Lynn Brann, Renate Chancellor, Rachel Dubrofsky, Shana Kushner Gadarian and Jing Lei

Five faculty members have been selected to participate in the 2024 Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Academic Leaders Network.

The program is designed to facilitate cross-institutional networking and collaboration among academic leaders while building leadership capacity at participating ACC institutions.

Syracuse University members of the 2024 cohort are:

• , associate professor and chair of nutrition and food studies in the David B. Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics;
• , associate professor and associate dean for diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in the School of Information Studies;
• , professor and chair of communication and rhetorical studies in the College of Visual and Performing Arts;
• , professor of political science and associate dean for research in the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs; and
• , professor and associate dean for academic affairs in the School of Education.

The program will kick off with a virtual event Feb. 27, followed by three on-site sessions at Clemson University (March 20-22), University of Louisville (June 12-14) and North Carolina State University (Nov. 18-20).

The sessions will focus on leadership topics and promote leadership growth, awareness and effectiveness.

Participating faculty members from all member institutions have received foundational leadership training and served at least one year in a relevant leadership role.

“The ACC Academic Leaders Network is a fantastic opportunity for our faculty members to fast-track their leadership development and build important relationships with colleagues across higher education,” says Jamie Winders, associate provost for faculty affairs, who participated in the program in 2018-19.

Laura Rosenbury

On Nov. 30, the University’s (WiL) will host a Lunch and Leadership Presentation with Laura Rosenbury, Barnard College’s ninth president and a leading feminist legal theorist.

The presentation and networking opportunity, a continuation of WiL’s mission to promote women leaders, is open to all faculty and staff members, regardless of gender identity or expression. Lunch will be available from 11:30 a.m. to noon, followed by Rosenbury’s presentation from 12:15 to 1 p.m. The event will be held at the Sheraton Syracuse University Hotel & Conference Center’s Regency Ballroom. Those interested should RSVP by email to Women in Leadership by Tuesday, Nov. 21.

Rosenbury became the ninth president in Barnard College’s history in June 2023. She began her career as a litigation associate at the global law firm Davis Polk & Wardwell in New York City and went on to clerk for numerous federal judges. From 2015-23, Rosenbury served as dean and the Levin, Mabie & Levin Professor of Law at the University of Florida (UF) Levin College of Law, the first woman to hold the role. During her tenure, UF Law extended its reach around the globe, increased incoming applications by 200%, enrolled seven of the most accomplished and diverse classes in history, and hired 39 new faculty members.

Before joining the UF Law community, Rosenbury was professor of law and vice dean at the Washington University in St. Louis School of Law. She also has served as a visiting professor at Harvard Law School, Stanford Law School and University of Chicago Law School.

Rosenbury’s research and teaching focus on the law of private relationships, exploring how law and social norms interact in family law, employment discrimination law and property law. Her work has been published in the Yale Law Journal, Michigan Law Review, University of Pennsylvania Law Review, Cornell Law Review and other publications.

Rosenbury was elected to the American Law Institute in 2010 and named a fellow of the American Bar Foundation in 2014. She has taught courses on negotiation, nonadversarial communication, team building and leadership for practicing lawyers and other executives. Rosenbury received an A.B. degree summa cum laude in women’s studies from Harvard-Radcliffe College and a J.D. degree cum laude from Harvard Law School, where she served as a primary editor of the Harvard Law Review.

Building on the success of the popular Crucial Conversations program, the new Crucial Influence program will be introduced to faculty and staff leaders, managers and supervisors by Crucial Influence Certified Trainer Pam Gavenda. The program will be held on campus from Oct. 31-Nov. 14. Crucial Influence teaches leadership skills for behavior change through hands-on instruction, practice and application.

In this course, participants will learn how to:

• influence other’s behavior to make big and small changes inevitable;
• identify the behaviors that will generate desired results;
• use the six sources of influence to diagnose problem behaviors and identify why people struggle to change;
• motivate by tapping into personal values;
• help others learn new skills;
• harness the power of social influence; and
• correctly incentivize behaviors.

Crucial Influence will be held on three consecutive Tuesdays (Oct. 31, Nov. 7 and Nov. 14) from 9 a.m. to noon at a North Campus location to be determined. Although not a prerequisite for enrollment, previous participation in a Crucial Conversations session is recommended. Interested? .

Important to know:

• Skills learned each week build upon concepts from prior lessons, so it is critical participants are able to attend and be present for all three sessions.
• Because there is a cost of $350 per person for program materials, departmental approval is necessary. The fee will be charged to participants’ budget centers and approval from your supervisor and budget manager is required.
• Space is limited to 24 participants.
• With questions, email Pam Gavenda, associate director of organizational development and training and Crucial Conversations/Crucial Influence certified trainer at pegavend@syr.edu.

Elevate your leadership skills to the next level; sign up for Crucial Influence today!

Note: The next installment of will be offered early in 2024. Those interested in that program can to learn more.

Melissa Young

Young has been an integral part of the CSCS-EFC team since 2008, previously serving as director of resource conservation initiatives. Throughout her career, she has played a pivotal role in public engagement, outreach, education and technical assistance initiatives. Her programmatic effort was previously focused on sustainable materials management, encompassing such crucial aspects as waste reduction, reuse and recycling. In her new position, Young will expand her scope to include initiatives related to water and wastewater infrastructure, particularly for rural and underserved populations, which she had worked on when she was first hired at Syracuse.

The shift in leadership comes as CSCS-EFC celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2023. Since 1993, CSCS-EFC has used a unique community-based approach to assist hundreds of municipalities across EPA Region 2, which includes New York, New Jersey, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and eight Native Nations. CSCS-EFC provides essential training and brings together a variety of governmental and nonprofit actors to collaborate on sustainability issues, including water infrastructure management, water equity, climate resiliency, resource conservation and sustainable materials management.

Since 2015, CSCS-EFC has been awarded $15.75 million in federal, state and local grants to support communities by providing tools, technical assistance, outreach and education, research and more.

“This is an exciting time for the University’s CSCS-EFC as it continues to lead the way in developing solutions for communities across EPA Region 2,” says J. Cole Smith, dean of the College of Engineering and Computer Science. “Melissa’s background and track record of proven results and positive impact will be essential to taking CSCS-EFC to even greater heights.”

“I am honored and deeply committed to lead our organization’s efforts to catalyze positive change and foster environmental stewardship, while engaging deeply with communities across our region and beyond,” says Young. “Together with our dedicated team and partners, we will continue to innovate and expand our impact, working to create a more sustainable and resilient future for all.”

It’s also a place students can learn, thrive and develop into leaders.

, the University’s new assistant vice president for student living, is excited to lead a team responsible for helping students find their community and realize their potential through their housing experiences.

In January, Herndon came to Syracuse from the University of Dayton with a reputation as a respected leader in residential education, housing and student development, combining the valuable ways residential living both builds a strong community and impacts a student’s holistic development.

Steve Herndon, assistant vice president for student living, discusses how his team helps students reach their full potential and the profound role residential living plays on campus.

“My job is essentially creating a structure that clearly defines our contributions and approach to how we’re going to partner with students in their learning and development, around community engagement, around identity and belonging and around health and safety,” Herndon says. “These are all critical experiences and values for our students’ success at the University.”

On this “’Cuse Conversation,” Herndon discusses how his team helps students reach their full potential, why Syracuse University was the perfect fit for the next chapter in his career as a leader in higher education and the profound role residential living plays on campus.

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

The Women in Leadership Initiative cohort experience is led by Candace Campbell Jackson, senior vice president and chief of staff to the Chancellor; Dara Royer, senior vice president and chief marketing officer; Marcelle Haddix, associate provost for strategic initiatives; and Jamie Winders, associate provost for faculty affairs. The will continue to advise the cohort leaders and engage the cohort members.

The WiL Initiative’s cohort experience’s objectives include:

• Foster self-discovery in work/life exploration and identity while enhancing personal and professional leadership strengths and heightening overall emotional intelligence.
• Expand upon and improve skills in areas of personal branding, public presentations, management, negotiation, collaboration and conflict resolution.
• Provide enhanced knowledge of University governance, academic leadership and the overall educational enterprise.
• Explore career options in higher education and academic leadership in a post-pandemic world.
• Build an extended network of referrals and contacts of women leaders within and beyond academic settings.
• Help participants attain new success—on or off campus.

The 25 fall cohort members are listed below and individual bios can be found on the .

Fall 2023 Cohort:

• Eliana Abu-Hamdi
• Simone Adams
• Shannon Andre
• Carlota Deseda-Coon
• Emily Dittman
• Melanie Domanico
• Maithreyee Dubé
• Kirsten Elleby
• Sara Garvey
• Amanda Griffin
• Chandice Haste-Jackson
• Candace Hayden
• Dawn Johnson
• Déirdre Joyce
• Elizabeth Kubala
• Jing Lei
• Laura Machia
• Cory Miller
• Huong Anh Murphy
• Melissa Pepling
• Abby Perer
• Rachel Razza
• Jennifer Ross
• Amy Schmidt
• Bei Yu

“The Women in Leadership Cohort experience is a brilliant plan to invest in staff and faculty who are committed to the mission of Syracuse University,” says Maithreyee Dubé, manager for enrollment services at the D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families. “As an alumna, staff member, parent, facilitator for First-Year Seminar, and the outgoing staff representative to the University’s Board of Trustees, I have lived experience with collaborative efforts across our campus community. Being selected for Cohort 2 and working collectively to enhance our leadership and impact for the betterment of our students is exciting.”

Campbell Jackson says she is encouraged by the interest and commitment of the University community to develop and support leadership opportunities. In fact, interest was so great during the application process that the WiL initiative will offer a third cohort later this fall.

“We continue to be inspired by how many individuals have demonstrated a deep commitment of time and talent to strengthen their career development and life experience through the WiL initiative,” says Campbell Jackson. “The outcomes of this effort thus far are a testament to what we hoped Women in Leadership could become here at the University. The WiL steering committee, cohort leaders and I will do everything we can to ensure future cohorts have incredible experiences that incubate and foster great colleagues and leaders.”

Cohort 3 participants were selected from the nearly 120 applications received for Cohort 2 and will be announced in October.

For more information, visit the  or email womeninleadership@syr.edu. All community members can participate in WiL programming.

Tracy Barlok

Barlok

Barlok joined Syracuse University in September 2022 as special advisor to the chancellor on advancement and external affairs. She was appointed interim chief advancement officer earlier this year. Barlok came to Syracuse from the College of the Holy Cross, where she was vice president for advancement for ten years. With three decades of experience in higher education, she quickly transitioned to the Orange community, successfully advancing the strategic priorities identified in the and cultivating immediate relationships with high-impact donors and supporters.

“Tracy stepped into her interim role at a critical juncture of the Forever Orange Campaign and has had an immediate and profound impact,” says Chancellor Syverud. “The Forever Orange Campaign is the most dynamic and ambitious fundraising campaign in the University’s history and requires a leader like Tracy to help bring it over the finish line. I am grateful for Tracy’s leadership and look forward to successfully closing out the campaign with her as my partner.”

Citing the passion and spirit among the Orange community, Barlok says she is inspired by the special people she has encountered at Syracuse University.

“The energy and loyalty among alumni and friends are intense, vast and inspiring,” says Barlok. “Harnessing that energy and focusing it on the completion of the Forever Orange Campaign vision is a responsibility that can only be described as both moving and humbling. It is a privilege to lead the advancement team here and to work with so many wonderful volunteers, donors, faculty, staff and trustees. They all have a tremendous commitment to this incredible institution and, most important, to our students.”

During Barlok’s tenure at Holy Cross, the college raised more than $510 million for a range of initiatives, including new and renovated building projects, faculty and student support, financial aid, and athletics. Barlok led the design and execution of the largest and most successful fundraising campaign in Holy Cross history, which raised more than $420 million for strategic priorities. While at Holy Cross, the college continuously ranked in the top 10 across all U.S. colleges for highest percentage of alumni participation.

Prior to her time at Holy Cross, she served as Skidmore College’s associate vice president, and before that was director of the college’s successful $200 million comprehensive campaign. Barlok began her career in advancement at Colgate University, where she served as the director of alumni affairs, director of special gift programs and special assistant to the president. She earned a B.A. in English from Colgate University.

Gabe Nugent

Nugent

Nugent currently serves as interim general counsel, a role he’s held since Daniel J. French announced his return to full-time private practice. Nugent joined the Syracuse University community in 2014 as deputy general counsel. In this role, Nugent was responsible for managing several complex issues for the University, including as it relates to NCAA compliance and enforcement, Title IX, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and many others.

“Gabe has proven himself to be an invaluable leader and advisor on the difficult issues facing higher education,” says Chancellor Syverud. “He is a thoughtful, steady and talented attorney who brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role. The University is in great hands with Gabe at the helm of the Office of University Counsel.”

“The issues facing universities and colleges have grown more and more complex over the years,” says Nugent. “The Office of University Counsel is staffed with individuals who have broad experience and capacities, necessary to manage the ever-changing compliance environment and the federal and state regulations that govern higher education institutions. I have been proud to work alongside them and am thrilled to take on this leadership position.”

