Campus & Community

Message from Chancellor Kent Syverud

Monday, June 20, 2016, By News Staff

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff:

From its wonderful history to its iconic buildings and green spaces on campus and across the globe, Syracuse University has developed its own unique sense of place over the past 145 years. The interface between people, landscapes, and structures impacts the way we learn, live, work, and interact year round.

To further enhance Syracuse’s standing as a great, thriving, international research university, it is critical that our vision and mission align with our physical presence and infrastructure. Equally important is that the University remains at the forefront of the changing higher education landscape by continuously adapting to the evolving needs of our students.

As a research institution, we are keenly aware that innovation happens when the environment supports it. Today, thanks to the hard work of the Campus Framework Advisory Group, the due diligence of the Board of Trustees and your feedback, we are one step closer to creating that inspiring environment.

I am pleased to share with you today the draft Campus Framework. It comes after more than 18 months of campus outreach, during which thousands of you participated in surveys, campus meetings and open house events. It also follows the Advisory Group’s submission of a report last fall, detailing recommendations that largely informed the creation of the Campus Framework made available today.

There are many exciting initiatives contained within the draft document, all of which seek to support academic excellence, enrich all aspects of student life and create a vibrant campus setting. Some of the near term projects I’m particularly eager to see come to life include:

  • A state-of-the-art health and wellness complex;
  • A first-of-its-kind academic and research building, dedicated to advancing the lives of veterans and their families;
  • “Smart teaching stations” and other technology driven classroom enhancements;
  • A vibrant revitalization of the Schine Student Center and Bird Library with collaborative study spaces and increased physical connectivity; and
  • Relocation and expansion of undergraduate housing from South Campus to Main Campus.

It’s important to note, there is still much work to do and your input is important, now more than ever. I ask that you take some time to review the draft document, which can be found at http://CampusFramework.syr.edu. There, you can find details about upcoming information sessions and submit your feedback in real time via the public comment section.

While our campus has grown and changed dramatically, its roots are strong. The Campus Framework provides us with a roadmap to build on our strengths and plan for the decades ahead. I am excited about the next phase of campus rejuvenation and our ability to provide an unrivaled collegiate experience. I hope you are too.

Sincerely,

Chancellor Kent Syverud