News

College of Professional Studies Offers New Tuition Grant for First Responders

When Liz Green prepares for roll call next month in front of a precinct of City of Syracuse police officers, she plans to be a myth-buster—at least when it comes to higher education. On behalf of the College of Professional Studies, Green will be offering Syracuse police and firefighters an opportunity to advance their education and careers under a new grant program at the college.

“We are making it more affordable than ever for first responders to achieve undergraduate certificates, and undergraduate and graduate degrees,” says Green, executive director of online student success in the college. The new tuition grant program is another component of the Go Local Learn Local initiative, which recently expanded opportunities for health care workers in the region. Similar to the health care worker grant, first responders will be able to earn degrees through online part-time studies at a fraction of the normal cost.

“But first we have to overcome some negative perceptions—concerns they might have over not being able to do their studies while doing their jobs, or not being able to afford a higher education degree,” says Green. By appearing in person, Green hopes to build trust with the community’s public servants—trust in the University and trust in themselves and their abilities to excel.

“Just as they serve the entire city, police and firefighters serve our university community every day. We want to support and strengthen them,” says Michael Frasciello, dean of the College of Professional Studies. “As part of Syracuse University’s commitment to community, we have an obligation to be an innovator in providing education, training, services and support. Our greatest asset is our excellence in teaching and learning. We should be providing as many pathways to that excellence as we can.”

All full-time and part-time first responders in the City of Syracuse are now eligible to apply for online professional certificates and undergraduate degrees in a wide variety of subjects, including data and predictive analytics, business management, cybersecurity, leadership and project management. The cost for admitted and eligible first responders represents a significant discount (50% of the normal part-time tuition rate, and an 89% discount off the full-time tuition rate).

In addition, all first responders throughout the entire state of New York who already have an undergraduate degree can apply for a 30-credit hour online graduate degree in project management at the discounted rate of $1,000 per credit hour.

“Everyone at every level of every organization does project management in some way,” says Frasciello. “The more training and skills acquired in all the dimensions and practice of project management, the more valuable individuals will be in their workplace. They become proficient in asset resource usage, time management, delegation and staff management.”

Frasciello says the offerings for undergraduate degrees and professional certificates are based on the rapidly changing needs of employers and employees to “upskill and reskill” to meet industry demands. For example, police officers are increasingly adding skills in research and data analysis. “So much of modern policing is digital, involving sifting through and analyzing large amounts of data,” he says. “That’s why our data science courses will be valuable.”

Frasciello expects police officers, many of whom have associate degrees in criminal justice, to pursue policy studies and other courses that will help them progress in their careers in the public sector and pivot to the private sector. “We know there’s a great interest in business management and creative leadership as well,” he says.

Interest in continuing education through online programs increased dramatically during the pandemic and Syracuse University’s programs have expanded dramatically to meet student needs. “It’s crucial for continuing education leaders to engage with people who live in the area and respond with programming that residents and employers find valuable,” says Frasciello. “We are the gateway to the University for the community.”

For more information on how to enroll, visit the College of Professional Studies website.

Nanhi Kali Syracuse University Chapter Receives Scholarship Donation From Blend360 Giving Foundation

Rishabh Upadhye G’21 and Ayush Rajput have funded 80% of the 2022–2023 Nanhi Kali Syracuse University chapter scholarship program through the Blend360 Giving Foundation.

Each year, the Nanhi Kali Syracuse University chapter raises funds for uniforms, school supplies and tuition costs for girls in India who are otherwise unable to attend elementary or middle school on their own. This year, Upadhye, former Nanhi Kali Syracuse University chapter treasurer, donated $3,612 after he and his Blend360 company teammate, Rajput, won the Blend360 Cornhole Giving Tournament and named Nanhi Kali the charity recipient.

Arthur Thomas (left) and Ruchita Harsora (right) present the Blend360 Giving Foundation donation.

“Every dollar counts, not just towards an underprivileged girl’s education but towards her improved life as well. The Nanhi Kali Syracuse University chapter strives to do our best to see that each girl goes to a school, gets the education she deserves and takes one step towards a hopeful future,” says Ruchita Harsora, president of the Nanhi Kali Syracuse University chapter. “To the donors, it is not just me, or the Nanhi Kali Syracuse University chapter that thanks and appreciates your contribution, it is also a young girl somewhere in a remote part of India thanking you. Because of your donations, they are able to step towards a well-educated future. Thank you for always supporting our cause and believing in us.”

