Alumni from around the world will be welcomed back to campus for Orange Central homecoming weekend Sept. 15-18. This year, the theme for Orange Central is “Welcome Back to Your Happy Place.” Orange Central is a once-a-year celebration for the entire Syracuse University community. Homecoming and reunion all rolled into one, it brings Syracuse University students, alumni, faculty, staff and friends together to enjoy dozens of activities, from lectures and panel discussions to campus tours, performances, and social and athletic events.
For alumni, Orange Central is a way to reminisce and reconnect, to explore SU’s newest places and programs, and to get to know today’s campus community. Of particular interest may be the many classroom and campus improvement projects taking place as part of the Campus Framework. For students, it’s the perfect time to show their Orange pride and enjoy a week filled with SU traditions hosted by the Traditions Commission, with free food, T-shirts, prizes and more.
This year’s Orange Central celebration features events for alumni, current students, faculty, staff and the entire community. Free parking will be available at many locations around campus.
A special celebration of reunion classes will take place for those class years ending in “1” and “6” along with affinity groups, including the Spirit Team, Ottos, Marching Band, Hendricks Choir, Remembrance Scholars and veterans. Orange Central will also include a football game on Saturday vs. University of South Florida.
Register for Orange Central at http://orangecentral.syr.edu. For questions, contact the Office of Alumni Relations at 1-800-SUALUMS (782-5867) or email sualumni@syr.edu.
Orange Central kicks off with a number of events on Thursday, Sept. 15, including:
Vintage Details: Selections from the Sue Ann Genet Costume Collection at the Nancy Cantor Warehouse
Thursday, Sept. 15, and Friday, Sept. 16
10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Genet Gallery, Nancy Cantor Warehouse
350 W. Fayette St.
This exhibition showcases pieces from Syracuse University’s historic costume collection. It will also feature the newly released book “Vintage Details; A Fashion Sourcebook” by Syracuse University Associate Professor Jeffrey Mayer and London-based Basia Szkutnicka. This fashion exhibition highlights 20 of the over 150 garments dating from 1915-1995 that are shown in the book.
Campus Tour
Thurs., Sept. 15
2 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 16
9 a.m., 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 17
11 a.m. and noon
Departs from Schine Student Center, Waverly Entrance
If you haven’t been on campus in a while, you’ll be amazed at all the changes and pleased at how easily you can find your way around. We recommend taking a stroll around campus to visit places that have special meaning for you. During Orange Central, you can also take a one-hour campus tour in the comfort of a weekend shuttle. Tours depart from the Schine Student Center (Waverly Avenue entrance) during the weekend. Sign up at the Schine Student Center for tours, which are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Alumni University: Syracuse Through the Years
Thursday, Sept. 15
3–4:30 p.m.
Bird Library, Room 004
Enjoy an engaging presentation on Syracuse University’s history. Join us for “Syracuse Through the Years” hosted by Professor Emeritus Marvin Druger.
Whitman Annual Awards Ceremony and Reception
Thursday, Sept. 15
4 p.m.
Flaum Grand Hall, Whitman School of Management
Whitman alumni and friends, please join us for our annual Jonathan J. Holtz Alumnus of the Year awards ceremony.
The awards ceremony begins at 4 p.m. and is followed by a buffet reception. This is a great way to reconnect with friends, faculty and staff.
Our Doors Opened Wide: SU and the GI Bill, 1945–1950
Thursday, Sept. 15
4:30–6 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 16,
9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Special Collections Research Center Gallery
Bird Library, Sixth Floor
This exhibition explores the dramatic impact of the GI Bill and subsequent influx of veterans on Syracuse University just after World War II (1945-1950). The materials are from the Syracuse University Archives, and include photographs, correspondence, publications, cartoons and other archival materials. Exhibition is free and open to the public.
50th and 60th Reunions Kickoff Cocktail Party
Thursday, Sept. 15
5:30–7:30 p.m.
