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’CUSE50 Honoree Matt Tarullo ’04 Lifts Up Student Entrepreneurs

John Boccacino — Fri, 16 Oct 2026 12:37:37 +0000

Matt Tarullo is honored by Chancellor J. Michael Haynie with a 2025 'CUSE50 Award.

’CUSE50 Honoree Matt Tarullo ’04 Lifts Up Student Entrepreneurs

The former football standout and two-time ’CUSE50 honoree will share lessons on business and giving back during this year’s Student Summit and Alumni Entrepreneur Awards Nov. 12.

John Boccacino Oct. 16, 2026

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As a four-year member of the offensive line for the Syracuse University football team, prided himself on being a team player, someone who would do the little things every day to help the Orange succeed on the field.

That selfless strategy helped Tarullo become a starter for the final 36 games of his career, including earning First-Team All-Big East honors during his senior season.

That same approach guided Tarullo’s entrepreneurial career as partner, financial advisor and vice president of recruiting and sales for , part of Cetera Investors.

For the second straight year, Tarullo is being recognized during the University’s fourth annual , which on Nov. 12 will celebrate 50 of the fastest-growing global businesses and nonprofit ventures owned or led by Orange alumni.

Matt Tarullo

“I’m very honored,” says Tarullo, who earned dual degrees in psychology and communications and rhetorical studies from the . “It’s a phenomenal event showcasing the entrepreneurial spirit our alumni have, and I strongly encourage other alumni to be a part of this celebration.”

While he’s looking forward to the awards ceremony, Tarullo says he’s equally excited to impart his business acumen to student entrepreneurs at the ’CUSE50 Student Summit, when honorees will share insights with students at the .

Over the summer, Tarullo’s company hosted several current students for internships. Tarullo plans to use this year’s Student Summit to emphasize the importance of giving back to future students.

“It’s beneficial for students to hear stories of success, but also how we overcome problems. I tell students how important it is to have a niche, a passion that motivates your work,” Tarullo says.

for the ’CUSE50 Student Summit and Alumni Awards Ceremony.

The Student Summit runs from noon to 3 p.m. in the Flaum Grand Hall in the Whitman School, with Chancellor J. Michael Haynie and Whitman Dean Alex McKelvie delivering remarks. Latavius Murray G’20, a retired NFL running back, community builder and entrepreneur will serve as the keynote speaker, followed by two panel discussions featuring ’CUSE50 alumni entrepreneurs and a “Five for Five” pitch competition, where five student startups will compete for a winner-takes-all $5,000 prize judged by the ’CUSE50 honorees in attendance. To support student entrepreneurs, consider a gift to the which makes the student prize money possible.

The Alumni Entrepreneur Awards Ceremony begins with check-in and light refreshments at 5 p.m., followed by the awards at 5:30 p.m. in the K.G. Tan Auditorium and a reception starting at 6:45 p.m. in the Bisignano Grand Hall. All events occur in the National Veterans Resource Center at the Daniel and Gayle D’Aniello Building.

Tarullo sat down with Syracuse University Today to preview the ’CUSE50 Alumni Awards.

The ’CUSE50 Student Summit and Alumni Entrepreneur Awards ceremony is Thursday, Nov. 12. (Photo by Amy Manley)

What are the leadership similarities between playing football for the Orange and leading Iron Tree Financial?

Matt Tarullo: On the football field, I had great teammates who had my back and were working together for a goal. We were part of something bigger than ourselves. That’s how I looked at business. We had to create something special that would help people reach their goals. The joy for me is giving people the opportunity to be successful and finding those people that want to be part of something that’s bigger than yourself.

How surreal is it to think of yourself as an entrepreneur?

Tarullo: I love the word entrepreneur, but I like the word coach better. I’ve always tried to coin myself as the money coach. When I sit down with clients or corporations, I always tell them that I’m their head coach, but they’re going to own the team because it’s their money we’re investing, it’s their future. I’m only going to be as good as you let me be. I want to make sure we give them a phenomenal experience, that’s why I pride myself on doing the little things right, taking care of the small, mundane details that lead to success.

How do you learn from the students during the summit?

