We know the value of a degree from Syracuse University. We represent its 237,000 alumni, living and working in 50 states and 160 countries. We are architects, artists, engineers, journalists, lawyers and scholars.

The diplomas on our walls and bumper stickers on our cars prompt conversations every day. Those conversations confirm that SU’s brand has been strengthened by the university’s focus on diversity in student recruitment and community engagement, part of a broad vision of Scholarship in Action.

We stand with Chancellor Nancy Cantor and her commitment to the city that gave its name to our alma mater. We are proud to represent an institution that defines itself as a public good, not as an Ivory Tower. Imagine the powerful possibilities for change if more schools put our global community ahead of admissions ratios or test scores alone.

Our colleagues, neighbors and business partners are not impressed by how many applicants SU rejects these days. But they did notice, and applaud, the Say Yes to Education program, which offers free tuition to qualified, local high school graduates. We know that makes our young alumni well rounded and competitive in the professional world.

Resources have not been diverted from the classroom, as some have recently argued. In fact, the classroom has been enriched as the university expands its reach. Today’s SU enjoys and creates more opportunity than we ever had, thanks to initiatives like the Connective Corridor, which will literally create a two-way boulevard between campus and an improving downtown.

We are confident that students’ personal growth, accomplishments and contributions to society will be greater as a result. That’s a worthy barometer of the university’s success.

Syracuse University Alumni Association

Board of Directors

Published on November 15, 2011 at 12:00 pm