Goldstein Alumni and Faculty Center
Catch up with friends and welcome back familiar campus faces. Casual attire. The kickoff cocktail party is the best way to start Orange Central!
Balcón Criollo Exhibit Opening
Thursday, Sept. 15
6–8 p.m.
La Casita Cultural Center, 109 Otisco St.
As part of commemoration of Hispanic Heritage Month, La Casita presents a collection of community-sourced photographs, memorabilia and meaningful objects showcased in a porch-like corner installation and along the walls of the entire center, inspired by the work of Puerto Rican artist Pepón Osorio. Traditional tapas and refreshments will be served. For more information, contact La Casita at 315-443-2151.
Academic Offices and Buildings Open
Friday, Sept. 16
9 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
All Academic Buildings
Visit the places you remember and explore new ones. Staff members will be on hand to greet you in the deans’ offices.
Digital Humanities Panel Discussion
Friday, Sept. 16
9–10 a.m.
500 Hall of Languages, Killian Room
Curious about how computer technologies and networks are impacting the humanities, and what new research and teaching they make possible? Come see the digital humanities in action at SU during a panel presentation featuring faculty, students and librarians. Moderated by David Seaman, dean of Syracuse University Libraries and University librarian, the panel will provide an overview of digital humanities concepts and highlight their exciting projects. Over the last several years, an interdisciplinary group of faculty, staff and students has been building a thriving digital humanities research culture on campus, expressed through a variety of events, projects and course offerings in which thoughtful consideration is given to the impact of technology on the humanities, and vice versa.
Skills Gap in the Workplace Panel Discussion
Friday, Sept. 16
9–10 a.m.
University College, Room 307
Professor and consultant, Michael P. Evans will lead a panel discussion with industry leaders on the skills needed in today’s workplace and what can be done to better prepare employees for a changing workforce. Panel members include David Duerr, vice president of business development at Empower Federal Credit Union; David Freund, chief leadership officer at Manufacturers Association of Central New York; and Juanita Perez-Williams, regional representative for the New York State Department of Labor.
Tour the New College of Law
Friday, Sept. 16
9–11 a.m., 2–4 p.m.
Dineen Hall, Room 100
A decade in the planning and ranked as the 25th most architecturally attractive law school in the world, Dineen Hall is truly a game changer for the Syracuse University College of Law. After the College of Law was housed in two separate buildings connected on only two levels, the 200,000-square-foot, five-story, state-of-the-art Dineen Hall brings the entire college into one inviting space, creating a real community for legal education in the 21st century and beyond. Come and tour this new LEED-certified building.
Latinos in Baseball: From the Barrios to the Big Leagues
Friday, Sept. 16
10 a.m.
La Casita Cultural Center, 109 Otisco St.
“Latinos in Baseball: From the Barrios to the Big Leagues” is a community collecting initiative focusing on the historic role that baseball has played as a social and cultural force within Latino communities across the nation, engaging partner organizations across the U.S. as well as a number of Smithsonian outreach divisions. This panel discussion will examine Latino Americans in U.S. communities through the lens of baseball history.
Featured on the panel will be guest scholars:
• Adrian Burgos, University of Illinois
• Myrna García Calderón, Syracuse University
• Mireya Loza, Smithsonian Institution
• Maria del Carmen Cossu, Smithsonian Institution
The panel discussion will be followed by a reception and luncheon. For more information, contact La Casita at 315.443.2151.
Walking Tour of Art on Campus
Friday, Sept. 16
11:15 a.m.
SUArt Galleries, Shaffer Art Building
Join David Prince, associate director of the Syracuse University Art Galleries, for a fascinating look at the many art treasures on the SU campus. The tour will begin and end at the SUArt Galleries in the Shaffer Art Building. Wear comfortable shoes and bring your rain gear, just in case.
Melvin A. Eggers Senior Alumni Luncheon
Friday, Sept. 16
Noon–2 p.m.