Nugent will be leaving Barclay Damon LLP, where he has practiced for more than 17 years. He serves as co-chair of its White Collar and Government Investigations Practice Area, representing businesses and individuals in matters involving health care fraud, federal and state tax issues, insider trading, securities laws, environmental crimes, import and export control, the False Claims Act, the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, mail and wire fraud, cybercrime, public corruption, procurement fraud, mortgage fraud, and offshore assets. In 2023, New York State Gov. Kathy Hochul appointed Nugent as the chairperson of the New York State Judicial Screening Committee for the Appellate Division, Fourth Department, and as a member of the New York State Judicial Screening Committee. Nugent completed his legal studies at Brooklyn Law School and graduated with the class of 1998.

Andrew Sears

“Through his leadership and scholarship, Andrew has brought renown to Penn State and garnered the respect of faculty and staff in structuring the college to support academic programs, experiential learning, student engagement and faculty success,” Ritter says. “He is joining a dynamic academic enterprise at the iSchool with the depth of experience necessary to continue to move it forward and adapt to an exciting and rapidly evolving information age.”

At Penn State, Sears leads a college that was founded in 1999 and is composed of 150 faculty and staff, offers 24 degree and certificate programs, and has more than 2,100 resident students statewide and nearly 1,500 students taking courses online through Penn State World Campus. The college was recently ranked No. 10 on the list of best online master’s programs in computer information technology by U.S. News & World Report.

As dean, Sears has focused on strengthening diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. As a result, the college saw an increase in the diversity of the student body, revisions to the faculty and staff recruitment process and the launch of a multi-year search for faculty working on social justice. Sears also expanded interdisciplinary collaborations through faculty hiring and partnerships and helped create a Center for Socially Responsible Artificial Intelligence, which advances multidisciplinary AI research across and beyond Penn State.

“I believe higher education exists to transform the lives of our students and to make the world a better place for everyone. We transform the lives of our students and their families through the education and experiences we provide, and we make the world a better place through our research, scholarship and outreach,” says Sears. “The iSchool at Syracuse has a long and proud history of innovation and impact, and its mission of expanding human capabilities by connecting people, information and technology has never been more important. I am excited to work with the faculty and staff of the iSchool to continue changing the world for the better!”

Sears’ own research projects have addressed issues associated with mobile computing, health information technologies, speech recognition and assessing an individual’s cognitive status via normal daily interactions with information technologies. His research has been supported by various industry leaders, government agencies and foundations, including IBM, Intel, Microsoft, Motorola, the National Science Foundation, the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research, the National Institute of Standards and Technology and the Verizon Foundation.

Sears earned a B.S. in computer science from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and a Ph.D. in computer science with an emphasis on human-computer interaction from the University of Maryland-College Park. Prior to Penn State, he was professor and dean of the B. Thomas Golisano College of Computing and Information Sciences at Rochester Institute of Technology.

Ritter expressed gratitude to David Seaman, dean of Syracuse University Libraries and University librarian, for once again serving as iSchool interim dean after Rajiv “Raj” Dewan concluded his deanship last year. She also thanked the search advisory committee and co-chairs and iSchool professors Megan Oakleaf and Carsten Østerlund. Management consulting firm Korn Ferry assisted in the search.

Starting out more than a century ago as a library science program, the iSchool was the first in the nation to transform into an information school. Today, the iSchool stands out as a premier institution for innovative programs in the study and design of information, data and technology systems for the public good. Ranked by U.S. News & World Report among the top programs in library and information studies (No. 6), information systems (No. 5), digital librarianship (No. 4) and school library media (No. 3), the iSchool offers degree programs at the undergraduate, master’s and doctoral levels, with master’s programs available both on campus and online.

Whitman Interim Dean Alexander McKelvie, left, and David Panasci ’80.

This new initiative is made possible by Whitman supporter David Panasci ’80. Students will follow a program offered in collaboration with Leadership Greater Syracuse, an organization with the mission to inspire current and future leaders to make a difference in the Syracuse community. The program will include topics related to regional leadership, economic development, discovering and impacting local businesses, how to lead and serve, and envisioning the future of Syracuse. Students will be paired with local business leaders, who will act as personal mentors, and the students will complete a community project.

“Syracuse has a rich history of business innovation and success. The emergence of new opportunities locally, such as the arrival of Micron, increasingly makes Syracuse an outstanding place to live and work,” says Whitman School Interim Dean Alexander McKelvie. “Our hope is that this program will inform students about what they can accomplish here after graduation, inspire students about a thriving life here in this community and connect them to local opportunities so that they can hit the ground running once they graduate.”

“As Whitman prepares students to be more engaged citizens, being able to cultivate and connect our local talent in Central New York is something we value highly,” McKelvie says. “We are very grateful to David Panasci for helping the Whitman School make this possible.”

“In recent years, I have met a number of very impressive students via the annual business plan competition at the Whitman School. The level of determination, entrepreneurial spirit and brainpower that I have witnessed has been nothing short of inspirational. We have been fortunate to have a number of these individuals launch their careers here in the Syracuse area,” says Panasci. “It is my expectation that this initiative will not only give participants the chance to learn about leadership and the local community, but will also help them recognize that Central New York can provide solid career opportunities along with an exceptional quality of life. I believe those who do stay and take leadership roles will have a profound impact on the future of the region.”

The program will be launched in the fall. Students who are interested in pursuing the program can apply via the Handshake application through Whitman’s Career Center. A formal launch event will take place early in the fall 2023 semester.

“As we prepare students for a lifetime of professional success, we want to ensure that students have the mentoring, guidance and knowledge of the bountiful opportunities in Syracuse,” says McKelvie. “The Whitman School already offers a number of impactful community programs, such as the , , and . Specifically investing in growing our local leadership talent is the next big step in our commitment to the local community. We’re excited about launching this new initiative.”

Located in the George W. Bush Presidential Center, the George W. Bush Institute is a nonpartisan policy organization focused on ensuring opportunity for all, strengthening democracy and advancing free societies.

Abner

Abner and Pluta will both meet the rest of this year’s 34-person cohort on July 11 when they travel to Dallas, Texas, for their first in-person session. While some of the program is designed for remote learning, the scholars will meet in person in Dallas three times, and then a final time in Washington, D.C., for their last in-person session.

The institute developed the first-of-its kind Stand-To Veteran Leadership Program to support individuals serving our nation’s veterans and military families. Particularly, the institute seeks those who are motivated to broaden their skillsets, knowledge and influence across the country in their individual efforts to support the military-connected communities they serve.

Abner is the Texas region program manager for Onward to Opportunity and works remotely from the San Antonio area. As the daughter of a U.S. Army soldier, the wife of a U.S. Navy veteran and mother of a U.S. Navy veteran, she brings valuable insight into the issues and challenges facing military families around the world.

Abner says her experience as a military spouse was frustrating at times. The lack of professional connections, or even the ability to develop such connections, was challenging for her. Like many professional spouses throughout the military, Abner didn’t feel welcome in the spouse groups, and she often avoided the social events hosted by her husband’s command. According to her, the Bush Center has rolled out the red carpet in accepting her to the cohort and supportive in her mission.

“I want to develop and cultivate a socially robust career development program that assists military spouses with identifying a meaningful career direction after active military service in a fun and connective way,” says Abner.

“I thank the IVMF leadership for believing in my ability to participate in VLP while maintaining the highest level of service for the Onward to Opportunity program in Texas,” she says. “I cannot wait to get started and I appreciate this opportunity to potentially build something that will bring value to our organization and for the military spouses we serve.”

Pluta

Pluta is the director of at the OVMA and a master sergeant in the U.S. Army Reserve, where she has overlapping duties as a career counselor for troops in her unit. By providing valuable career-related guidance to troops and veterans alike, she brings unique insight into the employment situation for the military-connected community.

Pluta has maintained a 100% employment rate for graduating student veterans at Syracuse University for more than five years, contributing heavily to what makes the University stand out among other institutions of higher education when it comes to providing services for student veterans.

“It is an honor and a privilege to be among those selected to attend the Class of 2023 George W. Bush Institute Stand-To Veteran Leadership Program this year. I look forward to the challenges and educational opportunities that come from attending and can’t wait to begin networking with other dedicated advocates within the veteran community,” Pluta says.

“The lessons I learn over the five months of this program will let me better serve our military-connected students here at Syracuse University, as well as the troops in my reserve unit, and I look forward to bringing that knowledge back to share with my colleagues,” she says.

More than 170 people have graduated from the Veteran Leadership Program, both veterans and nonveterans alike, and come from a wide variety of professional backgrounds. The IVMF has been fortunate to have representation in each of the program’s cohorts to date and looks forward to contributing subject matter experts to help in the development of this year’s cohort.

As a graduate student in the , Donna E. Shalala G’70, H’87 was no stranger to protesting whenever she thought an injustice was occurring.

It was all part of Shalala’s plan to never play it safe, and to keep advocating for what’s right and just. Shalala, who earned master’s and doctoral degrees in social science from the Maxwell School, delivered the keynote address during Syracuse University’s Commencement on Sunday, May 15, in the JMA Wireless Dome.

She challenged the Class of 2023—consisting of more than 6,100 graduates from all 50 states and 98 countries around the world—to solve the tough challenges that await them, to demand a voice in creating a better future and to become involved global citizens.

“You have arrived!” Donna E. Shalala G’70, H’87, Syracuse University’s Commencement Speaker, told the Class of 2023, encouraging them to “never play it safe.”

“You are opening a new chapter in your lives. But ultimately, you’re not going to be judged by your degree, but by your character. You won’t be judged by who you know, but who you are. You won’t be judged by what you earn, but what you contribute,” Shalala said. “When I was in your position years ago, I didn’t exactly know where life would take me, but I promised I would never play it safe. I’ve kept that promise and my deepest hope is that you won’t play it safe, either.”

Shalala has held prominent leadership roles in higher education and the federal government since graduating from Syracuse. She’s served as U.S. secretary of health and human services during Bill Clinton’s presidency, was president of the University of Miami and is Trustee Professor of Political Science and Health Policy at the University of Miami.

Lauding the Class of 2023 as “the toughest class ever to graduate from Syracuse University and SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry,” Shalala told the graduates that, as they embark on the next chapter of their lives, they already possess the skills to succeed.

“You leave this great university equipped with both the map and the compass. Your map is your degree. Your degree will open up new doors of opportunity and empower you to pursue your chosen career, or more accurately, your first career, second career, third career, fourth career and so on. The compass is something more intangible, but arguably more important. It is the spirit of community that has been part of your education here from day one,” Shalala said.

If they should find themselves struggling along the way, Shalala encouraged the Class of 2023 to rely on a familiar and friendly face: Otto the Orange. She credited Otto with two personality traits that will serve this year’s graduates well.

“Otto teaches us that a positive attitude can go a long way,” Shalala said. “Approach each day with gratitude and curiosity, with open arms, open eyes, open ears and open hearts.”

“Otto also teaches us that, as members of a community, we have a responsibility to treat every person we meet with kindness, with dignity, and with respect,” Shalala said. “Define the future in your individual relationships. The simplest kind gestures, however insignificant they may seem, can be woven into a brilliant tapestry of compassion, love and strength.”

Chen

In their active leadership roles, Chen and MacBain will play a key role in advancing the mission of , a pioneering research and innovation center dedicated to fostering academic and industrial collaboration for sustainable development and economic growth in indoor and urban environmental quality, clean and renewable energy and water resources. Their expertise and vision will be instrumental in advancing SyracuseCoE’s collaborative initiatives.

Chen is executive director of engineering for Carrier Advanced Technology at Carrier Corporation and is responsible for the company’s centralized technology groups globally. She has held various leadership positions in research and development, engineering and product management at Carrier Corporation, a global leader in heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and solutions. She holds an MBA from Syracuse University, a master of science in mechanical engineering from Clarkson University and a master of science in digital signal processing in geophysics from Northwestern University in China. Chen has been awarded 16 patents in her fields of expertise.

MacBain

MacBain is director, Global Compression and Motors/Aero-Acoustics and Vibration Engineering at Carrier Corporation and responsible for the development of compression, air management, and sound and vibration technologies for Carrier products worldwide. He has over 28 years of experience in the HVAC industry. Scott holds a bachelor of science in mechanical engineering from Syracuse University and a master of science in mechanical engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

As co-chairs of the SyracuseCoE Industry Partners Council, Chen and MacBain will provide strategic guidance and support to SyracuseCoE’s mission of advancing sustainable technology and practices through collaborative research, education, and outreach. The Industry Partners Council is a select group of industry leaders and experts who advise SyracuseCoE on emerging trends, technologies, and market opportunities, and help connect SyracuseCoE’s academic and research expertise with industry needs and challenges.

“We are thrilled to welcome Yu Chen and Scott MacBain as the new co-chairs of the SyracuseCoE Industry Partners Council,” says , SyracuseCoE executive director and professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering at Syracuse University. “Their extensive knowledge, experience and passion for sustainability and innovation make them ideal leaders to help guide SyracuseCoE’s efforts in addressing pressing environmental and energy challenges facing our region, nation and the world.”

