Joanne “Joanie” Mahoney ’87, L’90, president of the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY ESF), will deliver the commencement address at the College of Law’s Class of 2026 Commencement on Friday, May 8 in the JMA Wireless Dome.

“I am pleased to welcome Joanne Mahoney back to the College of Law and am excited to stand with her as we welcome our most recent graduates into the powerful alumni network of Syracuse Law,”  College of Law Dean Terence Lau L’98 says.

Mahoney was appointed SUNY ESF president in November 2020. She previously served as Onondaga County executive for 11 years, during which she earned national recognition for her environmentally friendly stewardship. Before her elective office, she worked as an attorney both in private practice with the Harris Beach law firm and for five years as a criminal prosecutor in the Onondaga County District Attorney’s Office. Mahoney received a juris doctor from the College of Law in 1990 and her bachelor of science from the Whitman School of Management in 1987. She currently serves on the College of Law’s Board of Advisors.

As Onondaga County executive (2008-2018), the first woman elected to this position, Mahoney created the nationally acclaimed Save the Rain green infrastructure program, transforming stormwater management. Her leadership helped restore Onondaga Lake from one of America’s most polluted lakes to swimming-quality water. She helped the county maintain the highest bond ratings among all New York state counties while championing the Say Yes to Education partnership. Governing Magazine named her Public Official of the Year in 2011.

As SUNY ESF’s fifth president and first woman to lead the institution in its 110-year history (2020-present), Mahoney has elevated SUNY ESF nationally in Princeton Review’s “Most Environmentally Conscious” ranking. She serves as co-chair of SUNY’s system-wide Sustainability Advisory Council. Her concurrent service as chair of the New York State Thruway Authority (2015-2025), included overseeing completion of the $4 billion Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge, one of the nation’s largest infrastructure projects at the time.

Mahoney has sustained and strengthened the historic Íű±ŹĂĆ-SUNY ESF partnership, ensuring joint diplomas, shared opportunities for students and collaborative academic programs. A Syracuse native from a family of nine children, she has championed regional development including helping to secure the $500 million CNY Rising award from the state.

“I am honored to give the commencement address to my alma mater’s 2026 graduating class,” Mahoney says. “I look forward to providing this next generation of leaders with insights into what awaits them as they start their careers.”

The trajectory of the is what Hollywood makes movies about.

“When I joined [in Fall 2021] there were only six other people on the team,” says Amanda Wheeler, a senior at SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry and co-president of the women’s ice hockey team. “For our games we had to borrow players from other teams because we often didn’t have enough [of our own] to start the game.”

Now, in the Spring 2025 semester, the team is fresh off of an undefeated (20-0) season and celebrating their recent win at the Women’s National Championship, a conference the team joined this academic year. “In the short time that I’ve been here, the team went from a relaxed, low-level program to one of the best women’s club hockey programs in the country,” says Elise Herrick, a junior at SUNY ESF and co-president alongside Wheeler.

Taking the team from a casual approach to being national champions in such a short amount of time is a credit to both the coaching staff and the players themselves. Christina Beam began coaching the team two years ago, and within those two years, she noticed the drive and commitment within the team change.

“The players are passionate about the game of hockey and the commitment to each other and the program,” says Beam. “At the end of last season, we did an ‘end of the year’ meeting with each of the athletes. We took their feedback seriously and developed a plan for this season. We shared our plan and expectations early on; this allowed us to all be on the same page and develop the program together.”

Along with implementing player feedback into the team strategy for the 2024-25 season, joining the AAU may have been the special ingredient needed to help the team truly take off. “Joining the AAU this year gave the team an opportunity to compete for a title; it may not sound like much to some, but to have an end goal is huge when you play competitive sports,” says Beam. “The women took our commitment seriously and it is evident by the season we played this year.”

The Orange completed their 2024-25 season in the College Hockey North Women’s Division undefeated, easily securing their place in the AAU National Championship, held March 6-9 in Jacksonville, Florida. But clinching a spot in nationals didn’t mean the work stopped.

“We spent a lot of time before the tournament setting expectations for ourselves, working our on-ice systems and mentally preparing for the games,” says Herrick. “We had never played [some of the teams], so we had no way of knowing how good they were going to be, but we knew that we had the skill to beat any team we faced as long as we played our game and stayed focused.”

Along with perfecting their skills on the ice, the team had to block out naysayers. “Despite being undefeated, there were a lot of people who didn’t think we would win, with some predicting that we wouldn’t even make it to the championship game,” Herrick says. “But the negative attention fueled us and made us even more determined to win.”

