You searched for news/ Make in India | Syracuse University Today / Tue, 11 Nov 2025 20:32:54 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 /wp-content/uploads/2025/08/cropped-apple-touch-icon-120x120.png You searched for news/ Make in India | Syracuse University Today / 32 32 Estonia Fulbright Gig Launches Global Entrepreneurial Teaching Tour /2025/10/28/estonia-fulbright-gig-launches-global-entrepreneurial-teaching-tour/ Tue, 28 Oct 2025 17:00:05 +0000 /?p=327545 Branagan’s global journey began with a 2021 Fulbright Specialist grant to help universities in Estonia create media entrepreneurship programs. He has since spoken to audiences in more than a dozen countries.

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Communications, Law & Policy Estonia

Sean Branagan enjoyed a Fulbright project in Estonia in 2022 then returned as keynote speaker for the 2023 ScreenME-Net Summit on Media Entrepreneurship. (Photo courtesy of Branagan)

Estonia Fulbright Gig Launches Global Entrepreneurial Teaching Tour

Sean Branagan’s global journey began with a 2021 Fulbright Specialist grant to help universities in Estonia create media entrepreneurship programs. He has since spoken to audiences in more than a dozen countries.
Diane Stirling Oct. 28, 2025

As a “serial entrepreneur” and interactive marketer, has applied his across varied careers. More recently, he has worked with global audiences in a dozen countries, sharing his knowledge of the creator economy.

A 1980 graduate of the , Branagan returned to the school in 2011 to found the and teach media innovation courses.

The center runs the , a where students test digital content and media ideas and connect with faculty and media mentors and entrepreneurs. Branagan has also launched student startup competitions, entrepreneurship programs, the interactive series “” and , a seed fund for tech hub startups. He coaches numerous startups and venture funds.

Branagan’s global journey began with a 2021 grant to help universities in Estonia create media entrepreneurship programs. Affiliated with Tallinn University’s Baltic Film and Media School, he spent two months in 2022 conducting workshops, making presentations and immersing himself in the country’s startup scene.

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Branagan traveled to the U.K. to brief members of Parliament on the creator economy and existing technologies and their evolution as they considered a bill proposing to ban cell phones in schools.

He returned to Estonia to keynote the 2023 -Net Summit on Media Entrepreneurship. The organization is comprised of European university professionals focused on improving research into and teaching entrepreneurship teaching for the screen media industry.

More speaking requests followed. He has since spoken to journalism students in Belgium, government officials and business leaders from across the African continent in Ethiopia, sports leaders in Ireland, media researchers in Lithuania, corporate communicators in Germany, musicians in Slovakia and policy makers in the United Kingdom.

He has also participated virtually at universities and conferences in India, Nepal and South Africa, and is teaching creative entrepreneurship in a virtual format to 500,000 high schoolers across India, Indonesia and the Middle East. Recently, he traveled to the U.K. to brief members of Parliament on the creator economy and existing technologies as they considered a bill proposing to ban cell phones in schools. In December he (along with Newhouse Professor and other education technology and government leaders) will address hundreds of top students at the at in Coimbatore, India.

We asked Branagan about those experiences, his reaction to questions he receives from media innovators worldwide and how his global work impacts his teaching.

Q:
Did you expect your Fulbright project to launch a global speaking tour?
A:

I didn’t anticipate that, but I am incredibly fortunate that it did. The timing and topic were perfectly aligned. Since then, as word spread, I’ve addressed all types of groups. It has been an amazing experience.

Q:
What is your reaction to the ways media and creative entrepreneurship have taken hold in diverse cultural, geographic and economic settings?
A:

I am most surprised that participants at these events come from all over the world and from nearly all walks of life. The concept resonates with [everyone from] high school students [to]…an Olympic organizing committee in Australia. Many startups and tech companies [want] to leverage the creator economy for growth or new offerings. Others seek insights into its future. Some economies view it as a vital uplift for people to tell their stories and earn a living. In more developed economies, the focus is on building a vibrant creator economy.

Q:
With artificial intelligence (AI) tools, platform shifts and new monetization models, the digital landscape has been upended since 2021. Has your initial “power to the creators” message also evolved?
A:

There are now more tangible examples. Five years ago, I described the potential of creators; now I point to concrete successes like “” [a Latvian animated film] winning an Oscar, over 50% of Grammy winners being independent artists and numerous successful online shows.

People are increasingly interested in discussing technology, especially AI and its impact. While there is concern about job security, I emphasize how this new economy shifts access, control and ownership, empowering creators to develop and own their audience relationships and directly monetize their content.

Q:
Where is the creator economy headed?
A:

My dad used to say that immigrants to America were tailors, butchers, dressmakers, deli owners and dreamers … all looking for opportunity to start something [new]. The creator economy is almost the reverse. It comes to you, wherever you are!

Powered by digital channels with built-in capabilities and access to global markets, anyone can be a creator, develop an audience and generate a living. And startups are smaller, faster, global and making money faster because of AI. Particularly in the media and entertainment sectors, there is a lot happening in this ‘AI economy.’

Q:
How can countries and institutions support the creator economy?
A:

I generally advise them to enact laws that hold media platforms accountable, exactly as Congress’ 1996 enactment of did for television, publishing and media companies here for decades.

The act’s goal was to encourage expansion of the internet by protecting online service providers from being treated as ‘publishers’ of user-generated content. We can now see [its] unintended consequences. With GenAI tools, [countries] also need to understand how these systems work so they can augment copyright and legal rights of individuals … and creators of all kinds.

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Also invited to brief Parliament attendees was Syracuse alumna Maggie Mabie (second from right). An attorney with the Marsh Law Firm in New York whose practice includes cases involving online facilitated harms to children, she spoke about her cases against big tech in the U.S. and the success of screen-limiting legislation in New York.
Q:
How has your international experience shaped your teaching?
A:

It has significantly boosted my credibility and enhanced my ability to explain what my students are already witnessing online. They’ve watched “” and they see the movement. They fluidly follow media and channels and personalities from all over the world without even thinking about it. I help them rethink what they might want to do in their careers and where they might live and work.

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Speaker presenting at a conference with a large screen behind displaying a thank-you slide featuring text and a decorative leaf graphic
Pete Buttigieg Driven by ‘Propulsion’—Not ‘Despondency’ /2025/10/14/pete-buttigieg-driven-by-propulsion-not-despondency/ Tue, 14 Oct 2025 15:22:51 +0000 /?p=326562 The former U.S. Secretary of Transportation joined Professor Jay Golden for a capacity event that covered environmental issues, leadership, democracy and more.

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Pete Buttigieg Driven by ‘Propulsion’—Not ‘Despondency’

The former U.S. secretary of transportation joined Professor Jay Golden for a capacity event that covered environmental issues, leadership, democracy and more.
Jessica Youngman Oct. 14, 2025

A turning point in Pete Buttigieg’s public service career came with unrelenting rainfall while he was mayor of South Bend, Indiana. The city of roughly 100,000 experienced flooding that washed out roadways, damaged properties and endangered lives.

Buttigieg activated the city’s emergency operations center and hit the streets to assess the damage. At the urging of a councilmember, he knocked on the door of a woman who needed assistance.

Inside, he saw her family’s possessions floating in the flood water.