“I am honored to serve as co-chair of the SyracuseCoE Industry Partners Council,” says Chen. “I look forward to working with Scott and the rest of the council members to promote the development and adoption of clean and sustainable energy technologies that will benefit our community, human health and well-being, and the planet.”

“Carrier is committed to advancing sustainable solutions that improve indoor environmental quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” says MacBain. “I am excited to collaborate with SyracuseCoE and its partners to drive innovation, education and economic development in Central New York and beyond.”

Syracuse University and SyracuseCoE remain very grateful for the leadership of Neil Webb, director of growth and strategy Americas for Ramboll, for his service as chair of the SyracuseCoE Industry Partners Council over the past several years. “We look forward to his continued participation and guidance, as well as partnership with Ramboll, a global engineering, architecture and consultancy company with leading capabilities in developing net-zero energy buildings, reducing carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy,” says Zhang.

“I believe all leadership should be required to take this course … the content is relevant to all levels of management/supervision.”

“This subject matter is so critical—the learning environment was very well-constructed and made for a safe and fun experience.”

These are just some examples of what faculty and staff members are saying about Crucial Conversations, a popular professional development workshop series offered by the learning and development team in the Office of Human Resources. The next installment, coming in June, is offered to individuals in leadership positions, so supervisors, managers, directors and above are encouraged to sign up.

What Is a Crucial Conversation?

Crucial conversations take place in organizations every day. They include:

• conversations where stakes are high, emotions are strong and opinions differ;
• conversations around work quality, time management, productivity, performance, customer satisfaction, sensitive issues, conflict or a strained relationship; and
• conversations that are often avoided and/or not handled well, leading to poor outcomes.

Workshop participants will learn how to spot when conversations become crucial, avoid repeating the same conversation, separate facts from stories and emotions, and make clearer decisions and commitments, among other skills.

Note: Skills learned each week build upon concepts from prior lessons, so it is critical that participants are able to attend and be present for all four weekly sessions.

I’m Interested! How Do I Join?

• Next series runs June 2-23
• Meet in person on Fridays, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
• Location on North Campus to be announced
• Registration is required

The program provides experiential learning through exercises, practice with real issues and group discussions. Because there is a cost of $350 per person to cover program materials, departmental approval is necessary. The fee will be charged to participants’ budget centers and approval from your supervisor and budget manager is required.

Space is limited to 24 participants; ! With questions, email Pam Gavenda, associate director of organizational development and training, at pegavend@syr.edu.

For three days earlier this spring, two of the University’s emerging student leaders—Malique Lewis ’24 and —were granted an opportunity to observe and learn from cadets and military leaders during the annual McDonald Conference for Leaders of Character. Their day-to-day lives are examples of the hard work, dedication and determination required of a leadership role in the military.

Julius Rauch (left) and Malique Lewis (right) attended the annual McDonald Conference for Leaders of Character along with Vice Chancellor for Strategic Initiatives and Innovation J. Michael Haynie (center).

In their own distinct ways, Lewis and Rauch lead by example on campus. Lewis, a Posse Scholar, is the co-creator and co-founder of the Black Student Union who has served as chief of diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility and chief of staff for the . He’s also an engagement associate for .

Rauch, a member of the national championship-winning , is a leader on the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. His commitment to academic success netted him the Elite 90 award from the National Collegiate Athletics Association for having the highest GPA in the country, the first Orange student-athlete to earn the honor.

The lessons learned and experiences gained at the McDonald Conference were both affirming and life-changing for Lewis and Rauch, who emerged from the three-day conference feeling motivated to be agents of change on campus and in the community.

“I learned so much. In everything you do in life, lead honorably, hold your peers accountable and don’t give up on someone when they come up short. We need more of that in society. We all have duties to carry out. When you live honorably, like the West Point cadets do, you’re doing something bigger than yourself,” says Lewis, a junior studying communications and rhetorical studies in the .

Malique Lewis (left), Bob McDonald (center), and Julius Rauch (right) during the annual McDonald Conference for Leaders of Character.

“Walking around West Point, talking with the cadets, you just see it everywhere. Their leadership stands for duty, honor and country. It was such an amazing and immersive experience,” adds Rauch, a sophomore double major in entrepreneurship and emerging enterprises and finance in the .

“The biggest takeaway was, if you really want to be successful in any organization, lead by example and be the change you wish to see in the community, take care of the people you work with. It’s about how many changes you can make and how those changes will affect the people around you,” Rauch says.

The annual McDonald Conference aims to bring together a diverse and talented group consisting of some of the best undergraduate student leaders from across the world to meet with and learn from senior military leaders who can serve as their mentors.

The result? Attendees like Lewis and Rauch honed their leadership, critical thinking and collaboration skills, emerging with a newfound appreciation for leaders doing the right thing, even when that task is arduous.

“My definition of leadership is that leaders help create more leaders, so I wanted to learn as much as I could about leadership at West Point and bring it back to campus,” Lewis says. “When we have these experiences, when we are given these amazing opportunities, it’s our obligation to share that wisdom and help everyone understand the lessons we learned and share that knowledge with our community. That’s how we create a better world.”

A group photo taken during the annual McDonald Conference for Leaders of Character at West Point.

Leadership lessons were also delivered by two of the conference’s keynote speakers, Mark Shapiro, president and CEO of the Toronto Blue Jays, and Seema R. Hingorani, managing director and strategic client and talent engagement lead at Morgan Stanley Investment Management. The attendees heard their perspectives on effective leadership, engaged in a Q&A with the speakers, then discussed the key takeaways in small breakout sessions.

Rauch and Lewis were both struck by the profound lessons taught on the importance of leaders holding themselves (and their peers) accountable for their actions while not making excuses when things don’t pan out.

“I see it as my obligation to help as much as I possibly can here on campus. To do that, I need to learn to take full ownership of everything that happens,” says Rauch, believed to be the only Division I student-athlete invited to attend the conference. “If you take ownership, you work even harder because there’s no room for excuses. Being a good person and working as hard as you possibly can—together, those two things are the formula for success.”

The event is open only to University students, faculty and staff.

 will moderate the conversation with Subramaniam, who will share how his time on campus prepared him to become a global leader at FedEx, explore areas where future Syracuse University graduates can make an impact and more. After the interactive conversation, audience members can participate in a Q&A with Subramaniam.

Raj Subramaniam G’89, president and chief executive officer of FedEx Corporation, will discuss his career as an international leader and the role Syracuse University played in his successes during an April 26 event on campus.

“Syracuse was my first point of entry in the U.S., and the first place I was able to fully immerse myself in American culture,” says Subramaniam, who earned a master’s degree in chemical engineering from the ��(���䳧).

“This campus holds a special place in my heart, and I am honored to return to share my career experiences with students.”

Over the last 50 years, FedEx has built a well-connected network linking 220 countries and territories around the world. FedEx was also responsible for delivering the COVID-19 vaccine around the world.

With more than 30 years of industry experience at FedEx, one of the world’s largest transportation companies, Subramaniam’s forward-thinking, innovative ways have helped revolutionize the transportation and logistics industry.

“Whenever you can bring in an international leader as accomplished as Raj to Syracuse University, this is a terrific opportunity for our campus community to learn from one of the brightest minds at the intersection of business, technology and logistics. This is going to be a fascinating conversation, one that I’m excited to moderate,” Provost Ritter says.

Among the recent innovations under Subramaniam’s leadership is revitalizing FedEx’s operating strategy, profitably growing the company’s e-commerce business and harnessing the power of global supply chain data.

Subramaniam’s international leadership experience, sharp business insights and emphasis on globalization provided a blueprint for FedEx’s digital transformation while staying true to the company’s commitment to logistics, sustainability and reliability.

“One of the key things we emphasize to our students is that our programs teach key elements to success, including but not limited to rigorous technical material. We emphasize the elements of leadership, problem-solving, and communication necessary for a broad range of careers. Raj’s engineering education provided him the creativity and flexibility of thought needed to tackle the fascinating challenges facing a company like FedEx. He is a fantastic example of where an ECS degree can take you and why a STEM background is so valuable for leaders,” says , dean of the .

Subramaniam earned a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology. After his time at Syracuse, where he also served as captain of a Syracuse cricket club that he helped form, he earned a master’s degree in business administration from The University of Texas at Austin.

He currently serves on the board of directors of the Procter & Gamble Company, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s China Center Advisory Board, U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum and the U.S.-China Business Council. He is also a member of the U.S.-India CEO Forum.

In 2023, Subramaniam received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award, the highest civilian award presented to the Indian diaspora, in recognition of outstanding achievements in India and abroad.

Lois Agnew

Vice Chancellor, Provost and Chief Academic Officer Gretchen Ritter has appointed Lois Agnew to the position of associate provost for academic programs. Agnew, who has served as interim dean of the College of Arts and Sciences (A&S) since July 2022, takes on her new responsibilities effective July 1, following the decision by Associate Provost Chris Johnson to return to full-time faculty duties in the College of Engineering and Computer Science. Agnew’s appointment was approved by the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees.

“Lois has demonstrated extraordinary leadership and scholarship in a variety of roles over the last several years,” says Ritter. “From the time she was named associate dean of A&S through her service as interim dean, along with her role in helping refresh the , Lois has been at the center of our efforts to advance excellence in academic affairs and ensure an unparalleled student academic experience. She is a gifted scholar, teacher and leader.”

A member of the Syracuse University community since 2004 and professor of writing and rhetoric, Agnew was named A&S associate dean of curriculum, innovation and pedagogy in July 2017. Other administrative positions held by Agnew include interim chair of the Department of African American Studies, chair of the Department of Writing Studies, Rhetoric and Composition and director of undergraduate studies for the writing program.

“I’m thrilled at the opportunity to work with colleagues in Academic Affairs and across the University to support the dynamic teaching and learning environment outlined in the Academic Strategic Plan,” says Agnew. “Specifically, I am excited about expanding faculty involvement in the ; ensuring that our academic processes are transparent and support a diverse population of students; and exploring ways that our curriculum can more effectively meet the changing needs of students in today’s higher education landscape.”

Agnew has described her arrival at Syracuse as “a gift” because it provided her an opportunity “to join a community of strong, committed and generous faculty and staff colleagues and to work with talented and dedicated graduate and undergraduate students.” She was a key player on the team that updated the liberal arts core; established a professional development program to build community among teaching faculty in A&S; coordinated the development of health humanities and digital humanities integrated learning majors; and organized A&S’s annual undergraduate research festival. Agnew has received multiple honors and awards, including the 2015 William Wasserstrom Prize for the Teaching of Graduate Students, the 2011 Excellence in Graduate Education Faculty Recognition Award and the 2007 Meredith Teaching Recognition Award.

Agnew’s research specializes in rhetorical history, with a primary focus on British rhetorical theories. She has published more than 25 journal articles, book chapters and two books, with a third book forthcoming. Before working at Syracuse University, Agnew was assistant professor of English at Rockford University (formerly Rockford College) in Illinois, where she served as chair of the Department of English and director of the Writing Center.

Agnew received a Ph.D. in English from Texas Christian University and a B.A. and M.A. in English from the University of Texas at Arlington.

The initiative’s cohort offering creates a personalized, intensive professional development opportunity that will:

• Foster self-discovery in work/life exploration and identity while enhancing personal and professional leadership strengths and heightening overall emotional intelligence.
• Expand upon and improve skills in areas of personal branding, public presentations, management, negotiation, collaboration and conflict resolution.
• Provide enhanced knowledge of University governance, academic leadership and the overall educational enterprise.
• Explore career options in higher education and academic leadership in a post-pandemic world.
• Build an extended network of referrals and contacts of women leaders within and beyond academic settings.
• Help participants attain new success—on or off campus.

The cohort experience will span the Fall 2023 and Spring 2024 semesters. Those interested are encouraged to apply for one of 20 class seats by . Nominations will be accepted through April 21. Selected participants will be notified by May 12. Those who applied for the first cohort are encouraged to reapply. Your continued interest is greatly appreciated.

The cohort will include emerging leaders from faculty and staff. Sessions will combine group experiential learning or hands-on assignments, executive and peer coaching, personal skill development, self-assessments that promote greater emotional intelligence and networking for professional and personal growth.

Criteria for selecting participants will include such factors as diversity, job and responsibility focus, years of experience, expertise, interest and desire for self-development and a commitment to complete the cohort process and advance personally and professionally.

Each application should have gained at least seven years of professional experience and have served for at least three years in a leadership role (this could be through research, teaching or service for faculty or through a supervisory or committee leadership role for staff). For those wondering whether this program is a good fit, staff members may contact Dara Royer���ǰ���Candace Campbell Jackson, and faculty members may contact Marcelle Haddix.

For questions about the nomination form itself, contact Misty Schutt. To learn more about the Women in Leadership Initiative, visit the  or email womeninleadership@syr.edu.

By taking a holistic approach to leadership, sustainability leaders consider the long-term impacts of their decisions on the environment, society and the economy. They are committed to promoting sustainable practices in their organizations and communities, and they encourage others to do the same.

