Dear Orange Friends:
Last night, the University Lectures kicked off its 15th season with world-renowned pianist Leon Fleisher. He is in the midst of a four-day visit to Syracuse University. It was an outstanding evening, filled with music and wisdom.
Mr. Fleisher was the first in a great season of University Lectures speakers. Sarah Koenig and Julie Snyder, the creators of the popular “This American Life” podcast spinoff “Serial,” will conclude the season in April.
The University Lectures series was founded in fall 2001 with a gift from Honorary Trustee Robert Menschel, ’51, H’91. Bob envisioned a signature lecture series at the University to bring individuals of exceptional accomplishment to campus.
The first lecture was held in early October 2001, when Sen. George Mitchell addressed the terrorist attacks that occurred the previous month on September 11. Since then, more than 110 invited lecturers have brought the world to Syracuse University. They include former Vice President Al Gore; humorist David Sedaris; Nobel Peace Prize laureates Wangari Maathai and Muhammad Yunus; astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson; journalist and Pulitzer Prize recipient Nicholas Kristof; architect Maya Lin; and photographer Annie Leibovitz.
The University Lectures series was developed by former Associate Vice Chancellor Michael Flusche and Academic Affairs special assistant Esther Gray. Esther has worked collaboratively with many on campus to ensure the best experience for our students and the greater community. Beginning in January, the series will be presented by an all-schools University-wide faculty committee.
During the year, I encourage you to attend and participate in this exceptional learning experience at Syracuse.
Sincerely,
Chancellor Kent Syverud