After winning their playoff games, including a close call against their opponent in the championship game , the University of Tampa, the team was nervous to get on the ice, but still as focused as ever on winning a title. “The score from that game [against Tampa the day before] was close and we all knew that Tampa would be coming out hard [in the championship] because of that,” says Wheeler. “I don’t think anyone [on our team] sat down during the entire game. It was constant cheering, singing and dancing, no matter what the score was. We just needed to calm our nerves and keep the energy up.”

The strategy to “keep the energy up” was a winning one. Near the end of the game. Ivy Dietrich ’27, assistant captain and a member of the team’s first line, scored a short-handed, empty net goal to put Syracuse up 4-2 and secure the championship. “It was a real full-circle moment for me since I’m the only person still on the team from that original seven-person roster,” says Wheeler. “Being there holding the trophy with everyone who’s helped build this team and supported us for the past few years was incredible.”

The team is already planning how to keep the momentum going into next season. “We keep moving forward, we continue to build on what we’ve done right and work on things we’d like to do better,” Beam says. “We stay humble, committed and remember the joy we get from playing ice hockey.”

As Herrick prepares to move into her senior year and assume full presidential duties, she wants to see the team continue to flourish, both on and off the ice. “I hope that we can maintain the values of our program and continue to provide a welcoming environment for female hockey players looking to continue their careers and find a supportive community,” says Herrick. “One of the most important parts of a hockey team is the energy, and I want us to continue having good energy for as long as the program is around.”

Students interested in joining the women’s club ice hockey team can learn more on the .

Íű±ŹĂĆ Chancellor Kent Syverud was recognized by Scouting America, Longhouse Council, as the Distinguished Citizen of the Year at the organization’s 57th annual ScoutPower dinner. The annual fundraiser is one of the biggest scouting events in the nation and raised nearly $600,000 in support of programs that help build character, teach responsibility and instill lifelong skills in youth through scouting.

Chancellor Syverud, a native of Irondequoit, New York, has long been involved in the mission of scouting, achieving the rank of Eagle Scout and previously serving on the board of the Longhouse Council. Chancellor Syverud and his wife, Dr. Ruth Chen, professor of practice in the College of Engineering and Computer Science, have three grown sons, Steven, Brian and David, all of whom participated in scouting.

“I am honored to be named the Distinguished Citizen of the Year by Scouting America,” says Chancellor Syverud. “Scouting has been a meaningful part of my life for as long as I can remember—first as a scout and now as a member of the Longhouse Council. I’m grateful for the friendships, bonds and connections I’ve made, and I appreciate everyone who supports Scouting America and encourages young people to participate in scouting programs.”

This year’s ScoutPower event featured another Orange connection: NBC sports commentator Mike Tirico ’88 delivered the keynote. Tirico, an alumnus of the University’s Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs and College of Arts and Sciences and well-known sports commentator, delivered an engaging and inspiring address. Tirico’s career includes notable coverage of “Sunday Night Football,” the Olympics and other high-profile sports broadcasts.

Íű±ŹĂĆ was the presenting sponsor of the event, along with JMA Wireless. SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry President Joanie Mahoney ’87, L’90, who herself has a notable history with scouting and was named Distinguished Citizen of the Year by the Longhouse Council in 2023, served as this year’s event chair.

A time-honored celebration of academic achievement, leadership and military history was on full display at the JMA Wireless Dome during the 108th Chancellor’s 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 Íű±ŹĂĆ’s Army and Air Force Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) programs.

The event is one of Íű±ŹĂĆ’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 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.

“Every year the Army and Air Force ROTC cadets at Íű±ŹĂĆ make significant accomplishments and contributions which are important for us, as a campus community, to recognize and celebrate,” said retired U.S. Army Col. Ron Novack, executive director of the . “Some of these cadets are D1 athletes, others are heavily involved in civic and community projects on and off campus. They’re 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’s truly remarkable.”

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 Íű±ŹĂĆ Ambulance, a student organization that responds to more than 1,500 medical emergencies each year.

“The Chancellor’s Review is a longstanding tradition that honors the dedication, leadership and achievements of Army and Air Force ROTC cadets, reinforcing the University’s deep connection to military service,” says U.S. Army Lt. Col. Matthew Coyne, professor of military science at Íű±ŹĂĆ and the commander of the Stalwart Battalion. “Through 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.”

