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 网爆门’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, 听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 网爆门, and the values of the Army and the Air Force, and they鈥檙e going to go out and lead with distinction.听 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,听 native, is enrolled听 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 网爆门 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 .

When Sgt. First Class Andrew Zellar began basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, on June 6, 2006, he thought he knew what his career in military service would look like.

Twenty years later, as he moves on from years as a military science instructor at 网爆门 and prepares to retire later this year from the New York Army National Guard, he reflects on a career that took unexpected turns and allowed him to impact hundreds of lives in ways he never imagined.

鈥淭he most unexpected part was the chance to have the assignment at ROTC. I had a vague understanding of what I would be doing, but my experience was a lot more rewarding than I expected,鈥� Zellar says. 鈥淭he thing I am most proud of is seeing past soldiers and cadets performing in the Army and in life.鈥�

Zellar’s journey began like many of his generation, shaped by the events of Sept. 11, 2001. Fresh out of high school in 2004, the Cazenovia native wanted to serve, but his parents encouraged him to pursue college first.

After two years, the pull toward service won out. He enlisted in the Army National Guard as a military police officer, initially planning to combine service with the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC).

When plans to deploy overseas did not materialize, Zellar found himself in limbo鈥攗ntil an opportunity emerged that would define his career.

Finding His Calling in Recruiting

In 2007, during one of the most challenging periods for military recruiting, Zellar stepped into a role that would test every interpersonal skill he possessed. The economy was collapsing, wars in Iraq and Afghanistan were intensifying, and the National Guard needed people who could connect with potential recruits and their families.

“Most people that join the military always have a desire to do it,” Zellar says. “It’s just that the opportunity to do it has to intersect with the motivation.”

He saw this firsthand at career fairs, where he met not teenagers but 25- and 30-year-old adults with impressive resumes who simply had no jobs. The 2008 economic crisis had created both challenges and opportunities for recruiting.

His approach was simple but demanding: show up.

“I probably failed more than I succeeded in a lot of things, but I would just show up,” he says. That first year, he worked every single day, meeting potential recruits whenever and wherever they needed鈥攍ate nights, weekends, holidays.

His work in St. Lawrence County, located along New York鈥檚 northern border, juxtaposed recruiting Clarkson University, SUNY Potsdam, SUNY Canton and St. Lawrence University with the county鈥檚 rural residents.

One memory stands out in particular. Zellar visited a young man living in dire poverty鈥攁 home heated with wood pallets, with essentially nothing. “You need this. You got to get out of here,” he remembers thinking. The National Guard gave the young man a path forward.

The rural assignment taught Zellar invaluable lessons, sharpening his skills and deepening his understanding of how people struggle.

Preparing the Next Generation

In 2018, Zellar was chosen for a new role with the New York Army National Guard. He joined 网爆门 as a military science instructor with the Army ROTC program, a position that joined his recruiting expertise with a deeper mission of developing young leaders.

Over the next eight years, he worked with more than 325 cadets and contributed to the commissioning of 215 Army second lieutenants.

“The thing I’ll look back on and enjoy the most is watching them achieve what they’re capable of achieving,” Zellar says. He remembers helping a cadet, an Iraqi refugee, obtain her citizenship, presenting her with a pocket Constitution at the ceremony.

His teaching philosophy challenges students to expand their perspectives.

“Whatever news source you get, whatever stuff you like to read, read the opposite,” he tells first-year students. “Just for no other reason than to see something a little bit different.”

His advice extends beyond tactics and strategy. “Swing at the pitch. If you get an opportunity, you can strike out. I’ll deal with it. We will figure it out. But nothing’s worse than watching the pitch go by,鈥� he says.

A Legacy Beyond the Uniform

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Zellar and his ROTC colleagues proved indispensable, running testing sites and helping keep the University operational. It exemplified what he values most about service: being there when it matters.

As Zellar retires from military service later this year, he leaves behind more than statistics. He leaves young officers commissioned and ready to lead, recruits who found purpose and opportunity, and countless individuals whose lives changed because one person was willing to show up every time, without fail.

As he moves forward, Zellar will continue to pursue his real estate career. And he is looking forward to spending more time on what matters most: his wife Gloriann, daughters Audrey and Gabriella, and son Andrew Jr.

While Hannah Kang 鈥�25 was growing up in Houston, Texas鈥攂y way of South Korea, where she was born鈥攑ursuing a degree at 网爆门 was never on her radar.

Then, a high school internship course found her shadowing renowned architect Jesse Hager of CONTENT Architecture, known for designing some of the most iconic cultural and institutional buildings in the Houston metropolitan region. An interest in the field was ignited, inspired by her mom鈥檚 study of architecture in college, and before long she found herself Googling 鈥渢op-10 architecture schools鈥濃�攖he results led her to the high-ranking and NAAB-accredited 网爆门 .

鈥淚 realized that architecture was my calling because it really combined the aspects of STEM I liked best (mathematics, physics) with the arts, allowing me to work through creative challenges and utilize both the left side and right side of my brain,鈥� Kang says.

Before she walks the stage with a bachelor of architecture (B.Arch) degree at Commencement as a member of the Class of 2025 on Sunday, Kang reflects on five years at Syracuse and the many makings of her uniquely Orange experience.

Army ROTC + Architecture = A Rare and Disciplined Path

When considering how to fund her education at a private, out-of-state university, Kang didn鈥檛 have to look further than her own father鈥檚 story for encouragement.

Back in South Korea, her dad completed his two years of mandatory military service and ultimately parlayed his military experience into an engineering degree. 鈥淗e encouraged me to look into the Army ROTC [Reserve Officers鈥� Training Corps] pathway to fund my education, and I found out in short order how well-resourced and supportive Syracuse is of its military community,鈥� Kang says. Connecting with the University鈥檚 and helped her navigate the scholarship process and getting contracted into the Army ROTC program.

鈥淚t is not a common path to enroll in the ROTC while also pursuing architecture here, just because both programs are so rigorous and time-intensive,鈥� Kang says, noting that she may be one of the only undergraduate architecture students in the school鈥檚 history to do both programs simultaneously.

鈥淭here was an adjustment period for sure鈥攍ife in the architecture program and life in ROTC are two very different things,鈥� Kang says, recalling the juxtaposition of late nights spent in Slocum Hall, home to the School of Architecture, doing design work and her early-morning ROTC workouts.

