College of Professional Studies

Syracuse University’s College of Professional Studies Honors Class of 2023

  • College of Professional Studies Convocation 2023
  • College of Professional Studies Convocation 2023

Syracuse University’s College of Professional Studies celebrated the Class of 2023 on Thursday, May 11, at its 75th annual Convocation Ceremony. Fifty-eight students, in total, were individually recognized for completing their program of study in 2023, representing eight schools and colleges and 20 majors within the University.

Dean Michael Frasciello began the night applauding the graduating class for their high achievements. Keynote speaker Mirza Tihic, College of Professional Studies faculty member, challenged the graduates to use their education to make a positive impact in the world. Tihic also remarked on the importance of “staying human” in this increasingly digital world by enacting a concerted effort to build and maintain relationships. “Please don’t forget the people that helped you get here, your friends and family members. Maintain and cherish those relationships,” Tihic said.

College of Professional Studies Convocation 2023

Tamrie Oliver, creative leadership bachelor of professional studies graduate, served as student speaker. Oliver recounted her life experiences that exemplify the term “nontraditional.” As a full-time single mother, full-time worker and part-time online student, Oliver cites her support system and unwavering determination to break out of the “stuck” feeling she found herself in for many years. Hoping to serve as encouragement to fellow students, Oliver urged “anyone that feels stuck or feels being nontraditional isn’t the way to go, I hope you find comfort and inspiration in my story.”

Celebrating Academic Achievements

Ten students were named as prestigious Alumni Scholars. Each of these bachelor’s degree candidates earned a minimum GPA of 3.9. The class of 2023 Alumni Scholars are Michael Crandall, Joseph Fernandez, Edward Furcinito, Scott Howard, Joshua Kompf, Tamrie Oliver, Andrew Ostrander, Timothy Sullivan, Dania Tompkins and Cherri Wells.

This year, the Nancy C. Gelling Award, which is given annually to part-time students who achieve the highest overall grade point average for a first bachelor’s degree was awarded to three students graduating with a perfect 4.0 grade point average; Michael Crandall, graduating with bachelor’s degree in Creative Leadership, Edward Furcinito, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Knowledge Management, and Scott Howard, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies. This is the first time in the history of the award that the College of Professional Studies recognized multiple students.

Additionally, the College of Professional Studies awarded the Faculty Excellence Award to Katherine Sosa, Ph.D., a Bachelor of Professional Studies instructor and the Staff Service Award was awarded to the Office of Government and Community Relations. The College of Visual and Performing Arts awarded George Lambert the Sylvia Wyckoff Award for outstanding academic achievement. The David B. Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics awarded Aglaeth Vazquez the Hortence Cochrane Award for outstanding academic achievement.

Honoring a Collaborative Community

College of Professional Studies Convocation 2023

The College of Professional Studies was excited to honor three current staff members who joined the class of 2023 graduates; Margaret Thompson, database administrator, Cherri Wells, online student success advisor, and Rich Pitzeruse, educational technologist.

For the first time in the College’s history, student participants in the iConsult Collaborative and Nanhi Kali student groups were honored for their outstanding leadership skills. iConsult is a university-wide program to build experience for students through real-world client projects involving digital transformation. The 2023 iConsult student graduates recognized were Chakshushri, Manali Ghorpade, Ruchita Harsora, Srishti Sanghvi, Pranav Sheth, Nikita Sirwan and Ankita Vartak. Nanhi Kali is a project of the Mahindra Foundation of India, supporting education for underprivileged girls. The 2023 Nanhi Kali student graduates recognized were Chakshushri, Sagarika Barde, Sanjana Dubey, Ashitosh Gupta, Ruchita Harsora, Rahul Khairnar, Sahaj Kandelwal, Aishwary Patel and Nidhee Patil.

The ceremony was immediately followed by a reception on the quad.

College of Professional Studies Convocation 2023

5 Questions You Should Ask a College Recruiter

The process of selecting the best college for you doesn’t have to be a difficult one. Now that you’ve gathered the informative brochures, it’s time to reduce your options. A conversation with a college recruiter can both simplify and expedite that process.

Speaking with college recruiters gives you the chance to discover more about the specifics of what the college has to offer, such as financial aid options, student resources, and part-time versus full-time learning opportunities.

If you’ve already selected the college you want to apply to, speaking with a college recruiter can also assist you in answering any questions you might have regarding the application process.