Tarullo: Last year, through conversations with some talented students, I learned more about the importance of having a well-thought-out social media presence. Being active on social media is huge for our business, and many are missing out because they don’t understand what they need to be doing on social.

What’s the lesson you want to emphasize to students this year?

Tarullo: Once you become successful, your goal should be to give back and do something to inspire those around you. There’s this critical concept of reaching down, which means when you’re successful in your career, you should elevate those around you, pull them up with you and help make them better. In turn, those people will usually do the same, which means we’re all getting better as we’re all improving. It’s a great team mentality.

Matt Tarullo poses with his wife, Christine, and their children.

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A Fitting Backdrop: Maxwell Examines America’s 250th in Philadelphia

News Staff — Sun, 11 Oct 2026 22:36:24 +0000

Campus & Community

Tessa Murphy, Maxwell Dean Associate Professor of Atlantic History, speaks during the event in Philadelphia.

Campus & Community

A Fitting Backdrop: Maxwell Examines America’s 250th in Philadelphia

At the Museum of the American Revolution, Dean David M. Van Slyke and Professor Tessa Murphy reflect on the nation’s founding and the legacy of independence.

News Staff Oct. 11, 2026

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The Revolutionary War is often celebrated as a unified bid for self-governance. But rebellion against the British was far from universally embraced.

Tensions around independence divided many communities, including the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, according to Maxwell historian Tessa Murphy.

“The Tuscarora and Oneida chose to side with the Patriots, and the rest of the nations were on the side of the British,” Murphy told Syracuse University alumni gathered Sept. 23 at Philadelphia’s Museum of the American Revolution. “This transforms the place where you all went to school into a really contested battleground.”

Murphy spoke about these and other complexities of the Revolutionary War as the featured speaker at the event, where over 75 alumni and their guests, including dozens of graduates from the Maxwell School, gathered to explore the nation’s past, present and future.

The event was hosted by Maxwell in partnership with Syracuse University’s Office of Alumni and Constituent Engagement. It was part of Maxwell’s ongoing programming in commemoration of the nation’s 250th anniversary. The museum was a fitting historic setting—two blocks from where the Declaration of Independence was signed.

“USA@250 is inspired by Maxwell’s founding mission of citizenship and public affairs and grounded in a single central question: How has the United States lived up to its founding principles of equality, life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness?” Dean David M. Van Slyke asked the crowd. “This is exactly the kind of question a university and the school ought to be asking.”

Differing Motivations

In her talk, Murphy shared that British colonies stretched from the Caribbean to what became Canada. Loyalists were a “diverse group of people with differing motivations,” said Murphy, who is the Maxwell Dean Associate Professor of Atlantic History. “I think it’s important not to miss the extent of division within the British colonies in order not to assume that independence was some kind of foregone conclusion.”

Citing research by historian Maya Jasanoff, she noted that “up to 100,000 people would ultimately leave the independent United States in order to remain within the British Empire.”

Murphy’s lecture highlighted how America’s fight for independence was a story of global governance with far-reaching implications. After the British lost the 13 colonies, they went on to rule other colonial subjects with much tighter control. But the war also inspired movements beyond the nascent United States.

In the Q&A that followed her talk, Murphy shared that the Haitian Revolution led to the second independent republic in the Americas.

“Some of the people who fought for Haitian independence were troops in the Battle of Savannah during the American Revolution,” she said. “So there’s a direct line in terms of some of the inheritances of U.S. independence in other parts of the Americas, which I think is something to be proud of.”

Autographs from U.S. Presidents

Throughout the evening, attendees also had a chance to browse autographs from U.S. presidents such as George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, from the collection of Matthew Correia ’08. Correia shared the stories behind acquiring the signatures from every U.S. president and vice president, and he told fellow alumni he is the first person to have an autograph by every vice president.

Correia’s signed Washington artifact is a soldier discharge from 1783, the Revolutionary War’s final year, and includes a message from the then-general: “The road to glory in a patriot army and free country is thus open to all.” This, Correia said, alludes to the Revolution’s reach for meritocracy. “They wanted to create a different type of governance, a different type of relationship of the people to the government.”

Murphy’s historical perspective, along with the backdrop of the museum and Correia’s collection, served as reminders that America’s story is a work in progress.