The Professor John A. and Dean Marion Meyer Scholar Award was presented to U.S. Air Force ROTC Cadet Charles Tang ’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.

“Four years ago, I would not have ever imagined a career in the military. Íű±ŹĂĆ 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.”

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: “Íű±ŹĂĆ doesn’t just talk about supporting ROTC—it 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’s a powerful moment of pride and recognition that will stay with them for a lifetime.”

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

Íű±ŹĂĆ will hold its annual Service of Commemoration—honoring students, faculty, staff, retirees, Trustees and honorary degree recipients of the University, and SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry students, faculty, staff, retirees and trustees who passed during the period of Jan. 1, 2024, to the present—with a ceremony on Tuesday, March 18, at 4 p.m. in Hendricks Chapel.

All are welcome to attend and honor the important contributions of respected members of the University community. For more information about the service, contact Hendricks Chapel at chapel@syr.edu or 315.443.2901.

The names of those who have passed away will be read and candles will be lit collectively in their memory. The service will also include prayer, spoken remarks and music. Communication Access Real-Time Translation (CART) and American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation will be available.

The service is inspired by the Remembrance Scholars’ motto of “Look Back, Act Forward,” a call to action to remember those we have lost and act forward in their memory.

The Service of Commemoration provides a moment to honor those who have recently passed away. “As we honor those who embodied the spirit and soul of our campus community, our time of ritual and reflection can bring hope and healing,” says Brian Konkol, vice president and dean of Hendricks Chapel.

If you know of someone who passed away between Jan. 1, 2024, and the present who should be honored, please forward their name and affiliation to Hendricks Chapel at chapel@syr.edu by Thursday, March 13.

Eva Legge, a first-year Ph.D. student majoring in biology in the College of Arts and Sciences (A&S), is one of two researchers nationally to be named a Mollie Beattie Visiting Scholar by the  (SAF). The award honors Beattie, who was the first woman to head the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, and its aim is to foster diversity in the natural resource professions.

Legge will receive a $10,000 scholarship to pursue her research on the role mycorrhizae play in boosting forest resilience. Mycorrhizae are fungi that grow on the roots of trees and plants and provide mutual benefits. As a Mollie Beattie Visiting Scholar, she will gain valuable professional development and networking opportunities. In addition to connecting with SAF members across the country, she can also submit her research to an SAF journal and collaborate with staff and partners at the SAF headquarters in Washington, D.C.

This latest award comes on the heels of Legge winning a  from the National Science Foundation over the summer. Like the Mollie Beattie award, the NSF fellowship includes a stipend and access to professional development opportunities. According to the NSF program, its mission is to “help ensure the quality, vitality and diversity of the scientific and engineering workforce of the United States.”

Legge is part of A&S biology professor  Mycorrhizal Ecology Lab and SUNY ESF Professor  Applied Forest and Fire Ecology Lab. As a member of these teams, she studies how climate-adaptive forest management, such as timber harvest, assisted tree migration and prescribed fire, affects the symbiotic relationship between fungi and forests. Their goal is to devise strategies to safeguard these crucial yet delicate symbioses, ultimately aiding in the development of effective forest management practices.

“Climate change will likely add to the many stressors facing eastern U.S. forests. However, the positive benefits of fungal partnerships with tree roots can, in certain contexts, increase a forest’s stress tolerance,” Legge said in an .

With this funding, she will continue her research exploring the connection between forest management, mycorrhizal symbioses and seedling success. She hopes to improve management practices and maximize the advantages mycorrhizae offer to “future-adapted” seedlings, thereby enhancing the resilience of America’s forests.

“Eva is an exceptionally driven graduate student motivated by addressing critical knowledge gaps in forest ecosystem resilience to global change,” says Fernandez. “Her research focuses on the crucial role of belowground dynamics in forest resilience, bridging fundamental ecological research with applied forest management. Her multidisciplinary approach promises to advance both basic scientific understanding and sustainable land management practices in a changing world. I am thrilled to see her outstanding work recognized with these prestigious awards.”

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Íű±ŹĂĆ is committed to providing opportunities for undergraduate students to engage in meaningful research and creative activities. This spring, , poster sessions and talks showcase the work of undergraduate students throughout the past academic year.

