James Meade
The College of Arts and Sciences

Attending Syracuse University through UC has been an incredible gift.

It was James Meade’s job as a freelance sound mixer for a video and film production company here in Syracuse that introduced him to University College (UC).  He worked on a couple of the “YeSU” commercials as a sound recordist, taping the stories and experiences of current UC students. “My wife had always encouraged me to go back to school but I never thought it was practical,” he said, adding, “until I talked to some of the UC staff who worked on those commercials with us.”

Meade began attending college in spring 2006 through the Arthur O. Eve Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP) at University College. HEOP is a special-admission program for individuals whose financial and educational backgrounds might prohibit them from admission to college.  “The flexibility in class schedules plus the financial support of HEOP really clinched it for me,” Meade asserted.

In 2009 Meade earned an associate degree part time through University College from The College of Arts and Sciences at Syracuse University. He is now pursuing his bachelor’s degree at SU, and feels that attending Syracuse University through UC has been an incredible gift. “I already have enormous respect for anyone who takes on the challenge of higher education,” Meade says, adding, “especially, later in life.”

John Cuyler '09
Martin J. Whitman School of Management
John Cuyler (left) met student Ramano Jacobs while participating in the EESA program in South Africa.

“The value of what you create is based on the effort you put in.”

John Cuyler is never one to let an opportunity slip by. He graduated from Syracuse University’s Whitman School of Management in spring 2009 where he earned a degree in Entrepreneurship and Emerging Enterprises (EEE) while enrolled part time through University College.

During the course of Cuyler’s studies, life became a whirlwind of achievement, awards, and recognition. In the spring of 2008, he led a team that tied for second place in the Panasci Business Plan competition, hosted by SU’s EEE program. Their plan centered upon the development of an innovative portable kayak that could be folded in half and carried like a backpack into remote locations.

In the summer of 2008, Cuyler took part in EEE’s Entrepreneurial Empowerment in South Africa program (EESA). Student consulting teams worked with disadvantaged entrepreneurs near Cape Town to help them make their ventures sustainable. “South Africa changed my life,” he recalled. “It was one of the most intense experiences I have ever had.

Also in 2008, Cuyler was presented with the Emerging Student Leader Award given by Morgan Stanley and Syracuse University Career Services for leading a team of students to a third place finish in EEE’s Capstone Business Plan Competition for their work on an apartment rental web site.

“I have always found myself doing entrepreneurial activities,” said Cuyler. “I find it fascinating, because the value of what you create is based on the effort you put in and the quality of your creative ideas. I have admired entrepreneurs since I was young – particularly the early Silicon Valley entrepreneurs.”

According to Cuyler, UC has been a perfect fit from the beginning. “UC has been amazing,” he said.  “The personal attention I received from day one is truly extraordinary.”

“I was able to keep taking classes, thanks to UC’s great flexible course formats.”

Casey Cecile is a graduate of Syracuse University, a small business owner, and a committed advocate for the environment. Before attending Syracuse University through University College, Casey was working 60 hours a week at three minimum-wage jobs. Casey realized the only way to avoid the trap of low-paying jobs was to get an education. She learned about the Arthur O. Eve Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP) at University College of Syracuse University. The opportunity to obtain a college education seemed almost surreal, but Casey looked into it anyway.

“I never saw myself as being able to attend a community college, never mind graduate from SU,” Casey recalls. “I came to UC with no idea how I was going to make ends meet. I couldn’t even afford cable TV, let alone books.” But she earned a G.E.D., enrolled in the Bachelor of Professional Studies (BPS) degree program, and began a journey of discovery – about herself, the world, and the possibilities that came into focus as she surmounted obstacles and inched toward a college degree and renewed self-esteem.

“I was able to keep taking classes, thanks to UC’s great flexible course formats. I took weekend, condensed, and online classes,” she recalls. She also gives much of the credit to the assistance and support of UC’s advising and financial aid staff. “I managed to graduate with a BPS degree with a concentration in legal studies in five years.”