But the payoff was worth it and helped fuel her success at Syracuse. Her participation in Army ROTC taught Kang the importance of both resilience and time management, while lifting the financial burden and allowing her to participate in such memorable Syracuse offerings as study abroad without a second thought.

Broadening Perspectives With Study Abroad/Study Away and Internships

While Kang spent a majority of her undergraduate career within the four walls of Slocum, she also felt drawn to explore her passion for architecture off campus, leveraging study abroad and study away opportunities to immerse herself in the architectural gems of London, England, and New York City.

In spring 2023 she spent the semester studying at Faraday House, the University鈥檚 London home base, and spent her free time taking walking tours of the city and making use of easy travel throughout Europe to further expand her horizons.

Kang spent fall 2023 at the Fisher Center in New York City, an immersive semester that includes guest lectures, professional development and experiential learning opportunities in addition to course and studio work. She also had the specific goal of securing an internship based on her time in New York.

鈥淚 knew New York was the hub for architecture and design, and I also wanted to network during my time in the city,鈥� says Kang, who landed a store design internship with URBN, a portfolio of global consumer brands that includes Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie and Free People.

Before that, she also interned with Whole Foods Market as a store design and development intern in summer 2023, sourced with support from the Career Services team within the School of Architecture.

Kang says her internship experiences working with high-profile global and national brands have been invaluable to determining her future path within the architecture profession. 鈥淚 learned that while I enjoy store development and planning on the commercial side of things, I鈥檇 like to do it in a more holistic manner and across various brands, so that I鈥檓 not quite as confined to these specific brand identities,鈥� she says as she prepares to enter the job market.

The Future Is Bright

As she seeks to secure a full-time position with an architecture or design firm, Kang is tapping into connections made through the co-ed professional fraternity she joined through the School of Architecture, Alpha Rho Chi, which has boosted the number of Syracuse Architecture alumni in her professional network.

鈥淩ushing Alpha Rho Chi and tapping into the network of Orange alumni has made a huge difference because I actually know them鈥攖hey鈥檙e not just connections on LinkedIn,鈥� Kang says. 鈥淚鈥檝e been able to go to my brothers for career advice and while seeking internship opportunities through the years. They give it to you straight because you are their friend or mentee, and they are eager to help the next generation of architects.鈥�

She intends to return to school for a master鈥檚 degree at some point once she has a few years of professional experience, and will enter the ROTC Alumni Association and commission into the New York National Guard as a finance officer, continuing to provide service to her nation.

When asked about a uniquely Syracuse moment that stands out, Kang鈥檚 memory travels to the JMA Wireless Dome on a game day.

鈥淎s ROTC, we do the big flag at the [JMA Wireless] Dome for the football and basketball games and I love getting to be on the field and looking up to see all of the students in the student section and then all of the fans and alumni in the stands,鈥� Kang says. 鈥淎 big part of what drew me to Syracuse was the school spirit and seeing that in person in the Dome just gives me intangible pride鈥攑roud to be a cadet on campus and proud to be part of an institution like 网爆门.鈥�

A time-honored celebration of academic achievement, leadership and military history was on full display at the JMA Wireless Dome during the 108th Chancellor鈥檚 Review and Awards Ceremony on March 28.

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

The event is one of 网爆门鈥檚 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鈥檚 Readjustment Act of 1944, better known as the G.I. Bill.

This year鈥檚 ceremony featured a formal inspection of the troops by Chancellor Kent Syverud 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.

鈥淓very year the Army and Air Force ROTC cadets at 网爆门 make significant accomplishments and contributions which are important for us, as a campus community, to recognize and celebrate,鈥� said retired U.S. Army Col. Ron Novack, executive director of the . 鈥淪ome of these cadets are D1 athletes, others are heavily involved in civic and community projects on and off campus. They鈥檙e balancing an incredible workload and staying true to their commitment to become future commissioned officers in the U.S. military. If you look at the summary of accomplishments these cadets have made over the last year, it鈥檚 truly remarkable.鈥�

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.

The General Edward C. Meyer Leadership Award was presented to U.S. Army ROTC Cadet Andrew Lopane for demonstrating exceptional officer potential and leadership. Lopane is enrolled at where he studies landscape architecture, and has also volunteered with 网爆门 Ambulance, a student organization that responds to more than 1,500 medical emergencies each year.

鈥淭he Chancellor鈥檚 Review is a longstanding tradition that honors the dedication, leadership and achievements of Army and Air Force ROTC cadets, reinforcing the University鈥檚 deep connection to military service,鈥� says U.S. Army Lt. Col. Matthew Coyne, professor of military science at 网爆门 and the commander of the Stalwart Battalion. 鈥淭hrough this event, cadets gain well-earned recognition for their hard work, motivation to excel, and a sense of pride in their commitment to serving the nation.鈥�

The Professor John A. and Dean Marion Meyer Scholar Award was presented to U.S. Air Force ROTC Cadet Charles Tang 鈥�25 for exemplary performance and inspirational leadership. Tang, who is studying political science at the , was also named a Dottle Scholar in 2023, and credits his time at Syracuse for shaping the person he is today.

鈥淔our years ago, I would not have ever imagined a career in the military. 网爆门 and the AFROTC program have made me confident in my ability to lead as a future officer in the US Air Force,” says Tang. “I have taken great pleasure in working with my peers to train and mentor our younger cadets, and I am grateful for this unique opportunity Syracuse has provided me with.鈥�

The ceremony closed with a 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.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Michael Skarda, commander of Detachment 535, summed up the significance of the moment: 鈥溚� doesn鈥檛 just talk about supporting ROTC鈥攊t has demonstrated that commitment for 108 years in a tradition that even predates the Air Force itself. For our cadets, this event is more than a ceremony; it鈥檚 a powerful moment of pride and recognition that will stay with them for a lifetime.鈥�

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

网爆门 cordially invites the campus community to the 108th Chancellor’s Review and Awards Ceremony, a distinguished event honoring our Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) cadets, on Friday, March 28, 2025, at 9 a.m. in the JMA Wireless Dome, followed by a brief reception at Club 44. This time-honored tradition, inaugurated on May 4, 1917, by Chancellor James R. Day, underscores the University’s unwavering dedication to military service and mirrors traditional military ceremonies that date back to the Middle Ages.