“The range of symposia, presentations and events happening on campus this spring is a testament to the rapidly expanding culture of undergraduate research engagement at the University,” says Kate Hanson, director of the (SOURCE). “They highlight the contributions of undergraduate student research and creative work, provide opportunities for dialogue and conversation and offer the chance to learn about some of the fascinating work happening across campus.” The events are free and open to the public. Students are encouraged to attend and learn about the work of their peers.

Thursday, March 21, 4-6 p.m., Sheraton Íű±ŹĂĆ Hotel & Conference Center, Comstock Room

Students from multiple disciplines will give 10-minute “Orange Talk” presentations about their research, scholarly and creative work. Recipients of the new Excellence in Undergraduate Research Mentoring and Outstanding Campus Partner in Undergraduate Research awards will be announced.

(Poster/Interactive Display Session)
Friday, March 22, 2-4 p.m., Sheraton Íű±ŹĂĆ Hotel & Conference Center, Regency Ballroom

Students will present their in-depth research and scholarly and creative work through poster sessions and interactive displays.

Friday, March 22, 9 a.m.-5:45 p.m., National Veterans Resource Center

Events include a poster session and keynote address by State University of New York (SUNY) provost and SUNY Research Foundation president Ram Ramasubramanian. Also planned are oral presentations on communications and security, energy, environment, smart materials, health and well-being, sensors, robotics and smart systems. An ice cream social and awards announcements are also planned.

Friday, March 22, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Sheraton Íű±ŹĂĆ Hotel & Conference Center, Comstock Room

Lender Center for Social Justice 2022-2024 Faculty Fellow , professor of anthropology and the Ford-Maxwell Professor of South Asian Studies in the , together with her student research team, will present findings on the social justice implications of artificial intelligence and how that issue plays out in Syracuse. .

Chronos Conference (The Undergraduate History Journal)
Friday, April 5, 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Bird Library, Spector Room

Thursday, April 11, 1-3 p.m., Bird Library, Peter Graham Scholarly Commons

Undergraduate and graduate students from and the will offer poster presentations about their research on LGBTQ subjects and issues. The event is organized by the . is requested.

Friday, April 12, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Goldstein Student Center, Rooms 201 ABC

The 10th annual Íű±ŹĂĆ Neuroscience Research Day Conference is organized by the neuroscience program. The event showcases the breadth of neuroscience research happening at Íű±ŹĂĆ. is required.

Friday, April 19, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Life Sciences Complex, Milton Atrium

Students will showcase their research through both oral and poster presentations. Dozens of projects will illustrate the wide-ranging, strong research contributions undergraduates are making to advance the mission of the college.

Friday, April 26, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Newhouse 3, Joyce Hergenhan Auditorium

Student and faculty research and creative activities will be showcased to encourage collaboration in the  and across campus. Presenters include undergraduate students Isabel Madover (visual communications) and Sophia Maciejewski (broadcast and digital journalism).

Friday, April 26 (time to be announced)

Student participants in the LSAMP Program will present their research.

Tuesday, April 30, 3-5 p.m.

This celebration of undergraduate scholarship is an annual recognition of student research achievement in the social sciences. Several awards will also be announced.

Architecture Directed Research Final Reviews-
Tuesday, April 30, and Wednesday, May 1, Slocum Hall

McNair Scholars Research Symposium (date to be announced)

Consult Íű±ŹĂĆ for more information about additional upcoming research events and awards announcements. For more information on undergraduate research opportunities, visit the .

Neither Will Treloar ’24 nor Yasmin Nayrouz ’24 possessed any previous experience as student government leaders when they stepped onto the Íű±ŹĂĆ campus as first-year students three years ago.

Now in their final year at Syracuse, Treloar and Nayrouz feel confident they can fulfill the campaign slogan they ran on—to amplify student voices and meet the needs of students—when the dynamic duo was elected president and executive vice president, respectively, of the . The SA is the official student governing and advocacy body for the nearly 16,000 Íű±ŹĂĆ and SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry undergraduates.

Treloar and Nayrouz are excited to hold these student government leadership positions while striving to get as many student voices as possible involved in the decision-making process on campus.

“Throughout my time in Student Association, the one thing that keeps me going is seeing the difference you can make on campus. Becoming SA president offered another opportunity to make a difference on campus, and it’s hard to turn that down,” says Treloar, who is studying economics and policy studies in the .

Treloar and Nayrouz have been involved in SA since their first year on campus. Before being elected to their current leadership roles, Treloar was speaker of the assembly and Nayrouz was vice president of university affairs.

They both credit their previous student government leadership roles with preparing them for the challenges of leading the SA.