“And that was the moment that my mental image of climate change stopped being polar bears and ice shelves,” he said. “I think of political rhetoric around climate change. Not that I don’t care about what happens in the Arctic, but this was happening on the west side of South Bend, Indiana.”

Capacity Crowd at Syracuse

Buttigieg reflected on the flood’s aftermath during a conversation-style event in the National Veterans Resource Center at the Daniel and Gayle D’Aniello Building on Friday, Oct. 3. Part of the Pontarelli Speaker Series—named for its sponsors, alumnus and University Trustee Kenneth A. Pontarelli ’92 and his wife, Tracey—the talk was co-hosted by the and the .

Buttigieg shared the stage with , Pontarelli Professor of Environmental Sustainability and Finance and director of the Syracuse University . Their conversation encompassed environmental issues, leadership, American democracy and more.

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Buttigieg shared the stage with Jay Golden, Pontarelli Professor of Environmental Sustainability and Finance and director of the Dynamic Sustainability Lab during the Oct. 3 event. (Photos by Amy Manley)

In his opening remarks, Maxwell Dean said he was heartened to see so many students in the audience—all tickets for the event were claimed less than 20 minutes after it was announced. “These individuals are passionate about the issues we’re going to discuss today, and they are our future leaders,” said Van Slyke.

Before welcoming Buttigieg to the stage, Whitman’s interim dean, , shared some of his accomplishments. Buttigieg became mayor of South Bend in 2012 at age 29. He was elected for two terms and departed for a 2014 deployment to Afghanistan as a Naval reservist. In 2020, he sought the Democratic nomination for president, winning the Iowa caucuses. As U.S. secretary of transportation from 2021-25, Buttigieg implemented the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act which funded over 70,000 projects.

The Syracuse event occurred three days into a shutdown of the U.S. government. Golden’s first question presented an opportunity for a general assessment: “Where are we today as a nation?”

Facing Unprecedented Challenges

“I don’t think it’s an exaggeration to say that not since the Civil War has our country faced this level of challenges—certainly not since World War II,” replied Buttigieg. “And so much of it is actually happening not because of an external threat.”

Social media, with its misinformation and algorithms, has distorted perspectives and relationships, he said. At the same time, Buttigieg said, the U.S. is witnessing an unprecedented level of government assertion of control over not only its own branches but also entities that have long remained independent such as academia and even late-night television.

“That makes this an extremely challenging time, but also a particularly important time for universities, because universities exist for the purpose of finding the truth, for the purpose of fostering dialogue and healthy difference and for charting where we are supposed to go next in ways that maybe won’t fully resemble the status quo that we inherited,” said Buttigieg, who later said universities need to fiercely guard their independence.

Several of Golden’s questions focused on the environment. For instance, he wondered what the current administration is trying to accomplish by repealing and diminishing protections. Buttigieg shared his view that much of the transitions have served to benefit certain friends and allies.

“Part of the tragedy of this is there is a healthy conservative critique to be made of environmental policies that are either self-defeating or unreasonable,” added Buttigieg. “And I say that as a strong believer in environmental protection.”

Several students posed questions, some related to climate change and the recent downsizing and dismantling federal departments like USAID.

Donough Lawlor, who is pursuing a master of science in sustainable organizations and policy, asked Buttigieg to comment on the impact of doing away with USAID and the worldview of U.S. leadership.

While he expressed deep concern, Buttigieg pointed out that many entities were formed in the 1940s and 50s “based on the way the world was.”

“Sooner or later, it’s going to be somebody’s job to figure out what to put in there next,” he said. “And that’s actually a huge opportunity to set up development aid in a way that is more responsive to the needs of the people it’s supposed to serve.”

He added, “my main impulse is not despondency, even though it can be depressing to watch, but actually propulsion.”

Looking Forward, Not Back

In South Bend, he said, prior generations often reflected about the economic boomtime prior to the 1963 closure of a main employer, the Studebaker auto plant. His community had a breakthrough in part, he said, because his generation was the first that didn’t experience its automaking heyday. As mayor, he said, all he could consider is “what do we do next?”

A parting message seemed directed toward students.

“If you’re considering participating in civic processes, which I hope you will, don’t underestimate the moral authority that you carry as a young person saying, ‘This decision you’re about to make affects me,’” he said. “The longer you are planning to be here, the more you have at stake, and I think, the more you have to say.”

Group
Students from across the University who are involved with the Maxwell-based Dynamic Sustainability Lab joined Pete Buttigieg, Maxwell and Whitman deans and event sponsor Ken Pontarelli for a luncheon and conversation during Buttigieg’s visit to campus.

Read the full story on the Maxwell School website:

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Group of professionals, including former US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, sitting at a conference table, engaged in a discussion.
Alumna Nominated for American Society of Cinematographers Award /2025/09/22/vpa-film-alumna-nominated-for-american-society-of-cinematographers-student-award/ Mon, 22 Sep 2025 20:49:45 +0000 /?p=324872 Kimberly Edelson ’25 was recognized for her work on the narrative short student film “The Wren in the Wood.

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Alumna Nominated for American Society of Cinematographers Award

Kimberly Edelson ’25 was recognized for her work on the narrative short student film “The Wren in the Wood."
Erica Blust Sept. 22, 2025

Filmmaker and cinematographer , a graduate of the ’ (VPA) , has been nominated for a prestigious student award from the American Society of Cinematographers (ASC).

Edelson is one of six nominees for the George Spiro Dibie ASC Award—Undergraduate Category—one of the society’s , which champions rising talent at the formative stages of filmmakers’ careers. She was nominated for the narrative short student film “,” on which she served as director of photography. The ASC will announce the winner on Oct. 12.

“My experience working on this film forever changed me as a cinematographer, thanks to my collaboration with the writer and director of ‘The Wren in the Wood,’ [fellow Class of 2025 film major] Emma Baker,” says Edelson. “An important inspiration for the film came from Guillermo del Toro’s ‘Pan’s Labyrinth.’ I studied the visual style of that film and noted techniques that suited the story Emma and I hoped to tell. I was struck by how it felt as if the camera knew more than the characters it was following. We wanted to incorporate this feeling to hint at the presence of something supernatural. By using soft, fluid camera movement, we gently guided the audience into the world of the film.”

As a film major in VPA’s Department of Film and Media Arts, Edelson was introduced to the art of cinematography and developed a strong technical and aesthetic foundation, which she continues to build on through practice and exploration. She polished her skills while studying abroad for a semester through Syracuse Abroad’s in Prague, Czech Republic, and completed her education with the , part of the Syracuse University Dick Clark Los Angeles Program, which enabled her to connect with the film industry during her senior year.

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Kimberly Edelson

Edelson also received a (SOURCE)Fellowship to fund her senior thesis film “.” The SOURCE supports undergraduate research and creative inquiry. It provides financial assistance for original and innovative work, fostering student-driven exploration and development.

“I am proud to have begun my journey as a cinematographer at Syracuse University,” says Edelson. “I was able to take advantage of once-in-a-lifetime opportunities that deepened my appreciation for the art of filmmaking and prepared me for a professional career in the industry. I was especially fortunate to learn from professors such as , whose encouragement and support strengthened my love for cinematography and motivated me to pursue the art form with confidence.”