The Chancellor’s Review serves as a platform to recognize the exemplary achievements of the University鈥檚 Army and Air Force ROTC cadets. Cadets from both ROTC detachments will be presented awards for their commitment to service and success. Scholarships from military commands, veterans service organizations and 网爆门 alumni will also be presented to cadets to support their continued academic journey prior to commissioning into the military.

This annual ceremony not only honors the dedication of our ROTC cadets, but also reflects the University’s historic commitment to supporting veterans and military families.

鈥淭he annual Chancellor鈥檚 Review is one of the few events throughout the year where the campus community can get a glimpse of what makes 网爆门 the 鈥楤est Place for Veterans.鈥� The Army ROTC program at Syracuse is one of the longest-running ROTC programs in the country and our Air Force ROTC program was one of the first programs in the nation. These programs are vital components to the University鈥檚 rich history of supporting veterans, service members and their families,鈥� says retired U.S. Army Colonel Ron Novack, executive director of the Office of Veterans and Military Affairs (OVMA). 鈥淲ith the “University celebrating the 10-year anniversary of the OVMA later this year, the Chancellor鈥檚 Review ceremony is an excellent time to see the growth both the Army and Air Force ROTC programs have experienced during the University鈥檚 revitalized initiatives to support military-connected students.鈥�

We encourage all students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members to join us in recognizing and celebrating the future leaders of our nation’s armed forces. Those interested in attending can .

The ceremony will be live streamed this year for those who cannot make it to the JMA Wireless Dome. Stay tuned to the RSVP link for updates on how to access the live stream.

网爆门 will honor eight distinguished members of the Orange community during the , which is being held on Friday, April 4, in the National Veterans Resource Center at the Daniel and Gayle D’Aniello Building (NVRC). All members of the community are invited to attend this complimentary program. Registration will open in February.

This annual event recognizes and celebrates the exceptional accomplishments of alumni and students who exemplify what it means to be Forever Orange.听The honorees were selected by the awards committee of the Board of Directors.听The committee will soon announce the 2025 Outstanding Future Alumni Award, which goes to a most deserving student.

The George Arents Award is 网爆门鈥檚 highest alumni honor and recognizes individuals who have excelled in their fields.听This year鈥檚 honorees are Paul Greenberg 鈥�65, P鈥�03; Melanie Littlejohn G鈥�97; and Judith 鈥淛udy鈥� C. Mower 鈥�66, G鈥�73, G鈥�80, Ph.D.鈥�84.

Chelsea Ransom-Cooper 鈥�15 will receive the Generation Orange Award, which recognizes graduates from the past decade for career success, community engagement and overall commitment to 网爆门.

Jack Kreischer 鈥�65 will receive the Melvin A. Eggers Senior Alumni Award for his loyalty and service to 网爆门 over the past 50 years.

Jamieson R. Ritter 鈥�19 will posthumously receive the Military/Veteran Alumni Award. Ritter passed away in the line of duty while serving as a police officer in Cleveland, Ohio. This award highlights his bravery and dedication to our country and community.

Kimberly Wolf Price L鈥�03 will be awarded the Volunteer of the Year Award for her commitment to 网爆门 as a volunteer.

The Outstanding Future Alumni Award honoree will be announced in February.

and plan to join us in April for the celebration.

Growing up in Buffalo, Madison Kaifas-Steiner was no stranger to the bitter cold and snow-filled winters of Central New York. But when she joined 网爆门鈥檚 cross-town Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program during her time at Le Moyne College, she discovered that Central New York winters hit differently鈥攅specially during outdoor field training.

鈥淭here were days we鈥檇 be out there in the snow, freezing, and I鈥檇 think, 鈥榃hat am I doing?鈥欌�� Kaifas-Steiner recalls. 鈥淏ut honestly, those tough conditions built a sense of camaraderie and resilience. You learn to embrace the challenge鈥攁nd maybe even enjoy it a little.鈥�

While most cadets in the Army ROTC program are 网爆门 students, a handful come from nearby colleges and universities. Through the cross-town program, 网爆门 hosts cadets from Le Moyne College, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, SUNY Oswego, Morrisville State College and Onondaga Community College. This arrangement allows students to pursue their academic goals while gaining the military sciences education needed for their careers.

Kaifas-Steiner didn鈥檛 have a military background or family ties to guide her decision to serve. Yet, something about ROTC drew her in, offering the chance to push her limits and pursue something bigger than herself. What began as a leap of faith soon became a transformative journey, leading Madison from the snowy fields of Syracuse to a deployment in Morocco as a medical officer鈥攁nd eventually back to 网爆门鈥檚 campus, where she now works at the D鈥橝niello Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF).

鈥淚 didn鈥檛 know what I was doing at first,鈥� Kaifas-Steiner says. 鈥淚 walked into ROTC with no military background, no family experience. I was completely lost.鈥�

The lessons she learned as a cadet laid the foundation for her early career as a commissioned officer, though she admits some lessons required real-world experience to fully grasp.

鈥淚 didn鈥檛 understand what they were talking about when I was in ROTC, but the officer and non-commissioned officer (NCO) relationship鈥攈ow important that is鈥攃ame to fruition in Morocco,鈥� Kaifas-Steiner says. 鈥淚 developed a really good relationship with my platoon sergeant (PSG). Now I talk to him all the time, and I just keep learning from all these different types of people.鈥�

Kaifas-Steiner recently joined the staff at IVMF, one of the military-affiliated organizations in the

National Veterans Resource Center on campus. As part of the enrollment and advising team, she is often the first point of contact for IVMF program participants. Her experience as a first lieutenant in the New York National Guard gives her unique insight into the needs of service members, veterans and their families.

鈥淭his place changed everything for me,鈥� she says. 鈥淚t set the tone for my life, my family, and my future. I wanted to give back to veterans and keep learning from them, so the IVMF was the perfect fit for me.鈥�

Reflecting on her journey, Kaifas-Steiner offers this advice to current ROTC cadets preparing to commission: 鈥淪tay open and stay humble. You鈥檙e never the smartest person in the room, and that鈥檚 a good thing. Learn from the people around you. You never know who you鈥檒l meet or what opportunities will come your way.鈥�

For Kaifas-Steiner, the ROTC program was more than a stepping stone鈥攊t was a transformative experience. 鈥淚t forever changed my life,鈥� she says. 鈥淭he program, the people and the opportunities I鈥檝e had since鈥擨鈥檓 so grateful for all of it.鈥�

网爆门鈥檚 Office of Veteran and Military Affairs wants to hear from U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force ROTC cadets who have graduated and are currently serving. If you鈥檇 like to share your military experiences since commissioning, consider submitting your profile to the . Your story could inspire future generations of Orange leaders, in and out of uniform.