In partnership with , Syracuse University announces a three-phase . Phase I of the program is a two-part virtual session engaging participants in discussions facilitated by instructors Karin Botto, senior human resources business partner at Syracuse University and Hilary McManus, professor of biological and environmental sciences at Le Moyne College. Phase II is an in-person, on-site retreat hosted at Syracuse University’s Conference Center in Blue Mountain Lake, New York, from June 3-6, 2023. Phase III is an additional virtual session to solidify the key learnings from the program.

Throughout the Sustainability Leadership Program, participants will:

• Learn about climate change issues by connecting the dots between personal, organizational and planetary thriving.
• Deepen self-awareness, personal well-being and resilience through learning a variety of contemplative practices aimed at mitigating eco-anxiety.
• Develop and present SMART leadership goals for yourself, your community and/or your organization.
• Engage with change management practices to support your leadership goals.
• Experience a variety of peer coaching methods and professional mentoring.
• Expand network of change-makers to enhance community engagement.

Upon successful completion of phases I-III of the program, participants will earn a foundations microcredential. Additionally, participants can continue to earn an impact microcredential by completing a portfolio review.

The registration deadline for the Sustainability Leadership Program is Friday, May 5, 2023. Interested participants can .

About the Instructors

Karin Botto, senior human resources business partner at Syracuse University

Karin Botto has worked in higher education for more than three decades in areas such as leadership development, human resources, enrollment management, strategic planning, mission integration and faculty development. She currently serves as senior HR business partner at Syracuse University where she partners with senior leaders to shape, develop and deliver plans and strategy in line with the needs and priorities of the organization including organizational development, performance management, talent management, professional development, workforce planning and employee relations. She also teaches Individual and Collective Discernment in the Master of Business Administration program at Le Moyne College.

Botto holds a Master of Science in Training and Organizational Development from Saint Joseph’s University and earned a Doctorate of Education from Creighton University in Interdisciplinary Leadership. Her dissertation research focused on developing the ecological self for sustainability leadership. She was recently interviewed by Jesuit Schools Network about her research for the Ignatian Inquiry Podcast.

In 2015, Botto co-developed a leadership model published in the Journal of Jesuit Business Education (2015). She co-authored a chapter of Success After Tenure (2019) by Stylus Publishing and wrote a chapter of Women Courageous: Leading through the Labyrinth (2021) by Emerald Publishing.

Botto’s specialties include sustainability leadership, group dynamics and decision-making, leadership development, coaching and mentoring, management training, and integrating contemplative practices into one’s life and leadership. Her most important role is mother to Jack, Gwyn and Gavin.

Hilary McManus, professor of biological and environmental sciences at Le Moyne College

Hilary McManus is a professor of Biological and Environmental Sciences at Le Moyne College in Syracuse. She teaches about the science of the climate crisis in the classroom and local community and aims to nurture the current and next generations of environmental stewards through hands-on experiences connecting with nature. McManus co-chairs Le Moyne’s Environmental Sustainability Steering Committee, developing a comprehensive campus-wide framework for a greener campus, and is also a certified executive leadership and career coach.

In 2018, McManus was selected as a participant in Homeward Bound, a global leadership development initiative for women in STEMM, which culminated in a three-week voyage to Antarctica with 78 other women from around the world. Currently, with over 700 women strong, the network continues to grow as an international collaboration of women scientists aiming to lead and influence decision-making as it shapes our planet. McManus is also a member of the Climate Reality Leadership Corps founded and led by Al Gore. She delivers presentations with interactive components that offer audience members an opportunity to brainstorm climate action items on the individual, community and policy levels.

McManus’s time away from Le Moyne is spent with her two sons, hiking, camping, gardening and sitting zazen.

Kelly Chandler-Olcott

“Kelly will provide strong and capable leadership for the School of Education, as evidenced during her time as interim dean,” Provost Ritter says. “Her history with the school, her administrative experience and her deep knowledge of the field of education—from her experience as a teacher to her scholarship as a faculty member to her transformational work as interim dean—make her the clear choice for this position. I look forward to continuing to work with her.”

As interim dean, Chandler-Olcott led a redesign of the SOE to ensure the school’s short- and long-term success and align resources with three areas of distinction: pioneering work in inclusion, equity and social justice; experiential pedagogy; and instructional design and technology-mediated teaching and learning.

The collaborative effort, comprising work and input from the school’s faculty, staff and students and from Provost Ritter and the SOE Board of Visitors, culminated in a proposal presented by Chandler-Olcott to Provost Ritter last spring. Following a period of refinement, the proposal was overwhelmingly passed by the SOE Assembly, which is made up of faculty, staff and students, in October.

“Over the past several years, the School of Education has worked bravely and boldly to redesign our structures, actions and messages to align with our areas of distinction, increase our commitment to anti-racism and inclusion and promote fiscal sustainability,” Chandler-Olcott says. “As a 25-year member of this community, I have never been prouder or more inspired by my colleagues or our students than I am at this moment. I’m grateful to have this opportunity for continued service to a unit that makes such important contributions to the University, the region and the field of education more broadly.”

Chandler-Olcott’s service to and leadership on behalf of the University extends beyond the walls of the SOE. Due to her work on the redesign of the school, she was recruited by Provost Ritter to serve on the executive steering committee driving the Universitywide process and has played an instrumental role in this important, campuswide exercise.

At the SOE, she served as chair of the Department of Reading and Language Arts (2008-15) and associate dean for research (2015-18) before becoming interim dean in 2021. On behalf of the University, she has been a member (elected and ex officio) of the University Senate, the Teaching Recognition Awards Selection Committee, the Advisory Committee for Academic Integrity Policy Review, the Institutional Review Board and the Senate Ad Hoc Committee on Shared Competencies.

Chandler-Olcott is a Laura J. and L. Douglas Meredith Professor for Teaching Excellence. A former high school English and social studies teacher, she has taught English methods and content literacy courses to secondary and K-12 education majors since 1998.

With support from the National Science Foundation, the International Reading Association and the Spencer Foundation, Chandler-Olcott has published seven books and more than 120 book chapters, articles and editorials. Her scholarly interests cluster in three areas: classroom inquiry by teachers, literacy across the curriculum and preparing professionals to teach writing in diverse, inclusive classrooms. She identifies primarily as a design researcher, developing, testing and refining instructional approaches in collaboration with school-based practitioners, University colleagues and students.

Her scholarship has been recognized with the International Literacy Association’s Computers in Reading Research Award (2019) and the Divergent Book Award for Excellence in 21st Century Literacies Research (2021). She served as a member of the board of directors for the Literacy Research Association from 2010-13 and co-edited Journal of Adolescent & Adult Literacy with her reading and language arts colleague Kathleen A. Hinchman from 2015-21. She holds an Ed.D. from the University of Maine.

Behzad Mortazavi

“Behzad Mortazavi is an experienced academic administrator with an impressive track record of success in research and scholarship,” Provost Ritter says. “His collaborative leadership style will be an asset not only to the College of Arts and Sciences but also to the University at large as he works with his fellow deans and with me to enhance liberal arts and sciences education.”

As dean of A&S, Mortazavi will report to Provost Ritter and be part of the Academic Deans’ Cabinet and the Chancellor’s Council. He will be responsible for enhancing the student experience and student success; inspiring innovative, impactful and interdisciplinary research and collaboration; prioritizing diversity, equity, inclusion, access and belonging; managing fiscal resources; and attracting and retaining talented and exceptional faculty and students, ensuring the continued success of the college.

“I am delighted to have the privilege of serving as the next dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Syracuse University,” Mortazavi says. “Syracuse is an academic institution with a tradition of excellence. I look forward to working with the faculty, staff, students and University leadership to build on our successes and to collectively advance a vision for the future.”

In his current role at the University of Alabama, Mortazavi is responsible for the largest department in the College of Arts and Sciences, with oversight of 42 full-time faculty members, 1,900 undergraduate students and more than 100 graduate students. The department offers B.S., M.S., M.A. and Ph.D. degrees and generates more than $6 million in sponsored research each year. He also manages two off campus-properties: the University of Alabama Arboretum and the Tanglewood Biological Field Station.

Additionally, Mortazavi led the faculty in a two-year strategic planning process, established a diversity, equity and inclusivity committee in the department and hired 19 faculty members. He operates a research lab that has secured more than $2 million in funding from the National Science Foundation, the Department of Energy and other entities.

Mortazavi studied biology and marine ecology at the Université Pierre-et-Marie-Curie in Paris, and earned a Ph.D. in biological oceanography at Florida State University, where he served as a member of the research faculty before joining the University of Alabama in 2008. He also served as program director for the Division of Environmental Biology, Ecosystem Sciences Cluster at the National Science Foundation.

Provost Ritter offers her thanks to Professor Lois Agnew, who has served as interim dean of A&S since July. “With Lois, the College of Arts and Sciences has been in capable hands. I appreciate her partnership and her dedicated leadership as she has guided the college through this period of transition.”

The dean search committee, convened by Provost Ritter in September, was co-chaired by , associate professor and the Renée Crown Professor in the Sciences and Mathematics, and , associate professor and Dean’s Professor of Community Engagement.

Through this nationally recognized program, which facilitates the transition from high school to college, students develop multifaceted skills, connect with mentors and develop into leaders who feel empowered to make a positive impact at Syracuse University and in their communities.

Shalom Acheampong ’25

Shalom Acheampong ’25 came to the University from Manchester, Connecticut, and while she says she’s always tried to act like a leader, her time as a WellsLink Scholar has equipped her to truly lead by example.

As Acheampong arrived on campus, she admits she was perceived as shy and studious, and not someone who was a vocal leader. Wanting to change her reputation when presented with a fresh start at Syracuse, Acheampong got involved with the WellsLink program.

When she joined, her actions were driven by a desire to “inspire other people while being a leader on campus,” Acheampong says.

Acheampong’s transformation into an outgoing leader on campus will be on display for all to see during the , a graduation-style celebration for students who have successfully transitioned into their second year after participating in WellsLink during their first year.

The ceremony begins at 4 p.m. Friday in Hendricks Chapel, with a reception to follow, and is free to all members of the campus community.

In a moment that Acheampong says would have been unthinkable when she was in high school, she has the honor of introducing the ceremony’s keynote speaker, Marcus Bullock, a renowned justice reform advocate and the CEO and Founder of Flikshop Inc., which allows family members to connect with prisoners who are otherwise isolated from the outside world and a renowned justice reform advocate.

“I never thought I’d ever get an opportunity like this, just because I have that shy background and wasn’t necessarily a big fan of public speaking. I wouldn’t have grown as a person without WellsLink. I’m really excited for the Transitions Ceremony, being able to honor everyone’s accomplishments,” says Acheampong, who is studying civil engineering in the  and minoring in architecture in the .

Check out episode 130 of the “’Cuse Conversations” podcast featuring WellsLink Scholars Josh Ortega ’25 and Sophia Moore ’25. A transcript [PDF] is also available.

All WellsLink Scholars receive a mentor, a sophomore who successfully went through the program and is eager to help the next generation of scholars realize their full potential on campus. Acheampong was paired up with Nadia Nelson ’24, who “has had a huge role in my development.”

Huey Hsiao is the associate director of Multicultural Affairs and the Kessler Scholars Program and leads the WellsLink Leadership Program.

, associate director of  and the , has led the WellsLink Scholars program for eleven years, and is a big believer in the strong bond that forms between mentor and mentee.

“I thought it was such an incredible program when I came on campus, because of the focus on mentorship. Thinking about the first-year experience as a student’s foundation, we had this program that was centered around students of color who aren’t already receiving support through athletics or state or federally funded programs. It’s been an honor to take over and continue this legacy of supporting our students,” Hsiao says.

The program was so enjoyable that Acheampong opted to return for a second year with WellsLinks’ second-year program. Acheampong and her sophomore peers learn from and network with their cohort members, faculty, staff and alumni to further their leadership abilities through seminars and workshops geared toward academic mentoring, career and major exploration, co-curricular identity development and networking.

“This program is like one big family and I joined the second-year program because of the people. When we all gather together, we realize we have the same goals and ambitions. It’s a terrific opportunity and I want to grow my community and help other people within the program,” Acheampong says.

The WellsLink Leadership Program is sponsored by Multicultural Affairs in the . Launched in 2003, Hsiao proudly points out that WellsLink Scholars have gone on to garner 34 Remembrance Scholars and nine University Scholars. There have been three Student Association (SA) presidents, one SA vice president, and 16 class, school and college marshals.

The training program brings together professionals and scholars with seasoned administrators to give participants the opportunity to learn about the challenges and rewards of leading an academic institution. A cohort of 12 to 16 participants will be chosen for this year’s program, which will feature the themes of innovation, transformation and the work schools of journalism and mass communications must do to tackle the challenges facing the industry today.

“Challenges to democracy and freedoms of the press and an enhanced scrutiny on media credibility are just a few of the major issues affecting journalism and mass communications schools at the society level,” says Newhouse Dean . “Academic institutions are evolving rapidly as the shift in the ways we consume information places new expectations on universities. As a past Scripps Howard Leadership Academy participant, I am beyond ecstatic to host this group of new and emerging leaders as we seek to build an even stronger future for journalism and mass communications, and for our academic institutions.”