“We are still learning so much more, both about our history, but then also what it means for our future,” said Philadelphia-based education consultant Heidi Ramirez ’96 after Murphy’s presentation. “This year has reminded us that there are so many voices in this thing we call American history and that just keeps evolving.”

That sentiment is captured in Maxwell’s USA@250 lecture series, which features faculty talks on women’s rights, Frederick Douglass, immigration, the U.S. Constitution and more and is available to all on . The series reflects Maxwell’s mission to bring scholarship on the nation’s founding directly to the public in this semiquincentennial year.

“A milestone like this isn’t just for scholars to study,” Van Slyke said. “It’s a call for all of us who care about the health of American self-government to carry forward.”

Story by Janine White

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Syracuse University Remembers: 25 Years After 9/11

John Boccacino — Wed, 09 Sep 2026 14:28:27 +0000

Campus & Community

(Photo by Amelia Beamish)

Campus & Community

Syracuse University Remembers: 25 Years After 9/11

Campus community to honor victims and first responders with remembrance events, including an interfaith memorial service at Hendricks Chapel.

John Boccacino Sept. 9, 2026

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The Syracuse University community is coming together this week to mark 25 years since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Special events will honor those who lost their lives and recognize the sacrifices of our nation’s first responders and military-connected members who showed extraordinary courage in the face of unimaginable tragedy.

On the morning of Sept. 11, 2001, attacks at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and aboard United Airlines Flight 93 killed 2,977 people, including 30 Syracuse University alumni.

In observance of the day, and the (OVMA) are holding a starting at 8:46 a.m., the same time when hijacked American Airlines Flight 11 crashed into the World Trade Center’s North Tower.

At precisely 8:46 a.m., there will be a moment of silence in the chapel, followed by a chime ringing 25 times in honor of those who died that day. At the conclusion of the service, 25 candles will be lit to remember the victims.

Here’s a complete rundown of the events happening on campus:

Sept. 11: Hendricks Chapel 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony, an interfaith memorial service, from 8:30 to 10 a.m. The event will be and will include remarks from several of the chapel’s chaplains and performances from the and José “Peppie” Calvar, director of the Hendricks Chapel Choir and professor and assistant director of choral activities at the Setnor School of Music.
Sept. 11: 9/11 , JMA Wireless Dome. Registration starts at 8 a.m., followed by an opening ceremony at 8:30 a.m. The climb starts at 8:46 a.m. and ends at noon.
- Note: the Hendricks Remembrance Ceremony and the Syracuse University Ambulance Stair Climb and Walk will happen simultaneously starting at 8:46 a.m.

Sept. 11: College of Law ’Cuse Vet Fest, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Levy Atrium. Syracuse-area veterans are invited to a , hosted at the College of Law. This is a joint effort between the , the College of Law’s and the . Free admission and free parking in the Irving Avenue Garage.
Sept. 12: , noon to 3 p.m., Women’s Building Field. Celebrate our and enjoy free food, non-alcoholic beverages, a cash bar, games, music and shuttled transportation to and from the event. This is a collaboration between the OVMA, the , and the .

Sept. 12: vs. the University of California, Berkeley, 3:30 p.m., JMA Dome.
Sept. 14: , 4 to 7 p.m., National Veterans Resource Center at the Daniel and Gayle D’Aniello Building, K.G. Tan Auditorium. Following a moment of silence for those who lost their lives, there will be a panel discussion from 4 to 5 p.m. featuring Chris Meek ’92, G’18, founder and CEO of the ; , dean of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications who reported from the Pentagon on 9/11; and ��Ǵڱ��ǰ��Ի��, who will reflect on the enduring legacy of the first responders, survivors and everyday citizens. Following the discussion will be a screening of the documentary, “,” from 5 to 7 p.m. Both events are free and open to the public.

(Photo by Amelia Beamish)

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’Cuse Friday Kicks Off Ahead of Football Season

John Boccacino — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 12:46:55 +0000

Campus & Community

’Cuse Friday Kicks Off Ahead of Football Season

New initiative encourages students, faculty, staff and alumni to show school spirit and enter to win prizes throughout the academic year.

