Chancellor Kent Syverud showed his Orange spirit and strength to the Class of 2026.

Although unable to attend Sunday鈥檚 Commencement exercises due to his recent medical diagnosis, Chancellor Syverud was recognized with an honorary degree and emeritus status and sent a congratulatory video message to the graduates, sharing the day with them in spirit.

鈥淚鈥檓 sorry I cannot be there to celebrate this joyous day with all of you. Know that I am thinking of you and that I鈥檓 cheering you on as you take on your careers, seek further studies and pursue your passions,鈥� Chancellor Syverud said. 鈥淵ou will do as Orange has always done. Change the world.鈥�

In recognition of Chancellor Syverud鈥檚 leadership and legacy, Jeffrey Scruggs, chairman of the University Board of Trustees, announced Chancellor Syverud鈥檚 new richly deserved designation.

鈥淐hancellor Syverud鈥檚 impact on 性视界 University will be felt for generations to come,鈥� Scruggs said. 鈥淎nd that is why today on behalf of the Board of Trustees and with the approval of the University Senate, I am proud to announce the election of Kent Syverud to Chancellor Emeritus of 性视界 University.鈥�

The recognition is not a ceremonial gesture but is among the highest of the University鈥檚 honors, Scruggs said.

鈥淚t is reserved by policy and tradition for those who have made extraordinary contributions over a sustained period of service,鈥� he said. 鈥淔or chancellors, it is not granted routinely and is reserved for those academic leaders whose impacts and legacies have forever transformed and strengthened our university.鈥�

Led With 鈥楽teadiness, Pride and Purpose鈥�

The title is now bestowed on Chancellor Syverud as his presence at 性视界 has left an enduring mark and a connection that is forever part of the University鈥檚 storied history.

鈥淎s the University鈥檚 12th chancellor, Kent Syverud led this institution through periods of challenge with steadiness, pride and purpose,鈥� Scruggs said. 鈥淗e strengthened our academic mission, deepened our commitment to students and positioned 性视界 to strive for generations to come. He did so with integrity and with care for his community and with a genuine devotion to what 性视界 University represents.鈥�

Chancellor Syverud was among those formally conferred with emeriti status, including faculty and librarians, as recommended by the University Senate and authorized by the Board of Trustees, during Commencement.

An Honorary Doctor of Laws and a Congratulatory Message

In another recognition of gratitude to Chancellor Syverud鈥檚 service to the University, he was granted an honorary degree. Chancellor Syverud鈥檚 son, David, accepted the honor on his behalf.

鈥淐hancellor Kent Syverud, distinguished legal scholar, bold leader, dedicated teacher and a man of integrity. Your vision transformed 性视界 University, bringing distinction in academic and research excellence and a student experience that shapes global leaders,鈥� College of Law Dean Terence Lau said, in reading the citation. 鈥淵our promise to veterans established a national model for opportunity and dignity. You forged partnerships and fostered investments strengthening campus infrastructure and driving regional development. We celebrate your extraordinary legacy with this Honorary Doctor of Laws.鈥�

In his video message, Chancellor Syverud, who said it has been 鈥渢he honor of my lifetime鈥� to serve as chancellor, was grateful to all those who make up the Orange family.

鈥淵ou have made these last 12 years more than I could possibly have imagined,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 will carry you with me always.鈥�

To the Class of 2026, Chancellor Syverud wished them all the best.

鈥淚 can鈥檛 wait to see what you will do next,鈥� he said. 鈥淕o Orange!鈥�

wasn’t supposed to be the one standing at the podium in the JMA Wireless Dome on Sunday, May 10. And he said so.

Haynie opened 性视界 University’s Class of 2026 Commencement with a solemn moment, noting that his tenure as the University’s 13th chancellor and president was officially set to begin the following day. The man who had earned the right to preside over this ceremony was not there to do it.

“It is Chancellor Kent Syverud who should be here today,” Haynie said. “He earned this moment.”

Chancellor Syverud, who led the University for 12 years, recently disclosed his brain cancer diagnosis and is currently undergoing treatment in Michigan. Haynie asked those assembled to join him in wishing the outgoing Chancellor well. He acknowledged Dr. Ruth Chen, Chancellor Syverud鈥檚 wife, who traveled to 性视界 to accept an honorary degree.

In celebrating the graduates, Haynie acknowledged their families and loved ones and the University鈥檚 faculty and staff who supported the students through their 性视界 journeys.

鈥淲hile the achievements we celebrate here today are those of our graduates, those achievements were made possible because of you. Thank you,鈥� Haynie said.

鈥淭o every person who played a role in getting these graduates to this moment, whether you coached them, counseled them or simply loved them, thank you for being here,鈥� Haynie said. 鈥淭his day belongs to you as well.鈥�

A Class That Persisted and Showed Up

Haynie then turned his attention to the graduates.

“You are taking your place in a world that many describe as uncertain and divided and sometimes even unkind,” he said. “And they’re not wrong. But here’s what those people don’t fully appreciate: you’ve been here before.”

The Class of 2026 had their high school years deeply affected by a global pandemic that canceled their proms, upended their routines and rewrote the world they thought they were growing up into. They arrived at 性视界 amid political polarization, economic volatility and international conflict.

And yet, Haynie said, they did not collapse. They adapted and persisted.

鈥淲hen things got hard, you didn’t retreat, you recalibrated, you found a way. You carry something no generation before you has quite mastered and that is a fierce authenticity and uncompromising demand for honesty, for inclusion and the rare willingness not to just call things out for what they are, but to roll up your sleeves and play a role in fixing them,鈥� Haynie said.

The Class of 2026 is uniquely built for the moment they’re entering. While industries debate artificial intelligence and digital transformation, he said, these graduates are already fluent. They set the curve rather than chasing it.

Haynie encouraged them not to coast on that advantage. “Wherever you go next鈥攁 workplace, a graduate program, a studio, a community, a stage that the world has not even built yet鈥攎ake it better than you found it. Don’t lower the bar. Raise it.”

Haynie told the graduates that when someone tells them they can’t, they won’t or they never will, remind them where they came from. Remind them what house built them.

He asked the crowd what color that house is painted. And the response, of course, 鈥淥range!鈥�

They came walking en masse down the Einhorn Family Walk鈥攁 250-person strong contingent of students, faculty, staff and senior leaders led by Otto the Orange. They walked past the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications complex and past tulips wobbling in a brisk spring wind. They walked toward Crouse-Hinds Hall with a single, steady purpose: to rally in support of Chancellor Kent Syverud.

