As global opportunities alongside technologies expand, Syracuse University Career Services continues to lead career readiness with purpose and tailored student-focused support. Through innovation, data-driven strategy and expansive student engagement, Career Services has once again proven it sets the benchmark for professional development excellence.

Earlier this month, the Career Services team earned the Handshake Spark Award for the third consecutive year. Out of over 1,500 schools using Handshake, Syracuse University is one of only 40 institutions recognized.

“This year, we didn’t just win, we became one of just three institutions that have earned this recognition, three times,” says Adam Capozzi, director of Career Services, Assessment and Student Success. “It is continued evidence that we’re supporting student success. This accomplishment further highlights our role as a trusted, high-impact resource for students as they navigate their journey from college to career.”

Prioritizing a Lifetime of Career Readiness

Impressive, inspiring and thoughtful are only a few descriptions found within the University’s Career Services award assessment. Those leading the award review emphasized the team’s innovative use of data to strengthen the continued support of the student experience.

Career Services connects students with experiences and opportunities that prepare them for success beyond graduation. Through strategic employer partnerships, innovative programming, a variety of easy-to-access technologies and one-on-one personalized coaching, the team supports students in transforming their education into lifelong career success.

Tying together the symphony of cross-campus support is Career Services’ strategic use of Handshake, the University’s centralized career management tool. As a free resource to students and alumni, Handshake hosts available internships, professional employment and professional development opportunities offered through the different school and college career services offices, Syracuse University Career Services and other internal and external partners.

Benchmarking Student Career Success

This year’s recognition places Career Services among the top 2% of Handshake’s partner institutions nationwide—a remarkable distinction that underscores the University’s national leadership in preparing students to thrive in an ever-changing professional landscape.

“The award shows how effectively we’re using Handshake to streamline operations, measure our impact and most importantly—provide the right support, to the right student needs at the right time,” says Capozzi. “We continue to strengthen career success outcomes while prioritizing those that matter, to employers, students, families and the University.”

Receiving the Spark Award for three consecutive years is a testament to Career Services’ leadership in preparing students for meaningful careers, while also demonstrating what it means to be a member of the Orange community, the expansive alumni network and the multifaceted return on investment.