John Boccacino Sept. 2, 2026

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At Syracuse University, Orange isn’t just a color; it’s an identity. The new ’Cuse Friday initiative gives students, faculty, staff and alumni a weekly reason to wear it, gear up for game day and win prizes all year long.

Starting Friday, Sept. 4, pull on your best Orange T-shirt, sweatshirt or jersey, snap a photo and share it with #CuseFriday.

During the year, by engaging with Syracuse University and , fans can win fun giveaways—some even personally delivered by Otto the Orange—and show others what it means to Be Orange.

“’Cuse Friday is about bringing our entire community together around what makes Syracuse Athletics special: our fans and their passion for the Orange,” says , director of athletics. “Whether you’re on campus, back home or halfway around the world, every piece of Orange gear you wear is a reminder that you’re part of something bigger. We want Fridays to feel like game day, every week, and we can’t wait to see Orange Nation show up in force.”

The start of the ’Cuse Friday campaign aligns with College Colors Day, an annual, nationwide celebration where alumni, students, faculty and staff wear their favorite college or university apparel and team colors leading up to the first full week of the college football season.

Under head coach Fran Brown, opens the 2026 season in the JMA Wireless Dome against the University of New Hampshire at noon on Saturday, Sept. 5.

The game is part of the University’s annual Faculty and Staff Appreciation Day, where faculty, staff and their guests (up to 10 total) can purchase tickets at special rates, starting at $12.99. Tickets are through Friday, Sept. 4, at 11:59 p.m.

#CuseFriday, which runs throughout the academic year, is a collaboration between Syracuse Athletics, the and the .

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Alumni Awards to Honor Chancellor Syverud and Dr. Chen April 23

News Staff — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 15:03:03 +0000

Campus & Community

Alumni Awards to Honor Chancellor Syverud and Dr. Chen April 23

The University community is invited to attend the 5 p.m. ceremony at Hendricks Chapel, where the George Arents Award and four other alumni honors will be presented.

April 22, 2026

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The 2026 Alumni Award winners are (top row, from left) Chancellor Kent Syverud, Dr. Ruth Chen and Daniel A. D’Aniello ’68, H’20, and (bottom row, from left) Akima H. Rogers ’92, Diana Wege ’76 and Ronald J. Taylor ’15, G’16.

The Syracuse University Alumni Association will honor Chancellor Kent Syverud and Dr. Ruth Chen, professor of practice in the College of Engineering and Computer Science, with the George Arents Award, the University’s highest alumni honor, at the 2026 Alumni Awards Celebration on Thursday, April 23, in Hendricks Chapel. The event is free and open to all alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends of the University.

Check-in begins at 4:30 p.m., with the awards ceremony beginning at 5 p.m. A complimentary reception with food and refreshments follows from 6 to 7:30 p.m. inside the Miron Victory Court.

Chancellor Syverud has led Syracuse University through a period of transformational change over the past 12 years, overseeing record enrollment, a landmark fundraising campaign and the establishment of Syracuse as the nation’s premier private university for veterans and military-connected students. His leadership has reshaped the University’s academic profile, physical campus and national standing.

Dr. Chen has built a distinguished career in environmental toxicology spanning state government, the National Institutes of Health and higher education. Throughout her tenure at Syracuse, she has brought deep expertise and an unwavering commitment to students and the broader University community.

The 2026 Alumni Awards Celebration will also recognize four additional honorees: Ronald J. Taylor ’15, G’16, who will receive the Generation Orange Award for a career spanning education leadership, youth development and technology policy; Daniel A. D’Aniello ’68, H’20, who will receive the Military/Veteran Alumni Award in recognition of his distinguished U.S. Navy service and decades of transformative support for Syracuse University; Akima H. Rogers ’92, who will receive the Volunteer of the Year Award for his deep and enduring engagement with the University community; and Diana Wege ’76, who will receive the Melvin A. Eggers Senior Alumni Award for her loyalty, service and distinguished career as a conceptual artist, curator and activist.

The event is complimentary, but seating is limited. to join the University community in honoring this year’s recipients.

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Syracuse Giving Day Is Tomorrow—Celebrate Syracuse’s 156th Birthday!