The 鈥淕o Gray in May Walk鈥� was conceived by the Student Government Association (SGA) and held with the support of more than 60 recognized student organizations. The walk on April 28, had a dual purpose: to raise funds for the , in honor of Brain Cancer Awareness Month, and to support Chancellor Syverud, who announced on April 15 that he has been diagnosed with brain cancer and is undergoing treatment at University of Michigan Medicine.

Staff members of 性视界 University in DC also walked on April 28 in support of Chancellor Syverud and in solidarity with the 性视界 campus.

Letters and Messages of Support

In front of the Schine Student Center, before the walk, University community members, many clad in in gray, gathered to write personal letters of caring to Chancellor Syverud and Dr. Ruth Chen. Large posters with such messages as 鈥淔acilities Services (heart) U!,鈥� 鈥淪tand With Our Orange Family鈥� and 鈥淣o One Fights Alone鈥� were displayed on the fa莽ade of Schine.

鈥淏eing here is a deeply meaningful experience for me on both a personal and community level. It gives me the opportunity to stand in support of my first University boss and Chancellor during an incredibly difficult time, while also honoring the memory of my uncle, who lost his life to this disease,鈥� said Liz Costa, office coordinator with Facilities Services. 鈥淏eing surrounded by others who are here for similar reasons creates a strong sense of connection and shared purpose.鈥�

Offering Prayers

Once gathered at Crouse-Hinds Hall, the Rev. Devon Bartholomew, Christian Protestant chaplain at Hendricks Chapel, thanked those assembled.

鈥淭hank you all for coming today. Thank you Student Government Association for responding to Chancellor Syverud鈥檚 diagnosis by asking the right question: How do we respond? You have responded well with conscience and clarity,鈥� Barthlomew said.

He then asked those gathered to join arms in prayer. 鈥淲e pray for Chancellor Syverud and Dr. Chen and for their continued strength when they feel weakest. Let them experience peace and rest when things are uncertain. Give their sons courage as they support their father and mother. Fill each one with the love and the support that we are sending them from 性视界 when they feel alone.鈥�

Bartholomew asked for prayers for all who are involved in the fight against cancer: for the diagnosed and the undiagnosed, for the families and friends, for the support services, for the doctors and nurses, for the counselors and chaplains, for the researchers and innovators. 鈥淲e pray that progress is made in the advances of cancer research to prevent cancer and detect it early. We pray for treatments that will give longer life to those fighting cancer. We pray for families who support their loved ones,鈥� he said.

鈥淟astly, I pray for those in our Orange Family who have been impacted by brain cancer, that they would be cared for by us as they work or study at 性视界 University and ESF,鈥� Bartholomew said.

Max Lachut 鈥�28, vice president-elect of SGA, was one of the walk鈥檚 organizers and leaders in the walk to Crouse-Hinds. He wanted to support Chancellor Syverud, appreciative of the Chancellor鈥檚 leadership and care for students.

鈥淐hancellor Syverud has been extremely receptive and approachable. I emailed him after a University Senate meeting about a topic I was concerned about. He heard me out and provided valuable insight, and I felt truly heard,鈥� he said. 鈥淭hat level of accessibility shapes the culture of an entire institution. It showed me how he views shared governance, and it is a standard I carry into my own leadership.鈥�

More than 50 of Theta Chi鈥檚 性视界 membership turned out to participate in the walk and posed for a group photo outside Crouse-Hinds Hall afterwards.

鈥淲e have had several members in the house whose family and friends have dealt with cancer or had cancer scares themselves, so we recognize the importance,鈥� said Jake Karedes 鈥�27. 鈥淲e really wanted to come out here and show support for the community.鈥�

SGA President German Nolivos estimated that more than $1,000 has been raised for the Brain Tumor Foundation, with donations continuing to come in. 鈥淲hat happened here on Tuesday is uniquely 性视界鈥攚e show up for each other, we care and we are a family,鈥� he said.

Well wishes for Chancellor Syverud and Dr. Chen can be shared on the .

A distinguished scientist and educator, a physician and healthcare innovator, a pioneering entrepreneur, a ground-breaking academic leader, a distinguished public servant and a transformative national leader in higher education will be recognized with honorary degrees from 性视界 University at the .

Dr. Ruth Chen, a professor of practice in biomedical and chemical engineering in the College of Engineering and Computer Science at 性视界 University; Dr. Mantosh Dewan, president, SUNY Distinguished Service Professor and the Alan and Marlene Norton Presidential Chair at Upstate Medical University; Clifford J. Ensley 鈥�69, 鈥�70, G鈥�71, founder and chief executive officer of Leisure Merchandising Corporation; Linda M. LeMura G’83, G’87, president of Le Moyne College; Joanne M. Mahoney 鈥�87, L鈥�90, president of the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry; and Chancellor Kent Syverud, the 12th chancellor and president of 性视界 University, will be honored for their outstanding professional contributions, achievements and service to their communities and the public good.

Dr. Ruth Chen
Doctor of Science

An environmental toxicologist, Dr. Chen has built a distinguished career at the intersection of environmental science, public health and policy, and has had an indelible impact on the 性视界 University community and Central New York through her commitment to students, scholarship, service and the public good.

Dr. Chen holds a Ph.D. and M.P.H. in environmental toxicology from the University of Michigan and an M.S. in biomedical sciences from the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. Prior to academia, she served as state toxicologist for the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, where she was responsible for risk assessment and risk management decisions across programs in permit, remediation, corrective action, combustion facilities, toxic substances and landfills. She provided expert counsel to multiple state divisions on issues of human health and toxicology while simultaneously managing Tennessee鈥檚 Drinking Water Laboratory Certification Program. She secured federal funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Environmental Protection Agency, and was a staff fellow at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), working on pharmacokinetics.

Before joining 性视界 University, Dr. Chen served on the faculty at the School of Engineering and Applied Science, Washington University in St. Louis, where she led a professional engineering master鈥檚 degree program and an international education program. At 性视界, she is admired for her ability to translate complex topics into accessible and inspiring learning experiences, with courses that bridge theory and application and empower students to see engineering as a vocation.

Beyond the classroom, Dr. Chen鈥檚 leadership has strengthened student and community life in extraordinary ways. She has championed an award-winning International Student Success Model and hosts an annual International Thanksgiving Celebration for students who cannot travel home for the holidays. She is an advocate for Women in Science and Engineering and a consistent presence at student performances and athletics, ensuring every student feels they have a place at the University.