Earning a commission in the U.S. Army is a challenging process. Among the many attributes necessary to become a commissioned officer, physical fitness is a key element that can make or break a candidate鈥檚 potential military career.

In 2019, the U.S. Army implemented a newer, more rigorous physical fitness test to evaluate a soldier鈥檚 potential for physical performance in combat. Named the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT), the new test required specific equipment and training space that many ROTC detachments across the nation simply did not have readily available.

When 网爆门 learned about this potential setback, they set forth a plan to ensure their future soldiers were given the tools necessary to s斐甦.

鈥淧hysical fitness is critical for our soldiers to meet the demands of their profession in the most challenging of situations and, ultimately, to accomplish our mission,鈥� says U.S. Army Lt.Col. Matthew Coyne, the ranking professor of military science at 网爆门 and detachment commander for the Stalwart Battalion. 鈥淗aving a higher physical fitness score improves their ability to assess into the component of their choice, or the branch of their choice.鈥�

By component or branch, Coyne is referring to the career field a soldier is assigned upon commissioning. Understanding the long-term impact that a fitness test could have on a cadet鈥檚 future career in the military, the University moved forward to turn a warehouse near Jamesville Avenue into the Stalwart Tactical Athlete Center, better known as the STAC.

The results of this initiative were made clear over the summer of 2024 when cadets from 网爆门 excelled in comparison to other ROTC units from the region and across the nation. 鈥淥ur cadets have achieved the highest Army combat fitness test average of all programs in the northeast. So out of 42 programs, they have the highest ACFT average, and they’re within the top three out of all programs in the United States,鈥� says Coyne.

Among those accolades, 网爆门 boasts the highest individual score during the 2024 Summer Cadet Training (CST) evolution. Cadet Byron Levi 鈥�25, a senior in the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, credits the University鈥檚 support as being instrumental for his accomplishment.

鈥淭he STAC has been monumental in the physical and tactical preparation leading up to CST. Having a dedicated fitness facility that can be utilized allowed us to have a sharp advantage over most programs, not only in the northeastern region but nationwide,鈥� says Levi. 鈥淪talwart Battalion cadets pride ourselves on our commitment and pursuit of excellence, but our capacity to produce results and represent 网爆门 at the national level, especially during CST, would be limited without the support and resources we receive here.鈥�

As 网爆门鈥檚 prominence in the military and veteran communities has increased over the years, so has the interest to attend the University by the next generation of U.S. Army officers. The Stalwart Battalion, year over year, has seen a growing trend with its enrollment, and 2024 marked its highest enrollment of cadets since 2020 and the second highest in the last 20 years; the detachment is currently preparing 124 cadets for military service after graduation.

鈥溚� has a historical commitment to supporting veterans in higher education, and since Chancellor Syverud鈥檚 2014 inaugural address calling for this university to once again become the 鈥楤est Place for Veterans,鈥� we have seen a dramatic shift in the quality of our programs, services and support we can offer our military-connected students,鈥� says retired U.S. Army Colonel Ron Novack, the executive director of 网爆门鈥檚 Office of Veteran and Military Affairs. 鈥淣owhere is that more evident than in the success of our ROTC programs. These young men and women are not only going to make incredible officers in the military, but they鈥檙e going forward as ambassadors of our University. We鈥檙e dedicated to ensuring that their time here with us is not only rewarding personally but impactful for their future careers as commissioned officers.鈥�

Since the STAC opened, the ROTC staff and cadets have found multiple uses for the facility. In addition to much-needed storage space for the military equipment the detachment uses, the facility also offers a classroom and training space for cadets to meet and plan upcoming exercises and events, as well as rehearse small unit tactics in a controlled environment.

To learn more about the 网爆门 Army ROTC program, contact the Admissions and Recruiting Operations Officer Eric Schaertl at eshaert@syr.edu or 315.443.2462. To support 网爆门鈥檚 initiatives to train the next generation of military leaders, please consider giving to the .

On Veterans Day, Monday, Nov. 11, the nation will pause to acknowledge and honor those who have served with the uniformed military services in defense of the United States of America. From coast-to-coast, the country鈥檚 veterans will take part in public celebrations, cookouts, ceremonies and parades; though some may seem significantly smaller than those in years past.

Retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Theresa Cross 鈥�99, who graduated from the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs and College of Arts and Sciences with a bachelor’s degree in international relations, will be the guest speaker at the University鈥檚 official observance of Veterans Day this year. Cross says that to her, Veterans Day is as 鈥淎merican as apple pie.鈥�

One thing that makes it personally important for her to observe the day is the low percentage of citizens who do choose to serve, 鈥淭he total number of people who have served in military service to our nation is around 6%. To me, that鈥檚 a very small amount of people, and I think it鈥檚 a small amount to pay for the many sacrifices that those people have made for our country,鈥� Cross says.

Cross came to 网爆门 in 1997 on the U.S. Army鈥檚 Green to Gold program, meaning she already had military service prior to coming to campus in pursuit of becoming a commissioned officer. Having obtained the rank of staff sergeant in the U.S. Army, Cross had considerable experience under her belt, including several deployments and having just come off a peacekeeping tour in Bosnia.

鈥淎t the time I was married, I had two children, and I had done my time in the Army. I knew I needed help with the kids to go to school full time, and Syracuse was a family school,鈥� says Cross.

When Cross calls 网爆门 a 鈥渇amily school,鈥� she means the school runs through her family鈥檚 veins through multiple generations of 网爆门 alumni, including most recently her own daughter, who graduated from the College of Visual and Performing Arts and the School of Education in 2014.

Cross grew up in Syracuse; her mother graduated from the university in 1974, her brother in 1985 and sister in 1994. Cross knew her Orange family was ready to step in and support her in her academic goals. To this day, she鈥檚 grateful for that support and the experiences that it allowed her to have during her studies.

