Syracuse Research Featured All Week on ‘The Academic Minute’

Daryl Lovell Oct. 24, 2025

The University will take center stage on the nationally syndicated program “The Academic Minute” during the week of Oct. 27-31, marking the first time the program has dedicated an entire week to showcasing Syracuse University research.

The Academic Minute logo featuring a red graduation cap with orange tassel

Five Syracuse scholars will share their groundbreaking work with audiences across more than 70 NPR-affiliated stations throughout North America and with international listeners worldwide. Each day of “Syracuse Week” highlights the breadth and real-world impact of the University’s scholarship:

Monday, Oct. 27: Leonard Lopoo, associate dean, chair and professor in the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, explores how government policies—from “baby bonuses” to family leave and child care subsidies—shape fertility rates and family formation decisions.

Tuesday, Oct. 28: Claire Rubbelke, former College of Arts and Sciences postdoctoral researcher, examines what ancient climate patterns reveal about modern droughts and future water security challenges. (Related story)

Wednesday, Oct. 29: Rachael Goodwin, assistant professor in the Whitman School of Management, investigates unhealthy perfectionism in professional ballet and its parallels to high-pressure workplace cultures across industries. (Related story)

Thursday, Oct. 30: Kristy Buzard, associate professor in the Maxwell School, analyzes today’s trade wars and tariff policies through the historical lens of early 1900s trade liberalization—revealing patterns that echo across a century.

Friday, Oct. 31: David Fastovich, former College of Arts and Sciences postdoctoral researcher, reveals the urgent story of forests failing to migrate fast enough to keep pace with Earth’s rapidly warming climate. (Related story)

The Academic Minute is a daily two-and-a-half-minute showcase featuring researchers from leading institutions worldwide. This weeklong spotlight positions Syracuse faculty as authoritative voices on the environmental, economic and social challenges shaping our world.

Listen to each researcher’s full segment at academicminute.org.