Previously hosted by Louisiana State University’s Manship School of Mass Communication, the Scripps Howard Leadership Academy has focused on a wide range of topics for emerging and new leaders, including professional and academic pathways to administration, budgeting and fundraising, stimulating faculty performance and first-year lessons learned.

“This program gives the Scripps Howard Fund the ability to positively influence the future leaders of journalism education in a way that can be magnified significantly over time,” says , director of journalism strategies for the Scripps Howard Fund. “The trickle-down effects for students and the industry are ramifications of reviving a program that has trained a number of academic leaders over the last two decades.”

Past participants have noted the benefits of the academy:

• “I learned that the learning curve for these positions is steep, and that I need to slow down and wait for wisdom. For journalists, it’s hard to be patient in these careers and the program helped me understand that.”
• “It opened my eyes to more of the complexities and nuances of administration—including how [journalism] schools fit into the larger higher ed environment and how challenging governance can be.”
• “Prior to the leadership program, I had been very leery about becoming a part of academic administration. During the conference, my views changed and I am now open to taking a leadership position.”

Applications and nominations for the 2023 program may be . The deadline is April 15; selected participants will be notified in early May.

For more information, contact Brad Horn, associate dean for strategic initiatives at the Newhouse School, at bdhorn@syr.edu.

Steven T. Herndon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The is pleased to bring leadership expert, global speaker and author Erica Dhawan to the University for a talk on body language in the digital era.

All  faculty, staff and students are invited to Dhawan’s talk on Friday, Feb. 10, from 2 to 3 p.m. in the Joyce Hergenhan Auditorium in Newhouse 3. Registration is required. To attend, by Feb. 6:

Leadership expert, global speaker and author Erica Dhawan will address the campus community about body language in the digital era during a Feb. 10 Women in Leadership Digital Communication event.

Dhawan combines cutting-edge research with engaging storytelling to decode the new signals and cues that have replaced traditional body language across genders, generations and cultures. She investigates a wide array of exchanges from large conferences and video meetings to daily emails, texts, IMs and conference calls and offers insights and solutions to increase clarity and build trust.

Audience members will learn new rules and nuances of digital body language, the new requirement to innovate faster and further together.

From Dhawan’s presentation, participants will:

• better understand their collaboration style and what digital body language signals they are broadcasting (even unintended ones);
• create cultures of maniacal clarity in email, phone, IM, text, video mediums and even live meetings in the new normal; and
• develop a collaboration strategy to produce the highest-performing teams and relationships.

Dhawan is an internationally recognized leading authority, speaker and advisor on 21st-century teamwork, collaboration and innovation. Named as one of the top 50 management thinkers in the world by Thinkers50, she is the author of two bestselling books, “Get Big Things Done: The Power of Connectional Intelligence” and “Digital Body Language: How to Build Trust and Connection, No Matter the Distance.”

As we continue to experience an increasingly digital world where work practices are changing at a blistering pace, Dhawan shares innovative strategies to unlock the collective power of teams, build a culture of trust across any distance and create authentic engagement to ensure competitiveness. Rated No. 1 on the Top Women Keynote Speakers list, Erica frequently appears in the Harvard Business Review, Fast Company and The Wall Street Journal. Dhawan speaks on global stages ranging from the World Economic Forum at Davos, to the U.S. Army, to companies such as Coca-Cola, FedEx, Goldman Sachs, Walmart and Cisco. She holds degrees from Harvard University, MIT Sloan and The Wharton School.

To learn more about Women in Leadership or get involved in upcoming programs, visit the . Programs are open to all community members, regardless of gender identity or expression.

The book talk features Daphne E. Jones, author of “Win When They Say You Won’t: Break Through Barriers and Keep Leveling Up Your Success” and will take place along with a moderated question and answer session from 3 to 3:30 p.m. by Tuesday, Nov. 22, and receive a complimentary copy of Jones’ book courtesy of the Women in Leadership Initiative. A meet and greet reception will follow the talk from 3:30 to 5 p.m.

Jones ascended to top leadership roles in Fortune 50 companies, building on her extensive experience using digital technologies strategically and entrepreneurially within multinational corporations. Her career of 30-plus years spans roles at IBM, Johnson & Johnson, Hospira (now Pfizer) and General Electric (GE). During her tenure at GE, she served as senior vice president for future of work, senior vice president and chief information officer for product engineering, imaging and ultrasound, and as senior executive and chief information officer for global services—all comprising a $13 billion segment within GE Healthcare.

Among many achievements, Jones was the first woman and person of color to report to the chairman of the board of Hospira with accountability for all aspects of the company’s enterprise, digital and analytics technology. She now serves on the board of directors for AMN Healthcare, Inc., Barnes Group Inc. and Masonite International Corp and is the CEO and founder of The Board Curators, a company dedicating to preparing senior executives to serve on paid boards.

Jones resides in Syracuse, New York, and Miami, Florida, with her husband, the Rev. Max Jones of the Apostolic Church of Jesus Christ of Syracuse.

To learn more about Women in Leadership or get involved in upcoming programs, visit the . Programs are open to all community members, regardless of gender identity or expression.

Margaret Talev

“Margaret Talev brings both the experience and the perspective needed to head up our new Democracy, Journalism and Citizenship Institute,” Lodato says. “Her many years as a political journalist have given her an on-the-ground view of the issues and a deep knowledge of Washington. She has worked to build diverse teams and share diverse stories. And she is committed to the ideals of the institute and to supporting and leading our students and faculty as they do this important work.”

Talev joins the University following a 30-year career covering American politics and the White House. She is currently the managing editor for politics at Axios and a CNN political analyst. She has also served as senior White House correspondent for Bloomberg News and McClatchy Newspapers and held positions at the Los Angeles Times, Sacramento Bee and Tampa Tribune. She is a past president of the White House Correspondents’ Association and the Washington Press Club Foundation, and has taught courses at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. She will transition to a role as senior contributor at Axios following her move to the institute.

“I am thrilled to have been entrusted with launching Syracuse’s Democracy, Journalism and Citizenship Institute—and grateful to my colleagues at Axios for their support,” Talev says. “The mission of this institute is truly my North Star. It is what drew me to journalism as the child of an immigrant who fled communism for American democracy, and what’s guided my approach for 30 years covering everything from local news to the White House.”

Says Axios co-founder Mike Allen, “Margaret Talev—one of Washington’s best connected and most respected journalists—has long bolstered democracy through her reporting, teaching and leadership. Margaret has the perfect combination of personal passion and life experience to pioneer this new institute.”

The Syracuse University Democracy, Journalism and Citizenship Institute is . Based in Washington, the institute will promote nonpartisan, evidence-based research and dialogue in the public interest and support the work of faculty and students. It will strive to create new knowledge, foster a more informed and engaged citizenry and better equip students for success.

“We’re confident in Margaret’s leadership strength, deep knowledge of the issues and the ability to work across a range of interests to develop this partnership and our shared vision of Syracuse University’s contribution to advancing civic dialogue,” says , dean of the Maxwell School.

Beverly Kirk was appointed director of Washington programs in August. The Newhouse School currently has open positions for —one based in Syracuse and the other in Washington—who will be associated with the institute and also be part of the University’s . Other institute faculty will include a research director from the Maxwell School.

The directorship is supported by a $1 million endowment from alumnus and University Trustee Larry Kramer ’72, former president and publisher of USA Today.

“This country must restore the ability of people with differing opinions to respectfully debate these important issues. We must revive respect for truth and trust,” Kramer says. “The combination of two powerhouse schools—Newhouse and Maxwell—puts us in a perfect position to launch this new institute and to host the debate over the biggest problems our democracy is facing today. Trust in our governing institutions, our political system and the media are at all-time lows. By raising the level of respectful debate and discussion, we will seek to find constructive solutions to restoring that trust.”

Emily Liu leads her class in song during their “hello circle/morning meeting” at Bernice M. Wright School on the Syracuse University campus.

The ink was barely dry on her master’s degree diploma when Emily Liu G’22 began prepping her new classroom at Bernice M. Wright School, an early childhood education program on the Syracuse University campus.

Having graduated only a couple of weeks earlier in August 2022 with a master’s in early childhood special education, Liu is now responsible both for teaching her toddler students and supervising her first teaching assistant. “I’m both excited and nervous, but I will use a lot of strategies I learned at Jowonio School,” says Liu.

If Liu sharpened her teaching and leadership skills in her master’s degree courses, it was at her summer guided teaching placement where those skills were honed, giving her an edge as she takes the lead in her own classroom.

Legendary School

“Jowonio is a legendary school,” says  Thomas Bull, assistant teaching professor and School of Education (SOE) director of field relations. “It’s one of the originators of pre-school inclusive education, and many of the practices you see there are the basis of what is taught at the School of Education.” Founded in 1969 in Syracuse’s near East side, —the name means “to set free” in the language of the Onondaga Nation, whose ancestral lands encompass the city—is an alternative pre-school that practices full inclusion of students with disabilities.

Fellow SOE alumna, Allison Fuess G’19, mentored Liu during her placement. A former SOE student teacher at Jowonio herself, Fuess began welcoming student teachers to her classroom from day one. “Jowonio threw me right into mentoring,” says Fuess. “A lot of Syracuse students come through our school, and it’s wonderful. I felt privileged to move into the role of lead teacher and mentor. I’m proud to be involved.”

According to Fuess, Jowonio’s philosophy is that every child should have equal access to learning and equal opportunities to grow.

“There is no reason a child who uses a wheelchair should not have access to outside space or sports activities,” she says. “We make sure every child is included in everything. That means lots of adaptation all the time, but it gives our students an amazing outlook on life. They realize there is no reason any child shouldn’t be treated as equal and with respect. It’s really cool to see in action.”

Truly Inclusive

Emily Liu reviewing the day’s schedule with one of her students.

Typically, Jowonio classrooms serve around a dozen children during the regular school year, and between five and eight during the summer. During her summer placement, Liu took on different roles as she learned both classroom management and how to serve each student’s unique needs.

“Emily was my teaching aide, learning about the lead teacher role and covering some of the administrative work to make sure things went smoothly,” says Fuess. As part of her SOE coursework, Liu also developed lesson plans, with Fuess offering feedback. “Emily had independence in the classroom within Syracuse program requirements and especially when interacting with students.”

“Summer lessons revolved around themes of weather, monsters, and transportation,” says Liu. “It was a lot of fun. I designed lessons on these themes that targeted a wide range of developmental domains, including physical development, social and emotional development, communicative development, and cognitive development.”

“Every kid had a different needs profile,” she continues, “so I needed to offer the right accommodations so each child could learn. I learned a lot about providing accommodations and modifications during my time at Jowonio. Not only did I have support from my professors, I felt well supported by my mentor.”

Although not every school supports students with disabilities in the way Jowonio does, Bull says it’s important for Syracuse students to understand what an effective inclusive teaching space can look like. That is part of the reason why the SOE and Jowonio have worked together on guided field placements since the 1980s.

“I tell our students that although this is a pre-school school setting, everything you want to see in a truly inclusive space is being done here,” Bull says. “It’s a place of structure and support based on the idea that everyone belongs. That means individualized support, building community, responding to students’ needs, creating accessible spaces, and fostering collaboration among the teachers and providers in the classroom.”

Working Together Seamlessly

That last element—collaborative teaching—is a critical piece of what Syracuse’s student teachers experience in this immersive placement. “It’s a key component of what our students learn—how to purposefully and successfully work with other adults in an inclusive space,” says Bull.

“In my classroom half of the students have some kind of disability or developmental need,” says Fuess. “Because of that, we have a lot of adult help—a lead teacher, special needs assistants, a teaching assistant and a teaching aide. That’s a lot of adults, but it’s due to the structure.”

With as many as six adults in the classroom, students receive plenty of one-on-one time, with teachers and aides rotating among them. As part of her duties, Liu worked closely with individual students and led small learning groups.

“My biggest takeaway was seeing how well the adults can work together seamlessly. Sometimes without even exchanging words, everyone knew their role and where they needed to be in the moment,” says Liu. “That’s a great benefit to the kids. They have equal time with the teachers, and every child has their needs met.”

Painting with a student during the morning play and learn session in Emily Liu’s classroom.

Offering her assessment of how Fuess managed her classroom aides, Liu says, “Ally was open-minded as she led her team. She let us bring new ideas and offer new lessons, and she gave us feedback based on her knowledge and understanding of her students.”

“This kind of inclusion is not always easy in a larger school district,” says Fuess. Nonetheless, she observes, the more that student teachers observe and practice in classrooms such as hers, so the philosophy and methods of full inclusion will spread.

“I believe getting this perspective as a student teacher makes you want to try different ways of making inclusion work,” Fuess says. “It’s a great perspective to give a young teacher—showing them that inclusion can happen.”

Learn more about the School of Education’s and .

Felisha Legette-Jack

Continuing its mission to amplify the voices of women and non-binary people in leadership roles at Syracuse University, the is pleased to invite faculty and staff to an Inspire leadership talk featuring women’s basketball head coach on Wednesday, Oct. 5, from 3 to 4 p.m.