Persian Terrace, Marriott Syracuse Downtown
A very special luncheon for senior alumni to recognize the recipients of the Melvin A. Eggers Senior Alumni Award. Join us for a wonderful afternoon of music, stories and conversation in the newly restored Hotel Syracuse, now the Marriott Syracuse Downtown. Business dress. Cost: $25 per person.
iSchool Open House
Friday, Sept. 16
Noon–6 p.m.
Hinds Hall, Main Lobby
The iSchool is hosting an open house for alumni and friends. Tour the new facility while reconnecting with faculty, staff and fellow alumni.
About Prints Gallery Tour
Friday, Sept. 16
1–2 p.m.
SUArt Galleries, Shaffer Art Building
Join Domenic Iacono, director of the Syracuse University Art Galleries, for a special tour of the exhibition “About Prints: The Legacy of Stanley William Hayter and Atelier 17.” Stanley William Hayter was the founder of Atelier 17 and, by the early 1960s, considered one of the most influential printmakers of the 20th century, in large part because of the environment he created in his Paris and New York print studios. Working with some of the most important artists of the day, Hayter championed experimentation and the development of new printing techniques, while understanding that any form of printmaking is merely a tool for the expression of an artistic idea. The exhibition explores Hayter’s ideas about contemporary printmaking and the artists who created these works.
Department of Communication and Rhetorical Studies Panel Discussion
Friday, Sept. 16
2–3:30 p.m.
The College of Visual and Performing Arts’ Department of Communication and Rhetorical Studies presents its annual alumni panel discussion. Reception to follow.
Architecture Open House and Studio Tours
Friday, Sept. 16
2–4 p.m.
The School of Architecture is hosting an open house for its alumni.
Engineering and Computer Science Invention Space Open House
Friday, Sept. 16
2–3 p.m.
Stop in to see the equipment and resources that let our students bring their ideas to life.
Fraternity and Sorority Open Houses
Friday, Sept. 16
2–5 p.m.
Were you part of Greek life at Syracuse University? Various fraternity and sorority houses across campus will open their doors to welcome alumni.
Second Annual Orange Tank Competition
Friday, Sept. 16
2–5 p.m.
Flaum Grand Hall, Whitman School of Management
Current Whitman students and alumni entrepreneurs from the Whitman School of Management pitch their business ideas in a “Shark Tank”-style competition to a panel of judges with the chance to win cash prizes. Student pitches begin at 2 p.m. Alumni pitches begin at 3:15 p.m., followed by a networking reception. Interested in pitching your business idea? Visit http://whitman.syr.edu/orangetank.
Syracuse University Veteran and Military Open House
Friday, Sept. 16
2–4 p.m.
White Hall, Falk College Complex
See how One University is making an impact locally, nationally, and globally. For more information, contact the Institute for Veterans and Military Families at 315.443.0141.
Ambassador James Cunningham: Afghanistan, Violent Islamic Extremism, and America
Friday, Sept. 16
2:30–4 p.m.
Maxwell Auditorium, Maxwell School
The Maxwell School Orange Central Lecture presents Ambassador James Cunningham ’74, the former U.S. ambassador to Afghanistan, Israel and the United Nations. He is currently a fellow in the Atlantic Council’s South Asia Center. At a time when violent Islamic extremism distorts Islam and threatens the majority of the world, Cunningham will discuss Afghanistan, the Middle East and challenges posed in this region to the United States and international community. He will review mistakes made since 9/11 and argue that—particularly in today’s political atmosphere—America needs serious discussions that lead to a long-term, sustainable strategy in the region. Reservations are not required. For more information, contact Norma Shannon at 315-443-5504 or nshannon@maxwell.syr.edu.
Gravitational Waves: A Historic Achievement
Friday, Sept. 16
2:30–4 p.m.