Cross went on to be an intelligence officer and a strategist officer; the latter meaning she helped translate national priorities into military strategies and plans as well as developed solutions for complex problems, encompassing a total of 28 years of service. One of the greatest lessons she carried with her back into military service after graduation was learning just how different things would be as an officer compared to her years of experience as an enlisted soldier.

“I had just come off a tour after being a staff sergeant for two years and deploying with the 18^th Airborne Corps to Bosnia, so to make that move into the officer corps鈥搃t was different,鈥� Cross recalls. While non-commissioned officers are the experienced enlisted troops who take on a mid-level management and leadership role, commissioned officers (NCOs) are generally the primary decision makers in a unit and responsible overall for the success of that unit鈥檚 mission.

鈥淭he ROTC program helped me make that transition a lot better. We had other NCOs on campus that worked with us through the program, and I think it was just one of the best preparations for my time as an officer; learning those things that I, as an enlisted person, didn鈥檛 know about,鈥� says Cross.

The University鈥檚 celebration of Veterans Day will begin early in the morning on Nov. 11 this year. At 6:30 a.m., the Office of Veteran and Military Affairs (OVMA) will host the annual Veterans Day 5K Fun Run and Walk. Those interested in participating should and plan on arriving a little early to meet fellow runners and warm up for the run.

Afterwards, the doors to the K.G. Tan Auditorium at the National Veterans Resource Center will open for the 2024 Veterans Day Celebration which will start at 11 a.m. Those wishing to attend are encouraged to by the close of business on Friday, Nov. 1.

Across the U.S. Department of Defense, there are approximately 650 commissioned flag officers, known as generals or admirals. Achieving this rank is a testament to a service member鈥檚 dedication, knowledge, leadership and ability to effect change.

For retired U.S. Air Force (USAF) Brigadier General Jeff Wilkinson 鈥�89 the path to becoming a flag officer, and the first ever combat rescue officer to be promoted to the rank of general across the USAF, began at 网爆门 as an Air Force ROTC cadet.

Wilkinson, who served primarily in Air Force Special Tactics, didn鈥檛 initially see himself rising through the ranks. However, a call to service has guided him throughout his career.

鈥淕rowing up, I was interested in the outdoors, adventures as a Boy Scout, military air shows, museums and that sort of thing. I got serious in high school while figuring out how to pay for school and what I wanted to do,鈥� says Wilkinson, a Buffalo, New York, native who was drawn to 网爆门 through his passion for music and playing the saxophone.

鈥淚 started pursuing scholarships. I applied for and received an Air Force scholarship and decided I wanted to be an officer and lead. It was a pathway that allowed me to attend Syracuse and be part of its excellent programs,鈥� Wilkinson says.

Music played a significant role in attracting Wilkinson to Syracuse, but his undergraduate studies in mathematics and military science delivered opportunities that laid the foundation for his career. Following the loss of his Zeta Psi fraternity brother, Alex Lowenstein, along with 34 fellow students during the 1988 Pan Am Flight 103 bombing over Lockerbie, Scotland, Wilkinson decided he wanted to make a difference fighting international terrorism.

One of his ROTC instructors suggested he consider the Air Force鈥檚 special operations career field. Unlike many military occupations available to him upon graduation, Special Tactics required an application and passing qualifications.

鈥淭here are a limited number of officers in the field, so you have to apply for it, and it鈥檚 really hard to make it through the training pipeline,鈥� Wilkinson says. 鈥淭he washout rate is high. My class started with about 68 people, and six of us graduated. It鈥檚 a hard path, but it鈥檚 where I was meant to be.鈥�

The Air Force鈥檚 Special Tactics community is primarily composed of two roles: Combat Control Team (CCT) and Pararescue (PJ). Combat controllers provide global reach opening remote austere air hubs in hostile territory along with strike capabilities delivering airpower on enemy positions, while pararescuemen offer critical medical care while embedded with other units or by entering contested areas to rescue downed aircrew or wounded service members.

Over 32 years in the Air Force, Wilkinson served on active duty, in the reserve and in the Kentucky Air National Guard as a Special Tactics officer. His service took him across the nation and around the world, supporting operations like Operation Uphold Democracy in Haiti, Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and Operation Iraqi Freedom in Iraq.

As he rose from second lieutenant to brigadier general, Wilkinson credits his success to the fundamentals he learned as an ROTC cadet. In the spring of 2024, he returned to 网爆门 to share his career insights with ROTC cadets of Detachment 535 before their graduation. As the guest speaker, he shared three key takeaways:

1. Trust in your training.

Wilkinson shared the story of U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Bart Decker, his combat control instructor who later deployed to Afghanistan as part of the initial response to the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The Special Forces detachments initially deployed required immense flexibility, even adjusting to traveling on horseback through rugged terrain鈥攁 skill long forgotten in military tactics since the early 1940s.

鈥淭he foundations and processes started here in ROTC prepare you to lead in unimaginable scenarios. With a positive attitude, disciplined study and agility of thought, you will s斐甦. Agile thinking is encouraged in the Air Force and needed for tomorrow鈥檚 wars,鈥� Wilkinson says.

2. Seek advice from your subordinates and be thoughtful in your decisions.

Wilkinson urged the graduating cadets to listen to the noncommissioned officers (NCOs), who often train new officers in their field’s technical expertise. He recalled advice from a senior officer that Wilkinson still considers among the best he鈥檚 received.听鈥淗e told me that my new rank and certifications gave me the authority to make decisions that, if wrong, could result in the injury or death of my Airmen or, at a minimum, violations that could land me in jail. So, I better be thoughtful in my decisions and listen to my NCOs. Seek their experience and perspective when making decisions,鈥� Wilkinson says.

3. Don鈥檛 wait to make a difference.

Wilkinson, now a senior aerospace science instructor for a high school Junior ROTC detachment in Summerville, South Carolina, has extensive experience mentoring future leaders. He urged young leaders to address issues and find solutions when the moment arises.

He recounted his time leading pararescuemen on a humanitarian response deployment to Haiti after the 2010 earthquake. His team of highly trained specialists took four to five hours to search a site, while a nearby FEMA team with rescue dogs cleared an area in 45 minutes.

鈥淲ith persistence, our team established the first rescue dog combat capability in the entire Department of Defense, assigned to the Kentucky Air National Guard. The capability came into existence thanks to the earnest efforts of a dedicated staff sergeant and his flight commander, and now it鈥檚 available to the broader Air Force,鈥� Wilkinson says.