At the College of Professional Studies at Syracuse University, you can ask a college recruiter questions online, by phone, or in-person by appointment.

Not sure what to ask? The College of Professional Studies Admissions and Recruitment Office selected five questions to ask a college recruiter.

  1. What are the requirements for admission?

While the admission requirements for all colleges and universities differ, it is typical to provide all official transcripts from your educational journey and military experience, if applicable. Request an application checklist from your college recruiter or create your own to secure all of the information you need.

The application requirements for the College of Professional Studies can be found here.

  1. How long is the admission process?

The start date differs from program to program at each college and university. While some colleges may offer rolling admission and accept applications year-round, other colleges have strict deadline applications at the start of the fall, spring or summer semester. If you’re interested in applying to a program, it’s best to begin the research right away by connecting with a college recruiter.

  1. Are letters of recommendation valued?

Letters of recommendation are valuable and add strength to your college application. By providing a letter of recommendation, you’re allowing the admissions counselors to see your application from another viewpoint. Ask your college recruiter how many letters of recommendation you should provide, and start requesting these letters from your mentors, employers, or previous educators.

  1. How does the staff and faculty support students?

While it’s important to learn about the application process, don’t forget to ask college recruiters about student support resources. Utilizing the collection of resources available to you can improve your college experience in a myriad of ways. Resources may look different for students who are full-time versus students who are part-time. Additional resources may be available for online only students or military-connected students.

  1. What differentiates the College of Professional Studies online programs from other online programs?

The College of Professional Studies is the home for part-time Syracuse University students. Whether you’re attending part-time, pursuing a microcredentials program, or experiencing Syracuse University as an international student or high school student, it is our mission to deliver exceptional support and services to a diverse part-time student population seeking a Syracuse University education. For the past century, we have helped thousands of post-traditional students earn a Syracuse University degree and look forward to the next 100 years of providing access, opportunity, and support to generations of students who study part-time.

Did we miss a question? Click here for more questions you may want to ask a college recruiter!

Book an appointment with a College of Professional Studies recruiter today.

Syracuse University’s College of Professional Studies to Present at 2022 UPCEA MEMS

Syracuse University’s College of Professional Studies will present at the 2022 UPCEA MEMS: University Professional and Continuing Education Association Marketing and Enrollment Management Seminar in New Orleans, Louisiana, from Nov. 30 to Dec. 2.

Presented by Jim Gaffey, executive director of administration and strategy, and Liz Green, executive director of Online Student Success at the College of Professional Studies, “Partnering to Increase Conversion” will discuss the vitality of partnerships in higher education to increase enrollments.

“We are incredibly excited for this opportunity to present our findings at the 2022 UPCEA MEMS poster gallery,” says Gaffey. “Our partnership with Anthology (Blackboard) is a key component of our marketing strategy and aims to offer an alternative perspective on the value of partnerships.”

To learn more about the 2022 UPCEA MEMS conference, visit conferences.upcea.edu/marketing.

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.

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.

College of Professional Studies Announces New Faculty Member, Daniel Hebert, J.D., LL.M.

Dan Hebert portraitDaniel Hebert joins Syracuse University’s College of Professional Studies as an assistant teaching professor.

Hebert will teach and develop courses in business management, creative leadership and other areas of professional studies. 

“I am truly excited to join the College of Professional Studies. It is a privilege to be part of a college that is always looking forward for ways to better serve its diverse student body while engaging in high-quality scholarship. I look forward to dedicating my teaching, research, and service both to the College of Professional Studies and Syracuse University as a whole,” says Hebert.

Prior to joining Syracuse University, Hebert was a lecturer at SUNY Polytechnic Institute from 2020 to 2022 and taught law, taxation and business courses.

Hebert received an LL.M. from Washington University in St. Louis in 2020, a J.D. from the University at Buffalo in 2011, and a B.S. from SUNY Polytechnic Institute in 2008. In 2012, Hebert was admitted to the New York State Bar.

Hebert’s research focuses on corporate law, taxation, not-for-profit organizations, business organizations and education.

Most recently, Hebert co-authored the CPA Journal article “Twenty Questions on the Challenges of Maintaining the Quality of Academic Education During the COVID-19 Pandemic.”

“Professor Hebert has fresh, innovative ideas for future programming and a genuine enthusiasm for teaching and mentoring.  We are thrilled to welcome him to the College, to Syracuse University, and to our growing faculty ranks,” said Ryan Williams, associate dean of the College of Professional Studies Academic Affairs office.

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.