Physics Building, Room 202/204
On Sept. 14, 2015, gravitational waves that had traveled across space for a billion years reached the earth and an amazing apparatus at the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) “heard” space shaking. Meet the professors and students at SU who were leaders in this discovery that made headlines around the world. Listen to the chirp of black holes colliding, learn about SU’s connections with Einstein and use of supercomputers and share the excitement of this historic achievement.
Third Annual Former Student-Athlete Reception
Friday, Sept. 16
4–5:30 p.m.
Manley Field House Lobby
Join Syracuse University Athletics for the third annual Athletics Alumni Homecoming Reception. Come visit your former teammates, as well as Athletics coaches and staff. This event is complimentary, but limited to only former athletes and their families. Please contact the Orange Club at 315-443-1419 or oclub@syr.edu for more information.
Arents Award Cocktail Party and Dinner
Friday, Sept. 16
5–6 p.m., Cocktail Party
Panasci Lounge, Schine Student Center
6–8:30 p.m., Dinner and Awards Presentation
Goldstein Auditorium, Schine Student Center
Enjoy an evening that celebrates all returning alumni and honors recipients of the George Arents Award. The George Arents Award is Syracuse University’s highest honor, created to recognize alumni who are pioneers and leaders in their fields. Cocktails begin in Panasci Lounge at 5 p.m.; dinner to follow in Goldstein Auditorium at 6 p.m. Cocktail attire. Cost is $75 per person.
’Cuse Cookout on the Quad
Friday, Sept. 16
6–9 p.m.
Orange Central Tent, Shaw Quad
Enjoy an evening on the Quad featuring delicious food and exciting entertainment. This is a family-friendly event. Casual attire. Cost is $15 per person for general alumni; $10 for Generation Orange alumni (classes of 2006 through 2016) and children 12 and younger.
Stargazing at Holden Observatory
Friday, Sept. 16
7:30–9 p.m.
Holden Observatory
Join physics faculty and graduate students for a rare opportunity to climb the winding staircase and gaze at the stars through the historic 1887 telescope found in the Holden Observatory. For more information, contact Lisa Balogh at lbalogh@syr.edu or 315-443-1995.
Always Orange: All-Class Reunion and Affinity Gathering
Friday, Sept. 16
9–11 p.m.
Milton Atrium, Life Sciences Complex
Join us for a special celebration of our reunion classes (those class years ending in “1” and “6”) and affinity groups, including the Spirit Team, Ottos, Marching Band, Hendricks Choir, Remembrance Scholars, and veterans. You may even spot a life-size version of your yearbook photo on the walls! Cost is $10 per person.
Generation Orange Celebration
Friday, Sept. 16
9–11 p.m.
Flaum Grand Hall, Whitman School of Management
If you graduated between 2006 and 2016, this party’s for you! Join fellow young alumni for great food, drinks, photo opps with Otto and more. You don’t want to miss this celebration. Cost is $5 per person.
Crouse College Chimes Demonstration
Saturday, Sept. 17
8–10 a.m.
Outside of Crouse College
Begin the day with a beautiful demonstration of the “Chimes of Crouse.” Check out the four new bells added to the chimes as part of impressive improvements over the summer of 2016.
Chimemasters Reunion
Saturday, Sept. 17
8–10 a.m.
Crouse College
All Syracuse University alumni are invited to join the College of Visual and Performing Arts for a Chimemasters Reunion. Share your experiences of the “Chimes of Crouse” with Chimemasters from across the decades and celebrate the addition of four new bells, during the 127th anniversary of our historic chimes.
Crouse College Chimes Tour
Saturday, Sept. 17
8, 8:15, 8:30, 8:45, 9 and 9:15 a.m.
400 Crouse College
Join the College of Visual and Performing Arts and the Setnor School of Music for an exclusive tour of Crouse College’s historic Chimes. Your chimemaster tour guide will take you to the highest heights of Crouse College to see and hear the 10 bells that compose the “Chimes of Crouse.” Sign-up is required and limited to 12 guest for each time slot. Tours will be 10-15 minutes each. Note: this tour requires climbing a steep staircase.