网爆门鈥檚 list of military-connected alumni who reach the prestigious flag officer ranks continues to grow, showcasing the dedication to service that the university instills in its ROTC cadets. As Wilkinson says, however, it鈥檚 not the rank that matters in the end, it鈥檚 the willingness to step forward and serve.

鈥淵ou stand at the forefront of our citizens, willing to be part of something greater than yourself,鈥� says Wilkinson. 鈥淭he American way of life, and American freedoms, are valuable. There鈥檚 always greater opportunities for people who produce results.鈥�

For more information on the University鈥檚 commitment to preparing tomorrow鈥檚 military leaders, visit the to learn about the opportunities available through ROTC.

The University is honoring the memory of alumnus and fallen Cleveland, Ohio, police officer Jamieson Ritter 鈥�19 with the establishment of a scholarship in his name. Beginning in 2025, the Jamieson Ritter Memorial ROTC Scholarship will be awarded to an ROTC student who is pursuing a career in military or civilian law enforcement. Ritter, who was part of the Army ROTC at Syracuse, was killed in the line of duty while serving with the Cleveland Division of Police on July 4.

鈥淛amieson Ritter鈥檚 life of dedicated service represents the very best of 网爆门,鈥� says Mike Haynie, vice chancellor for strategic initiatives and innovation and executive director of the D鈥橝niello Institute for Veterans and Military Families. 鈥淭his new scholarship will honor Jamieson鈥檚 memory by assisting students who follow his example in seeking to serve their country and community in uniform.鈥�

The scholarship was established in consultation with Ritter鈥檚 family.

Originally from Rochester, New York, Ritter graduated from McQuaid Jesuit High School before coming to 网爆门 to complete a degree in communication and rhetorical studies from the College of Visual and Performing Arts. Upon graduating from Syracuse, Ritter was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Army National Guard.

In November 2020, Ritter joined the Cleveland Division of Police as an officer. As a member of the Ohio Army National Guard, he deployed to Syria in 2022 and returned to continue his service with the Cleveland Division of Police in 2023.

Ritter grew up with an aspiration to serve others. 鈥淔rom an early age, Jamieson possessed an innate understanding of selfless service to the nation and a strong desire to serve his community,鈥� his family shared with the Cleveland Police.

If you are interested in donating to the Jamieson Ritter Memorial Scholarship Fund, please visit the .

According to the Department of Defense, interest in military service is on the decline among the nation鈥檚 youth, especially those who are qualified for military service. Only 9% indicated they would likely serve in the military; such a low percentage hasn鈥檛 been experienced since the months leading up to the 2008 financial crisis.

Emily Weaver 鈥�24, a cadet with the U.S. Air Force Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) at 网爆门, is among one-quarter of young adults who are interested in serving and have at least one parent who has served as well. Weaver grew up in Western New York, in Mount Morris, where she and her older brother watched their father depart for multiple deployments.

鈥淢y experience growing up was a little bit different from those that I went to school with,鈥� says Weaver, a junior in the College of Arts and Sciences where she is pursuing a triple major in earth science, forensic science and anthropology. 鈥淚 grew up in a military family, my dad served in the U.S. Navy for 34 years and retired as a commander, but he was constantly deployed. My brother and I just understood from a young age that being in the military comes with sacrifice and a difficult lifestyle.鈥�

Having grown up a couple hours from campus, Weaver was aware of 网爆门 prior to enrolling. The proximity to home wasn鈥檛 her primary reason for coming here though鈥攕he says it was the academic variety and the school鈥檚 military initiatives that were most compelling.

鈥淲hen I was looking at college choices, I wanted someplace that was military friendly because I wanted to do ROTC, but I also wanted to go to a school that had the academic variety where I could study the disciplines I was interested in,鈥� says Weaver.

Weaver is currently the deputy group commander for the University鈥檚 Air Force ROTC, making her the second-in-command among the cadets at Detachment 535. Next academic year she鈥檒l step up and become 网爆门鈥檚 highest ranking Air Force ROTC cadet. She has been selected to become the next group commander for the ROTC program. If the responsibilities of leadership and the academic demands of a triple-major were not enough to juggle with her schedule, Weaver is also pursuing a private pilot鈥檚 license and, to date, has almost 100 hours logged already.

Additionally, she has volunteered her time with Syracuse CHAARG (Changing Healthy Attitudes and Actions to Recreate Girls), an organization whose mission is to inspire college students, particularly women, to pursue a healthy and active way of life.

鈥淚t鈥檚 a woman-based workout club basically. It helps provide insight to women on the different type of exercise you can do and empower them to feel comfortable going to the gym, and just having better well-being overall,鈥� says Weaver. Part of the reason she gives her time in helping other women, she says, is because of the impact other women have had on her during her time at 网爆门.

鈥淲hether it鈥檚 the female cadre at the detachment, friends or even fellow cadets in ROTC, they鈥檙e some of the most intelligent, hard-working and driven women that I know,鈥� Weaver says.

Looking ahead at military service, Weaver says she wants to pursue a career in military aviation. There are several spots she can apply for, but becoming a pilot in the Air Force can be extremely challenging. Being selected for an aviation program, whether it be as a pilot, remotely-piloted aircraft pilot or combat systems officer, would put Weaver on a unique path that many others, including her peers, are actively seeking.

鈥淲e just put in our packages, and hopefully by the end of this semester or the beginning of summer, we鈥檒l find out the results from that. Ultimately, pilot would be my first choice, but I鈥檒l gladly serve in any capacity that they tell me to,鈥� Weaver says.

Weaver is quick to acknowledge that military service comes with distinct challenges many of her fellow classmates may not find appealing, but her experiences have been more of an influence to serve, rather than a deterrence.

鈥淵ou鈥檙e always on call with the military, and even though you might not wear a uniform all the time, you鈥檙e always still 鈥榠n uniform鈥� in a way,鈥� says Weaver. 鈥淭here鈥檚 also a higher sense of discipline that comes with being in the military and being in a military family. At the end of the day, the primary reason I鈥檓 choosing the military though is because I鈥檒l be working with a very team-oriented group of people who are all there for the same overarching mission: to support and defend the Constitution of the United States and protect the citizens of this country. It鈥檚 a tough job, and it comes with a lot of sacrifice. It’s not for everyone but that鈥檚 why those that do it understand the sacrifice and the risk that come with it.鈥�

When 网爆门鈥檚 fourth Chancellor, James R. Day, reviewed the University鈥檚 Cadet Corps on May 4, 1917, he started what would become an annual tradition for the University鈥檚 future military leaders.