Shaina M. Hill — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0000

Campus & Community

(Photo by Angela Ryan)

Campus & Community

Syracuse Giving Day Is Tomorrow—Celebrate Syracuse’s 156th Birthday!

The annual day of giving on March 24 features campus events, student challenges and a goal of 4,444 supporters nationwide.

Shaina M. Hill March 23, 2026

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isn’t just about gifts—it’s a global celebration where the Orange community comes together to make an impact!

Tomorrow, March 24, Syracuse celebrates 156 years of Orange pride, and Syracuse Giving Day promises a full day of energy, generosity and campuswide fun. From grabbing giveaways in Schine Student Center to supporting from wherever you are, Giving Day is all about fueling what makes Syracuse extraordinary.

What’s Happening on Campus?

Free Food, Giveaways and Stamp Card Rewards
Schine Student Center | 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Energize your day! Make a gift, enjoy treats and earn your way to an Otto straw topper while supplies last. Visit the photo booth or record your own Giving Day video with a branded ring light to help you create your best Orange content. Watch live shows throughout the day for exciting student-created stories.

Goldstein Auditorium | 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

Discover the incredible work of 41 student organizations! Meet students, learn about their goals and support your favorites. When 150 alumni support any project, $2,100 in additional funding will be split among the top five groups thanks to the generosity of the Syracuse University Alumni Association Board.

Class of 2026 Donor Exclusive Party
Make your class gift, earn your grad cord and join Otto’s After Party from 6 to 8 p.m.

How to Make an Impact

! The University’s goal is to inspire 4,444 supporters on Giving Day. When there is at least one donor from every state and the entire map turns orange, $100,000 will go to Syracuse University thanks to our Regional Councils.
! You’ll receive an exclusive Syracuse gift wrap set.
! Create an account, share your personal link and earn Syracuse keyboard stickers.
! Whether it’s your favorite school, college or program, help unlock additional funding that will multiply your impact.

Let’s give Syracuse the best birthday gift: a powerful show of Orange pride and generosity.

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Dates Selected for 2026 Family Weekend and Orange Central Homecoming

Kim Infanti — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 21:50:23 +0000

Campus & Community

Expect a spirited game day vibe on the Quad this fall for Family Weekend and Orange Central Homecoming!

Campus & Community

Dates Selected for 2026 Family Weekend and Orange Central Homecoming

Two signature staples of the fall semester are Family Weekend, Oct. 16-18, and Orange Central Homecoming Weekend, Nov. 6-8.

Kim Infanti Feb. 25, 2026

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Syracuse University looks forward to an exciting fall 2026 on campus featuring Family Weekend (Oct. 16-18) and Orange Central Homecoming Weekend (Nov. 6-8).

Family Weekend, coordinated by , is set for Oct. 16-18. Students have the opportunity to show off campus to their families during a weekend that features a variety of programs highlighting the Syracuse University student experience. This year, the Orange football team will host Louisville on Saturday, Oct. 17, during Family Weekend.

�ճ��’s Orange Central Homecoming Weekend, including Law alumni, is set for Nov. 6-8, when the Orange host Clemson in the JMA Wireless Dome. Additional details and hotel block information will be released in the coming weeks.

Syracuse University is also planning on-the-road programs and/or ticket blocks as the Syracuse Orange head to away games across the country. Details will be shared as soon as they are available.

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Connecting the Orange Network

News Staff — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 13:51:02 +0000

Campus & Community

Connecting the Orange Network

Ask Orange Alumni, an AI-powered networking tool, helps transforms student-alumni relationships.

Nov. 26, 2025

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When Zahra Jarrell ’29, a public relations major in the , had questions about breaking into sports administration and sports media, she wasn’t sure where to turn.

That’s when she discovered , the Syracuse University Alumni Association’s artificial intelligence (AI)-powered networking tool that’s modernizing how the Orange community connects.

Breaking Down Barriers to Mentorship

Ask Orange Alumni eliminates traditional networking hurdles. Students and alumni visit the website, submit questions and let AI work behind-the-scenes to find alumni matches. Faculty and staff members can also use the tool to identify guest speakers and bring themselves up-to-date on current industry trends.