“The American Society of Cinematographers is one of the most prestigious and globally recognized associations in the film industry,” says Méndez, associate professor and program coordinator of film in the Department of Film and Media Arts. “Having one of our students receive such an honor is a clear confirmation that our film education effectively prepares students to compete on an international stage.”

Edelson’s cinematography has been awarded Best Cinematography by the Indian Independent Film Festival. Her work was also selected for the Kookai International Film Festival, Indie Shorts Mag Film Festival and Syracuse University’s New Filmmakers Showcase. Now based in Los Angeles, she works as a freelance filmmaker in the camera department.

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A smiling person with long hair wearing a dark graduation gown with an orange and green honor cord, photographed outdoors
Syracuse Views Fall 2024 /2024/12/02/syracuse-views-fall-2024/ Mon, 02 Dec 2024 01:00:24 +0000 /blog/2024/12/02/syracuse-views-fall-2024/ We want to know how you experience Syracuse University. Take a photo and share it with us. We select photos from a variety of sources. Submit photos of your University experience by sending them directly to Ƶ at newsphoto@syr.edu. You might see it featured here.
The Spirit of Syracuse Chorus performs during the annual Horns and Harmonies concert at Hendricks Chapel on Dec. 1...

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Syracuse Views Fall 2024

We want to know how you experience Syracuse University. Take a photo and share it with us. We select photos from a variety of sources. Submit photos of your University experience by sending them directly to Ƶ at newsphoto@syr.edu. You might see it featured here.

The
The Spirit of Syracuse Chorus performs during the annual Horns and Harmonies concert at Hendricks Chapel on Dec. 15. The chorus was joined by the Syracuse University Brass Ensemble and the Harmonic Collective. (Photo by Amelia Beamish)
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Kayla Alexander (third from right) had her No. 40 Syracuse women’s basketball jersey retired during a halftime ceremony on Dec. 8 inside the JMA Wireless Dome. (Photo courtesy of Syracuse Athletics)
Performers
Members of the Hendricks Chapel Choir perform under the direction of Artistic Director José “Peppie” Calvar during the annual Holidays at Hendricks event on Dec. 8. The two concerts featured the Hendricks Chapel Choir, Syracuse University Symphony Orchestra, Syracuse University Singers, Concert Choir, University Organist Anne Laver and student organists, and the Morton Schiff Jazz Ensemble. (Photo by Micah Greenberg ’26)
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Hendricks Chapel is awash in candlelight during the Holidays at Hendricks concert on Dec. 8 (Photo by Amelia Beamish)
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Snowy scene on campus (Photo by Nash Newton ’27)

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Coach Fran Brown with his son on the field in the JMA Wireless Dome, surrounded by players and fans, after the Orange upset Miami in their final game of the season over the weekend. (Photo courtesy of Syracuse Athletics)

Snow-covered
First snow of the season. (Photo courtesy of Syracuse University’s Facebook)
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The National Veterans Resource Center got a special visit from Clear Path for Veterans and their adorable service dog puppies. These future service dogs are training to support veterans and their families, showing the incredible bond between humans and their canine companions. (Photo by Charlie Poag)
International
Hundreds of members of the University community came together in Goldstein Auditorium on Nov. 21 for the 40th Annual International Thanksgiving Celebration (Photo by Chuck Wainwright)
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Even the ivy climbing Sims Hall is vibrant during our fall season. (Photo courtesy of Syracuse University’s Facebook account)
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A large contingent turned out for the Office of Veteran and Military Affairs’ (OVMA) annual Veterans Day 5K Fun Run and Walk as part of the University’s celebration of Veterans Day on Nov. 11. (Photo courtesy of the OVMA Facebook account)
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Students lit up the Orange Grove (in front of Bowne Hall) for Diwali 2024. (Photo courtesy of Syracuse University’s Facebook page)
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As part of the Diwali festivities, students enjoyed samosas and Indian sweets. (Photo courtesy of Syracuse University’s Facebook page)
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Syracuse University Air Force ROTC Cadets host the Be A Pilot Experience during Orange Central Homecoming. The event gave attendees an exclusive chance to test out a cutting-edge flight simulator used by the ROTC cadets to learn the basics of military aviation. Opportunities like this further close the military-civilian divide by allowing guests to engage directly with ROTC cadets and learn more about their life and future as military officers. (Photo by Liam Kennedy ’26)
Syracuse
In honor of Veterans Day, Syracuse University’s Hall of Languages is lit in green light as part of the national “Operation Green Light” campaign, a program that draws attention to the veteran community and promotes advocacy for veteran causes. (Photo by Charlie Poag)
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View of campus from the Marley Education Center. (Photo by Carrie Eddy)
Students present their research to members of the campus community during the Renee Crown University Honors Program Undergraduate Research Fair. (Photo by Coco Boardman)
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View of the promenade on a beautiful fall day. (Photo by Fr Gerry Waterman, OFM Conv)
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Students and members of the community participate in the annual Halloqueen Ball at the Schine Student Center. (Photo by Amelia Beamish)
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Capturing fall on campus outside Shaffer Art Building (Photo courtesy of the College of Visual and Performing Arts Instagram account)
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During Whitman’s 10th annual Orange Tank business pitch competition, five student and alumni entrepreneurs pitched their business ventures to a panel of esteemed judges. Participants competed for cash prizes and gained valuable feedback at the “Shark Tank”-like competition. From left to right: Derrell Smith ’10, G’13 (emcee), Vinny Lobdell Jr. P’28 (judge), Tosin Alabi ’25 MBA (first place winner), Buddy Valastro P’27 (judge) and Stacey Tank ’02 (judge). (Photo courtesy of Syracuse University’s Facebook page)
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While all the fall colors are vibrant, orange is by far our favorite. 🧡 (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)
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The Center for International Services took students to Tim’s Pumpkin Patch for a fun fall weekend adventure. (Photo by Meriel Stokoe)
Attendees
Whitman’s David and Ilene Flaum Grand Hall was packed for the undergrad IMPRESS Etiquette dinner. (Photo by Lindsay Quilty)
Remembrance
Remembrance and Lockerbie Scholars begin the procession to the memorial wall at the Place of Remembrance at the annual Remembrance Rose-Laying Ceremony on campus Oct. 25. The ceremony honors the 270 people, including 35 Syracuse University students, who died in the bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland, on Dec. 21, 1988, and 2002-03 Lockerbie Scholar Andrew McClune. (Photo courtesy of the Syracuse University Facebook page)
President
President Joseph R. Biden Jr. L’68 honored the University’s Artist in Residence Carrie Mae Weems H’17, center, on Oct. 21 as one of the 2022 National Medal of Arts recipients. The medal, the highest award given to artists and arts patrons by the United States government, is bestowed upon individuals or groups who “are deserving of special recognition by reason of their outstanding contributions to the excellence, growth, support and availability of the arts in the United States.” Also pictured is First Lady Jill Biden, at right. (Photo courtesy of the National Endowment for the Arts)
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Sitting in solidarity. For 35 minutes, the Remembrance Scholars sat in 35 empty chairs on the Quad, a visual representation of the 270 individuals, including 35 Syracuse University study abroad students, killed in the bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 on Dec. 21, 1988. (Photo courtesy of Syracuse University’s Facebook)
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Professor Robert Murrett from the Maxwell School took a trip with his class to Fort Stanwix and Oriskany Battlefield (pictured). They reflected on the historical significance of each site. (Photo by Benjamin Schneller)
Members
The Syracuse University Marching Band entertained the crowd at halftime of the Buffalo Bills’ home game vs. the Tennessee Titans on a sun-splashed Sunday afternoon at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo courtesy of the Syracuse University Marching Band and Sour Sitrus: Orange Pride fan club Facebook page)
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The University officially kicked off LGBTQ+ History Month on Oct. 2 at the Intercultural Collective. (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