Each year, the registered graduate student organization raises $4,500 to sponsor 52 girls. The generous donation provided by the Blend360 Giving Foundation, Upadhye and Rajput allowed the Nanhi Kali Syracuse University chapter to reach their annual scholarship goal.

“This gift, along with proceeds from our Cuse-Cup sporting events and the public Strengths Workshop graciously donated by Gallup Certified Strengths Coach and College of Professional Studies Executive Director, Liz Green, has made it possible for us to fully support 52 girls for this academic year,” says Arthur Thomas, faculty sponsor of the Nanhi Kali Syracuse University chapter. “We understand that every day spent in school helps an underprivileged girl take one more step out of poverty, slavery or human trafficking. That makes her a better person, her future a brighter one, and our whole world a better place.”

To learn more about the Nanhi Kali Syracuse University chapter, visit nanhikalisyracuse.org.

College of Professional Studies Honors Women of the University Community Sept. 29 for Service and Dedication to Syracuse University

by Cheryl Abrams

Women of the University Community logo

During his first address following the recent death of Queen Elizabeth II, King Charles III spoke admiringly about the attributes that characterized his mother’s life and reign. He spoke of having a “deep gratitude” for the queen’s life-long sense of duty, service, dedication and devotion.

These formidable sentiments are being expressed this month as the College of Professional Studies honors the service of an organization whose members have steadfastly exemplified these same qualities over many decades: the Women of the University Community (WUC).

Dean’s Lifetime Ambassador Award
During the College’s alumni luncheon as part of Orange Central on Thursday, Sept. 29, Dean Michael Frasciello will present WUC with the Dean’s Lifetime Ambassador’s Award. This accolade is one of the highest forms of recognition the college bestows on alumni and organizations for their support of Syracuse University, the college and its students. Members of the University community and the public are invited to attend the event, from noon to 2 p.m. at Drumlins Country Club.

“Syracuse University is tremendously grateful to the Women of the University Community for their unwavering belief in the transformational power of a college education and their commitment to our shared mission of providing and supporting access to Syracuse University,” says Dean Frasciello. “We look forward to celebrating their achievements on September 29.”

Near Century of Dedication
The Women of the University Community was founded in 1927 (as it happens, a year after Queen Elizabeth’s birth) by some formidable women to bring together alumni and other women affiliated with Syracuse University. For nearly a century, the organization succeeded in providing support for women and education. Beginning in 1969, three scholarships were created to honor Beverly Whaley (SUNY ESF), Mildred Eggers (University College, now the College of Professional Studies) and Ruth Tolley (Falk College). These scholarships, which eventually became endowed and have since distributed more than $200,000 to deserving female scholars, will continue to be awarded.

The Mildred Eggers award is presented annually to three women studying through the college who are matriculated in a bachelor’s degree program and taking at least six credits the following semester. Recipients are selected primarily on academic merit, with financial need considered. The Ruth Tolley award is presented to outstanding juniors in the David B. Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics; and the Beverly Whaley scholarship goes to a sophomore or junior at the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry.

Profound Impact
Retired Syracuse University administrator Esther Gray, who led the University Lectures Series for many years since its inception in 1996, is a College of Professional Studies alumna and past president of WUC. She received a Mildred Eggers scholarship while pursuing her degree. “That scholarship meant the world and helped get me through my studies at SU,” she says.

As a WUC member who attended many ceremonies when scholarships were awarded to recipients, Gray recalls one comment from a deserving student that has inspired her since. The young woman said, “The Women of the University Community’s belief in me through this scholarship led to my believing in myself.”

In 2021, WUC was formally disbanded for many compelling reasons, including the aging of long-standing members and their abilities to participate, as well as time commitments of current and potential members. The COVID-19 pandemic stalled in-person get-togethers and events, greatly impacting the cohesiveness of WUC as a sustainable organization.

Affirming the Past
While the disbanding of WUC could be viewed sadly, as a mourning for something that had been vibrant on campus for so many years, the remaining members instead focus on celebrating the accomplishments made possible by many women, as well as moving forward with the promise of and inspiration in women scholars of today.