On March 31, 2023, both Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) units from the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force assembled inside the JMA Wireless Dome for the 106^th Chancellor鈥檚 Review to carry on that tradition.

Chancellor Kent Syverud, the University鈥檚 12^th Chancellor who called upon the campus community to make 网爆门 the best place for veterans, conducted the pass and review of cadets, escorted by U.S. Army Lt. Col. Matthew Coyne and U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Ryan Lippert, the ranking members of the respective ROTC units.

Chancellor Syverud highlighted the accomplishments of the University鈥檚 ROTC units over the last year. Both the Army and Air Force ROTC will commission 32 officers later this spring. Additionally, the U.S. Army Stalwart Battalion has four distinguished military graduates who will commission in the top 10% of the U.S. Army鈥檚 2023 year group, including Cadet Sarah Sharpe 鈥�23, who came in first out of 802 cadets commissioning into the U.S. Army Reserve.

The U.S. Air Force ROTC Detachment 535 will commission nine active-duty officers in the spring, including three who are from the detachment鈥檚 crosstown universities at SUNY Oswego, SUNY Polytechnic Institute and SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry.

鈥淚鈥檓 so proud of the 140 cadets here today who continue our proud tradition of support to those who volunteer to serve,鈥� said Chancellor Syverud during his remarks to the assembled cadets. 鈥淐ongratulations on your service, leadership and academic excellence. And I鈥檓 grateful to our nine partner schools joining us today.鈥�

The annual Chancellor鈥檚 Review is also a time to celebrate the accomplishments of the University鈥檚 ROTC cadets through a presentation of awards issued by the University and off-campus organizations.

Lt. Col. Lippert presented the Professor of Aerospace Studies Scholastic Achievement Award to cadets Adam Landry, Emily Weaver, Charles Tang and Emma Corby. The award is presented to the Air Force cadet with the highest overall academic average for each class.

The U.S. Air Force ROTC Detachment awarded the McClune Scholar Award, presented by Kelly Rodoski ’92,听 senior communications manager and Lockerbie Scholars liaison. The award is presented to an Air Force cadet who is in the top half of their class academically, displays outstanding spirit and a positive attitude, and a commitment to international understanding and cooperation. This year鈥檚 recipient was Cadet Hunter Burns.

For the U.S. Army Stalwart Battalion, Lt. Col. Coyne presented the Distinguished Military Graduate Awards to members of the graduating class who have maintained a distinguished military student status throughout their time in ROTC and are in the top 20 percent of the national accessions order of merit list. The award was presented to Cadets Jason DiNapoli, Nolan McNeill, Benjamin Rabin and Sarah Sharpe.

Lt. Col. Coyne also presented the Department of the Army Superior Cadet Award, which recognizes a cadet in the top 25 percent of their class academically, who demonstrates outstanding leadership and has strong officer potential. This year’s recipients are Army Cadets Jason DiNapoli, Richard Bruschi, John Harbaugh and Nicholas Robinson.

A complete list of the awards presented during this year鈥檚 Chancellor鈥檚 Review, along with additional photos, can be found on the . Those interested in learning more about the university鈥檚 ROTC detachments are encouraged to visit .

The is pleased to announce the recipients of The Dottle Family ROTC Cadet Scholarship for 2023. The scholars were selected through a competitive process assessing the applicant鈥檚 academic standing, physical aptitude, citizenship and potential success as a leader in the U.S. Army or U.S. Air Force. The scholarship is awarded each year and is given specifically to future leaders who participate in one of 网爆门鈥檚 ROTC programs.

Paul Dottle, who served as an enlisted soldier in the U.S. Army Reserves during the mid-80鈥檚, established the scholarship while serving as the chair for the OVMA鈥檚 advisory board. While Dottle was growing up, his father served as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Army. The experience of growing up in the military culture, and having served himself, left Dottle with a desire to give back to a community he held so much respect for.

The scholarship allows the to recognize deserving cadets within their programs, and many of the university鈥檚 graduates have gone on to become part of the university鈥檚 list of notable veteran alumni for their accomplishments after graduating from 网爆门. The scholarship is meant for those who have not already received a full ROTC scholarship and is designed to offset the cost of finishing their degree.

For 2023, the recipients of the Dottle Family ROTC Cadet Scholarship are:

Hunter Burns 鈥�25 鈥� Air Force ROTC

Burns is pursuing a degree in aerospace engineering from the . He says one of his more memorable experiences at 网爆门 was being a member of the Color Guard for the 网爆门 vs Duke University men鈥檚 basketball game in 2022.

鈥淚 decided to join Air Force ROTC because I wanted to serve in the military, that鈥檚 something I am passionate about. I also wanted to go to college and get a degree, so this was the decision that made the most sense for me. After graduation, I plan on entering active duty as an officer in the Air Force.鈥�

James Hrdy 鈥�26 鈥� Air Force ROTC

Hrdy is studying bioengineering at the College of Engineering and Computer Science. He plans on commissioning as an officer in the U.S. Air Force and would like to pursue available options to attend medical school after graduation.

鈥淚 will never forget when Syracuse hosted the 2022 Battle of New York. Detachments from across New York stayed for two nights in the JMA Wireless Dome while participating in a wide range of activities. I got to meet other people with different aspirations from different schools, and I was able to explore the Dome at night.鈥�

Benjamin Johnson 鈥�24 鈥� Air Force ROTC

Johnson, who grew up with a father in the U.S. Coast Guard, is studying computer engineering at the College of Engineering and Computer Science. He says the wanted to come to 网爆门 because of the school鈥檚 reputation for academic excellence, and its unwavering support for military-connected students.

鈥淢y overall experience at 网爆门 has been nothing short of amazing. The University has provided me with numerous opportunities to learn and grow, both academically and personally. After Syracuse, I plan to pursue a career in the United States Space Force as a developmental engineer.鈥�

Aizhan Moore 鈥�26 鈥� Air Force ROTC

Moore is enrolled at the College of Engineering and Computer Science, where she studies bioengineering. Her father, a Vietnam War veteran who served in the U.S. Navy, inspired Aizhan to serve in the military, which is why she鈥檚 in ROTC today.

