP needed!

For additional information, or to request accommodations, contact Rabbi Ethan Bair at etbair@syr.edu��or��617.676.7997.

Lutheran Campus Ministry

• April 6: Maundy Thursday
  Noon-1:15 p.m.-Friendship Luncheon; includes chat about the significance of Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday (Noble Room, Hendricks Chapel)
  Noon-Foot Washing (example) before the Friendship Luncheon, jointly sponsored by the Evangelical Chaplaincy and Lutheran Campus Ministry
  7 p.m.-Remembrance of the Last Supper; celebrate Jesus’ Call to Service and share a meal like the dinner He ate with His disciples (Koinonia House at the Parsonage, 100 Berkeley Drive)
• April 7: Good Friday
  11:30 a.m.-; Christian chaplains will be offering blessings at this service (Hendricks Chapel)
• April 9: Easter Sunday
  5:30 p.m.-“ALLELUIA Christ is Risen!”; join to celebrate new life in Christ at worship (Noble Room, Hendricks Chapel)
  7 p.m.-Easter feast; dinner reservations requested to help with planning, please email griina@syr.edu

For additional information, or to request accommodations, contact Rev. Gail Riina at .

Muslim Chaplaincy

Ramadan began at sunset on Wednesday, March 22. The first full day of fasting was Thursday, March 23, and there are 29 fasting days this year.

Iftars will take place in Hendricks Chapel’s Noble Room on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings during the holiday.

• April 4:
  7 p.m.-All are welcome; ! (Goldstein Auditorium)
• April 21: Eid al-Fitr
  9-10 a.m.-Celebrate with a service followed by an Eid brunch (Noble Room, Hendricks Chapel)

For additional information, or to request accommodations, contact Imam Amir Duric at .

United Methodist Ecumenical Campus Ministry

• April 7: Good Friday
  11:30 a.m.-; Christian chaplains will be offering blessings at this service (Hendricks Chapel)

Sanjay Mathur

“To welcome a Hindu Chaplaincy to ���ϲ����� is an occasion for tremendous celebration,” says the Rev. Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel. “I am grateful for the students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends who contributed to this historic moment. We at Hendricks Chapel are excited for Sanjay Mathur to join our diverse and dynamic team of chaplains, and I look forward to our shared future in service to our common good.”

The Hindu Student Association (HSA), one of 25 religious and spiritual life groups at Hendricks Chapel, was founded in 2018 and provided a strong foundation for a new Hindu Chaplaincy. Through the efforts of inaugural student president Akshay Bapat ’21, Associate Dean of Hendricks Chapel Rebecca Reed Kantrowitz, the late Anju Varshney and Pramod Varshney, Distinguished Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science in the College of Engineering and Computer Science, the HSA has grown significantly and now serves hundreds of students, faculty, staff and alumni.

“I am truly delighted to learn that a Hindu chaplain is coming onboard at Hendricks Chapel. He will serve a large Hindu community at ���ϲ�����. It has been a longstanding need,” says Varshney. “I would like to thank Dean Brian Konkol for recognizing this and for his vision to enhance Chapel offerings to include our Hindu student population.”

A founding board member of the North American Hindu Chaplains Association, Mathur is a national leader with strong ties to Central New York. In addition to serving as Hindu chaplain for the Rochester Institute of Technology and University of Rochester, he has served as president in the past and is currently on the Board of Trustees for the Hindu Temple of Rochester (Rochester, New York), and is a sought-after speaker and teacher on spirituality and health.

“The addition of Chaplain Mathur is a meaningful step toward furthering HSA’s mission to foster a welcoming environment of Hindu spirituality on campus that supports the pursuit and practice of Dharma,” says Siya Kumar ’24, the current president of the HSA and a public health student. “We look forward to furthering our programs, resources, events and support with the guidance of a professional who has ample experience and an even bigger heart.”

As the newest chaplain at Hendricks Chapel, Chaplain Mathur will partner with nine other chaplaincies to draw upon his traditions and practices to serve as a resource for the entire ���ϲ����� community. “I have the courage to work, persist, grow and inspire people in the Hindu tradition; to learn about reflective listening and compassionate care,” Mathur says.

To welcome Chaplain Mathur to ���ϲ�����, the Hindu Student Association will host a Ram Navami Pooja in Hendricks Chapel at 4 p.m. Friday, April 7. Following the program, all members of the campus community are invited to a reception in the Noble Room at 5:30 p.m.

The University community is invited to attend Take Back The Night (TBTN), Wednesday, March 29, 7 p.m.