Dr. Chen鈥檚 impact extends well beyond campus. She has served on the boards of United Way, Interfaith Works and 性视界 Stage. During the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, she helped procure masks for the community. She launched Operation Orange Warmup, the University鈥檚 winter coat drive, and through her support of local nonprofits, she has turned generosity into action across Central New York.

Dr. Mantosh Dewan
Doctor of Science

A physician scientist who has made significant contributions to clinical psychiatry, neuroimaging, psychotherapy and mental health systems, Dewan has dedicated his career to advancing medical education, expanding access to mental healthcare and serving the Central New York community.

Dewan began his career at SUNY Upstate in 1975 as a mixed medicine/psychiatry intern, becoming chief resident in psychiatry before joining the faculty as an assistant professor. Over the decades he has served as director of undergraduate education, director of residency training and chair of the Department of Psychiatry, and as interim dean of the College of Medicine from 2016 to 2017.

His scholarly output encompasses more than 80 papers, 35 books and book chapters, and hundreds of presentations on topics ranging from brain imaging and the economics of mental healthcare to psychotherapy and medical education. His research has been funded by the National Institute of Mental Health and the Health Resources and Services Administration. He is co-editor two books: 鈥淭he Difficult to Treat Psychiatric Patient鈥� and 鈥淭he Art and Science of Brief Psychotherapies,鈥� a best seller now in its third edition, translated into five languages and chosen for the American Psychiatric Association鈥檚 Core Competencies in Psychotherapy Series.

Dewan鈥檚 leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic was transformational. Under his direction, Upstate developed the world鈥檚 most sensitive saliva diagnostic test and provided over four million tests to 60 of the 64 SUNY campuses, enabling all of SUNY to remain open and in-person. 性视界 University partnered directly with Upstate in this critical effort. Reflecting Dewan鈥檚 vision for leveraging technology to expand access to care, Upstate provides tele-psychiatry diagnostic and treatment services to students at 56 SUNY campuses. More recently, Dewan launched Upstate Biotech Ventures with $6 million in seed funding to cultivate biotech companies incubated at the medical center.

Listed in The Best Doctors in America and a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (APA), Dewan has received numerous honors, including the APA鈥檚 George Tarjan Award, designation as an 鈥淓xemplary Chair鈥� by SUNY, 性视界 University鈥檚 Chancellor鈥檚 Medal in 2021 and an honorary degree from Onondaga Community College. He is also an affiliated professor at J枚nk枚ping University in Sweden.

Dewan鈥檚 career reflects intellectual curiosity, innovation, ethical leadership and a deep commitment to using science and medicine in service to society. His accolades and leadership reflect a career that has made profound contributions to science and to improve the well-being of the Central New York community.

Clifford J. Ensley 鈥�69, 鈥�70, G鈥�71
Doctor of Humane Letters

A dedicated University trustee, accomplished entrepreneur and a celebrated student-athlete, Ensley has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to his alma mater through service, philanthropy and unwavering Orange spirit.

Ensley arrived at 性视界 as a walk-on with the football team after no Division I programs recruited him. His tenacity on the practice field earned him a scholarship from head coach Ben Schwartzwalder, and by his sophomore year he was starting on the varsity squad.

Ensley went on to become the last three-sport letter winner in 性视界 University history, earning letters in football, wrestling and lacrosse. He was an honorable mention All-American in football, set interception and special teams records as a defensive back and delivered a record-setting 76-yard punt return for a touchdown against Navy.

He was captain and most valuable player of the lacrosse team and was named the 1969 性视界 University Athlete of the Year, joining a distinguished list that includes Jim Brown 鈥�57, Ernie Davis 鈥�62, Floyd Little 鈥�67, H鈥�19, Dave Bing 鈥�66, H鈥�06 and Larry Csonka 鈥�68. Ensley received the Letter Winner of Distinction Award from 性视界 University Athletics and the Varsity Club in 1993 and the Dritz Rookie Trustee of the Year Award in 2018. A champion of volunteerism, he also founded Athletes Who Care in 2022, an organization that partners with 性视界 student-athletes to support charitable causes and community organizations in Central New York.

Ensley earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from the and the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering from the and an MBA from the . He was a member of the U.S. Army ROTC and Phi Delta Theta fraternity. After his military service, Ensley entered the luggage industry. Drawing on his education, his experience in retail luggage sales and a perseverance built on the playing fields, he launched his idea for a wholesale luggage and accessories manufacturing business in 1978 with $2,500. The founder and chief executive officer of Leisure Merchandising Corporation grew the business into a multimillion-dollar enterprise with a brand presence in thousands of retail locations.

Elected to the Board of Trustees in 2015, Ensley currently serves on the Athletics, Advancement and External Affairs, and Facilities committees. Together with his wife, Sue, he has provided lead gifts for the Ensley Athletic Center, the Chris Gedney Endowed Football Scholarship and the Orange Forever Endowed Memorial Fund, which provides keepsake blankets to the families of every deceased former student-athlete. They have also lent their support to initiatives in the College of Engineering and Computer Science, the D鈥橝niello Institute for Veterans and Military Families, the Whitman School, the Maxwell School, the Catholic Center and the Sala Family Plaza, among other numerous initiatives.

Linda M. LeMura G鈥�83, G鈥�87
Doctor of Humane Letters

LeMura鈥檚 career has been defined by groundbreaking leadership, scientific excellence and an unwavering commitment to educational equity and access.

LeMura graduated from Bishop Grimes High School as a three-sport athlete and honors student. She earned both a master鈥檚 degree (1983) in physical education and a Ph.D. (1987) in applied physiology from the at 性视界 University, where her academic training laid the foundation for a distinguished career. Her research in pediatric obesity, pediatric applied physiology and lipid and energy metabolism has produced more than 30 peer-reviewed articles, two books and 26 externally funded grant proposals. She has served as a research consultant for both the U.S. and Italian Olympic committees. She has consistently included students as co-investigators and co-authors in her work, highlighting her work as a mentor and a commitment to the next generation of scientists.

After serving as a professor, research scientist and graduate program director at Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania, LeMura joined Le Moyne College in 2003 and held leadership roles as dean of arts and sciences and provost before making history in 2014 as the first female layperson to serve as president of a Jesuit institution of higher education in the U.S. Her appointment opened pathways for women鈥檚 leadership across Jesuit higher education, with 10 additional women now serving in presidential roles at Jesuit institutions.