鈥淢y most memorable experience as a cadet so far has been the Battle of New York. It was a really cool experience, and I had a great time meeting new people. I hope that joining the Air Force might also be a way for me to travel and learn more about the United States, as well as other countries around the world.鈥�听

Suleiman Salim 鈥�25 鈥� Army ROTC

Salim is an economics student at the . His intent is to attend law school at 网爆门, and one of his most memorable experiences as an ROTC cade was completing his first 12-mile conditioning hike with a ruck sack.

鈥淚 joined ROTC for the opportunity to better myself and push myself past both my mental and physical limits.鈥�

Charles Tang 鈥�24 鈥� Air Force ROTC

Tang, a political science student at the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, says he wants to attend law school after graduation, with the intention of ultimately becoming a judge advocate officer in the U.S. Air Force.

鈥淧articipating in the AFROTC program has shaped me into a developing leader by continually introducing new challenges. The program has drastically impacted the trajectory of my life goals, where I never imagined the possibility of serving in the military prior to college.鈥�

Joshua Tapia 鈥�24 鈥� Army ROTC

Tapia, a junior with the , studies biology and grew up in nearby Baldwinsville, New York. Tapia also works as a martial arts instructor, teaching Kenpo, and has an internship focused on marketing, resource management, accountability, personnel scheduling and task delegation.

鈥淎fter graduating I plan to commission as an officer and pursue my career moving forward, I hope to get a job in Air Defense Artillery. I鈥檓 incredibly grateful for this scholarship, as it has allowed me to continue to support myself and my family whilst focusing on my education and classwork.鈥�

Emily Weaver 鈥�24 鈥� Air Force ROTC

Weaver is a Cadet Lieutenant Colonel and the Deputy Group Commander for 网爆门鈥檚 Air Force ROTC Detachment 535, making her the second cadet in command. She is dual majoring in earth science and forensic science with the College of Arts and Sciences.

鈥淚鈥檓 extremely grateful that I was selected for the Dottle scholarship. It鈥檚 a testament to the fact that the University and its alumni, especially Mr. Dottle, truly care about the military connected students. Coming to Syracuse, it鈥檚 not the cheapest, it鈥檚 a nice university to go to and that obviously comes with the cost. The fact that he鈥檚 willing to provide monetary support for all my endeavors, whether it鈥檚 academic, military, or even something like pursuing my private pilot鈥檚 license. It means a lot to know they really value, and are investing, in my future as an officer in the military.鈥�

For more information on scholarships and academic opportunities provided through the Office of Veteran and Military Affairs, please visit their website at .

Robert 鈥淏ob鈥� L. Gang Jr. 鈥�39, L鈥�42 never let aging get in the way of living. When he was 78, he and his friend cut down 60 trees to build a log cabin. At age 80, he hiked 16 miles around his beloved Otisco Lake home. He continued to practice law well into his 80s and ski up until he was 88. He was hunting deer into his 90s, and still camping (sleeping in a lean-to by the water) at age 96. He regularly went to the Skaneateles YMCA and Community Center until he was 102.

Gang passed away on Feb. 18, 2023, a few months shy of his 105th birthday. The World War II and Korean War Army veteran, attorney, outdoorsman and world traveler demonstrated the meaning of the phrase Forever Orange in his loyalty to his alma mater and his determination to serve others through the skills he learned as a student.

Last year, 网爆门 named Gang a 鈥淗ometown Hero鈥� at a celebration during a campus football game (the game ball holds a place of honor in his home). The National Veterans Resource Center at the Daniel and Gayle D鈥橝niello Building also and military memorabilia in an exhibition last year. And on his 103rd birthday, College of Law Dean Craig Boise celebrated the oldest living alumnus of the college with a party at Gang鈥檚 home and a proclamation recognizing the day as 鈥淏ob Gang Day.鈥�

Dean Boise paid tribute once again to Gang in a to the College after he died, noting that Gang had practiced law for 50 years and continued to do pro bono work well into his 80s: 鈥淗is dedication to the legal profession, to country and to service, his palpable commitment to family and community, and his smile were infectious.鈥�

Gang grew up in the Syracuse area and attended Christian Brothers Academy. According to family lore, his attendance at 网爆门 was mandatory鈥攈is father gave him no choice (either Syracuse or no college!). He lived at home as an undergraduate and walked 3.5 miles to campus for class! He chose Army ROTC as a gym class alternative, became a cadet in the 鈥淪talwart Battalion鈥� program and joined the Pershing rifle team.

Gang entered the College of Law immediately upon his graduation in 1939, but the completion of his legal education was interrupted by military service. In fact, he was just five credits from completing his degree when he joined the U.S. Army, serving from 1942 to 1951 as an infantry officer. He completed his law degree while on duty and passed the New York State Bar in 1946, using his legal skills to help represent soldiers charged with misconduct. He served in the inspector general鈥檚 office in Camp Bowie in Texas and became an inspector general at Fort Hood.

Between World War II and the Korean War, Gang also helped carry on the family funeral home business in Syracuse, which was founded by his great grandfather. After serving his country, Gang started a very successful career in private legal practice, working in the firm Smith, Dolan, Gieselman and Gang. He specialized in real property law and served as the assistant city corporate counsel during his career. Later, he joined the firm of Mackenzie Hughes and retired after more than 50 years, though he continued to practice and serve others in the community.

Gang was a longtime trustee of Christian Brothers Academy, founding member of the Ka-Na-Wa-Ke Canoe Club, an early member of the Onondaga Ski Club, a part owner of the Ironwood Ridge Ski Center and a member of the Angler’s Association of Onondaga; Onondaga Bar Association; Skaneateles American Legion, Post 239; German-American Society of Central New York; Otisco Rod & Gun Club; the Arion Stein Club; Arion Singing Society Men’s Chorus; the Skaneateles YMCA and Community Center; and the Osceola Snowmobile Club.

He is by his wife, Holly Gang, eight children, 15 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren, 10 nieces and nephews and eight great-nieces and nephews. Gang鈥檚 sons-in-law Ed Moses L鈥�68 and Michael P. Williams L鈥�95 and grandson Matt Moses L鈥�97 all attended 网爆门 for their law degrees.