Coach Legette-Jack will speak in the JMA Wireless Dome, followed by a WiL networking reception in Club 44 from 4 to 6 p.m. All community members, regardless of gender identity or expression, can participate in WiL programming.

Season Ticket Giveaway

In partnership with Syracuse University Athletics, WiL will also give away Orange women’s basketball season tickets to the first 100 people who for and attend the event by the RSVP deadline of Sept. 28.

About Legette-Jack

Felisha Legette-Jack is a 1989 graduate of Syracuse University and former Orange All-American. The Syracuse native and 20-year collegiate head coach took the reins of the Orange women’s basketball program in March 2022. One of the all-time Orange greats, Legette-Jack returned to her hometown with more than 30 years of coaching experience. She spent the previous 10 years building the University at Buffalo’s women’s program into one of the perennial powers in the Mid-American Conference (MAC), leading the Bulls to four NCAA Tournaments, including the 2018 Sweet Sixteen.

Legette-Jack is the all-time winningest coach in Bulls history with a 202-115 record and four MAC Tournament Championships. During her career she has guided three different Division I programs to a combined 13 winning seasons, nine postseason berths and six 20-win seasons, and has accrued a 343-279 record. On Nov. 14, 2021, Legette-Jack’s jersey was retired to rafters of the JMA Dome, joining those of 15 men’s basketball and six football standouts who have received this honor. It marked the first time in Syracuse University history that a female student-athlete was recognized in this manner.

When Nasser Paydar ’79, G’81, G’85 was about to graduate from high school in Iran, his father, Hossein, made the ultimate sacrifice to set his beloved son up for success. Hossein worked hard his whole life to take care of and provide for his family, but he lamented his lack of a college degree and wanted to ensure nothing held his son back from achieving his goals.

One night, as Nasser was finishing up his high school studies, father and son engaged in a conversation that would forever alter Nasser’s life and set him on a path that would open up the doors of higher education to not only Nasser, but countless other students.

Even though he knew there was a good chance he might never see his son again, Hossein put his son on an airplane, sending him more than 6,300 miles across the world to Syracuse to study mechanical engineering at Syracuse University.

Nasser Paydar ’79, G’81, G’85, the new assistant secretary for postsecondary education in the U.S. Department of Education

From those humble beginnings, Paydar carved out a highly successful and decorated career in higher education, spending nearly five decades as a well-respected leader on college campuses, including serving as chancellor at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) and Indiana University East, and executive vice president of Indiana University (IU).

Earlier this week, Paydar’s appointment to serve as the U.S. Department of Education’s assistant secretary for postsecondary education was confirmed, completing a process started when Paydar was nominated for the position by President Joseph L. Biden Jr. L’68.

“It’s an honor and a privilege to serve our country and to serve our students and universities in this position. I’ve spent the last 47 years on college campuses, and I really think I can make a difference in our colleges and universities at the national level,” says Paydar, who started his new position on Monday.

Fulfilling a Promise to His Father

It’s the culmination of a promise Paydar made to his father nearly five decades ago. That fateful night, as Paydar confronted an uncertain future in a foreign country, his father made him promise to “go all the way” with his education.

“I know it must have been hard for my father, but I’m forever grateful to him. My father taught me the value and the importance of higher education. My pursuit of higher education was so important to him that he was willing to risk not seeing his child again. I’ve spent my career and I’ve dedicated my life to helping as many people have access to a higher education degree as possible,” says Paydar, who earned his bachelor’s, master’s and Ph.D in mechanical engineering from the College of Engineering and Computer Science.

Making Higher Education More Accessible

While at Syracuse University, Paydar says he experienced the highlight of his life: meeting his now wife, Niloo ’80, G’83. The couple has two children, both of whom have earned a Ph.D.: Omeed and Naveed.

Besides being an avid believer in the power of higher education, Paydar also inspired his children in another, equally important way: “Even though my sons have never been to campus, they are the strongest supporters of [head men’s basketball coach] Jim Boeheim ’66, G’73,” says Paydar.

All these years later, Paydar knows his father would be proud to see the work Nasser has done to open the doors of higher education to as many people as possible.

“I owe everything to the education I received at Syracuse University and to the sacrifices my father made. The faculty at Syracuse were like family to me, and Syracuse taught me how to interact with others, to work well in small groups and to collaborate with partners. Those are the skills you need in a leadership position, and those are the skills that serve me well today,” says Paydar, who served on the board of directors of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities.

Paydar, the chancellor emeritus of IUPUI, was also IUPUI’s executive vice chancellor and chief academic officer. He served on the IU faculty for more than 36 years, including as chair of the department of mechanical engineering, associate dean for graduate programs, associate dean for academic programs and executive associate dean. He also was vice chancellor and dean of Indiana University-Purdue University Columbus.

Jiang

Hua Jiang

Jiang is an accomplished scholar who has earned research recognitions from national and international flagship communication associations. She has published more than 50 peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters, with her work appearing in leading refereed journals, and she serves on the editorial board of the top three public relations journals: Journal of Public Relations Research, Public Relations Review and Public Relations Journal (PRSA journal). A member of the Newhouse faculty since 2013, she graciously and capably stepped in to serve as interim chair of the public relations department for a year. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Nanjing University and a Ph.D. from the University of Maryland, College Park.

“During the past 13 years of engagement in institutions of higher education, I have worked with countless undergraduate students in the classroom and more than 60 master’s and doctoral students on their theses and dissertations,” Jiang says. “My top priority has always been to be a dedicated and inspiring educator committed to student success. To that end, I am extremely excited by this leadership opportunity that empowers me to demonstrate my undeterred passion, enthusiasm, and determination to academic excellence and student success.”

Jiang replaces Amy Falkner, who was recently named dean of Ithaca College’s Roy H. Park School of Communications.

Brad Horn

Horn

Horn brings more than 20 years of public relations management and organizational communications leadership to the newly-created position of associate dean for strategic initiatives. An active contributor to the industry, he is focused on the roles of leadership, trust, ethics and digital engagement. His past experiences have focused on national and international media relations; public relations strategy creation; digital and social media engagement; educational program development; crisis management; and board and executive communication. He is a graduate of the Newhouse School’s communications management master’s program, and earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism (advertising/public relations) from Texas Christian University.

“Partnerships and people are the cornerstones of the bridge between academic excellence and creative industry engagement,” Horn says. “I’m honored to join Dean Lodato’s inspiring vision in this new challenge to create and support opportunities for all. I’m looking forward to collaborating with our faculty, students, staff, alumni and industry leaders to develop and sustain partnerships, programs and projects that elevate the reach and reputation of the Newhouse School.”

Says Lodato: “Hua and Brad have already contributed so much to the Newhouse School as faculty members. I am excited to see what they bring to the leadership team in support of our students, faculty, staff and alumni.”

The cohort will be led by Candace Campbell Jackson, senior vice president and chief of staff to the Chancellor; Dara Royer, senior vice president and chief marketing officer; Marcelle Haddix, associate provost for strategic initiatives; and Jamie Winders, associate provost for faculty affairs.

Campbell Jackson sees it as a “pay it forward” opportunity and an asset-building enterprise, one of many WiL programs that aim to make Syracuse University a pacesetter in developing women and non-binary leaders in higher education.

“It’s inspiring to see how many amazing women and non-binary folks were willing to make the deep commitment of time and talent to see what the cohort could contribute to their career and their life,” says Campbell Jackson. “My co-organizers and I will do everything we can to ensure this is an incredible experience that incubates and fosters great leaders and their skills.”

“I look forward to being part of an intimate group that will intentionally and regularly work together, empowering each other and learning from each other to achieve our goals,” says Emily Stokes-Rees, director of the School of Design in the College of Visual and Performing Arts and the Iris Magidson Endowed Professor of Design Leadership. “Leadership is integral to every aspect of academia, whether you’re in a staff position, classroom or laboratory. We need strong, thoughtful leaders at every level.”

The monthly experiential learning sessions embedded in the cohort curriculum will start in fall 2022. Participants will also learn from mentors, reflective reading and self-assessments.

The 26 cohort members are listed below and individual bios can be found on the .

• Carrie Grogan Abbott
• Nadine Austin
• Christine Ashby
• Sarah Azria
• Kristen Barnes
• Lynn Brann
• Urvashi Bhattacharya
• Mansi Brat
• Julia L. Carboni
• Heather Coleman
• Melinda Dermody
• Amanda Eubanks Winkler
• Heidi Hehnly
• Alicia Madden
• Katherine McDonald
• Pam Mulligan
• Shikha Nangia
• Jane Read
• Carol J. Ruffin
• Stephanie Salanger
• Yutaka Sho
• Saba Siddiki
• Danielle Smith
• Emily Stokes-Rees
• Erika Turner
• Robin Wade

For more information, visit the or email womeninleadership@syr.edu. All community members can participate in WiL programming.

Raj Dewan

“Raj took the helm of the iSchool at a time of extraordinary and rapid change as the pandemic not only transformed the way universities deliver on their educational mission, but also changed the way the world works, becoming even more dependent on information technology and the digital economy,” says Vice Chancellor and Provost Gretchen Ritter. “He has worked closely with faculty to implement new programs that secured the iSchool’s position at the forefront of transformative change in the digital age. I appreciate his leadership and commitment to the iSchool and Syracuse University.”

During Dewan’s tenure as iSchool dean, was created to serve as a hub for sharing ideas and research between faculty, students and eventually third-party partnerships to help secure research funding. To better prepare students for the ever-changing workforce, the iSchool added a certificate of advanced study program in cloud management. Also last fall, the iSchool launched two new undergraduate programs in innovation, society and technology and applied data analytics, along with a new online program for part-time students interested in earning a bachelor’s degree in information management and technology while exploring topics like cybersecurity, machine learning, artificial intelligence and cloud computing, project management and business.

In addition, during the last two years, iSchool faculty earned prestigious grants from the to fund library and information science projects, and hosted the first Syracuse workshop in blockchain and cryptocurrency research. The iSchool has positioned itself at the forefront of blockchain and cryptocurrency research and education in recent years by offering the first blockchain management course for undergraduates, and online and in-person courses for master’s students.

“Despite the tremendous challenges of the last two years, it has been a great privilege to lead the talented and dedicated faculty, staff and students of the iSchool,” says Dewan. “Together, we have advanced the mission of the iSchool, always with a focus on excellence in teaching and research and preparing our students for the greatest areas of demand in the changing workforce. We did this all while navigating the uncertainty and unknown brought on by a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic. I am very much looking forward to returning to the classroom with our great students and alongside my outstanding faculty colleagues, and resuming my research in business analytics and information system standards.”

Dewan came to Syracuse University from the University of Rochester Simon Business School with expertise in both technology and information analytics and an impressive track record of innovating curriculum in teaching and pursuing relevant research.

Seaman is once again stepping into the role of interim dean, a position he previously held from May 2019 to January 2020, between the retirement of longtime iSchool Dean Liz Liddy and the hiring of Dewan.

“David is truly uniquely qualified to guide the iSchool through this next transition in leadership,” says Ritter. “He has an unmatched breadth of experience in working in a collaborative academic environment and knows the qualities of leadership expected by the iSchool and its partners.”

As dean of Libraries and University librarian, Seaman and his team continue to deliver the services and collections necessary to drive 21st-century research, teaching and learning, and to provide welcoming spaces for study, collaboration and innovation. Dean Seaman came to Syracuse after library leadership positions at Dartmouth College, The Digital Library Federation and the University of Virginia. He has lectured and published extensively in the fields of humanities computing and digital libraries and taught for many years at the University of Virginia’s Rare Book School.

About Syracuse University

Syracuse University 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.

It has been almost seven weeks since Russia invaded the sovereign state of Ukraine. Since that time, we have witnessed the courage, resilience and determination of the Ukrainian people in the face of a destructive and inhumane war. Some in our community have asked how they can help, and what more can be done. We write to you today to share some ways you can support those impacted. We also want to tell you a bit about related work—being done both in the classroom and by our students—here at Syracuse University.

Our immediate concern is for our students who are from the region and who may have loved ones in harm’s way. In February, the University reached out to these students to connect them with services and support. As part of that effort, the University is assisting in arranging housing over the summer for students who indicate to us that they cannot return home because of the ongoing conflict. In addition, a student-sponsored donation drive will begin this weekend. Clothing, non-perishable goods, medical supplies, hygiene products and other supplies are being collected. Donation boxes will be placed at various points around campus. The University is helping our students ship these supplies to a reputable relief agency. More details will be available later this week about donation box locations, the specific items most needed and how you can give to this effort.

For individuals interested in supporting those impacted directly, we encourage you to review the public-private partnership the U.S. Department of State’s  has established with . You can make direct financial donations to pre-certified nonprofit organizations that are helping to address the humanitarian needs of those impacted by the war in Ukraine.

The University is finding ways to support our academic colleagues in harm’s way, including joining the Scholars at Risk Network. This organization protects scholars suffering grave threats to their lives, liberty and well-being by arranging temporary research and teaching positions. The University is exploring how our Syracuse Abroad sites might play a role in this work.