Students,

As part of National Coming Out Day, students and Otto the Orange participated in a Chalk the Quad event. (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

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In honor of Indigenous Peoples Day, students came together to make traditional strawberry juice. (Photo by Qianzhen Li ’25)
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A quiet and peaceful moment on campus. (Photo by Fatemeh Rezaei, graduate student in the College of Engineering and Computer Science)
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The Catholic Center’s apple picking trip this fall featured apples, apple fritters, apple cider, great weather and even better company at Navarino Orchard. (Photo courtesy of SU Catholic’s Facebook page)
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Sunset on Sadler and Lawrinson Halls. (Photo by Hyeonji Cho, graduate student in Falk College)
Individuals
Syracuse University Sustainability hosted a compost and plant propagation event in the Schine. (Photo courtesy of Sustainability’s Facebook page)
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The men’s soccer team recently spent some time volunteering with the children at Allen Road Elementary School in North Syracuse. (Photo courtesy of Syracuse Men’s Soccer’s Facebook page)
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Crouse College on a delightful fall day (Photo by Candace Johnston, staff member in Bursar Operations)
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Attendees of the Seeds and Weeds event in Pete’s Giving Garden learned about native plants and helped harvest seeds. (Photo courtesy of the Syracuse University Sustainability’s Facebook page)
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The vibrant colors of fall are starting to show. (Photo courtesy of College of Engineering and Computer Science’s Facebook page)
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Hugs all around for Family Weekend 2024 (Photo courtesy of Syracuse University’s Facebook page)
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Families came decked out for Family Weekend 2024 this past weekend. (Photo courtesy of Syracuse University’s Facebook page)
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Students met with potential employers during the University’s 2024 Career Fair, held Sept. 24 in the JMA Wireless Dome (Photo by Charles Wainwright)
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The a capella group joined Otto the Orange on the field of the JMA Dome to help announce legendary musicians Billy Joel and Sting performing there in April 2025. (Photo by Vanessa Marquette)
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Ret. United States Air Force Col. John L. Litzenberger ’72, was honored at the 59th LetterWinners of Distinction Celebration recently. Litzenberger is pictured here on the left with John Wildhack, director of athletics. (Photo courtesy of Office of Veteran and Military Affairs’s LinkedIn)
Syracuse women’s soccer coach Nicky Thrasher Adams has announced a new team member, signing seven-year-old Lilianna Cavallo through Team IMPACT. Cavallo (center) who has cerebral palsy, is pictured here with the women’s soccer team, was officially introduced at a signing day press conference on Sept. 21. Visit to learn more about Cavallo and Team IMPACT. (Photo courtesy of Syracuse Athletics)
Exterior
Campus reflections (Photo by Dylan Mills ’28)
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Football Head Coach Fran Brown (left), alongside student-athletes from the football team, volunteered at STEAM at Dr. King Elementary School to kick off the program for the 2024-25 school year. Learn more about how you can get involved! (Photo by Chuck Wainwright)
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Center for International Services took its annual trip to Niagara Falls. Pictured above are students enjoying the Maid of the Mist. (Photo courtesy of Center for International Services)
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Campus is beautiful even on a cloudy day. (Photo by Sandra Costanzo, office assistant, Bursar Operations)
Savion
Savion Pollard ’25, second from left, a student in the College of Engineering and Computer Science and U.S. Navy veteran, was honored as the Hometown Hero at the Orange vs. Stanford football game on Sept. 20. Pollard was Micron Technology’s first hire in Central New York. (Photo courtesy of the Office of Veteran and Military Affairs LinkedIn page)
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Players from the women’s basketball team joined third-grade students at Dr. Weeks Elementary School for a kickoff of the United Way Book Buddies program, which helps build literacy skills and create a love for reading in K-3 students in the Syracuse City School District. (Photo courtesy of )
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Latine Heritage Month kicked off with an opening ceremony and tabling by recognized student organizations on Monday, Sept. 16, in the Schine Student Center. The event was co-sponsored by the Student Association. Check out more events throughout the month. (Photo courtesy of Syracuse University’s Facebook page)
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The College of Law held a swearing-in ceremony for on-campus and hybrid student attorneys participating in one of six law clinics this fall. (Photo courtesy of the )
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Students visit with recognized student organizations during the kickoff ceremony and events for Latine Heritage Month on Monday, Sept. 16, in the Schine Student Center. The event was co-sponsored by the Student Association. (Photo courtesy of Syracuse University’s Facebook page)
Syracuse athletics legends faced off on the court for another memorable charity game as part of CBT weekend. (Photo courtesy of Syracuse University’s Facebook page)
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A star-st panel discussion called “Breaking Barriers and Empowering Women in Sport” was held by the Falk College during the 2024 Coming Back Together (CBT) Black and Latino Alumni Reunion. From left: Vera Jones ’88, G’91, Andrea Massop Ramos ’85, Chinny Nwagbo ’05, Felisha Legette-Jack ’89, Tatiana Warren ’04, G’06 and Falk Dean Jeremy Jordan (Photo courtesy of the Falk College)
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During CBT 2024, participants gathered in the Schine Underground for an event highlighting the impact of the Our Time Has Come (OTHC) Scholarship Program. From left: Ronald J. Taylor ’15, G’16 (moderator and OTHC alumni), Ryan Nkongnyu ’25 (current OHTC Scholar), Kamille K. Stewart ’14 (OTHC alumni), Kalila C. Nelson ’12 (OTHC alumni) and Jada Marie Knight ’25 (current OTHC Scholar and CBT student co-chair) (Photo courtesy of the )
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No. 14 Syracuse women’s field hockey weathered a late surge from visiting Lafayette College, getting the game-winning goal with 35 seconds left in the game for a 2-1 win on Sept. 15. (Photo courtesy of Syracuse Athletics)
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Perfect orange sunset on the Promenade. (Photo by Rio Harper ’27)
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It’s nothing but smiles as alumni reunite for CBT 2024. (Photo by Angela Ryan )
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On Wednesday, Sept. 11, Hendricks Chapel will offer the campus community an opportunity for reflection on the 23rd anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The Main Chapel will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for prayer and meditation in remembrance of those who were affected by the tragedy. (Photo by Amelia Beamish)
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The life and selfless service of Jamieson R. Ritter ’19 was celebrated as the Hometown Hero during Saturday’s football game. Ritter was killed in the line of duty on July 4. The University has established the Jamieson Ritter Memorial ROTC Scholarship in his honor. (Photo by Charlie Poag)
Coach
On Aug. 31, a new era for Syracuse Football began, which included a new tradition, the Quad Walk, seen above, led by Coach Fran Brown. (Photo courtesy of Syracuse Athletics)