Under her leadership, Le Moyne has raised roughly $200 million, achieved eight consecutive years of record enrollment and led the college鈥檚 strategic transition to NCAA Division I athletics as a full member of the Northeast Conference.

LeMura co-chairs the Central New York Regional Economic Development Council. She was actively engaged in the Central New York鈥檚 efforts to bring Micron鈥檚 microchip manufacturing facility to the area and has aligned Le Moyne to the resulting workforce demand through new semiconductor-focused programs and the college’s ERIE 21 partnership with Micron.

She holds board positions with the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities and the International Association of Jesuit Universities. Her awards include the 2023 性视界 University Tolley Medal, selected by the School of Education; the 2019 性视界 Key4Women Achieve Award; the 2017 Temple Adath Yeshurun Citizen of the Year Award; the 2017 Bishop鈥檚 Award from the Diocese of 性视界 Catholic Charities and recognition as a 2016 New York State Senate Woman of Distinction.

The relationship between 性视界 University and Le Moyne College has grown in collaboration during LeMura鈥檚 presidency through joint academic initiatives, community engagement projects and shared commitments to excellence.

Joanne M. Mahoney 鈥�87, L鈥�90
Doctor of Laws

Mahoney has built a career defined by her commitment to community, environmental stewardship and the advancement of Central New York. She earned a bachelor of science degree in marketing management from the Martin J. Whitman School of Management in 1987 and a juris doctor from the College of Law in 1990. She credits her legal education as the foundation of her career in public leadership. Her late father, Bernard J. Mahoney L’69, was also a graduate of the College of Law.

Mahoney began her legal career in private practice at Harris Beach before serving for five years as a criminal prosecutor in the Onondaga County District Attorney’s Office. She went on to serve on the 性视界 Common Council from 2000-03. In 2008, she became the first woman elected Onondaga County Executive, a position she held for three terms while overseeing a county government serving approximately 460,000 residents.

During her tenure, she created the nationally acclaimed Save the Rain green infrastructure program and helped lead efforts that transformed Onondaga Lake to swimmable water quality. She maintained the county’s highest bond ratings among all New York State counties and championed the Say Yes to Education partnership. Governing Magazine named her Public Official of the Year in 2011.

In November 2020, Mahoney was appointed president of the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY ESF), the first woman to lead the institution in its more than 110-year history. Under her leadership, SUNY ESF has risen in the Princeton Review’s rankings of the nation’s most environmentally responsible colleges.

She serves as co-chair of SUNY’s systemwide Sustainability Advisory Council and has sustained the historic partnership between SUNY ESF and 性视界 University, ensuring collaborative academic programs, shared student opportunities and joint diplomas.

Mahoney has also served as chair of the New York State Thruway Authority, where she oversaw completion of the Gov. Mario M. Cuomo Bridge, one of the nation’s largest infrastructure projects. She currently serves on the College of Law’s Board of Advisors and has supported the Hon. Theodore A. McKee L鈥�75 Endowed Law Scholarship and WAER.

Chancellor Kent D. Syverud
Doctor of Laws

Chancellor Syverud has led 性视界 University through 12 years of transformational change, reshaping the campus, strengthening research and academic excellence, and expanding 性视界 University鈥檚 impact in Central New York and beyond.

Hailing from Irondequoit, New York, Chancellor Syverud earned a bachelor鈥檚 degree magna cum laude from Georgetown University鈥檚 School of Foreign Service, a law degree magna cum laude from the University of Michigan Law School and a master鈥檚 in economics from the University of Michigan. He counts among his closest mentors the late U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O鈥機onnor, for whom he clerked. His career in legal education spans three decades, including deanships at Vanderbilt University Law School and Washington University School of Law. An elected member of the American Law Institute, he received the 2024 TIAA Institute Theodore M. Hesburgh Award for Leadership Excellence, one of the highest national honors in higher education.

Since becoming chancellor in 2014, Chancellor Syverud has placed students at the center of the University鈥檚 mission. Under his leadership, 性视界 has seen record applications and enrollment, invested over $100 million in student life鈥攊ncluding the Barnes Center at The Arch, a renovated Schine Student Center, two new residence halls and a transformed JMA Wireless Dome鈥攁nd expanded global learning programs across five international centers and domestic sites in New York City, Los Angeles and Washington, D.C.

Chancellor Syverud played a central role in Central New York鈥檚 economic resurgence, including the University鈥檚 work to attract Micron Technology to build its largest American fabrication facility in the region. He directed the hiring of more than 700 faculty, helped the University achieve Research 1 status and oversaw the Forever Orange Campaign, which raised more than $1.59 billion鈥攖he largest fundraising effort in University history鈥攁s the endowment more than doubled to over $2 billion.

His dedication to veterans and military families stands among his most profound contributions. The expansion of 性视界 University鈥檚 D鈥橝niello Institute for Veterans and Military Families and the creation of the National Veterans Resource Center at the Daniel and Gayle D鈥橝niello Building set a national standard for research, policy development and support to those who have served, and veteran enrollment has more than tripled since 2014. Throughout his chancellorship, Chancellor Syverud has continued to teach negotiation courses at the College of Law and the Whitman School of Management, embodying the teacher-scholar ideal.

Chancellor Syverud’s commitment to service extends beyond the University. He serves as a member of the Board of Directors of the Atlantic Coast Conference, having previously served as its president, and as an ex officio trustee of the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry. He is a trustee of Crouse Hospital and of Le Moyne College, and, by appointment of the governor of New York, serves as a member of the Board of Directors of the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York.

The 性视界 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鈥檚 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 性视界 University through a period of transformational change over the past 12 years, overseeing record enrollment, a landmark fundraising campaign and the establishment of 性视界 as the nation鈥檚 premier private university for veterans and military-connected students. His leadership has reshaped the University鈥檚 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 性视界, 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 鈥�15, G鈥�16, who will receive the Generation Orange Award for a career spanning education leadership, youth development and technology policy; Daniel A. D鈥橝niello 鈥�68, H鈥�20, who will receive the Military/Veteran Alumni Award in recognition of his distinguished U.S. Navy service and decades of transformative support for 性视界 University; Akima H. Rogers 鈥�92, who will receive the Volunteer of the Year Award for his deep and enduring engagement with the University community; and Diana Wege 鈥�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鈥檚 recipients.