There is also important academic work being done that may have a long-term and significant impact in years to come. David Crane, a Syracuse University Distinguished Scholar in Residence, is the lead author of a white paper published last week titled “Russian War Crimes Against Ukraine. The Breach of International Humanitarian Law by the Russian Federation.” The white paper was created by Ukraine Task Force, comprising law students and legal scholars, several of whom are from our College of Law. The paper details allegations of numerous and well-documented war crimes, crimes against humanity and crimes of aggression that have occurred in Ukraine since the Russian invasion. It also includes a sample draft of a criminal indictment against Russian Federation President Vladimir Putin. Professor Crane is a renowned expert in this area. He served as the chief prosecutor of the Special Court for Sierra Leone, an international war crimes tribunal where his work led to the indictment of Liberian President Charles Taylor, the first sitting African head of state in history to be held accountable for war crimes and crimes against humanity. Federal and international agencies have already asked for the task force’s work, expertise and insight in anticipating future action against Russian officials.

Finally, we know this conflict is weighing heavily on the minds of many in our community. Please know there are myriad resources, services and supports , as well as to .

These are just a few examples of how Syracuse University is responding to the war in Ukraine. We ask that our Orange community continue offering support, empathy and compassion to those most affected by these events.

Sincerely,

Gretchen Ritter
Vice Chancellor and Provost

Allen W. Groves
Senior Vice President and Chief Student Experience Officer

Mary Grace A. Almandrez

Syracuse University Chancellor Kent Syverud today announced the appointment of Mary Grace A. Almandrez to the position of vice president for diversity and inclusion. Almandrez brings with her nearly 25 years of experience in higher education, having served in leadership roles at Brown University, the University of San Francisco, McDaniel College and, most recently, the University of Rhode Island (URI). Almandrez was selected following a national search that yielded a diverse and highly qualified pool of candidates. Her appointment, which begins on June 1, was approved by the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees.

“Mary Grace’s depth and breadth of professional and academic experience make her uniquely qualified for this position,” says Chancellor Syverud. “I have great confidence in her ability to move Syracuse forward in achieving our aspiration to be a University that is truly welcoming to all. She has demonstrated visionary leadership, creativity and resilience throughout her career in working through some of the most challenging issues. I look forward to welcoming Mary Grace to the Orange community.”

In her new role, Almandrez will lead the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, providing oversight and vision in the administration of services, programs, policies and procedures for students, faculty and staff related to advancing the University’s commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA). She will lead the implementation of the DEIA Strategic Plan and liaise and collaborate with key constituencies, including undergraduate and graduate student leadership; the Board of Trustees Advisory Committee on University Climate, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility; Academic Leadership for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility; the Council on Diversity and Inclusion; and the Disability Access and Inclusion Council, among other stakeholder groups.

“Syracuse University is well-poised to be an exemplar of integrating scholarship and practical application in campuswide diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility initiatives,” says Almandrez. “Syracuse is a forward-thinking institution with a community equally committed to advancing DEIA priorities. I am looking forward to building on that momentum and working collaboratively with students, faculty, staff and the greater Syracuse community. I am grateful to Chancellor Syverud entrusting me with this important role. I thank the search committee chairs, its members and all members of the community that I met during this process.”

Since March 2020, Almandrez has served as associate vice president for community, equity and diversity and chief diversity officer at URI after serving in an interim role for over a year. Before joining URI, she spent seven years at Brown University, where she served in a number of leadership positions, including associate vice president and dean of students. Prior to Brown, she was assistant dean of students for multicultural student services at the University of San Francisco. Almandrez began her career in higher education as director of multicultural services at McDaniel College.

Cerri A. Banks ’00, G’04, G’06, vice president and deputy to the senior vice president in the Division of the Student Experience, and Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel, co-chaired the search committee charged with identifying the University’s next diversity and inclusion leader. The committee included students, faculty, staff and members of the Board of Trustees. Banks and Konkol agree Almandrez is the right person to lead Syracuse University’s DEIA efforts.

“Mary Grace is one of those rare people to whom you feel instantly connected, a trait that I have no doubt will resonate with students, faculty and staff,” says Banks. “We were seeking a leader with a proven track record of bringing about positive change in challenging the status quo. Mary Grace brings with her a wealth of experience and a gift of teaching and communicating that will be vital to her role.”

“After receiving insights from our campus community through several consultative sessions, it was clear that we needed to find a leader of courage and compassion, a visionary with the ability to spark and sustain change through collaboration and inspiration,” says Konkol. “Dr. Almandrez has demonstrated, through her experience and the interview process, the qualities necessary to have a positive impact in this critical leadership role.”

Almandrez earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of San Diego, a master’s degree in human resources development from McDaniel College and a doctor of education in organization and leadership from the University of San Francisco. She also holds a certificate from Harvard Graduate School of Education’s Institute for Educational Management. Her teaching and research interests include Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA) women in leadership, student activism, inclusive pedagogy and praxis, and organizational development.

Almandrez holds memberships in several professional associations, including Diversity and Inclusion Professionals, Filipino Americans in Academe-Northeast, the College and University Professional Association for Human Resources, and the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education. She also serves as a member of the Steering Committee for the A-10 Commission on Racial Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, College Visions Board of Directors and Congressman Jim Langevin’s Diversity and Equality Advisory Committee.

About Syracuse University

Syracuse University 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.

• Foster greater self-discovery in work/life exploration, identify and enhance personal and professional leadership strengths, heighten overall emotional intelligence.
• Expand upon and improve skills in areas of personal branding, public presentations, management, negotiation, collaboration and conflict resolution.
• Gain greater knowledge of University governance, academic leadership and the overall educational enterprise.
• Explore career options in higher education and academic leadership in a post-pandemic world.
• Connect you to an extended network of referrals and contacts of women leaders within and beyond academic settings.
• Attain new success—on or off campus.

The cohort experience will begin in the Fall 2022 semester and continue through the Spring 2023 semester. Those interested are encouraged to apply for one of 20 class seats by . Nominations will be accepted from March 21 to April 15. Selected participants will be notified by May 9.

Successful cohort experiences typically combine group experiential learning or hands-on assignments, executive and peer coaching, personal skill development, self-assessments that promote greater emotional intelligence and networking for professional and personal growth.

“We’ve constructed the cohort with the intent to make sure all of our participants grow and benefit from their involvement,” explains Candace Campbell Jackson, senior vice president and chief of staff to the Chancellor, and one of four WiL steering committee members dedicated to designing and implementing the cohort. “An emerging body of research indicates that cohorts may prove particularly effective for women, who tend to place greater value on collaborative skills. We think it key to blend self-reflection with small group learning in a highly supportive and interactive environment.”

The cohort will include emerging leaders from faculty and staff. Forward-thinking leadership development experts contend that the best programming purposefully and creatively builds a culture of high accountability and contributes to the collective capacity for “intersystem” (not just inter-disciplinary) relationships—relationships essential to thoughtful university governance.

“Deliberately and thoughtfully including leaders from different areas of the entire institution peels back the curtain and deepens understanding about all aspects of the University’s enterprise,” notes Jamie Winders, associate provost for faculty affairs and a co-designer. “The more faculty and staff understand about other colleges and overall operations, the better each can interact, collaborate and lead within Syracuse University and beyond. In addition, the networks ignited and reinforced by diverse cohorts ensure that our alumni continue their relationships in the years ahead, to their personal and institutional benefit.”

An extended opportunity for self-reflection and personal reassessment may prove especially timely, as many reexamined professional and personal goals and expectations during the pandemic.

“We intend to emphasize personal growth and a deeper understanding of who we are and how we communicate,” says Dara Royer, senior vice president and chief marketing officer and the third co-designer. “These exercises will prepare participants to unleash their full potential in their current or future roles. The focus is ensuring that participants are better positioned to achieve their own definition of success.”

Associate Provost for Strategic Initiatives Marcelle Haddix also recently joined the initiative. “I encourage the entire University community to support those who ultimately join the cohort, “she adds. “Women often assume additional responsibilities or enroll in professional development and find themselves alone when attempting to juggle priorities. Let’s make an institutional commitment that we will collectively do what we can so cohort participants fully benefit from the experience.”

Criteria for selecting participants will include such factors as diversity, job and responsibility focus, years of experience, expertise, interest and desire for self-development and a commitment to complete the cohort process and advance personally and professionally.

Each application should have gained at least seven years of professional experience and have served for at least three years in a leadership role (this could be through research, teaching or service for faculty or through a supervisory or committee leadership role for staff). For those wondering whether this program is a good fit, staff members may contact Dara Royer or Candace Campbell Jackson, and faculty members may contact Marcelle Haddix. For questions about the nomination form itself, contact Mallory Mitchell. To learn more about the Women in Leadership Initiative, visit the or contact womeninleadership@syr.edu.

Craig Stone

Bringing extensive experience in public safety, campus security, community policing and emergency management to Syracuse University, Craig A. Stone has been appointed the new associate vice president and chief of Campus Safety and Emergency Management Services. Stone most recently served as deputy director of the Department of Public Safety for the city of Columbus, Ohio. He begins his new role at Syracuse University on April 1, 2022.

The new position reports to Gwenn Judge, interim senior vice president and chief financial officer, and is responsible for Campus Safety and Emergency Management Services, including all administrative, operational and financial aspects of the Department of Public Safety (DPS), Emergency Management, and Global Safety and Support.

“The search for this new position was comprehensive and attracted impressive candidates from across the nation,” says Judge. “Craig stood out in the field as a genuine leader, a bridge-builder and an innovator. I am eager to welcome him to the Orange community.”

Stone brings decades of experience to the role, with nearly 30 years as a police officer in Columbus, Ohio, including 13 years as a lieutenant in Homeland Security, Internal Affairs, Patrol and Staff Inspections, and prior service as chief of police for Cleveland State University, The Ohio State University (OSU) and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

“I am excited to join Syracuse University and work with the teams that are charged with advancing campus safety priorities,” says Stone. “I look forward to the kinds of transformative changes that will ensure a campus culture that is truly welcoming and offers a sense of safety and openness to diverse communities, thoughts and experiences.”

Allen Groves, senior vice president for the student experience and chief student experience officer, led the search committee supported by students, faculty and staff that recommended Stone.

“Craig impressed everyone with his depth of experience and his track record of collaborating with diverse constituencies to build trust and strengthen community relations,” says Groves. “Craig’s campus safety philosophy and his approach to community policing is responsive to and consistent with the evolving needs of students, faculty, staff and visitors. What impressed me the most was his commitment to openness, candor and collaboration. I have no doubt Craig will be an excellent addition to our community.”

In his most recent position in the city of Columbus, Stone helped develop a neighborhood violence prevention plan and worked with the Columbus City Council on legislation to improve the police hiring process. He helped expand community policing programs at OSU and, as OSU chief of police, implemented bike patrols and community police academies to build community trust.

Stone received a master of science in the administration of justice from the University of Louisville and a bachelor of business administration in organizational leadership from Mount Vernon Nazarene University. He is a highly-sought-after presenter on issues ranging from risk management and crowd control to campus and community policing and high-risk drinking prevention, to diversifying police forces and biased-based profiling. Stone has also taught courses in criminal justice management and policing.

About Syracuse University

Syracuse University 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.

is assistant professor at Syracuse University’s School of Education. Dr. Mauldin teaches classes in Educational Leadership, including the EdD seminar course as well as Curriculum and Instructional Leadership for Equity & Excellence.

Mauldin says:

“Various educators and scholars, including legal scholar Kimberlé Crenshaw who has furthered our understandings of critical race theory (CRT) and intersectionality in her scholarship, have spoken out about this harmful project of painting CRT as divisive in schools. Unfortunately, even with the truth-telling behind what critical race theory actually is, we see that some political leaders continue to attempt to erase relevant and important history and any level of critical engagement for students in schools.

“This reality tells us everything that we need to know. This is not about misunderstanding a theory but rather, something deeper and likely influenced by the consciousness and visible awareness of injustice that Americans had to reckon with after the murders of Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, and so many others whose names we did not hear as often in the mainstream media prior to 2020. We’re seeing these types of regressive policies and practices from various states already – it’s bleeding into our organizations, school districts, and classrooms.

“I’m not sure what the breaking point is for teachers, however I know that we’ve been here before with very similar tactics in place which is unfortunate. Yet, teachers – especially those of color – have persisted and prioritized learning and bringing students’ lived experiences and histories to that learning. You can’t erase that.”

To request interviews or get more information:

Daryl Lovell
Media Relations Manager
Division of Marketing and Communications

T 315.443.1184   M��315.380.0206
dalovell@syr.edu |

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Syracuse University

Incoming Vice Chancellor and Provost Gretchen Ritter today announced John Liu will lead the University’s internationalization efforts as vice president for international strategy. The Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees will be asked to approve the appointment at its next meeting.

John Liu

Hired to grow Syracuse’s research portfolio as vice president for research, Liu was later charged with strengthening and enhancing the University’s academic enterprise as interim vice chancellor and provost. Liu, who will spend the rest of the current fiscal year on research leave, will assume his new post on June 1, 2022.