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Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and University staff members from the D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) pose for a photo on the parade ground at the National Veterans Resource Center (NVRC). The SBA representatives were visiting the NVRC to learn more about the IVMF’s entrepreneurship programs, post-program support and research initiatives in support of veteran small business owners. (Photo by Charlie Poag)

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Maxwell’s Executive Degree Programs recently held a welcome BBQ for students, with a surprise visit from Otto the Orange. (Photo courtesy of )
People
Students in the Department of Creative Arts Therapy created body maps during their recent on-campus residency. The completed body maps included personal affirmations or mottos, representations of stress and strength in the body, and other details. (Photo courtesy of the )
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U.S. Navy Rear Admiral Josh Jackson (left) and Assistant Secretary of the Navy Franklin Parker (center) pose with Chancellor Kent Syverud (right). The two senior Navy leaders took part in a roundtable discussion with the Chancellor as part of Navy Week Syracuse to discuss enhancing partnerships between the military branches and higher education, to offer better opportunities for tomorrow’s leaders. (Photo by Charlie Poag)
Vanderwege
Link Hall is truly a home away from home for the Vanderwege family! Maureen ’97 and Mike Vanderwege ’96 (far left) met as students in the College of Engineering and Computer Science (ECS). Their sons Andrew ’25 (far right) and John ’27 are current students. (Photo courtesy of ; )
Musicians
Members of the U.S. Navy Band Northeast perform for College of Visual and Performing Arts students in the Setnor Auditorium at Crouse College during Navy Week Syracuse. (Photo by Charlie Poag)
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Students catch up on a bench near the promenade on the first day of classes. (Photo courtesy of Syracuse University’s Facebook page)
Four
Students part of the Living Learning Communities enjoy getting to know each other on the Quad as part of Welcome Week activities. (Photo by Marilyn Hesler)
Outside
Unique view outside of Newhouse 3 (Photo by Michael Sullivan ’28)
Students
New students pose for their class photo while making the shape of an S during the Dome Sweet Dome event on the floor of the JMA Wireless Dome. (Photo courtesy of Syracuse University’s Facebook page)
group
The Orange men’s soccer team welcomed its largest home crowd since October 2018 at their Aug. 25 game vs. Niagara, where they dominated in a 3-0 victory against the Purple Eagles. (Photo courtesy of )
people
New international students enjoy dinner and meeting new friends in Goldstein Auditorium at the Schine Student Center Aug. 20 as part of Welcome Week activities. (Photo by Angela Ryan)
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Student volunteers maintain a cheery, positive outlook despite rainy conditions on the first day of move-in. (Photo courtesy of Syracuse University’s Instagram account).

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attended the Fulbright Pre-Academic Program at Syracuse University’s English Language Institute this summer for four weeks to participate in a variety of workshops, field trips and textual and oral communication courses before matriculating into their degree programs at institutions across the United States. (Photo by Amy McCoy)Person

New students move into the residence halls with help from orientation leaders, volunteers and the Goon Squad. (Photo by Marilyn Hesler)

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Campus is full of life again as students return to campus for the start of Welcome Week. (Photo by Chuck Wainwright)

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Syracuse Views Fall 2024
Featured Media Coverage – July 2024 /2024/07/31/featured-media-coverage-july-2024/ Wed, 31 Jul 2024 14:50:29 +0000 /blog/2024/07/31/featured-media-coverage-july-2024/ Syracuse University thought leaders, events and research news were showcased in the following news outlets this month:

Anthony D’Angelo (Newhouse): PR Daily
Lindsey Darvin (Falk): Women in Higher Education I NPR
Sylvia Sierra (VPA): Spectrum News
Farhana Sultana (Maxwell): The Chronicle of Higher Education
Charles Driscoll (Engineering and Computer Science): Adirondack Explorer
Margaret Talev (...

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Featured Media Coverage – July 2024

Syracuse University thought leaders, events and research news were showcased in the following news outlets this month:

  • Anthony D’Angelo (Newhouse):
  • Lindsey Darvin (Falk): I
  • Sylvia Sierra (VPA):
  • Farhana Sultana (Maxwell):
  • Charles Driscoll (Engineering and Computer Science):
  • Margaret Talev (Newhouse/Maxwell): () | (NPR) |
  • Kevin Antshel (Arts & Sciences):
  • Shubha Ghosh (Law):
  • Melinda Dermody (Libraries):
  • Dessa Bergen-Cico (Falk): ,
  • Margaret Thompson (Maxwell): | (Oakland, CA)
  • Mona Bhan, (Maxwell):
  • Roy Gutterman (Law/Newhouse):
  • Brian Taylor (Maxwell): I
  • Lynne Vincent (Whitman):
  • Natalie Koch (Maxwell):
  • Eric Kingson (Falk):
  • Jennifer Stromer-Galley (iSchool): |
  • Grant Reeher (Maxwell): | | | again | (Spain) |
  • Natalie Koch (Maxwell): |
  • Joel Kaplan (Newhouse):
  • Rick Burton (Falk):
  • Gregory Germain (Law): | | | (UK) |
  • Jessica Garay (Falk):
  • Jacob Bendix (Maxwell):
  • Patrick Penfield (Whitman):
  • Jack Graves (Law):
  • Robert Thompson (Newhouse): | | | I I I I I
  • Jon Ryan (Information Technology Services):
  • Katherine Macfarlane (Law):
  • J. Christopher Hamilton (Newhouse): |
  • Matt Huber (Maxwell): I
  • Ken Marfilius (Falk): Podcast –
  • Keith Doss (Office of Veterans and Military Affairs):
  • Dwayne Murray (Office of Veterans and Military Affairs):
  • Tetiana Hranchak (Maxwell): |
  • Kivanc Avrenli (Whitman) :
  • Traci Geisler (Blackstone LaunchPad):
  • Bhavneet Walia (Falk):
  • Latha Ramalingam (Falk):
  • Gary Engelhardt (Maxwell):
  • Makana Chock (Newhouse):
  • William Banks (Law): (UK) | |
  • Bernard Appiah (Falk):
  • Milena Petrova (Whitman):
  • Kathleen Corrado (Arts & Sciences):

To get in touch and learn more about Syracuse University faculty members available for interviews, please contactmedia@syr.edu.

Press Contact

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Featured Media Coverage – July 2024
6 New Members Elected to University’s Board of Trustees /2024/05/15/six-new-members-elected-to-universitys-board-of-trustees/ Wed, 15 May 2024 13:04:03 +0000 /blog/2024/05/15/six-new-members-elected-to-universitys-board-of-trustees/ Syracuse University has announced the election of six new members to its Board of Trustees. All innovators in their fields, the new members bring diverse backgrounds and experiences as entrepreneurs, investors, executives and visionaries. The new members are Nomi Bergman, Brian D. Grossman, Stephen H. Hagerty ’91, G’93, Allegra F. Ivey G’99, Jeannine L. Lostritto ’90 and Kirthiga U. Reddy ...