“This organization has enabled me to make positive changes on campus, and I want to continue helping our students. Student Association advocates for and on behalf of students when speaking with administration to address student concerns—from Title IX policies to dining hall concerns—and by legislating to fund and create events or initiatives that support the well-being of our students,” says Nayrouz, a dual major who is studying English in the and public relations in the .

Serving as the leaders of the University’s undergraduate student population, Treloar and Nayrouz say the best way for them to have an impact is by listening to the needs of the students, making themselves accessible and working hard to ensure student concerns are heard and addressed.

With the fall semester underway, SA’s leaders continued a tradition started in the Spring 2022 semester, when the inaugural Student Body Needs Survey was delivered across campus. Treloar says the feedback from the survey has been tremendous, allowing SA’s elected leaders to put their fingers on the pulse of the student body.

The survey is just one way SA engages with Syracuse’s undergraduates, but incorporating student feedback has guided the goals Treloar and Nayrouz have for the 2023-24 academic year.

Their main objectives include:

• following through on the Sustainability Report that was passed last year;
• continuing to foster an inclusive, accessible and welcoming campus for all;
• engaging with traditionally underrepresented student populations;
• supporting registered student organizations;
• improving the quality of the food in the dining halls and student accessibility to food through complimentary grocery trolley runs; and
• ensuring American Sign Language services are offered at all student events.

They’re also looking forward to organizing on-campus events, including the Harvest Festival, Mental Health Awareness Week and the Fall and Spring Into Action volunteer efforts.

“This year will be considered successful if we’re able to get students involved in more University decision-making processes,” Treloar says.

“If our students know and feel that they can confidently come to the Student Association to address their concerns and make a positive impact on campus,” that will be a successful year, adds Nayrouz.

Do you enjoy bowling? Would you like to try bowling? Do you want a fun activity with your colleagues?

The Syracuse Univesity and SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY ESF) Faculty and Staff Bowling League is seeking new members. This is a fun handicap, non-sanctioned league accepting bowlers who are currently employed at the SUNY ESF or the University. Skill level does not matter; the beginner to high average bowler will be accepted. Beginners will be encouraged and coached by the more experienced and skilled bowlers. On Tuesdays from September through April, the league bowls at the Village Lanes at 201 E Manlius St, East Syracuse, from 4:55 to 7:30 p.m. Practice bowling is 10 minutes before the league starts. Weekly fees are about $15 each week.

This league has a long history of bowling in the area, from Drumlins in the ’60s to the present day. Members have always been recruited from the University and SUNY ESF community. Last year, the league successfully recruited several new members; unfortunately, a few members will not be returning. New members who would like to join a team full-time or become league subs are encouraged to join. Each team consists of four bowlers with one or two substitutes. As an incentive, fees for league subs are paid by the team.

League play starts Wednesday, Sept. 12. A practice session will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 5; those interested are welcome to come and check out the league and teams.

Captains are Ray Leach, Aaron Knight, Jason LaTray, Dana Cooke, Eric Greenfield, Randy Money, Sue Taylor-Netzband and Mike Satchwell.

For more information, contact Paul Szemkow, league secretary, at 315.960.2066 or pszemkow@esf.edu or Dana Cooke, league president, at 315.559.7014 or shortorder@danacooke.com.

Associate Dean for Research Eliana Abu-Hamdi and Assistant Professor Iman Fayyad, along with Daniel Cronan, assistant professor of landscape architecture at (SUNY ESF), have recently been awarded a $100,000 grant from the for their collaborative research proposal examining the issue of the racial wealth gap in the United States.

As part of several new research initiatives by the Lender Center to accelerate efforts to address the racial wealth gap and help dismantle the root causes of wealth disparity, the funded proposals—supported by the —provide support to scholars with new or ongoing research projects that relate to the causes, consequences and solutions on the problem of ever-expanding economic and social inequality.

The architecture team’s research project, “Closing the Racial Wealth Gap through Environmental Justice and Participatory Design,” intends to identify ways that the built environment can have a positive impact on basic life needs that are typically neglected in underprivileged communities, which include communities of color, low-income, disability, the elderly and immigrant populations. Through three phases—data analysis and design research, curricular implementation and impact and transferability—the team hopes to better understand the entrenched systems (policy, municipal, zoning, etc.) that have created and exacerbated racial wealth gaps.