Sixty student organizations. Gray ribbons. Handwritten letters. A prayer. On Tuesday, April 28, the University community will rally to respond to Chancellor Kent Syverud’s recent cancer diagnosis with an unmistakable show of community and solidarity.

(SGA), in partnership with 60 recognized student organizations, will host a Go Gray in May: Brain Cancer Awareness Month Walk. The event will begin at noon in the Schine Student Center with a walk to Crouse-Hinds Hall at 2:30 p.m. There, the Rev. Devon Bartholomew, Christian Protestant chaplain at Hendricks Chapel, will lead those assembled in a prayer.

Chancellor Syverud announced on April 15 that he has been diagnosed with a form of brain cancer. He is currently undergoing treatment at University of Michigan Medicine.

鈥淎fter the news broke, our SGA executive team came together to ask ourselves one question: 鈥楬ow do we respond?鈥欌�� says German Nolivos 鈥�26, SGA president. 鈥淐hancellor Syverud has been there for all of us鈥攖hrough every hard moment this University has faced. This is our chance to be there for him and his family.鈥�

May is Brain Cancer Awareness Month, and the event will raise funds for the . Organizers are encouraging members of the University community to consider making a monetary donation. 鈥淭he most powerful thing we can do in this moment is fund the fight,鈥� Nolivos says.

Those who donate $15 or more and submit a screenshot of their donation to , the SGA鈥檚 home on Instagram, can claim a free T-shirt at Schine at the April 28 event.

Participants in the walk are encouraged to wear gray and pick up a gray ribbon at Schine that day. There will be a community poster wall for students, faculty and staff to leave messages of support for Chancellor Syverud and anyone in the community affected by brain cancer. There will also be a letter-writing station where individuals can write personal letters of support to Chancellor Syverud and Dr. Ruth Chen.

Participating organizations span every dimension of campus life: fraternities and sororities, cultural and identity organizations, pre-professional societies, advocacy groups, athletic clubs, honor societies and more. Nolivos says this will be the largest coalition of student organizations ever assembled for a single awareness event in recent University history.

鈥淲hen 60 organizations come together, that鈥檚 not just coordination鈥攖hat鈥檚 conviction,鈥� Nolivos says. 鈥淓very single one of these groups is choosing to show up. That means something. That tells you something about who we are as a university.鈥�

Additionally, the SGA Assembly passed a formal resolution on April 15 extending formal gratitude and support to Chancellor Syverud.

鈥淐hancellor Syverud has given this institution 12 years of transformational leadership,鈥� says Nolivos. 鈥淗e has shown up for students, for faculty, for staff and for this community through its hardest chapters. April 28 is our opportunity, all of us, to show up for him.鈥�

Dear 性视界 University Community,

I know this is one of the most vibrant and demanding times of the academic year with final exams, end-of-semester celebrations, and the excitement of Commencement just around the corner. I am grateful for a few moments of your time because I want to share something personal with you.

Last week, I wasn鈥檛 feeling well, and I sought care at Crouse Hospital here in 性视界. After further evaluation, I traveled to the University of Michigan to receive additional assessment from their specialists. I want to be straightforward with you: I have been diagnosed with a form of brain cancer.

I am currently undergoing treatment at the University of Michigan. I am where I need to be and I am in excellent hands. The care I have received from the teams at Crouse Hospital and University of Michigan Medicine has been nothing short of remarkable, and I am profoundly thankful. The 性视界 University Board of Trustees and the Michigan Board of Regents have shown me and my family a level of kindness and support that I will never forget. And, I am deeply grateful to Mike Haynie, who will assume all leadership responsibilities of 性视界 University effective immediately.

I am aware that I am one of many, many people who face a diagnosis like this鈥攑eople who show up each day with courage. I take inspiration from all of them. I want you to know that I am ready to meet this challenge. I am approaching this with optimism, with determination, and with full confidence in the people who are caring for me. I believe in the road ahead, and I intend to walk it with everything I have.

I also find myself reflecting on what this moment has made so vivid to me: the extraordinary gift of great research universities. These institutions, places like 性视界, like Michigan, exist not only to educate and to discover, but to translate that discovery into care for people when they need it most. I am fortunate, in ways I do not take lightly, to be receiving treatment at one of the finest academic medical centers in the world. That is what research universities make possible. I have spent my career believing in that mission deeply, and I believe in it more than ever now.

性视界 University is in extraordinary hands, and I look forward to staying connected with this community that means so much to me. I will share updates along the way.

With gratitude and pride in everything this University stands for,

Chancellor Kent Syverud

性视界 University Chancellor Kent Syverud and Chancellor-Elect J. Michael Haynie today announced the members of the search committee charged with identifying the next dean of , the University鈥檚 center for religious and spiritual life. The search comes as Hendricks Chapel approaches its centennial in 2030 and prepares to complete a new strategic plan under incoming leadership.

“Hendricks Chapel touches every corner of campus life,鈥� says Chancellor Syverud. 鈥淚t is our center for faith and spiritual life, hosts some of our most treasured ceremonies and events, and is home to our world-class choir and music program. And every day, it is a place where students have found connection and belonging. We need a strong leader who will build on what makes Hendricks Chapel special and bring people together in new ways.”

“Hendricks Chapel’s next dean will inherit a remarkable legacy and a profound responsibility,鈥� says Chancellor-elect Haynie. 鈥淲e are looking for a leader who understands the spiritual, cultural and communal dimensions of this role, who can steward our traditions with care and imagination and who will inspire the next generation of students to find their place within this community. The next dean comes to this role with a clear and exciting charge: complete a new strategic plan and lead Hendricks Chapel toward its centennial in 2030.鈥�

Search Committee Members

The committee is co-chaired by Dawn Singleton, vice president for the student experience, and David Aitken 鈥�94, G鈥�97, chair of the Hendricks Chapel Advisory Board.

