Sean O’Keefe Announced as Special Guest for Alumni Event in Washington, D.C.


The College of Professional Studies is partnering with the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, the Martin J. Whitman School of Management, the D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families and Syracuse University in DC for a night of alumni networking on April 26, 2022, at the Mayflower Hotel in Washington, D.C.

“Over the past four years, the University has dramatically expanded its commitment to access for nontraditional learners. We’re excited to share with our Washington, D.C., alumni and friends how this expansion extends our mission and positions the University to provide global access and transformational education opportunities,” says Michael Frasciello, Ph.D., dean of the College of Professional Studies.

From 6:30 to 9 p.m., alumni and friends can enjoy an evening of cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. There will be a brief program with remarks from J. Michael Haynie, Ph.D., Syracuse University’s vice chancellor for strategic initiatives and innovation, and Frasciello. University Professor Sean O’Keefe, one of only 17 Syracuse University faculty members to hold this designation, will be the evening’s special guest.

O’Keefe previously served as a presidential appointee during his time leading NASA as secretary of the Navy, as deputy director of the Office of Management and Budget, as deputy assistant to the President and as comptroller and CFO at the Defense Department. He currently holds the position as the Howard and Louise Phanstiel Endowed Chair in Leadership at the Maxwell School. Moreover, his achievements also include honorary doctorate degrees from five higher education institutions, as well as the Department of Navy’s Public Service Award.

The event provides the opportunity for post-traditional, online and executive education alumni and students to connect in Washington, D.C.

“Engaging post-traditional alumni is a priority of Syracuse University,” says Jeffry Comanici, executive director of post-traditional alumni. “Working with partners from across campus, we have identified over 340,000 post-traditional alumni and are excited to include them in the Orange Family.”

To register for the reception, please visit: cc.syr.edu/april26dc

For questions or more information, contact Comanici at jjcomani@syr.edu or 315.443.1409.


About the College of Professional Studies

The College of Professional Studies is a global, inclusive and future-facing college, providing access to diverse students and learners seeking a Syracuse University degree, credential, certificate or education experience.