With this knowledge, their project intends to engage communities through design technologies using Building Information Modeling (BIM) and other participatory tools to create opportunities for exchange, participation and co-production of knowledge to empower communities to have a voice into what is modeled and built within their local environments.

“The highlight of this project is its focus on participatory planning, a challenge that we will address through both technology and design, merging disciplines and expertise,” says Abu-Hamdi, principal investigator (PI) for the project. “The Lender Center is supporting our growing roster of faculty engaged in community-facing research, allowing us to become further recognized as a reliable partner to local communities, demonstrating the value of design in relation to ongoing economic, infrastructural, social and spatial challenges.”

In phase one of the team’s project, design strategies centered around environmental justice concerns such as urban heat islands and shade, accessibility/universal design and building construction technologies, will be developed to address how inadequate physical infrastructure, specifically with regard to design and construction, has historically excluded members of minority communities from participating in the construction, selection and design of community facilities, municipal resources and public recreation. In this way, communities, policymakers and planners can better understand the conditions that generated current developmental problems and the potential interventions that could reverse detrimental effects through design.

“There is a lot of opportunity to push our own disciplines in service of climate justice, sustainable building practices and community involvement,” says Fayyad, co-PI for the project. “Through our combined efforts with research, practice and teaching, we can consider how to make public spaces healthier, more accessible and equitable, and importantly, explore how design can empower communities by providing aesthetic value as well as functional, efficient and necessary infrastructure to improve the livelihoods of marginalized populations.”

Site-specific implementation is another primary goal of the first year of funding and phase two of the project. The team plans to create and prepare content for curricular development of a studio course jointly led by faculty at the Íű±ŹĂĆ School of Architecture and SUNY-ESF in which students will research, design, develop and build proposals for public infrastructure for select communities in the City of Syracuse. To propose the curriculum, the team will develop design research over the next year as “products” (tools and techniques) that students will use as part of the course.

“We see this endeavor as a great challenge and hope to expand the scope of this year’s research focus to provide transferrable skills, frameworks and expanded resources to build awareness and resilience within these communities,” says Cronan, co-PI for the project.

In the third phase of the project, the team will assess the applicability of their research and development of the BIM platform, as a digital twin, for broader purposes and for a variety of sites—rural, urban, large or small. This interface, and the site-specific design interventions that can be realized, are key to community empowerment in any location, to serve any variety of community needs. Through the BIM application and design proposals (both in the form of a built prototype and further speculative variations), the team’s co-production framework of analysis and design will allow for transferability to future research applied to communities with similar concerns and further research beyond the applied case study for Syracuse.

“We are grateful to the Lender Center for providing this opportunity for us to evolve our research and for supporting efforts on campus to connect with our immediate communities in Syracuse as well as address greater systemic issues across the United States,” says the team.

The team will present their collected data, built proposal and speculative future proposals at the annual , jointly hosted by SUNY-ESF and Syracuse faculty and students, in March 2024 and March 2025. For more information about the Lender Center for Social Justice’s programmatic initiative to explore the racial wealth gap in the United States, visit .

Get ready for a monthlong celebration of the Earth! While Earth Day is officially Saturday, April 22, the University is hosting events throughout the month to encourage sustainable practices and remind us why it’s important to care for our environment and the planet.

The first event will be a virtual learning and development session on April 6: . Recycling laws and regulations vary by county, state and country and there is often confusion over which items belong in the recycling bin. In this session, students, faculty and staff can sign up to learn what is recyclable and what happens to your recyclables on and off campus. Sustainability Management will decipher how commonly confused items should be disposed of and answer any questions.

Another virtual learning and development session hosted by Sustainability Management will be held April 10: . Native habitats are disappearing rapidly. Are you missing Monarch butterflies and other native butterflies? In this session, learn how to select and plant a native garden to help support pollinators to provide nectar and pollen, and support pollinator habitats. As a affiliate, Sustainability Management will share insights into starting a new pollinator garden and how to start your own.

On April 18, Sustainability Management will host a at Schine Student Center from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sustainability-related campus organizations, services and groups that serve Íű±ŹĂĆ and SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) have been invited to attend, including:

• Onondaga County Resource Recovery Agency (OCRRA)
• Íű±ŹĂĆ Student Association Sustainability Committee
• Íű±ŹĂĆ Dynamic Sustainability Lab
• Syracuse Haulers
• Íű±ŹĂĆ Food Services
• Íű±ŹĂĆ Graduate Student Organization Climate Action Committee
• SUNY ESF

Learn how these organizations and others play a part in sustainability on campus, how to get involved and come with any burning questions you might have.