For Jarrell, this process opened unexpected doors.

“I spoke to many alumni from different class years who currently work in sports administration and sports media,” she says. “We talked about career paths in sports administration and PR, the importance of networking and they offered insightful advice about navigating opportunities as a student and building professional connections early on.”

The Power of Giving Back

Alumni like Jeffrey Wells G’23, who earned an MBA from the , have found responding to fellow Orange community members fulfilling.

“The experience has been very rewarding,” Wells says. “The feedback I have received from alumni is that they not only value but also appreciate my input. I am grateful that I have had a chance to help other Syracuse alumni.”

Building Confidence and Community

The impact goes beyond simple question-and-answer exchanges. For Jarrell, connecting with multiple alumni provided confidence and direction.

“It was such a valuable experience, giving me a clearer sense of direction and making me feel more confident about pursuing my goals at Syracuse and beyond.”

Wells sees the bigger picture: “Ask Orange Alumni is a great idea for a forum where Orange alumni can help other Orange alumni and students. I hope that it continues to grow.”

How to Get Involved

Whether you’re a current student seeking guidance, a recent graduate navigating early career decisions or an established alum ready to give back, Ask Orange Alumni makes connections effortless.

For students and alumni seeking advice: Visit , submit questions and receive personalized responses from alumni who’ve been in your shoes. Be sure to say thank you to the alumni who step up to help!

For alumni ready to help: for better matching, respond to questions that align with your expertise and choose how you’d like to help—answer in the system, offer virtual meetings or suggest in-person connections.

Join the Growing Orange Network

Ask Orange Alumni is a bridge connecting generations of Syracuse graduates and current students, fostering authentic relationships that define the Orange experience.

Ready to be part of this story? Visit and discover how Orange connections can transform your career journey.

Story by the Office of Alumni and Constituent Engagement

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Orange Central 2025 in Photos

John Boccacino — Mon, 20 Oct 2025 20:59:09 +0000

Campus & Community

Orange Central 2025 in Photos

There truly is no place like Syracuse University! Relive Homecoming Weekend through these great photos.

John Boccacino Oct. 20, 2025

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The University welcomed more than 1,000 alumni, friends and their families back to campus over the weekend to celebrate our community, our incredible spirit and school pride during Orange Central Homecoming Weekend 2025.

There was excitement in the air for Homecoming Weekend. Relive the magic below through photos that capture the memories, connections and good times.

For more fun moments, browse the Orange Central photo album on the .

The Marching Band’s performance on the steps of Hendricks Chapel is a highlight of every game day. (Photo courtesy of )

These two fans are living their best Orange life at Orange Central! (Photo courtesy of )

Forever Orange Friday in Miron Victory Court is the perfect stop for returning families. (Photo courtesy of )

These kids have alumni parents who are raising them right! (Photo courtesy of )

Newhouse professor Adam Peruta ’00, G’04 educated alumni on all things Artificial Intelligence. (Photo courtesy of )

Syracuse University Libraries hosted an event where alumni could make their own books. (Photo courtesy of )

These attendees were hard at work making their own books. (Photo by Coco Boardman)

Cheers to these members of the Class of 2025 enjoying their first Homecoming Weekend as alumni! (Photo courtesy of )

Have we mentioned how much Otto loves reuniting with our alumni during Orange Central? (Photo courtesy of )

Then and now: our alumni were challenged to recreate iconic campus photos. (Photo courtesy of )

Another family that bleeds Orange posed for photos at registration headquarters in the Schine Student Center. (Photo courtesy of )

Visitors checked out some of the unique items on display at the University Archives table at Orange Central. (Photo by Coco Boardman)

Otto poses with the Generation Orange Leadership Council. (Photo courtesy of )

Saturday morning’s Homecoming Alumni Breakfast brought together nearly all of our schools, colleges and units. (Photo courtesy of )

Saturday’s weather could not have been more perfect for the alumni tailgate. (Photo courtesy of )

Did someone say Quad Walk? Otto is always ready to welcome our football team! (Photo courtesy of )

Friends from the Class of 1990 enjoyed a beautiful weekend back on campus. (Photo courtesy of )

Members of the football team and fans gather by the Ernie Davis statue during the team’s walk to the JMA Wireless Dome. (Photo courtesy of )

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Their Grandson’s Footprint

Renée Gearhart Levy — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 17:18:39 +0000

Campus & Community

Their Grandson’s Footprint

Peter ’63 and Susan Mellis honor their grandson Max Brown through an endowed scholarship.