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6 New Members Elected to University’s Board of Trustees

Syracuse University has announced the election of six new members to its Board of Trustees. All innovators in their fields, the new members bring diverse backgrounds and experiences as entrepreneurs, investors, executives and visionaries. The new members are Nomi Bergman, Brian D. Grossman, Stephen H. Hagerty ’91, G’93, Allegra F. Ivey G’99, Jeannine L. Lostritto ’90 and Kirthiga U. Reddy G’95,

“We are excited to welcome these new trustees, all of whom have a connection to the Orange community either though their personal experiences or through their families,” says Board Chair Jeff Scruggs. “They have each demonstrated extraordinary vision and expertise in their different fields of interest, and we look forward to their insights and service to our students and the continued growth of the University.”

“Our trustees express their dedication in so many different ways,” says Chancellor Kent Syverud. “They share their wisdom, their experiences and their generosity of time, talent and treasure in ensuring that we deliver on the promises we make to our students to prepare them for success. The newest trustees are joining a board that works collaboratively and effectively to strengthen our university.”

Nomi Bergman

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Nomi Bergman

Bergman is a senior executive at Advance and president of Advance/Newhouse Investment Partnership, a subsidiary of Advance. Throughout her career, she has been an executive, investor and advisor in the communications and emerging technology space with a focus on transforming the customer experience.

Bergman also recently served as interim CEO of 1010data, a technology platform provider of decision science, data management and data analytics that was owned by the Advance/Newhouse Investment Partnership and acquired by SymphonyAI. Previously, Bergman was president of Bright House Networks and helped lead the company to become the sixth-largest cable operator in the nation. She and her team provided corporate guidance, execution and oversight of technology, product and strategic partnerships across the company’s video, broadband, voice and wireless platforms.

Bergman currently serves on the board of directors for Advance’s growth investment HawkEye360. In addition, she is on the boards of Visteon and Black & Veatch, and was honored to serve as a Comcast board member. She is involved with several industry and nonprofit organizations; as a member of the FCC Technological Advisory Council, The Marconi Society, Adaptive Spirit and Bridging Voice.

She received the National Cable & Telecommunications Association’s Vanguard Award for Distinguished Leadership in 2008. In 2011, she was recognized with Women in Cable Telecommunications (WICT) highest honor, Woman of the Year.

Bergman earned a B.A. in economics and statistics from the University of Rochester in 1985. Growing up in Syracuse, her association with Syracuse University runs deep. Her father, Bob Miron ’59, is a Martin J. Whitman School of Management alumnus and a life trustee. Her husband, Neal, is a 1981 graduate of the Whitman School. Bergman herself has served on the College of Engineering and Computer Science (ECS) Dean’s Leadership Council and taught part-time as an adjunct professor. She is working to complete her own Syracuse degree, as she is enrolled in the Whitman School’s online MBA program.

Bergman lives in Fayetteville, New York, with her husband. They have three adult children, Becca (Hayworth), Dori and Allison.

Brian D. Grossman

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Brian D. Grossman

Grossman is managing partner and chief investment officer for San Francisco-based PFM Health Sciences, a $1.6 billion health care focused investment advisor. The firm is one of the longest tenured public market life science investment funds, which focuses broadly across health sciences from small biotech firms to large global pharmaceutical, medical device and diagnostics companies.The firm also has a long history of investing in hospitals, health insurance and other businesses involved in providing medical services.

Grossman was a founding member of Partner Fund Management (PFM), which started operations in the fall of 2004. Prior to PFM, Grossman spent time as an investment analyst at Andor Capital (2001-2004) and Pequot Capital (2001) where he focused primarily on the biotech industry. He started his career in 1996 at J.P. Morgan Investment in the summer of 1996.

A graduate of economics from the University of Pennsylvania, Grossman grew up in Syracuse and has strong familial ties to Syracuse University. His grandfather Lionel O. Grossman L’1916; his father, Murray Grossman ’43, G’45 (College of Medicine); and his uncle Richard D. Grossman ’51, L’55 all attended the University as undergraduates, with his grandfather, uncle and sister Sarah going on to graduate from the College of Law. His father, Murray, provided medical services for many years to the athletics department, for which he was later recognized in 2016 with a Letterwinner of Distinction Award.

Grossman now lives in the San Francisco Bay area with his wife, Elizabeth, and three children: Brady, Zoe and Sylvie. He currently serves as co-chair of the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) Health Executive Council, which evaluates business strategies, operations and financial performance for UCSF Health. The Grossmans are active philanthropically in their community, supporting the S.F. Ballet, Planned Parenthood, The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Peninsula, Tipping Point and their children’s schools.

Stephen H. Hagerty ’91, G’93

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Stephen H. Hagerty

Hagerty is a management consultant, entrepreneur and civic leader. He is the founder and president of Hagerty Consulting, one of the nation’s leading emergency management consulting firms that help governments, schools, hospitals, businesses and other large organizations prepare for, respond to and recover from disasters. Between 2017 and 2021, he served as the mayor of Evanston, Illinois, successfully leading the city through a global pandemic and social unrest. As a result of his leadership, Evanston had one of the lowest infection and fatality rates in the state and one of the highest vaccination rates.Soon after leaving office, Evanston was named an All-American City in 2021 by the National Civic League.

Hagerty has successfully helped manage the recovery efforts from major U.S. disasters, including 9/11, Hurricane Katrina and the California wildfires. Before starting his firm in 2001, Hagerty worked for PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) for eight years building a disaster recovery practice.

Hagerty earned a B.S. degree from the College for Human Development (now the Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics) in consumer studies and went on to earn an M.P.A. from the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs. He has served on the Maxwell Advisory Board since 2014.

Together with his wife, Lisa Altenbernd G’93, they established the in 2022, the Stephen Hagerty and Lisa Altenbernd Faculty Fellow Fund in 2018 and the William D. Duncombe Faculty Research Endowment in 2014. Hagerty and Altenbernd reside in Evanston, Illinois, with their two children, Caroline, a junior at Washington University in St. Louis, and Garrett, a sophomore at Evanston Township High School.

Allegra F. Ivey G’99

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Allegra F. Ivey

Ivey is a managing director at BofA Securities Inc. She has served as a public finance investment banker in the municipal banking and markets division for 15 years, primarily covering large cities, such as New York, Atlanta, Houston, Detroit, Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans.

During her 25-year career, Ivey worked for PaineWebber Inc. (which became UBS Financial Services), J.P. Morgan and Bank of America Merrill Lynch. She has helped state and local governments nationwide finance over $40 billion in infrastructure projects, including airports, toll roads and water and sewer facilities, among others.

Ivey earned a master’s in public administration from the Maxwell School, where she has served on the advisory board since 2017. She inspired other Maxwell graduates when she delivered the keynote speech at the 2018 convocation.

Ivey came to Syracuse University after earning a bachelor’s degree in economics from Harvard University in 1997. She lives in Manhattan with her husband, Matthew Brennan, and their four children, Tiernan (TJ), Ellison (Ellie), Kellan and Braden.

Jeannine L. Lostritto ’90

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Jeannine L. Lostritto

Lostritto parlayed her interest in architecture into her professional, personal and volunteer experiences, most recently in her engagement with the board of trustees of Friends Academy in Locust Valley, New York, an independent Quaker college-preparatory private school serving early childhood through 12th grade.

A former Friends Academy parent, Lostritto serves as a member of its board of trustees and on its Governance Committee, and helps oversee new building construction, maintenance of the campus and existing buildings as clerk of the Buildings and Grounds Committee.