Other events include a clothing swap on April 19 from 1 to 4 p.m., hosted by the Student Association Sustainability Committee. Students can bring a few items, browse the selection and try on their choices before swapping!

The Dynamic Sustainability Lab will also host a Sustainable Film Festival and screening of “Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax” with a special interview with director Chris Renaud on April 7. On April 11, 2020 presidential candidate, businessman and climate activist from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. in Eggers Hall.

One of the goals of the most recent is to improve communication and engagement with the campus community. Events like these are an opportunity for Sustainability Management to engage with students, faculty and staff, answer questions and learn how we can improve as a department to limit the University’s contribution to greenhouse gas emissions.

For more details on many of these events, check out the . For the virtual sessions, you can click on the registration link to attend. Follow Sustainability Management on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @SustainableSU or visit for more information. With questions or suggestions, email sustain@syr.edu.

The University will hold its annual Service of Commemoration—honoring students, faculty, staff, retirees, trustees and honorary degree recipients of Íű±ŹĂĆ and SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry students, faculty, staff, retirees and trustees who passed during the period of Jan. 1, 2022, to the present—with a ceremony on Tuesday, March 21, at 4 p.m. in Hendricks Chapel.

All are welcome to attend and honor the important contributions of respected members of the University community. For more information about the service, contact Hendricks Chapel at chapel@syr.edu or 315.443.2901.

The names of those who have passed away will be read and candles will be lit collectively in their memory. The service will also include prayer, spoken remarks and music. Communication Access Real-Time Translation (CART) and American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation will be available.

The service is inspired by the Remembrance Scholars’ motto of “Look Back, Act Forward,” a call to action to remember those we have lost and act forward in their memory.

If you know of someone who passed away between Jan. 1, 2022, and the present, please forward their name and affiliation to Hendricks Chapel at chapel@syr.edu by Wednesday, Feb. 22.

Íű±ŹĂĆ’s relationship with its close neighbor, the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry, has been a long and fruitful one. After all, SUNY ESF was founded as a unit of SU in 1911, and today the two universities share resources, their professors collaborate, and students mingle across the two campuses, take classes together, join cross-campus organizations, and—sometimes—graduate from one college and into the other.

That last scenario is certainly the case for six SUNY ESF graduates who, in summer 2022, enrolled in the School of Education’s (SOE) 13-month

Recruiting science students from SUNY ESF just made sense to , associate professor and science education program leader. “Science education students must have a bachelor’s degree in a science that aligns with New York State’s criteria for the subject-area certification,” she says. “SUNY ESF offers 27 undergraduate programs, many of which are aligned with biology certification. Our close proximity and collaborative arrangements with SUNY ESF make communication regarding our master’s program relatively easy.”

“Having a critical mass of SUNY-ESF alumni beginning their teacher preparation together as a cohort has the potential to support them on their journey as well as catalyze a deeper relationship in the future for the two institutions,” says SOE Interim Dean .

Dotger first met with prospective science education students at SUNY ESF before the 2021 winter break. She explained the advantages and benefits of SOE’s science education teacher preparation program, including a curriculum that focuses on putting equitable and antiracist education into practice, a 50 percent SOE scholarship for all master’s and certificate students, New York State teacher certification for successful graduates, and extensive, guided field placements that begin within a few weeks of the start of SOE classes.

“This term, my students have a nine-week, half-day field placement in Jamesville-Dewitt or Solvay, two local school districts where I have had long-standing collaborations with science teachers,” says Dotger. “I’m grateful that host teachers have been so welcoming, and I know that the teacher candidates will have opportunities to practice the inclusive and equitable science teaching we’re studying in methods class.”

“Our candidates are clear that science is relevant to the daily lives of everyone,” says Dotger. “This course and its placements are designed with the intent of our student teachers helping young people develop that clarity, too.”

The SUNY ESF Science Education Cohort

Lara Collins

• Hometown: Coppell, TX
• SUNY-ESF Major: Wildlife Science
• Activities/Hobbies: Hiking, snowboarding, swimming, kayaking—“Basically anything related to the outdoors and nature”

What drew you to the M.S. in science education?

The fact that it’s a one-year program, the 50% scholarship, and that I qualify for a teaching certificate if I successfully complete the program. Also, there is no relocation because the program and placements are in the Syracuse area, and I can teach older school students, which I prefer.

What do you hope to learn that you can bring to your classroom?