Other members of the search committee are:

• Gisele Marcus 鈥�89, voting trustee, Board of Trustees
• Joan Nicholson ’71, G’89, life trustee, Board of Trustees, and member, Hendricks Chapel Advisory Board
• John Papazoglou, senior vice president and chief operations officer
• Ingrid Coutts 鈥�92, member, Hendricks Chapel Advisory Board
• Jillian Juni, executive director, 性视界 Hillel
• Gerry Waterman, Catholic chaplain
• Martha Sutter G鈥�83, teaching professor, Setnor School of Music, and senior associate dean of academic affairs, College of Visual and Performing Arts
• Tom Barkley, professor, Whitman School of Management, and advisor, Christian Staff and Faculty Association
• Mian Muhammad Abdul Hamid 鈥�25, graduate student and convener, Student Assembly of Interfaith Leaders
• Alana Mitchell 鈥�27, undergraduate student, Christian Outreach member and Hendricks Chapel hospitality associate

Campus Engagement Opportunities

The committee will lead a series of Zoom listening sessions with campus and community stakeholders as follows:

• Friday, April 10, 2:30-3:30 p.m. (open to all constituencies)
• Monday, April 13, 3-4 p.m. (student-focused)
• Wednesday, April 15, 2-3 p.m. (open to all constituencies)

All community members are welcome to for any session that fits their schedule.

Community members can also provide . Both exercises will help the search committee develop a clear picture of what the community needs most from the chapel鈥檚 next dean. That input will directly inform the recruitment process and candidate interviews.

The search firm WittKieffer will work with the committee to identify finalist candidates. The committee will engage with each finalist and provide Chancellor-Elect Haynie with input to support his final decision. The goal is to have a new dean in place by the start of the Fall 2026 semester.

A new documentary exploring the history of and the role of faith across the 性视界 University community premiered this week on Fox Nation.

鈥溾�� tells the story of Hendricks as the spiritual heart of campus, home to five world religions and 16 chaplains serving a diverse student body. The 25-minute film is hosted by Hall, a foreign affairs correspondent for Fox.

In the film, Chancellor Kent Syverud reflects on how faith at 性视界 extends well beyond the building itself. “It’s not the building,” he said. “This is a community, and it’s been a booming, vibrant community for all faiths, and that’s one of the reasons why we’ve had a solid community experience in recent years when many universities have been torn apart.”

Former Hendricks Dean Brian Konkol spoke with Hall about the chapel’s unique role as both a sacred space and a hub for campus life, from major performances and events to People’s Place coffee shop and the Coach Mac Food Pantry.

Faith, Leadership and Athletics

The documentary also captures the intersection of faith and athletics. Hall interviewed football coach Fran Brown and women’s basketball coach Felisha Legette-Jack about their personal faith journeys and how those experiences shape their leadership on and off the field. Athletics Chaplain William Payne discussed his work supporting student-athletes as they navigate the demands of academics and competition.

The film also turns to one of the most solemn chapters in the University鈥檚 history. The University’s connection to the Pan Am Flight 103 bombing over Lockerbie, Scotland, is woven into the film. The 1988 tragedy claimed the lives of 35 性视界 University students, one of the most devastating losses in the University’s history. The Fox team visited the Remembrance Wall on campus to honor their memory.

Visually, the documentary draws on a range of campus scenes: students studying outside on sunny days, the football team walking across the Quad on game days, candlelight vigils outside Hendricks, chaplains leading services and Otto’s Army rallying inside the JMA Wireless Dome.

In addition to the feature documentary, Fox Nation produced a on the renovated and expanded St. Thomas More Chapel and 性视界 University Catholic Center, which reopened in 2025. The crew also visited the .

Names on the Wall

Another stop on campus carried personal significance for Hall. At the , Hall visited a memorial wall honoring more than 2,500 journalists killed in the line of duty. While covering the war in Ukraine, he was severely injured in a missile attack that killed two of his colleagues. He lost a leg, part of his other foot, an eye and the use of one hand, and later documented his recovery in his books “” and “.” During his visit to the wall, he saw the names of his colleagues, photojournalist and Ukrainian journalist Oleksandra “Sasha” Kuvshynova, etched into the memorial.

The Newhouse connection runs deeper still for the production. Fox team members included alumni Tania Joseph ’18, a Newhouse graduate in broadcast and digital journalism, and Jayson Jones ’19, who earned a master’s degree in communications from Newhouse.

“” marks the series’ inaugural season. Alongside the Hendricks episode, the series features St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans and the Brigade of Midshipmen Chapel at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. The documentary is available to stream with a paid Fox Nation subscription.

A time-honored celebration of academic achievement, leadership and military history was on full display at the JMA Wireless Dome during the 109th Chancellor’s Review and Awards Ceremony on March 27.

The annual tradition brought together students, faculty, staff, alumni and University stakeholders to recognize the accomplishments and success of cadets from the University’s Army and Air Force Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) programs.

The event is one of 性视界 University’s oldest traditions, originating in 1917 under the direction of then-Chancellor James R. Day. Among the cadets reviewed in that inaugural ceremony was future Chancellor William Pearson Tolley, who would later play a critical role in expanding access to higher education for veterans through his contributions to the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944, better known as the G.I. Bill.

This year’s ceremony featured a formal inspection of the troops by Chancellor Kent Syverud, 聽and the presentation of awards recognizing academic, leadership and civic excellence. Both University leadership and representatives from local veteran service organizations were on hand to present awards to the deserving cadets.

鈥淥ver the course of time our success is attributed to our military-connected students, and how they achieve their post-graduation goals,鈥� says retired U.S. Army Colonel Ron Novack, executive director of the (OVMA). 鈥淭hose ROTC cadets who are graduating in five weeks are going to take a very big step in their personal and professional lives. They鈥檙e going to go out and lead, they鈥檙e going to take the values that they learn from their families, their parents, the values they learn here at 性视界 University, and the values of the Army and the Air Force, and they鈥檙e going to go out and lead with distinction.聽 We couldn鈥檛 be prouder of them as they go out and embark on their careers.鈥�

Top Cadets Recognized for Leadership and Academic Excellence

Among the highest honors presented were the General Edward C. Meyer Leadership Award and the Professor John A. and Dean Marion Meyer Scholar Award, given to top-performing cadets in the Army and Air Force ROTC respectively.

This year, the General Edward C. Meyer Leadership Award was presented to Sophia Terlecky 鈥�26, a U.S. Army ROTC cadet, for demonstrating exceptional officer potential and leadership. Terlecky, a Buffalo, New York,聽 native, is enrolled聽 in the . She also serves as the cadet battalion commander for the Stalwart Battalion, and will receive a commission in the U.S. Army alongside 24 other 性视界 University Army ROTC cadets in May.

For the Air Force, The Professor John A. and Dean Marion Meyer Scholar Award was presented to Matthew Gratch, a cross-town ROTC cadet from Le Moyne College, for exemplary performance and inspirational leadership. Gratch, who is studying political science at Le Moyne, also serves as the mission support flight commander for Detachment 535 and will commission into the Air Force as an acquisitions manager.