With an undergraduate degree from the School of Architecture, she first took a job as an architectural consultant at Avis Rent-a-Car and on commercial architecture projects. From 1995 to 1998, Lostritto was employed in the civil engineering division at Sear-Brown—an architecture, engineering, planning and construction services firm—where she worked on large highway and expressway projects, such as the renovation of the Queens Midtown Tunnel, as well as drainage and landscape architecture projects.

She is currently a board member of her family’s real estate company, Steel Equities and is a member of the Board of Regents at NYU-Winthrop Hospital. Additionally, she and her husband, Glenn, actively support Syracuse University through contributions to such initiatives as the Barnes Center at The Arch and the General Supported Scholarship Fund. She is also a member of the School of Architecture Advisory Board.

Lostritto lives in Old Brookville New York, with her husband. They have three children, Domenica “Sunny” L’23, Glenn Jr. and Joseph.

Kirthiga U. Reddy G’95

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Kirthiga Reddy

Reddy is anentrepreneur andinvestor who has been at the helm of technology-driven transformations in innovative companies. She is CEO and co-founder of Virtualness, a mobile-first platform to help creators and brands navigate the complex world of Web3, and usethe power of generative AI and blockchain. She is afounding investment partner of f7 Ventures,whose mission is“Bold Women Investing in Bold Ventures.” She is co-founder of Liftery, asocial impactinitiative focused on working mothers.

Previously, she was the first female investment partner at SoftBank Investment Advisers focused on frontier, enterprise and health tech investments. She was managing director for Facebook India and South Asia and then became managing global partnerand emerging markets lead for global accounts in markets, including Mexico, Brazil, Indonesia, South Africa and Middle East.She has also held engineering and product executiveroles atof Phoenix Technologies, Motorola andSilicon GraphicsInc.

Reddy earned a master’s degree in computer engineering from the College of Engineering and Computer Science and later earned an MBA from Stanford University. She served on the ECS Dean’s Leadership Council for several years and has established the Kirthiga Reddy Graduate Scholarship in ECS.

Reddy lives in Summerlin, Las Vegas, Nevada, with her husband, Dev G’94, who also attended the College of Engineering and Computer Science. They have two adult children, Ashna and Ariya.

Press Contact

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University Leaders Launch AI Academic Alliance, Convene AI Symposium in Washington /2023/10/26/university-leaders-launch-ai-academic-alliance-convene-ai-symposium-in-washington/ Thu, 26 Oct 2023 12:58:58 +0000 /blog/2023/10/26/university-leaders-launch-ai-academic-alliance-convene-ai-symposium-in-washington/ Two Syracuse University institutes are welcoming researchers, academic leaders, policymakers and journalists for discussions in Washington, D.C., about innovations, vulnerabilities and the future of artificial intelligence.
The two-day AI Policy Symposium that begins today in the nation’s capital is organized by the Institute for Democracy, Journalism and Citizenship (IDJC) and the Autonomous Sy...

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University Leaders Launch AI Academic Alliance, Convene AI Symposium in Washington

Two Syracuse University institutes are welcoming researchers, academic leaders, policymakers and journalists for discussions in Washington, D.C., about innovations, vulnerabilities and the future of artificial intelligence.

The two-day AI Policy Symposium that begins today in the nation’s capital is organized by the (IDJC) and the (ASPI).

The event also serves as the venue to launch the Academic Alliance for AI Policy, an academic advisory body formed to serve as a resource for lawmakers, policymakers and others seeking to regulate and better understand AI.

“AI is affecting more and more aspects of daily life in America and beyond,” says , director of ASPI and a University Professor. He will lead the alliance.

“Unlike the early decades of its development, when it was the intellectual curiosity of a small number of academics, AI is nobody’s monopoly anymore,” Ekbia says. “If there is a benefit from AI, it should apply to everyone, and if there is harm, someone should be held accountable. This needs oversight and regulation.”

The new alliance and AI policy will be the focus of discussions Thursday at the symposium. How AI will affect the future of work, and its impact on the 2024 presidential election are topics to be discussed Friday.

“Connecting top AI researchers with policymakersand journalists thinking about AI regulation and impacts on society is key to informing regulation, news coverage and the public’s understanding of these emerging issues,” says , Kramer Director of the Washington-based IDJC. “The symposium also is an opportunity to bring journalists from a range of news organizations together as they navigate coverage and use of AI.”

Still in formation, the alliance will be comprised of academic leaders representing K-12 schools, community colleges and research universities. It is guided by a steering committee that includes representatives from Cornell University, Duke University, Indiana University, Oregon State University, Purdue University, The Ohio State University, the University of California and the University of Illinois.

Joining Ekbia in representing Syracuse is , assistant professor of English in the College of Arts and Sciences.

Ekbia, who joined the University in January 2023, says the alliance will serve as a platform for the exchange of ideas among academics from various backgrounds and as an advisory body for lawmakers as they grapple with the increasing number of challenges arising from AI.

The alliance will also connect AI experts with journalists reporting on related issues to help distill the implications for greater public understanding.

Ekbia says the regulation of AI in the U.S. is lagging and has enabled rampant gaps in information, knowledge and accountability. This, he says, has allowed the economic agendas of a few to take priority over public interest. “Academics can, and should, help correct this state of affairs,” adds Ekbia. “The Academic Alliance for AI Policy is a step in that direction.”

Based at the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, ASPI is a Universitywide initiative focused on the intersection of technology, policy and society that boasts dozens of affiliated faculty researchers across disciplines.

The IDJC engages in nonpartisan research, teaching and public dialogue aimed at strengthening trust in news media, governance and society.It is a joint initiative of the and the .

In addition to the symposium, the institutes are co-sponsors of the Axios-Generation Lab-Syracuse University AI Experts Survey. The found that a majority of computer science experts at top U.S. research universities wanted to see the creation of a new federal agency or global organization to govern artificial intelligence.The next wave of findings is to be released in November.

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University Leaders Launch AI Academic Alliance, Convene AI Symposium in Washington
A&S Paleoclimatologists Use Ancient Sediment to Explore Future Climate in Africa /2023/10/11/as-paleoclimatologists-use-ancient-sediment-to-explore-future-climate-in-africa/ Wed, 11 Oct 2023 22:48:04 +0000 /blog/2023/10/11/as-paleoclimatologists-use-ancient-sediment-to-explore-future-climate-in-africa/ In September, extreme rains struck South Africa’s Western Cape province, flooding villages and leaving a trail of destruction. The catastrophic devastation is just one recent example in a string of extreme weather events that are growing more common around the world. Fueled by rising sea surface temperatures from global warming, torrential storms are increasing both in frequency and magnitude. C...

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A&S Paleoclimatologists Use Ancient Sediment to Explore Future Climate in Africa

In September, extreme rains struck South Africa’s Western Cape province, flooding villages and leaving a . The catastrophic devastation is just one recent example in a string of extreme weather events that are growing more common around the world. Fueled by rising sea surface temperatures from global warming, torrential storms are increasing both in frequency and magnitude. Concurrently, global warming is also producing the opposite effect in other instances, as a mega-drought recently threatened the water supply of Cape Town in southwestern Africa to the point where residents were at risk of running out of water. This one-two punch of weather extremes are devastating habitats, ecosystems and human infrastructure.