In February, 2007, Casey started an online cloth diaper boutique called Bebe Wamu, along with a delivery service called Not Your Grandma’s Diaper Service. “I don’t think there is a day that goes by where what I learned in Accounting, Information Studies, Legal Studies, and my BPS courses doesn’t come into play in my business,” she asserts. “I really think I’ll be back for a graduate degree at some point.”

Eyal Sherman '09
The College of Arts and Sciences
Eyal Sherman is surrounded by his family following his graduation from SU. They are, left to right, sister Rabbi Nogah Sherman Marshall, mother Leah Sherman, father Rabbi Charles Sherman, nephew Yehudah Barnett, sister Orah Sherman Barnett, sister Nitza Sherman, brother Rabbi Erez Sherman and his fiancée Rabbi Nicole Guzik, and aunt Connie Blank.

The challenges were significant, but UC made it work.

When Eyal Sherman crossed the stage to receive his Syracuse University diploma at the University College Commencement Celebration in May, 2009, the world was watching.  Dateline NBC covered this momentous occasion, not because Eyal is rich or famous or accomplished, but because his life story is one of extraordinary triumph over inconceivable odds. The fact that he cannot walk, talk, or even breathe on his own is almost incidental. Eyal is, in fact, a complete quadriplegic. A ventilator breathes for him 24 hours a day.

“He always understood, even with his challenges, that he would be a college graduate,” his father, Rabbi Charles Sherman of Temple Adath Yeshurun in Syracuse asserts. Eyal’s determination to reach beyond his disabilities is so strong that he was the subject of a research project at SU under the direction of Ed Lipson, Ph.D., a professor in the department of physics at SU.  The project focused on creating communication devices for individuals with significant physical challenges. He was also the recipient of a scholarship from SU’s Burton Blatt Institute, which advances the civic, economic, and social participation of persons with disabilities

At age 28 Eyal received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Fine Arts from The College of Arts and Sciences, with special distinction as a UC Alumni Scholar. As a Fine Arts major, Eyal pursued an interest in and talent for painting, which he achieves by gripping a paintbrush between his teeth. “He has sold numerous paintings,” his father points out, “and he will probably continue to do something with his painting after graduation."

The support Eyal received as he worked toward his degree involved more than family. The Office of Disability Services at SU worked with the Sherman family to ensure that classrooms were accessible, classes were appropriate, and parking was available. But it was at University College that Eyal found an extended family that mirrored the commitment of his family of origin. “I don’t think this could have worked anywhere but University College,” Sherman reflects. “There was never a question that something couldn’t be done, but rather what do we have to do to make it work. There were no negatives. Through University College, Eyal felt very much a part of the Syracuse University community.”

Louis Episcopo '09
B.S., College of Human Ecology
Louis Episcopo, pictured here with his wife Val, who earned a master's degree from SU.

“Even though it was challenging, I knew I wasn’t going to quit.”

Louis Episcopo, part-time college student, Vietnam veteran, and Army Reservist, embodies the characteristics of both a soldier and a student. He went from serving in the Army full-time to part-time as an Army Reservist. Later in life he would travel from his full-time job to complete a Syracuse University degree part-time through University College. In times of war, soldiers in the Army Reserve may be called up to active duty (“activation”) as our country’s needs require. After spending a year in Afghanistan, Louis started as a non-matriculated student at Syracuse University in August 2003. He was discharged the first week of August and two weeks later he was sitting in a classroom. Louis was able to transfer educational credits he gained from the military to Syracuse University.
 
While attending Syracuse University part time, Louis worked as a full-time cook in the Veterans Affairs Medical Center from 7 a.m. to 4 p. m., which is within walking distance of the SU campus. He would go to classes during the evening, sometimes stopping by to visit his wife, Valerie, to share a sandwich while she worked on her dissertation at Maxwell. “I was going non-stop,” Louis explained, “Fall, spring, summer, and begin again in the fall. Even though it was challenging, I knew I wasn’t going to quit.”