Classes of 1951 and 1961 Breakfast
Saturday, Sept. 17
8:30–10 a.m.
Goldstein Alumni and Faculty Center
Celebrating your 55th or 65th Reunion? Join your classmates for breakfast before the game-day festivities begin! Cost is $10 per person.
Meet Teresa A. Dahlberg: Engineering and Computer Science Dean’s Breakfast
Saturday, Sept. 17
9–11 a.m.
369 Link Hall, Avi and Sandra Nash Classroom for Collaboration
Join fellow alumni and friends for the annual College of Engineering and Computer Science breakfast.
Meet Michael S. Tick: SU:VPA Dean’s Breakfast
Saturday, Sept. 17
9–10 a.m.
Outside Crouse College
Come introduce yourself to SU:VPA’s new dean, Michael S. Tick and join alumni, friends, students and faculty of the college for an outdoor breakfast buffet.
Newhouse Breakfast
Saturday, Sept. 17
9–10:30 a.m.
Joyce Hergenhan Auditorium, Newhouse 3
Join Newhouse faculty and staff at a delicious breakfast gathering for Newhouse School alumni and friends. Casual attire.
Meet Diane Lyden Murphy: Falk College Dean’s Brunch
Saturday, Sept. 17
10–11:30 a.m.
Wildhack Lounge, White Hall, Falk College Complex
Join Dean Diane Lyden Murphy for brunch and tours of the new Falk Complex, including learning laboratories such as the Nutrition ACE Center and its demonstration kitchen, our commercial and experiential kitchens and the Conrad Technology Suite, which meets the latest programming trends in event and sport venue operations.
Ottos Reunion
Saturday, Sept. 17
10–11 a.m.
Concourse, Carrier Dome
Calling all Ottos, Woodys and Clydes! Come gather and share your memories of representing Syracuse as our beloved Orange.
This event is only for alumni who served as our mascot.
Campus Framework Presentation
Saturday, Sept. 17
11 a.m.–noon
Life Sciences Complex, Auditorium 001
Alumni are welcome to join campus leaders for an engaging discussion about the Campus Framework―a 20-year roadmap outlining campus enhancements designed to address the student experience, integrate accessibility and improve the University’s academic and research environments. For more information, visit http://campusframework.syr.edu.
Behind the Scenes at Syracuse University Art Galleries
Saturday, Sept. 17
11 a.m.–noon
SUArt Galleries, Shaffer Art Building
Join Domenic Iacono, director of the SU Art Galleries, as he focuses on close examination of SU’s encyclopedic permanent art collection, highlighting works on paper and printmaking. Learn from our two print curators how to build a print collection of your own and get tips on appreciating and identifying works on paper.
Remembrance Alumni Coffee Hour
Saturday, Sept. 17
11 a.m. – noon
Noble Room, Hendricks Chapel
John fellow Remembrance Scholar alumni and students for coffee and conversation.
Army ROTC Open House
Saturday, Sept. 17
11 a.m.–1 p.m.
Lyman Hall, Room 215
The Syracuse Army ROTC Cadre will showcase the new facility and current and future opportunities available to students looking to become leaders in both the military and civilian worlds, while providing the opportunity for alumni to engage with current cadets and share their experiences.
Orange Central Homecoming Tailgate
Saturday, Sept. 17
1–3 p.m.
Orange Central Homecoming Tailgate Tent, Shaw Quad
Catch the Orange spirit and get ready for game day at the Orange Central Homecoming Tailgate, featuring delicious food, beverages, giveaways and fun pictures in the photo booth. The Marching Band, Spirit Team and Otto will all be stopping by. Advance registration is required for this event. Wear your best game day attire. Cost is $20 per person for general alumni, $15 for Generation Orange alumni (class years 2006 through 2016) and $10 for children 12 and younger.
Spirit Team Alumni Meet-and-Greet on the Quad
Saturday, Sept. 17
1:30–2 p.m.