“We take heart in all that was achieved since WUC’s formation,” says Kate Veley, a Syracuse University alumna and long-time University employee who is now the director of corporate philanthropy at Make-a-Wish® of CNY. As a former president of the group, Kate looks back with pride on both the time dedicated by members, as well as their monetary donations along the way.

Whenever WUC presented fundraising events, members paid for all associated costs, such as invitations, postage, room rentals and more. “From the very beginning, every penny raised went directly into the scholarship funding,” says Veley. “Administrative expenses were totally covered by the members; it wasn’t a line item in our budget.”

WUC held many annual book and garage sales, as well as its primary fundraising activity, an annual poinsettia sale, with more than 12,000 plants being sold over the years. Community and social services have also played a significant role in WUC through an outreach tutoring program, events for international students and families, and support for local charities such as the American Cancer Society and the Hendricks’s Chapel Food Pantry.

At its core, the WUC has always been a highly social organization. Traditionally, members held three annual events: a Fall Welcome, a seasonal Holiday Party, and a Spring Luncheon. Other activities included bridge, a book review group, gourmet dining events, bowling, creative writing, theater, and crafts and sewing. Neighborhood groups were also vital, with 15 different meeting locations in its heyday.

Service from a Different Age
While the WUC has seen many changes over the years, the organization has remained true to its founding as an organization of women who gather in friendship, camaraderie, and respect to sustain one another, create meaningful relationships, and assist future generations in their academic pursuits.

Although the group formally disbanded last year, what continues say Veley and Gray is a profound sense of caring and support, particularly for its oldest members. “We have an email list and routinely stay in touch with one another,” says Veley. When a member may be ill or having a tough time, other members rally around to provide meals and whatever help they can, adds Gray.

As the college prepares to honor the WUC, two additional attributes that King Charles III ascribed to his late mother can aptly be applied to WUC members: “a fearless embrace of progress and an unerring ability to see the best in people.”

William, the now Prince of Wales, also stated that he thanks his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, “on behalf of my generation for providing an example of service and dignity in public life that was from a different age, but always relevant to us all.”

The Syracuse University community, likewise, thanks the Women of the University Community for 95 years of its example of dedicated service and engagement in the life of the campus and surrounding community.

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English for Lawyers Offers Interactive Learning for Prospective LL.M. Students

By Hope Alvarez

“All rise!”

Silence filled the room as the judge took her seat. The lawyers shuffled through their notes one last time while the jury prepared to listen about the criminal actions of a man who fled the state of Florida.

Olga Oganesyan, assistant director of academic programs at the English Language Institute, smiled as she watched her students navigate the courtroom with confidence and poise.

The mock trial was about to begin.

Now in its ninth year, the English for Lawyers cohort concluded their summer program with a mock trial on Aug. 10 after six weeks of courses. Hosted by the English Language Institute at Syracuse University, English for Lawyers is a program designed to provide a foundation in legal terminology and language usage in various areas for non-native speakers of English who intend to earn an LL.M. degree in the United States.

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Fulbright Scholars Return to Syracuse University In-Person After Two Years

By Hope Alvarez

They never intended to meet. Daniela Orozco Poveda was from Colombia, while Jonato Xavier was from Timor-Leste, a nation located on the island of Timor, in between Indonesia and Australia. While they were once strangers living oceans apart, the world suddenly felt small when the Fulbright Program intertwined their paths.

For the first time in two years, the Fulbright English for Graduate Studies Program returned to an in-person format at Syracuse University after conducting the program virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This year, 29 Fulbright scholars from 25 countries attended the four-week program, which prepares scholars for graduate life before matriculating into their degree programs at institutions across the United States. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs as part of its Fulbright Program, scholars spend this time building an international education network while participating in interactive workshops, field trips, and textual and oral communication courses.

“It is a blessing to be part of a program with so many tangible and intangible benefits for a range of different stakeholders—first and foremost, for the Fulbrighters, of course, but also for all those who have had the pleasure of getting to know them—faculty and staff, host families, and others in the community—who have been touched by their contagious enthusiasm and optimism for a better future,” said David Lind, director of the English Language Institute.