Floodwaters
Floodwaters in the town of Bushmans River, South Africa.

With global warming apparently here to stay, a team of paleoclimatologists from Syracuse University, George Mason University and the University of Connecticut are studying an ancient source to determine future rainfall and drought patterns: fossilized plants that lived on Earth millions of years ago.

In a led by Claire Rubbelke, a Ph.D. candidate in Earth and environmental sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences (A&S), and , Thonis Family Professor of Earth and Environmental Sciences in A&S, researchers zeroed in on the Pliocene epoch (~3 million years ago)–a time when conditions were very similar to today. Despite warmer temperatures, many parts of the world, including southwestern Africa, experienced dramatic increases in rainfall over land, likely caused by warmer than normal sea surface temperatures. This mimics a modern event called a Benguela Niño, where researchers believe shifting winds cause warm waters to move southward along the coast of Africa causing enhanced rainfall over typically arid regions.

“In the present day, the intensity and location of extreme precipitation from Benguela Niño events appear to be influenced by both Atlantic and Indian Ocean sea surface temperatures,” says Rubbelke, who is a member of Bhattacharya’s . “During the Pliocene, it appears that these Benguela Niño-like conditions may have been a permanent feature.”

Claire
Claire Rubbelke

The team’s work was inspired by collaborator and study co-author , associate professor in the Department of Atmospheric, Oceanic and Earth Sciences at George Mason University. Burls, an oceanographer and climate scientist from South Africa, has long been intrigued by the way geological evidence from past warm climates in Earth’s history can help researchers make sense of future rainfall and drought conditions.

“This study, which explored how past warm climates can inform us on what to expect in the future as our planet warms, brings to the fore the important role of ocean warming patterns,” says Burls. “It’s important to understand how these patterns determine the response of the hydrological cycle over southwest Africa to global warming.”

To study the impact of global warming on precipitation from millions of years in the past, the team analyzed ‘molecular fossils’ in the form of ancient leaf waxes. “These are compounds produced by leaves to protect themselves from drying out,” says Bhattacharya. “They get shed from leaf surfaces and find their way to ocean sediments, where we can extract them and study their chemical composition.”

Plants use hydrogen from rainwater to produce the waxy outer coating on their leaves, which survives in ocean sediment for millions of years. The leaf wax functions as a time capsule preserved in ocean sediment.

After transporting the millions-year-old sediment from Africa to their lab in Syracuse, Rubbelke and Bhattacharya used heat and pressure to extract lipids (e.g. fat molecules), and then used a variety of solvents to isolate the exact class of molecules that they were looking to measure. From those molecules, they determined the number of different types of hydrogen present.

Tripti
Tripti Bhattacharya

“When we measure the amount of heavy and light isotopes of hydrogen in the waxes, it reveals different physical processes like increased rainfall, or how far the water vapor travels,” says Rubbelke. “We can therefore identify changes in these processes by looking at long-term changes of hydrogen.”

By comparing their data to climate models, they verify how well those models capture past climate change, which can in turn improve the accuracy of those models to predict future rainfall. As Bhattacharya notes, this is critical because climate models often disagree on whether certain regions will get wetter or drier in response to global warming.

“We are using real world data from the ancient geologic past to improve our ability to model rainfall changes as the planet warms,” she says.

The study’s third author, , assistant professor of Earth sciences at the University of Connecticut, helped analyze the comparison data and specifically examined the proposed mechanism that explains the Pliocene wet conditions in southwest Africa. She says many features of ongoing climate change are reincarnations of the past warm climates.

Rubbelke, whose interest in paleoclimate research started in high school while studying ice cores and oxygen isotopes, says that the work she is doing alongside Bhattacharya is particularly fulfilling because they are contributing valuable data to an area where there is currently a knowledge gap.

“This research is really cool because not a lot of paleoclimate records from the southern hemisphere exist, compared to the northern hemisphere at least,” says Rubbelke. “I feel like I’m really contributing to an international research effort to rectify that.”

As to whether the future will be wetter or drier in southwestern Africa, the team’s results suggests that both are possible, depending on where extreme sea surface temperatures are occurring.

While not much can be done to reverse global warming, short of cutting the use of fossil fuels completely, the researchers say this study illuminates the need for vulnerable communities to have the tools and resources to adapt to these seemingly more frequent extreme weather events.

“A key aspect of helping vulnerable communities involves improving our ability to predict hydroclimate extremes, “says Bhattacharya. “Our study directly speaks to this need, as we show that sea surface temperature patterns strongly influence climate models’ ability to predict changes in rainfall in southwestern Africa.”

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A&S Paleoclimatologists Use Ancient Sediment to Explore Future Climate in Africa
Featured Media Coverage – Week of Aug. 25 /2023/09/01/featured-media-coverage-week-of-aug-25/ Fri, 01 Sep 2023 14:20:53 +0000 /blog/2023/09/01/featured-media-coverage-week-of-aug-25/ Syracuse University thought leaders, events and research news were showcased in the following news outlets this week:

Matthew Huber, professor of geography and the environment in the Maxwell School, was quoted in the Yahoo story “Is the biggest US public utility finally catching up on clean energy?“
Richard Barton, assistant teaching professor in the Maxwell School, was published in T...

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Featured Media Coverage – Week of Aug. 25

Syracuse University thought leaders, events and research news were showcased in the following news outlets this week:

  • , professor of geography and the environment in the Maxwell School, was quoted in the Yahoo story “
  • , assistant teaching professor in the Maxwell School, was published in The Fulcrum: “
  • , associate professor of public health in Falk College, was interviewed for the Newsday article “.” He was also quoted in a second Newsday story “.”
  • , professor of practice in the Newhouse School and director of the Syracuse University Institute for Democracy, Journalism and Citizenship, was interviewed by the NPR show “Up To Date” for the piece “She also spoke with Spectrum News for the story “.”
  • , professor of marketing practice in the Whitman School, was quoted in WalletHub: “
  • , incoming director of the Disability Law and Policy Program and associate professor in the College of Law, was quoted in the New York Post story “.”
  • , director of the Bandier Program at the Newhouse School, was quoted in the Vanity Fair article “” and the Los Angeles Time article “.”
  • , Trustee Professor of television, radio and film and director of the Bleier Center for Television and Popular Culture in the Newhouse School, quoted about the death of Bob Barker in , , and the.
  • , director of research and associate teaching professor, was quoted in the Newsweek piece “.
  • , professor of political science in the Maxwell School, was quoted in the International Business Times article “.”
  • , professor of food studies in Falk College, wrote an op-ed in Albany Times Union “
  • , associate professor in the College of Visual and Performing Arts, was quoted in the Lifewire story “.”
  • , adjunct professor in the Maxwell School in Washington D.C., was quoted in the USA Today story
  • , professor of law in the College of Law, was quoted in The Hill article “.”

To get in touch and learn more about Syracuse University faculty members available for interviews, please contactmedia@syr.edu.

Press Contact

Do you have a news tip, story idea or know a person we should profile on Ƶ? Send an email to internalcomms@syr.edu.

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Featured Media Coverage – Week of Aug. 25