As all part-time students can attest to, life can change very quickly. In 2007 Valerie, who was still working on her dissertation at SU, was offered an associate professor position at St. Edward’s University in Austin, Texas, with a tenure track to her Ph.D. This meant that Louis would need to complete his degree out-of-state and transfer those credits back to SU. Rosemary Kelly, director of Student Administrative Services at University College, played an important role in helping Louis accomplish his educational goals despite obstacles like this. “I knew the first day I met Louis that he had the drive and determination to complete his degree,” Kelly said.

In May 2009 Louis and Valerie traveled to Syracuse and received their respective degrees. Many part-time students complete their degree programs each year and are eligible to participate in SU’s Commencement ceremony in the Carrier Dome in May. Louis is very proud of his accomplishments as a soldier and as a student. He is the first in his family generation to achieve a college degree.

Venus Kirby '08
B.A. Psychology
Venus Kirby at UC Commencement with her daughters Kiara, left, and Aria, right.

“Having a degree changes a lot for me. Now I feel there is no limit to what I can accomplish.”

When Venus Kirby worked full time as a nursing station clerk in the Surgical ICU at University Hospital, she wanted to increase her earning power. “I was a single mother of a young daughter, and I wanted to be better able to take care of her,” Venus recalls. But even the most motivated adult with dreams of returning to college can be stopped short by the financial burden it can put on a family. Some hesitate to explore schools like Syracuse University, believing that private colleges are financially off limits. “There is a misconception that going to SU is out of reach for those of limited income but I am living proof that this is a myth,” notes Kirby.

Working toward her degree as a part-time student at University College – while raising three daughters as a single mother – wasn’t easy, but Venus knew that she was setting a powerful example for her children. “My children saw how difficult it was for me to provide for them with a low wage position due to my lack of education. I stressed the value of education, and the growth potential that came along with it,” said Venus.

After beginning her college journey almost 30 years earlier, Kirby graduated from Syracuse University in 2008 with a bachelor’s degree in psychology through University College. “Having a degree changes a lot for me. Now I feel that there is no limit to what I can accomplish,” says Kirby, who is now considering options for graduate school. “With my SU degree, the sky’s the limit!”

Roxanne Bocyck ‘10
The College of Arts and Sciences

“SU classes have introduced me to a whole new world.”

When people used to ask Roxanne Bocyck what kind of work she did, she’d reply, “I’m just a school bus driver.” But now that she is a part-time UC student enrolled in an SU bachelor’s degree program, she realizes how important her work is, and takes pride in doing her job well. “Ironically, going to college has opened new doors for me as a school bus driver,” Roxanne says. “My boss encouraged me to submit a column to our monthly newsletter, and has accepted my offer to help plan a training day for our drivers. I have written an article for the State Education Department newsletter, and was offered a summer internship.”

Roxanne’s new self-confidence has emerged from the experiences she’s had as a 40-something woman who set a goal for herself and is well on her way to achieving it. “SU classes have introduced me to a whole new world,” she says. “Sometimes when I am walking on this beautiful campus, I smile and pinch myself because I need to make sure this is real. I am a college student at one of the best colleges in New York State, the United States, and the world!”

Writing has always been Roxanne’s passion, but putting her talent toward a career in professional communications just didn’t seem possible. An SU degree seemed out of reach financially. “University College has helped my dream of going to college become a reality,” she says. “As a non-traditional student, I have been entitled to grants and scholarships, and the longer I pursue my degree and keep my grades up, the more opportunities there are for financial aid.”

Roxanne is moving steadily toward a bachelor’s degree in communications, and hopes to fulfill her dream in 2010. She finds that her confidence grows with every semester she completes. “Even though I have had assistance financially, I could not have done this without believing in myself and my abilities,” she insists. “If I could give a non-traditional student any advice, it would be not to let anything hold you back. If you have a passion in your heart to go to college, then do it. You’ll be surprised at how things fall into place when you’re on the right track.”