“John’s outstanding leadership before and through the pandemic has contributed to Syracuse University’s track record of academic and research excellence, student success, innovation and continued growth,” says Chancellor Kent Syverud. “I am grateful to John for serving as interim provost during this historically challenging period. His impact will be felt well into the future.”

Liu guided many of the University’s commitments to diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility, including a $50 million investment in faculty diversity hiring, “Future Professors Postdoctoral Fellowship” program, the First Year Seminar and creation of the Student Activism Engagement Team. With Vice Chancellor Michael Haynie and Dean Mike Frasciello, he kept the University on a path to continue to build and deliver high-quality online educational experiences for learners at all stages of life.

As vice president for research, Liu conceptualized and developed the cluster hiring program to foster interdisciplinary collaborations and make Syracuse University research most relevant to global and societal challenges. As provost, he led the program expansion into 10 key areas where Syracuse University’s research can lead the way in solving pressing problems.

“As a global research university, international partnerships, engagement and enrollment are central to our mission of preparing students for global citizenship and career and life success. John’s record of building our research infrastructure and guiding academic affairs through such extraordinary times are a testament to his ability to establish and achieve big aspirations. I am grateful he has agreed to serve in this critically important role and look forward to our collaboration,” says Ritter.

As vice president, Liu will facilitate meaningful international partnerships to create new opportunities in research, scholarship and creative work, and to drive undergraduate and graduate enrollment—both on Syracuse University’s main campus and at locations abroad.

Ramesh Raina

Citing his strong leadership of the research infrastructure and considerable contributions to the University’s COVID response strategy, Ritter has asked Ramesh Raina to stay on as interim vice president for research; Raina graciously agreed.

“Ramesh has already been such a strong partner to me and continues to be an incredible leader in both the academic and research space,” says Ritter. “I appreciate his willingness to continue serving as I learn more about the University’s research enterprise.”

Ritter will launch a review of the research infrastructure in October to better understand the University’s strategy, assets, strengths and opportunities.

Raina was named interim vice president for research in January 2020. He oversaw the temporary halt and successful restart of the research enterprise during the pandemic, increased professional development for research faculty and students and deployed the CUSE grant, postdoctoral scholar grant and small equipment grant programs. He also led the execution of the faculty hiring strategy for the 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 academic years. Raina has also been an integral part of the University’s public health team, particularly as it relates to launching and maintaining the internal surveillance testing program.

Lt. Col. Ryan Lippert

Syracuse University’s Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFROTC) welcomes its new commander, Lt. Col. Ryan Lippert, to Central New York this semester. Born in Illinois, Lippert grew up in Colorado and has adopted Mandeville, Louisiana, as his unofficial hometown. Lippert is an identical twin. His brother is also a lieutenant colonel in the Air Force. Joining him in Syracuse is his wife, a prior service pilot, and their three children, two boys and a girl, 10, eight, and six.

Lippert was previously stationed at Royal Air Force (RAF) Lakenheath, an air base near the village of Lakenheath in Suffolk, England. In addition to flying the F-15E Strike Eagle, he served in numerous positions with the most recent being the 48th Operations Support Squadron commander. In that role, he was responsible for over 230 airmen, civilians and contractors that kept the airfield open and supported members of the three fighter squadrons.

For Lippert, flying the F-15E Strike Eagle was fulfilling a dream he has had since the seventh grade. After graduating high school Lippert attended the US Air Force Academy and was lucky enough to be selected for pilot training. He learned to fly at Columbus Air Force base in Mississippi. And after a year of training, he was selected to remain as an instructor pilot. Over the course of his career, he has taught hundreds of airmen how to fly.

Lippert says the best pilots embrace the role of a lifelong learner. “As we get into education, we start finding that we never stop learning,” says Lippert. “I think successful Air Force officers and enlisted leaders are lifelong learners because they realize that they don’t have all the answers.”

The same mentality of a lifelong learner lends itself well to leadership, says Lippert. “Each person’s a little bit different. We don’t have a cookie cutter approach because they’re all different and we need to be able to adapt our leadership style to them.”

Lt. Col. Lippert with his wife, Shannon.

Now in his role as AFROTC commander, he hopes to instill the values that make effective airmen, such as integrity, loyalty and trustworthiness. Lippert says a willingness to accept constructive feedback is also important. “The best pilot is not always the one who is the smartest.” says Lippert. “I think that not only applies to flying, but I think it applies in the classroom as well. Recognizing when you’re struggling and the willingness to be humble enough to ask for assistance will go a long way.”

Lippert’s vision for Syracuse University’s AFROTC is to continue inspiring, empowering and developing joint-minded leaders and aggressive learners who are ready to lead. “They may not have all the answers, but they need to work really hard to find those answers. And that means asking questions. That means doing a little bit of research, and that goes back to that life-long learning.”

Undergraduate students interested in a career in the aerospace industry could potentially find AFROTC a great first step. Ultimately, Lippert’s goal for the AFROTC cadets he will command is to be the best versions of themselves.

Haynie spoke about leadership, saying, “What I’ve learned from studying those who do fit the traditional leader stereotype is that Angelou’s ability to understand and translate the human condition is most often the attribute and ability that distinguishes a skilled executive from the few who truly epitomize a transformative leader.”

J. Michael Haynie

, vice chancellor for strategic initiatives and innovation, founder and executive director of the Institute for Veterans and Military Families, and Barnes Professor of Entrepreneurship at the Whitman School, wrote commentary for USA Today titled “.”

In the piece, Haynie notes that what employees will remember is how leaders’ action—or inaction—made them feel about themselves and their value to the organization. He writes, “What I’ve learned from studying those who do fit the traditional leader stereotype is that Angelou’s ability to understand and translate the human condition is most often the attribute and ability that distinguishes a skilled executive from the few who truly epitomize a transformative leader.”

To read his essay in its entirety, .

Syracuse University media relations team members work regularly with the campus community to secure placements of op-eds. Anyone interested in writing an op-ed should first review the University’s op-ed guidelines and email media@syr.edu.

Joanna Masingila

Joanna Masingila today announced that she will soon conclude her tenure as dean of the School of Education and begin a one-year research leave effective Aug. 1 in anticipation of returning to the faculty with a dual appointment in the School of Education and the College of Arts and Sciences.

Masingila was appointed dean of the School of Education in 2015 after serving as interim dean since February 2014. A professor of mathematics and mathematics education, she joined the Syracuse University faculty in 1992. She previously chaired the Department of Teaching and Leadership Programs in the School of Education and the Department of Science Teaching in the College of Arts and Sciences.

“Joanna’s leadership has been impactful in countless ways,” says Interim Vice Chancellor and Provost John Liu. “The school has seen an impressive increase in faculty diversity and highly relevant research, the launch of innovative programs including online degree programs, and the growth of signature programs like InclusiveU. Joanna’s emphasis on inclusive education and partnerships with school districts, particularly during the pandemic, exemplify Syracuse University’s commitment to providing students with distinctive learning experiences and engagement in our communities.”

Kelly Chandler-Olcott, Laura J. and L. Douglas Meredith Professor for Teaching Excellence, has agreed to lead the School of Education as interim dean while the University launches a national search for Masingila’s successor.

Masingila says her decision came after a thoughtful evaluation of her professional and personal aspirations.  “This past year has been difficult for many people. My husband’s passing in January was a huge loss for me and has naturally caused me to reflect on the life that Adamson and I shared, and how I wish to engage in the next phases of my personal and professional life,” she says. “I value my time working with the School of Education as dean, the exciting direction of our recent strategic discussions, the relationships we have developed and our many important collaborative undertakings. I am also looking forward to engaging in scholarly work that I have put on hold during my time as dean.”

During her tenure, Masingila hired 25 new faculty members and supported 18 faculty members through promotion and tenure who remain at the School of Education, increasing the school’s percentage of faculty of color to 40%. She established a Holmes Scholars program at the School of Education, an initiative of the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education that supports students who self-identify as racially and ethnically diverse at either the undergraduate, master’s or doctoral level to pursue a career in the education professoriate, the PK-12 teaching workforce, or a leadership position in the education and education research fields. She has also worked to provide for incoming undergraduate students.

Masingila established the school’s Office of Research and Grants Administration to support scholarly work, proposal submission and grants management. During her tenure, the school has supported the launch of three centers with opportunities for scholarly research and outreach, including the Lender Center for Social Justice, the Center on Disability and Inclusion and the Center for Experiential Pedagogy and Practice. She has created a new partnership with the Solvay Union Free School District and strengthened partnerships with the Syracuse City School District and schools in New York City through the Bridge to the City program. She has led the launch of an online master’s degree in instructional design, development and evaluation, and the submission of an online bachelor’s degree in selected studies in education and a multidisciplinary STEM education doctoral program for New York State Education Department approval.

Since joining Syracuse University in 1992 as an assistant professor of mathematics and mathematics education in the College of Arts and Sciences and the School of Education, Masingila has risen through the ranks and collected numerous honors, including the Excellence in Graduate Education Faculty Recognition Award (2006) and the Martin Luther King Jr. Unsung Hero Award (2005). She was named a Laura J. and L. Douglas Meredith Professor for Teaching Excellence in 2003 and a Gateway Fellow in 2002. In 1998, she was a Fulbright Scholar to Kenyatta University in Nairobi, Kenya, and also spent fall 2011 on research leave there. Masingila has worked extensively with teachers and teacher educators on professional development and research activities in Kenya for more than 20 years.

Masingila’s research interests include teacher development, teacher educator development, mathematical knowledge for teaching teachers, and students’ out-of-school mathematics practice. She is or has been a principal investigator or co-principal investigator on more than $7 million in grants, including six from the National Science Foundation, two from the United States Agency for International Development, and two from the International Research and Exchanges Board of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Masingila has published widely in journals and books and developed a number of multimedia case studies examining issues in teaching practice.

Active in policy and advocacy work for teacher and leader education, Masingila is currently a board member of the Professional Standards and Practices Board for Teaching for New York State, an executive council member of the Council of Academic Deans from Research Education Institutions and the past president of the New York Association of Colleges for Teacher Education.

She is a graduate of Goshen College and Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis and earned a Ph.D. in mathematics education from Indiana University-Bloomington.

Chief Compliance Officer Keith Henderson

Keith Henderson joined the University in 2020 as chief compliance officer within the Office of University Counsel. In his role, Henderson oversees all of the University’s compliance efforts, including the governance structure, compliance with all state and federal laws and regulations, training and education related to research compliance, export control, data security and privacy, HIPAA, Title IX, athletics, the Clery Act and human resources compliance, as well as responding to inquiries and complaints generated through state and federal agencies.

Here, Henderson talks more about his role and how all students, faculty and staff can get involved in our compliance efforts.

What attracted you to the role of becoming Syracuse’s new chief compliance officer?

I was drawn to the University because of the diversity of its academic and athletic programs, its reputation as an R1 research institution, the investment Syracuse makes in the success of its students and the great work we do with and for veterans.

How would you describe your position to someone who is unfamiliar with the role of chief compliance officer?

My job is to ensure that the University is complying with the laws, rules and regulations that affect its daily operations. In short, I work to make sure we are always striving to do the right thing.

What are you most excited to accomplish during your tenure here?

I am most excited about working to build an effective, supportive and responsive institutionwide compliance program.

What would you tell employees and students who want to help make Syracuse University a more compliant place?

Compliance is a shared responsibility. We all must act as stewards of this institution and actively work to ensure that we are compliant in our activities, jobs and roles at Syracuse.

Compliance touches on a lot of areas of the University and seems like a tremendous amount of day-to-day responsibility—how do you stay focused on the big picture?

I stay focused on ensuring that we are working toward integrating compliance into the fabric of our institution. Compliance should be a natural part of how we function. My overarching goal is to serve as a partner in compliance, working alongside faculty, staff and students to be successful as a collective.

What are some of your interests outside of work?

In my free time I enjoy watching football and basketball games, going on Netflix binges, international travel, home improvement projects, working on health disparity issues and just having fun with my family.

Prior to joining the Syracuse University family, Henderson managed global compliance and ethics programs for the Morehouse School of Medicine, Capital Access Networks, Inc., and Turner Broadcasting Systems, Inc. Prior to that, he practiced law as both in-house counsel and private practice.

Henderson holds a master of laws in taxation from Georgetown University Law Center, a juris doctor from Texas Southern University School of Law and a bachelor of arts from Howard University. He has presented at panels on compliance at Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC) conferences and meetings, the American Bar Association and the Atlanta Compliance and Ethics Roundtable. He also served in the ACC Compliance and Ethics Committee as chair; as vice chair of the ACC Health Law Committee; as a board of director and treasurer with the ACC Georgia Chapter; and on the board of the Atlanta Compliance and Ethics Roundtable. Henderson is admitted and licensed to practice law in Colorado, Pennsylvania and Washington, D.C.

“That’s one of the challenges – creating a sense of mission and purpose,” he said. “Just as you’re trying to help yourself identify your purpose and your aspirations in life, you’ve got to do that for the organization and the employees.”