A Golden Opportunity

2022 Fulbright scholar, Daniela Orozco Poveda

After 36 hours of travel, Poveda finally arrived at Syracuse University. Although exhausted from a marathon of flights, there was no time to rest. Fulbright scholars chattered at the Ernie Davis Residence Hall, a temporary homebase where they would exchange stories about their lives, their research and the four-week long preparation program. Eager to dive in, Poveda knew it was time to make the most of this prestigious opportunity and began introducing herself to Xavier and the other Fulbright scholars.

“This is the opportunity to be a better researcher and be a better professor,” Poveda said.

With a background in law and political science, Poveda’s goal during the Fulbright Program is to master her research and teaching skills. In the world of law, industry work often prevails over academia, but Poveda believes that academic research is just as crucial to the development of the industry. During the Fulbright Program, the PhD candidate will sharpen her researcher skills at the University of North Texas as she continues her research about symbolic laws. The experience she gathers in the U.S. will enrich the lessons she teaches when she returns to Colombia.

2022 Fulbright scholar, Jonato Xavier

However, Xavier is eager to dive into the industry side of law. As a Fulbright scholar, Xavier will be participating in an international LL.M. program at Loyola University New Orleans.

“[Fulbright] is simply a golden opportunity,” Xavier said.

For Xavier, the Fulbright Program has been an enriching opportunity that allows him to learn about the diverse avenues of research and gather dynamic perspectives from scholars around the world. A global viewpoint is vital for Xavier as he continues his research about human rights.

Connecting Through Cultural Experiences

The Fulbright Program is more than just a research opportunity. During the Fulbright English for Graduate Studies Program, scholars spend the preparation period connecting through a variety of workshops and off-campus activities. Whether it’s a session about library resources or enjoying a homecooked meal with University hosts, the program offers a unique camaraderie that can only be found in-person. The variety of immersive learning is structured to prepare scholars for a successful Fulbright experience.

Fulbright scholars participate in a CliftonStengths workshop hosted by Liz Green, executive director of online student success, on Aug. 1, 2022 at Syracuse University.

One day Fulbright scholars will learn about professionally applying their personality strengths, while other days are spent exploring museums and art centers. The diverse agenda strengthens the Fulbright community and offers a window of new perspectives.

“What makes this experience unique for the students is the magical mix of learning and networking opportunities that we provide for them, made possible thanks to the interest and generosity of a broad cross-section of folks from the Syracuse University community,” Lind said. “All of us involved in the program got a rush out of watching how this amazing group of people have come together from the four corners of the world for a common purpose.”

Outside of the classroom, University employees host dinners for the Fulbright scholars. According to Xavier and Poveda, the relaxed gathering offered a chance to connect through cultural experiences while the scholars painted, played ping pong, and feasted on food like paella and strawberry cake. As the Fulbright cohort embarks on this new adventure together, the immersive activities have strengthened their connections, Poveda said.

More Than a Global Network

Fulbright Scholars present their research posters at Bird Library.

On the final day of the Fulbright English for Graduate Studies Program, the cohort of Fulbright scholars prepare for the Fulbright Scholar Poster Session at Bird Library, where they will present their research using the resources and skills they have acquired during their time at Syracuse.

Poveda and Xavier share a laugh with their cohort, projecting the illusion that they have known each other for years. It’s difficult to imagine that these scholars only recently met, but the fresh environment provided a blank slate for the cohort to journey through and tackle any interferences together.

Despite the challenges of living in a different country, navigating language barriers, and adjusting to new academic rigors, Fulbright scholars Poveda and Xavier felt the hindrances were necessary to face during the study abroad experience. The obstacles provided a new way to learn and adapt while enforcing the importance of community. Throughout their learning experiences, the Fulbright network is the greatest tool they’ll utilize for the remainder of their careers.

“This is a community,” Poveda said. “There is a network between us now, and it is all around the world. If someone needs something, we are going to be there for them.”

 

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.

About the English Language Institute

The English Language Institute, a department within the College of Professional Studies, at Syracuse University is a pre-degree program that prepares international students to succeed in their undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Established in 1979, this immersive year-round program allows international students the opportunity to learn English and culture in the heart of New York state.