Renée Gearhart Levy Oct. 16, 2025

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For Peter ’63 and Susan (Teschner) Mellis, Syracuse University has always held a quiet but enduring place in their lives. Peter earned his English degree in the College of Arts and Sciences and built a decades-long management career in publishing. Susan studied business at Syracuse for two years, finishing her degree later in life, and established a career as an interior designer. The couple met and married in 1964, raised two children and eventually settled in Connecticut. Over the years, Syracuse was a fond chapter in their past—but not necessarily at the center of their family’s story.

That changed after the heartbreaking loss of their grandson, Max Brown.

Max, described by his grandfather as a gentle soul who loved literature and the Grateful Dead, chose to postpone college—instead moving to Colorado after high school, where he worked as a Starbucks barista and pursued his passion for climbing mountains. But at just 21 years old, Max was diagnosed with an aggressive, inoperable brain tumor after developing an unrelenting case of hiccups. He died only 15 months later at age 23.

Finding Meaning in Loss

During Max’s illness and treatment, he often stayed with Peter and Susan in their Connecticut home, where he became even closer to his grandparents. They recall their home filling with teddy bears sent by Max’s friends, a popular symbol of the band he loved. Not long after his passing, the couple began to consider ways to honor him. The idea of creating a scholarship at Syracuse emerged during a visit from a University advancement officer who had met Max during an earlier trip.

Peter and Susan had already been talking about how to memorialize their grandson—not as a grand public gesture, but as something meaningful to their family. Their discussions soon took shape around Syracuse and Peter’s deep respect for the value of a liberal arts education, particularly in English.

“I’ve always been disturbed by the denigration of liberal arts,” Peter says. “In all my years in the corporate world, I was constantly amazed by how many people, even senior executives, couldn’t put two coherent sentences together. At the same time, I wanted a way to extend Max’s memory, a way for him to leave something beyond just our memories of him.”

With that conviction, the couple established the Max Brown Scholarship, an endowed, need-based award specifically for English majors in their junior or senior years at the College of Arts and Sciences. The restriction to upper-level students was intentional: Peter wanted to be sure that recipients were committed to the field of English, not students who might change majors after their first or second year.

A Growing Legacy

Peter and Susan first endowed the scholarship three years ago with a gift of $250,000, pledging that another $250,000 would follow, if not in their lifetime, in a bequest. Then they learned of The Syracuse Promise, a series of commitments including a new $50 million fundraising initiative to significantly expand scholarship support for students. Thanks to a transformative 50% matching program, the couple agreed to make their second $250,000 gift now—boosting the value of their endowed fund to $625,000 and ensuring the scholarship’s long-term growth and permanence.

“Technically, it should go on forever,” Peter says. “That’s what matters to us—that Max leaves a lasting footprint.”

For Peter and Susan, education has always been central to their family. They are proud to have supported their son and daughter through college and graduate degrees, and to have contributed to their grandchildren’s education, two of whom are in college now.

In creating the scholarship that honors Max, they want to help provide opportunities to students with financial need while demonstrating that meaningful giving is not reserved for the ultra-wealthy.

“Endowed scholarships represent the very best of what we aspire to achieve in the liberal arts. They remove financial barriers for dedicated students while honoring the profound connections that bind our community together across generations,” says Behzad Mortazavi, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “The Max Brown Scholarship not only supports exceptional English majors in pursuing their academic passions, but it also ensures that Max’s love of literature continues to inspire and nurture future scholars. This is exactly the kind of meaningful legacy that strengthens our college’s mission to cultivate engaged, thoughtful citizens.”

As Peter says, “Everyone leaves footprints in different ways. For us, this scholarship means that Max will leave his at Syracuse, helping students who love English as much as I did. It’s a way of keeping him with us.”

For more information about The Syracuse Promise, contact Jen Stone ��’02.