鈥淏eing my fourth and final one, it hits a little different than it did in other years,鈥� says U.S. Air Force ROTC Cadet James Hrdy 鈥�26, a senior in the . 鈥淭his program really challenges you, it鈥檚 taught me to appreciate certain things and I鈥檓 looking forward to working in the U.S. Air Force.鈥�

The ceremony closed with a formal pass in review, a military tradition symbolizing honor and respect, as the cadets marched in formation across the field in front of their families and University leaders to showcase the military precision of basic unit drill and individual standards of each cadet.

To view a photo gallery of this year’s event, visit the .

The 10th Annual One University Awards Ceremony, an event to honor members of the 性视界 University community who are making a difference through academics, scholarship, creative work and dedicated service, will be held Friday, April 17, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. in Hendricks Chapel.

Two major awards鈥攖he Chancellor鈥檚 Medal and the Chancellor鈥檚 Citation for Excellence鈥攚ill be bestowed. The ceremony will also include the presentation of the Student-Athlete Award, the Seinfeld Scholar Award, the Meredith Professorship for Teaching Excellence, the Meredith Teaching Recognition Award, the Enduring Values Award, the William Pearson Tolley Medal and the Chancellor’s Forever Orange Award.

Emeriti faculty who retired in 2025 and employees who celebrated years of service milestone anniversaries in 2025 will also be recognized. This year’s University Scholars, Senior Class and School and College Marshals, and Remembrance and Lockerbie Scholars will also be honored.

All members of the University community are invited and encouraged to attend. A reception will follow in the lobby of the Heroy Geology Laboratory.

American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART) will be provided at the ceremony. For questions about accessibility or to request accommodations, contact University and Advancement Events at聽UAevents@syr.edu.

Spring break is behind us. Winter obviously is not, but we do just have over seven weeks to Commencement at this point. There’s a lot to accomplish between now and then and a lot happening.

This is my 119th and second-to-last Senate meeting. I expect to make some valedictory remarks on 性视界 and shared governance at our last Senate meeting in April.

I also expect to step down as Chancellor sometime after Commencement.

I want to join in congratulating our new Chancellor-elect, Mike Haynie. I want to record that I have asked a lot of Mike over the last 12 years, and he has consistently delivered for our university. Chancellor-elect Haynie’s two decades of extraordinary experience and commitment at 性视界, I think, make him an ideal leader for 性视界 University at this moment. I know the University is going to thrive under his guidance.

I want to extend my gratitude as well to everybody from the University Senate, the faculty, the staff, and the students who served on the Chancellor Search Committee.

It’s clear to me from the outside that this was a thoughtful, deliberate, collaborative, and exhausting process. And I thank you for all the time put into it. I am committed to doing everything in my power to position the University and Chancellor-elect Haynie for success in these last weeks of the semester. I believe the best way the Senate can help is to give Chancellor-elect Haynie some grace through the transition, which I can testify is somewhat overwhelming at 性视界. And just please be prepared to help when called upon.

His first official order of business was helping select and announce Bryan Blair as the University’s new athletics director. Bryan joins 性视界 from the University of Toledo, where he served as the vice president and director of athletics since 2022. Bryan has earned national claim as an innovator in the changing athletics landscape, while achieving both competitive and academic success. He co-chaired the search process for Toledo’s executive vice president and provost. His experience includes leadership roles at Washington State, at Rice University, and at the University of South Carolina, where he earned a law degree. He completed his undergraduate studies at Wofford College, where he was also a D-1 student athlete on the football team. In its January report, the Senate Athletics Policy Committee outlined many challenges for 性视界 and 性视界 Athletics. That now includes a new one, which is the search for a new men’s basketball coach. From everything I’ve learned about him, Bryan Blair is the right person to lead Orange Athletics forward at this moment.

I want to follow up with two shared governance matters. First, I am meeting with the Senate’s Athletic Policy Committee Friday to go over the recommendations in their January 2026 report. There’s been a lot that’s happened this semester in the intercollegiate athletics landscape.

And second, I want to report that, assuming the Senate approves the resolution on parking at its April meeting, I intend to move forward with all four operational recommendations outlined in the report and with the governance recommendation to establish a permanent standing advisory council on parking. If appropriate, I’d like to get that done and established prior to the end of the semester, but certainly working with Chancellor-elect Haynie to have that up and running at the beginning of the fall semester.

I’m grateful for all the work of the folks on that parking council. I know it was a long project.

Thank you, everybody. I will take questions following Provost Agnew’s remarks.

It’s been a long winter. I suspect I’m not the only one on this [Senate meeting] Zoom call who is ready for spring break to start at the end of next week.

I think I should start by just saying thank you to everybody for all the work getting the University to this point of the semester, including the work in this Senate meeting. I’m very grateful. I realize it’s on top of many other obligations to our students and our research and our service. I say that because I know that March 1 is Sunday, and I do not expect it realistic that all of our units are going to pick their senators by March 1 and have elections.

I do want to report on the chancellor’s search and remind you I’m recused and have recused from that process. I know the search committee has been very active recently. I thank the Senators who serve on that committee. My understanding is that we can expect an announcement of the new chancellor next month. I do want to reiterate that I expect the new chancellor to take office no later than the end of June.

I know for all of us, there’s a lot of planes to land between now and the end of June, including getting 6,000 students successfully graduated. I just want to assure you that I’m committed to doing everything in my power in the next couple months to get those things done and to set up the University and the new chancellor for success in the years ahead.

We also have a search now for a new athletics director. Earlier this month Athletics Director John Wildhack announced his retirement effective July 1. John has been an outstanding partner through a sea of change in intercollegiate athletics. I point out that he’s been a particularly excellent leader in focusing on the academic achievement of our student athletes鈥攚hich has never been better鈥攁nd the cooperation between athletics and the academic units, which I think has never been better. He has also had to help transform our athletics facilities and lead us through a myriad of changes in intercollegiate athletics in the country, including countless challenges facing the ACC, in which he’s been a leader. I am very grateful to him.

The search committee has been appointed. I am recused from that as well because of my new position that I will be assuming in July. They’ve hired a search consultant. I know that process has to go quickly, given the market for athletic directors, but also has to be coordinated with the chancellor search, so the new chancellor is involved.

I also, by the way, expect that there will be a search for a new dean of Hendricks Chapel announced shortly, with the goal there being to have a new dean for Hendricks Chapel in place at the start of the academic year in fall 2026.

