Syracuse University will honor eight distinguished members of the Orange community during the 2024 Alumni Awards Celebration, which are being held from 4:30-8:30 p.m. on Friday, April 12, 2024. The celebration, which is free to attend, will occur in the National Veterans Resource Center at the Daniel and Gayle D’Aniello Building (NVRC).
Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from several student organizations who will be fundraising for exciting projects, enjoy a spirited awards ceremony hosted by student Nicole Aponte ’24 and mingle with honorees and each other during a reception following the ceremony.
Get to know the outstanding alumni across generations who will be honored April 12 during the Syracuse University Alumni Awards.
Traditionally held in the fall during Orange Central, the 2024 awards ceremony was shifted to the spring to facilitate greater interactions between award recipients and the Syracuse University student body. The honorees, selected by the awards committee of the Syracuse University Alumni Association’s Board of Directors, were selected for their achievements and success, truly highlighting what it means to be Forever Orange.
The George Arents Award is Syracuse University’s highest alumni honor and recognizes individuals who have excelled in their fields. In 2024, three alumni will receive the Arents Award: former NFL quarterback turned philanthropist Donovan McNabb ’98; president and chairman of Wilmorite Thomas Wilmot ’70; and former litigation attorney turned civic leader Melanie Gray L’81.
Marc Malfitano ’74, L’78 will receive the Melvin A. Eggers Senior Alumni Award for his loyalty and service to Syracuse University over the past 50 years. Malfitano is a member of the 50th reunion class, and both the Classes of 1964 and 1974 will celebrate milestone reunions during the weekend.
Amanda Quick ’14, G’16 will be awarded the Generation Orange Award, which recognizes graduates from the past decade for career success and community engagement, along with their overall commitment to Syracuse University.
Major General Peggy Combs ’85, H’21 will receive the Military/Veteran Award for exceptional meritorious service while serving in the United States Military.
New in 2024, Tracy Barash ’89 will receive the Volunteer of the Year Award in recognition of her consistent volunteerism to Syracuse University.
Also new in 2024, the Outstanding Future Alumni Award will highlight student Leondra Tyler ’24 for her commitment, involvement and leadership outside of the classroom.
Read more about our honorees, then make plans to join the celebration.
Story by Laura Verzegnassi ’25, student intern in the Office of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving
