Diane and Robert J. Miron
Just days before the official launch of the largest fundraising campaign in the institution’s history, Syracuse University today announced a $7 million gift from Life Trustee Robert J. Miron ’59 and his wife, Diane. The gift, one of several seven-figure gifts recently made to the University, will support Syracuse University Libraries and the Stadium Project.
“I’ve been a part of the Syracuse University community for more than six decades and never have I seen a more exciting time on campus,” says Miron. “From the implementation of a visionary Academic Strategic Plan to the physical transformation of facilities, Syracuse University, led by Chancellor Kent Syverud, is redefining the University’s future, reimagining the student experience and making strategic investments to accelerate the achievement of its ambitious goals. Diane and I are honored to be a part of this community and thrilled to invest in a University that afforded me such an incredible education, experience and pathway for success.”
The Mirons, whose philanthropic support of Syracuse University is rivaled only by their ongoing service, have supported many academic programs, University initiatives and athletic endeavors over the years. Their most recent gift will support the creation of the Diane and Bob Miron Fund for Academic Success in the Libraries and the construction of Victory Court—a key piece of the Stadium Project—that will physically connect the Barnes Center at The Arch and the stadium, ultimately changing the footprint of the 40-year-old facility.
“Bob and Diane are two of the most generous philanthropists in Central New York, and Syracuse University is proud to have the Mirons as donors, supporters, friends and ambassadors,” says Chancellor Syverud. “As the University continues its upward trajectory, I am grateful to Bob and Diane for their dedication to, service on behalf of and engagement with Syracuse University. Their impact on our community is tangible and benefits us all, most especially our students.”
Diane Miron says supporting the Libraries was an easy decision, as she currently serves on the Libraries Advisory Board. The new Diane and Bob Miron Fund for Academic Success will support any academic and student success initiatives within the Libraries, including but not limited to entrepreneurship efforts like the Blackstone LaunchPad, student services, technology enhancements, and the creation and maintenance of student spaces. In honor of the Mirons’ philanthropy, the Libraries Learning Commons on the first floor will be named in their honor.
“Our library system is an integral part of Syracuse University’s distinctive student experience, and as our students evolve, so, too, must our space, resources and programming,” says Dean David Seaman. “With the Mirons’ support, Syracuse University Libraries is positioned to anticipate and exceed the expectations of current and future students. This new funding will allow us to grow our offerings, identify and implement new technologies, and create new spaces for students to gather, collaborate, innovate and discover. I appreciate the Mirons’ endorsement of the work we’re doing and look forward to enhancing our students’ experiences with the Libraries.”
The Mirons’ gift will also enable the University to advance one of the Campus Framework’s signature projects—the creation of a new stadium experience. In particular, the Mirons’ support will allow the University to construct Victory Court—an enclosed pedestrian thruway—that will physically connect the stadium and the Barnes Center at The Arch. Victory Court, which will be named in honor of the Mirons, will expand and redefine the stadium’s footprint, ultimately creating a seamless navigational experience between the two highly visited spaces.
“The Stadium Project is progressing well and every day we get closer and closer to a transformed stadium experience,” says Director of Athletics John Wildhack. “After years of soliciting feedback from students, faculty, staff, fans and alumni, I am thrilled to see this exciting vision starting to take shape. The Mirons are longtime supporters of Syracuse Athletics and have been instrumental in elevating our status as a powerhouse program whose success on the playing fields is second only to the success our student-athletes have in the classrooms, labs and in their communities.”
The scope of the Stadium Project includes a new fixed roof, a vertically hung scoreboard, state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, improved accessibility and the installation of air conditioning, among other enhancements. A schedule for the construction of Victory Court has not been determined yet, as the project must first go through the University’s capital projects governance process. Updates about ongoing work happening at the stadium can be found by visiting campusframework.syr.edu.
Momentum continues to build as Syracuse University prepares to launch its largest fundraising campaign in its 150 years. Though details are still being finalized, the Orange community is encouraged to stay tuned for a historic announcement, coming later this week. In the meantime, it’s never too early to give. No gift is too small, and every gift makes an impact. To make an immediate impact, give today by visiting giving.syr.edu or by contacting the Office of Development at 315.443.1848.
For alumni, there are numerous other ways to engage with the University, including volunteer opportunities, connecting current students to internship opportunities, attending an alumni event and so much more. To learn more about how to connect to, engage with and support Syracuse University, visit alumni.syr.edu or contact the Alumni Association directly by emailing sualumni@syr.edu.
About Syracuse University
Syracuse University is a private research university that advances knowledge across disciplines to drive breakthrough discoveries and breakout leadership. Our collection of 13 schools and colleges with over 200 customizable majors close the gap between education and action, so students can take on the world. In and beyond the classroom, we connect people, perspectives and practices to solve interconnected challenges with interdisciplinary approaches. Together, we’re a powerful community that moves ideas, individuals and impact beyond what’s possible. Learn more by visiting syracuse.edu.