“Standing with survivors of interpersonal violence is crucial to working to reduce this violence at every level. Too often silence and stigma are weaponized against those who have suffered interpersonal violence.” Helping to raise awareness and lead 2023 events is Daniela Puente ’23, Take Back The Night Planning Committee Chair.

Annually, the University recognizes and participates in TBTN, a global event dedicated to showing support for survivors and victims of, while also raising awareness of and in the pursuit to end sexual, relationship and other forms of violence. Hosted at Hendricks Chapel, all University community members are invited to attend. Registration is not required. The night will include a rally and a march across campus, followed by a speak-out.

“I joined this committee as a survivor who understands firsthand the impact of support and solidarity to healing. I also joined as a public health professional who has learned about how the negative health outcomes of interpersonal violence affect us all,” Puente says. “I want the campus community to know that their support has profound impact on the individuals who have experienced interpersonal violence, as well as the campus community we are all a part of. Preventing interpersonal violence begins and continues with each of us committing to Taking Back The Night today and for the rest of our lifetime.”

University community members are invited to learn more below, encourage others to join and be involved by supporting not just for a night but for a lifetime.

• : As a visual representation of their support to end interpersonal violence, the campus community as a department, organization or individual, are invited to sign the pledge. Those who sign by the deadline, will be displayed at TBTN 2023 and on the .
• #IWillTBTN Star Campaign, Due Friday, March 24: When completing the TBTN Pledge, for their organization, department or team. Participants are asked to decorate the stars by sharing how they will work to create a safer community. Upon completion, stars will be showcased during Take Back The Night.
• Purchase a Take Back The Night T-shirt, Available March 20-29: For sale in the and the , TBTN T-shirts are $12. Profits will directly support ���ϲ����� students impacted by interpersonal violence and the .
• : All funds support ���ϲ����� students.

Learn more by visiting the . For questions or to request accommodations, please email , or call 315.443.8000.

Story by Student Experience communications intern Wanshi Zhang ’23, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications

Students in the Black Celestial Choral Ensemble perform on the stage at Hendricks Chapel.

New this year, the festival has expanded to four days, with the University hosting a Sunday Gospel Jazz service inside to close out Jazz Fest on Sunday, June 25. Members of the ���ϲ����� community are invited to campus to hear performances from the out of Hendricks Chapel, along with a community choir and other nationally renowned gospel choirs and jazz groups.

Earlier in the week, the Orange Juice advanced jazz combo, made up of students in the , will perform from 4-5 p.m. on Thursday, June 22, at the Visit ���ϲ����� Stage in Hanover Square.

The ���ϲ����� Jazz & Commercial Music Faculty Ensemble will play on the Amazon Stage in Clinton Square from 4-5 p.m. on Saturday, June 24. Both groups are housed in the Setnor School of Music in the .

“���ϲ����� wants to ensure Jazz Fest will be a big success for our community. This is a great opportunity to support the local community and to open up our campus for a great closing event on Sunday showcasing our wonderful and talented students and faculty,” says , vice president of community engagement and government relations.

The headlining Jazz Fest performers are iconic jazz artists Herbie Hancock, a 14-time Grammy Award-winning keyboardist, and Gladys Knight, a seven-time Grammy Award-winning singer also known as the “Empress of Soul.” They will perform in Clinton Square on June 23 and 24, respectively.

Six other national and international artists and a collection of local acts will also play as part of the free five-day festival.

Ashes will be distributed at both Hendricks Chapel and at the Catholic Center, located at 110 Walnut Place.

The noon ecumenical service at Hendricks Chapel will include clergy from a diversity of Christian traditions. The service will be held from 12-12:30 p.m. in the Main Chapel.

The complete schedule for the distribution of ashes is as follows:

• 8 a.m.: Catholic Mass and Distribution of Ashes at the Catholic Center
• Noon: Ecumenical Worship Service with Distribution of Ashes in the Main Chapel at Hendricks Chapel
• 1:30 p.m.: Catholic Worship Service and Distribution of Ashes at the Catholic Center
• 4 p.m. Catholic Worship Service and Distribution of Ashes, Hendricks Chapel
• 5 p.m.: Catholic Worship Service and Distribution of Ashes, Hendricks Chapel
• 7 p.m.: Catholic Worship Service and Distribution of Ashes, Catholic Center

For more information, contact Hendricks Chapel at 315.443.2901, chapel@syr.edu, or the Catholic Center at 315.443.2600.