I guess the other thing to say is just that I’m aware and Senator Van Gulick mentioned the vote of the arts and sciences faculty around portfolio review and program closure. I’m aware of that. I do believe deeply that, as part of shared governance, we need to listen to each other as issues arise, including the issues that we talked about today. I also believe it’s not also the case that no program can be closed if the faculty in that program vote against it or the faculty in some unit vote against it, because as a practical matter, that would be quite a problem for the University as a whole and historically hasn’t been how it’s worked.

I think we have to recognize that we have a very thorough portfolio review process. We have a lot of confidence in the Academic Affairs team that’s been working on that, and the many faculty who have been working on it. I do believe the best approach is to engage in good faith on the merits of the program closure issues and portfolio review issues that are raised in that process. Thanks.

Thanks to the Athletics Policy Committee for their report. If there’s any Power-Four-Conference university in the country that claims all the money for athletics is coming from within athletics efforts, I think they’re not being transparent. I will tell you; the answer is some of the money is coming from the university, and most athletic departments are running deficits because of this spiral we’re in. But we’ll be more transparent than that. I think that’s the least surprising thing I can say today. I’ll explain my apparently unique position that collective bargaining ought to be part of the toolkit available in figuring out a global solution to college sports, which I believe, but apparently is controversial. I couldn’t agree more that the solution has to consider the interests of all student-athletes, including all Olympic and women’s sports.

Let me just say thanks for all the work of the committees. It sounds like there’s a lot of work to come, especially from curriculum, which is the core of what the Senate does in many ways. Thank you to those folks, and thank you for the intersectional equity report. We have been working hard on getting the Title VI office up and running, and I think [Associate Vice President and Dean of Students] Sheriah Dixon will be coming to report to that committee too. There’s a lot of shared governance work to do in the next five months this semester. I’m fully full-time, all-the-time focused on 性视界 during that period.

I want to recognize the tragic passing of Kayla Corrigan on Christmas Eve. She was a senior in the Whitman School, a marketing management major, a member of Sigma Delta Tau sorority, and deeply engaged in so much campus life. I thank Dean McKelvie of Whitman and the folks at Hendricks Chapel and the Corrigan family who are preparing a memorial service later this semester.

I also want to thank Rebecca Reed Kantrowitz for stepping up as the interim dean of Hendricks Chapel as Brian Konkol has become the president of Valparaiso University. She’s been associate dean since 2018 and helping this university in so many ways for decades. Thank you, Rebecca, who is a senator by the way.

Athletics Policy Committee Co-Chair John Wolohan referenced the Economic Impact Report. It came out earlier this month. It was completed by the same independent firm that did this study in 2017. Some quick highlights:

• The University now contributes $1.8 billion annually to the 性视界 and Central New York economy. That’s up from $1.1 billion the last time we studied in 2017.
• We now support 35,132 jobs directly attributable to the University in Central New York, which is one of every 13 jobs in the region.
• Our startup and spinoff companies also generate nearly $1 billion in annual regional economic impact.

From my point of view, those numbers are important, but the most important thing about these numbers is that the University really continues to thrive in interesting times, and it’s really helping Central New York to thrive in these times.

When I started here 12 years ago, I explained my view that the greatest contribution the University could make to the community and the region was to be a thriving, engaged international research university. I think that’s happened and continues to happen. What I mean by that is when we’re thriving, we recruit and we retain amazing, engaged people who contribute in a million ways to the community here. Today that’s more than 30,000 people in this region who live here and contribute economically and in civic engagement.

Two quick examples to celebrate. One is, to embarrass him, Brice Nordquist, who is the immediate past agenda committee chair and who, of course, is a beloved writing teacher, dean’s professor of community engagement, and Senate leader, but also helped found the Engage Humanities Network and has chaired the board of the Northside Learning Center, which provides incredible services to refugees here.

The other one to point out is that our new mayor, the new leader of 性视界, is Sharon Owens. She’s an SU graduate, and we’re so proud of her. Community outreach is what she learned as a student here, and the value of servant leadership. Our partnership with the new mayor and her team is strong and will yield, I think, great things for the city and the region.

I also want to quickly comment on parking. We had some reports from the Parking and Transportation Advisory Council just before Christmas to the Senate. I want to emphasize there’s more issues to address, but there’s some things we can implement from that report quickly, including the recommendation on creating an established standing group to advise on parking issues, like the Employee Benefits Assessment Council. We do need that to be reviewed and adopted by the Senate, but I’m ready to implement it as soon as the Senate’s reviewed and any revisions have occurred. I would like to get that done this semester, and I think the agenda committee is working on that.

Lastly, I’ll just say this is my final semester as Chancellor. I’m very committed to this place, especially full-time for the next five months, but also very committed to helping 性视界 in any way I can thereafter. Thanks so much.

Dear Orange Students, Faculty, Staff, Alumni, Families, and Friends:

Today marks the start of a new semester, a time of fresh possibilities and new chapters. It is in that spirit that I share news of a new chapter of my own. In late August I announced my intention to step down as Chancellor and President of 性视界 University this coming June. Since then, I have given considerable thought to what鈥檚 next, both professionally and personally. While few opportunities could draw me away from Central New York, I have been offered and accepted the position of President of the University of Michigan.

This is truly a homecoming for Dr. Ruth Chen and me. We met at Michigan as students, and together we hold four degrees from there. I served on the faculty for 10 years and began my career in administration at Michigan. The University of Michigan shaped the trajectory of our lives and in so many ways prepared us for our 12 years at 性视界. For someone who has spent their life in service to higher education, this call to return to the university that first inspired my path is profoundly meaningful.

Dr. Chen and I have been deeply blessed by our years at 性视界 University. This remarkable community has given us more than we could ever have imagined鈥攍ifelong friendships, opportunities to teach and learn from extraordinary students, and the privilege of working alongside faculty and staff who embody the very best of higher education. It is the people at 性视界 who make this a truly great university. We will always consider 性视界 home and will forever remain part of the Orange family.

I will continue serving as your chancellor through June 2026 as originally planned. The Board of Trustees’ search for the University’s next leader continues, and I remain fully committed to advancing our priorities and ensuring a smooth transition during these remaining months.

My commitment to 性视界 University remains unwavering. We have important work ahead, and I look forward to continuing the momentum that has been inspired by all of you. Thank you for making our time at 性视界 University such a rewarding chapter of our lives.

Sincerely,

Chancellor Kent Syverud