Orange Grove, Shaw Quad
All former cheerleaders, mascots and dance team members are invited to visit with the coaching staff and share stories with current team members.
Marching Band Reunion
Saturday, Sept. 17
1:30–2:30 p.m.
Steps of Hendricks Chapel, Shaw Quad
Be on the Quad for the traditional Marching Band performance on the steps of Hendricks Chapel, and listen for your cue to join the group on the stairs for the annual Marching Band photo.
Class of 1966 March
Saturday, Sept. 17
2:30 p.m.
In Front of Hendricks Chapel, Near Physics Building
The 1966 50th Reunion class will lead the Marching Band off the Quad in this new tradition. Enjoy all the excitement of the game day festivities as you celebrate your special milestone.
The Football Game!
Saturday, Sept. 17
3:30 p.m. Kickoff
Carrier Dome
Wear your best Syracuse game-day attire and come cheer on the Orange football team in Saturday’s big matchup with the University of South Florida! Buy tickets through Ticketmaster. Use the promo code ORANGECENTRAL16.
Alma Mater on the Field
Saturday, Sept. 17
During Game
Carrier Dome
The 1966 50th Reunion class will be invited to sing the Alma Mater on the field alongside the Syracuse University Marching Band.
Class of 1956 60th Reunion Celebration
Saturday, Sept. 17
6:30-9:30 p.m.
Director’s Room, 10th Floor, Marriott Syracuse Downtown (formerly the Hotel Syracuse)
Join your friends from the Class of 1956 at the beautifully restored Marriott Syracuse Downtown, formerly the Hotel Syracuse, as you celebrate your 60th Reunion Anniversary! Enjoy a wonderful meal as well as entertainment from your classmates! Cost is $50 per person.
Class of 1966 50th Reunion Golden Anniversary Dinner
Saturday, Sept. 17
6:30–9:30 p.m.
Milton Atrium, Life Sciences Complex
A gala celebration for the 50th Reunion class featuring music, open bar and dinner with your friends and classmates. Casual attire. Cost is $40 per person.
Class of 1991 25th Reunion Celebration
Saturday, Sept. 17
6:30-8:30 p.m.
Goldstein Alumni and Faculty Center
Join fellow members of the Class of 1991 to party like it’s 1991 as you celebrate 25 years since graduating from Syracuse University and catch up with classmates and friends at the Goldstein Alumni and Faculty Center. Casual attire. Cost is $10 per person.
Class of 2006 10th Reunion Celebration
Saturday, Sept. 17
6:30–8:30 p.m.
Join fellow members of the Class of 2006 for wine and cheese while you catch up on the past ten years.
Greek Life Reunion
Saturday, Sept. 17
6:30–8:30 p.m.
Heroy Geology Building, Lobby
Join student leaders in the Greek community and the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs as you connect with your brotherhood or sisterhood. Come share your memories over light fare and hear from current students as to what they are doing to continue the SU fraternity and sorority legacy.
Faegan’s Festivities
Saturday, Sept. 17
7 p.m.
Faegan’s Pub, Marshall Street
The Generation Orange Leadership Council invites young alumni (graduation years 2006 through 2016) to join them at Faegan’s immediately following the football game.
Farewell Brunch
Sunday, Sept. 18
8:30 a.m.–noon
Goldstein Alumni and Faculty Center, Second Floor
Don’t miss this last chance to visit with friends and classmates! Featuring delicious food, great conversation, and plenty of laughs. Casual attire. Cost is $15 per person.
Hendricks Chapel Choir Reunion
Sunday, Sept. 18
10 a.m.
Hendricks Chapel
Raise your voice in celebration in beautiful Hendricks Chapel once again. Join Peppie Calvar, choir director, and current members for rehearsal at 10 a.m. and service at 11 a.m., followed by a light brunch at noon.
For a full listing of events and registration information, visit the Orange Central website.