I want to learn from my peers about how to be a student teacher. I also want to understand how to deal with bullying, how to communicate with parents, and so forth. I hope to take ideas I like but also remember things I don’t want to duplicate in my class.

Why should young students learn and understand science?

We are continuously expanding our knowledge about the earth, but so much still needs to be discovered. Young students need to learn about scientific methods so they can solve problems and create a better quality of life.

Mary Hillebrand

• • • Hometown: Buffalo, NY
    • SUNY-ESF Major: Environmental Education and Interpretation
    • Activities/Hobbies: Íű±ŹĂĆ Western Equestrian Team, SUNY-ESF Bass Fishing Team, plus hiking, birding, and horseback riding

What drew you to the M.S. in science education?

Professors Ben and Sharon Dotger led an informational meeting at SUNY-ESF, which was recommended to me by SUNY-ESF Professor Shari Dann. They were so kind, passionate, and really got me interested in the program. I love to share the “cool stuff” about science and help people connect to nature.

What do you hope to learn that you can bring to your classroom?

I ultimately want to learn how to best engage, inspire, and empower every single student. I want to help students find their voice and show them how cool science can be.

Why should young students learn and understand science?

Science is understanding the world we live in, from what’s going on in our bodies to how you turn on the TV to how elephants came to be. Knowing how to engage in science and scientific thinking is how we make sense of the world.

Margaret “Mae” Hurley

• • • Hometown: Rochester, NY
    • SUNY-ESF Major: Environmental education and interpretation
    • Activities/Hobbies: Writing, art, collecting, roller skating, and video games

What drew you to the M.S. in science education?

This is a formal teacher preparation program, with good career options and the possibility that I can travel with my degree.

What do you hope to learn that you can bring to your classroom?

An understanding of my practice, including planning, as well as learning skills and then practicing them in the field placements.

Why should young students learn and understand science?

Learning science creates informed and educated members of society that will continue to help, protect, enhance, and understand the world around us.

Nolan Lawroski

• • • Hometown: Shelby Township, MI
    • SUNY-ESF Major: Environmental biology, with specialties in mycology and parasitology
    • Activities/Hobbies: Baking, cooking, and video games

What drew you to the M.S. in science education?

It was a perfect opportunity at the perfect time. And all things considered, it is relatively affordable.

What do hope to learn that you can bring to your classroom?

Classroom management, lesson planning skills, and how to adapt to different learning needs of my students.

Why should young students learn and understand science?

It is the reason we are able to understand how everything in the world works.

Elizabeth “Liz” Malecki

• • • Hometown: Buffalo, NY
    • SUNY-ESF Major: Governmental education and interpretation, with a specialty in governmental writing and rhetoric
    • Activities/Hobbies: SUNY ESF Woodsmen team during undergraduate, plus hiking and backpacking

What drew you to the M.S. in science education?

It was a great opportunity to further my education at an excellent school.

What do you hope to learn that you can bring to your classroom?

The methods and skills to make science more accessible for all students.

Why should young students learn and understand science?

Biology is much more than just learning about mitosis or evolution. Biology—and science as a whole—is about learning how to observe, question, and critically think about the world around us. These skills are used every day, and it is important that young people are equipped with them.

Meghan Morrol

• • • • Hometown: Rochester, NY
      • SUNY-ESF Major: Conservation biology, with a specialty in native studies and a major interest in mycology
      • Activities/Hobbies: “I love all things outdoors and find myself doing lots of hiking and camping. When I am not outside or in the classroom, I am usually crocheting, writing, or doing yoga”

What drew you to the M.S. in science education?

The idea of an accelerated one-year program that prioritized antiracist pedagogy drew me to this program. Now, more than ever, we need teachers who can work collaboratively to educate diverse learners in a way that honors each student’s strengths and needs.

What do you hope to learn that you can bring to your classroom?

I hope to find equitable teaching strategies that push students to investigate their world and approach problems with a spirit of inquiry. At its core sciences pushes us all to meet everything with an open mind. As a teacher, I strive to reflect open-mindedness and reasoning and to constantly encourage my students to think critically about their environment.

Why should young students learn and understand science?

Young students need to learn how to ask questions and decipher the world around them using evidence. Science is crucial to preparing students to have the reasoning and inquiry needed to understand the world we live in.

Learn more about the School of Education’s  or contact Rebecca Pettit, inquiry and application specialist, at rrpettit@syr.edu or 315.443.2956