About The Syracuse Promise

The Syracuse Promise is a series of commitments designed to foster success, innovation, creativity, research and discovery for every Syracuse student. This promise continues with our graduates, building a strong Orange community where alumni thrive, better our world and support future generations. Through a three-year, $150 million combined fundraising effort focused on four strategic initiatives, The Syracuse Promise commitments will ensure student success and affordability, build competitive excellence in athletics, drive research and discovery in STEM-related fields, and foster creativity and innovation through entrepreneurial leadership.

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Dates Selected for 2025 Family Weekend and Orange Central Homecoming

Kim Infanti — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 22:19:58 +0000

Campus & Community

Dates Selected for 2025 Family Weekend and Orange Central Homecoming

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Syracuse University looks forward to an exciting fall 2025 on campus featuring Family Weekend (Sept. 26-28) and Orange Central Homecoming Weekend (Oct. 17-19).

Family Weekend, coordinated by , is set for Sept. 26-28. Students have the opportunity to show off campus to their families during a weekend that features a variety of programs highlighting the Syracuse University student experience. This year, the Orange football team will host Duke on Saturday, Sept. 27, during Family Weekend.

The Orange Central Homecoming Weekend, including Law alumni, is set for Oct. 17-19, when the Orange host Pitt in the JMA Wireless Dome. Additional details and hotel block information will be released in the coming weeks.

Syracuse University is also planning on-the-road programs and/or ticket blocks as the Syracuse Orange head to away games across the country, including special programming for Syracuse vs. Tennessee in Atlanta this August, as Syracuse at SMU on Saturday, Oct. 4.

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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WellsLink Speaker JaNeika James G’05 Is Living Out Her Dreams as a Television Producer

John Boccacino — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 21:04:02 +0000

Arts & Humanities

WellsLink Speaker JaNeika James G’05 Is Living Out Her Dreams as a Television Producer

Growing up, JaNeika James and her twin sister, JaSheika, loved watching television and “fell in love with TV” and the possibilities it could provide for them.

John Boccacino Feb. 3, 2025

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

JaNeika James

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

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

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

“Allowed Us to Dream”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What impact has Syracuse University has had on your life and your career?

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

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

What show had the greatest influence on you?

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

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

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

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

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

How can your success inspire future generations?

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

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

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

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

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

WellsLink Leadership Program Class of 2027

This year’s ceremony will honor the following students:

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

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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Meet Syracuse University’s 2025 Alumni Awards Honorees

Kim Infanti — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 17:26:58 +0000

Campus & Community

Meet Syracuse University’s 2025 Alumni Awards Honorees

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Syracuse University will honor eight distinguished members of the Orange community during the , which is being held on Friday, April 4, in the National Veterans Resource Center at the Daniel and Gayle D’Aniello Building (NVRC). All members of the community are invited to attend this complimentary program. Registration will open in February.

This annual event recognizes and celebrates the exceptional accomplishments of alumni and students who exemplify what it means to be Forever Orange. The honorees were selected by the awards committee of the Board of Directors. The committee will soon announce the 2025 Outstanding Future Alumni Award, which goes to a most deserving student.

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

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

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

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

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

The Outstanding Future Alumni Award honoree will be announced in February.

and plan to join us in April for the celebration.

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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Pan Am 103 Memorial Service to Be Held on Campus Dec. 21

News Staff — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 17:18:06 +0000

Campus & Community

Pan Am 103 Memorial Service to Be Held on Campus Dec. 21

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will host the annual Pan Am Flight 103 memorial service on Saturday, Dec. 21, at 2:03 p.m. EST. The service will begin in the chapel’s Noble Room, with attendees then processing to the Place of Remembrance.

The annual Pan Am 103 memorial service will honor the 270 people, including Syracuse University study abroad students, who were killed when Pan Am Flight 103 was destroyed by a terrorist bomb on Dec. 21, 1988.

The service will honor the 270 people, including Syracuse University study abroad students, who were killed when Pan Am Flight 103 was destroyed by a terrorist bomb over Lockerbie, Scotland, on that date and at that time 36 years ago. Chaplains will offer prayers and reflections. The event will also be offered virtually; is required to receive the YouTube link.

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

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

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

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

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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