“I knew an SU degree would make a big difference in my life, but I had a lot of real-world responsibilities standing in my way.”

When Sinclair Houtman started college in 1972, he thought he’d complete his degree just a few years later. Thirty five years passed before that dream was realized, and the long wait made it all the more special. “I dropped out of college in 1975, but promised myself—and my mother—that I would return and get my degree,” he recalls. “I knew that having a degree could improve my life by letting me do things that are valuable to me.”

Sinclair’s detour took him on a path that ended up being very fulfilling—he became a police officer and works as a detective for the Syracuse Police Department. Many years were spent working hard while he and his wife raised two children, and somehow, there never seemed to be enough time for that return to college. “I knew an SU degree would make a big difference in my life, but I had a lot of real-world responsibilities standing in my way,” he recalls. “But responsibilities in life will always be there. You have to look beyond everyday life. You have to push yourself, and strive for your goals in life.”

It was this philosophy that lured Sinclair back to college, as a part-time student at University College. It wasn’t easy, but he found that UC’s flexible formats, along with helpful academic advisors, made it possible to take courses that interested him without putting his work and family life on hold. Sinclair’s degree was the fulfillment of a dream for him, and he hopes it might inspire others to follow the same path. “I am a role model for some of the staff and students at Danforth Middle School, where I am assigned as a school resource officer. Now that I have a degree, I pray that it will inspire not only people my own age, but younger people who need to follow their dream.”

Freida Jacques
Home/School Liaison, Onondaga Nation School
B.A. '80, College of Arts and Sciences
Stephanie Waterman
Faculty Associate, Syracuse University
B.A. '83, College of Arts and Sciences
Ph.D. '04, School of Education

"Our paths led to Syracuse University. Now we lead others."

Sisters and members of the Onondaga turtle clan, Freida Jacques and Stephanie Waterman lead by reaching back: to history, to the Onondaga Nation, to Native American students following the paths they once walked. It is no coincidence that the word liaison describes both their careers. Both sisters worked at SU while earning degrees part time through University College.

Freida has always worked directly with people. She believes that SU gave her a solid background to build her skills as a bridge and ambassador for the Onondaga Nation School and its neighboring community. Stephanie temporarily left SU's staff to enroll in a doctoral program. Her dissertation focused on the Haudenosaunee college experience. Now she is a Faculty Associate in the School of Education, and works part time with the Native Student Program, a new initiative to support SU's Haudenosaunee students. She also serves as "runner" or liaison for the Onondaga Nation with Syracuse University.

For Freida and Stephanie, an SU degree started a journey of discovery. Now they help others find their way.

"My World View Has Expanded."

"I am married and I have two sons who were small when I started studying part time at University College. I was working full time while going to school. UC was the perfect fit for my situation. Higher education has really made me a better person. My world view has expanded because of my education."

Kathleen P. Smith '06
Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies
Student Speaker at Commencement

"My UC experience was terrific!

When Kathleen Smith '06 decided to finish her college degree, she was delighted to discover that 55 of the 62 credits she had earned at another school transferred to University College. "I supplemented my studies at UC with some summer school courses at OCC, and was able to transfer those credits as well," she recalled. "My UC experience was terrific! UC takes the time to find out what they can do to better serve their students, instead of asking students to fit into a mold of main campus programs," she observed. "Depending on what was going on in my home life each semester, I took coursework online, days, evenings, summers, MayMester, and through limited residency."

Kathleen considers herself a military wife and a full-time stay-at-home mother, but does find time to substitute as a teaching assistant in Liverpool. "My job affords me the flexibility to work when I am not otherwise occupied with my college coursework and family obligations," she said. "I live in a community where there are several stay-at-home mothers, and I have shown them by example that you are never too old or too busy to  take a course at UC. The hardest part is getting up the courage to attend an information session. The rest will come as you begin." Kathleen's GPA was an impressive 3.96 when she graduated in 2006, qualifying her as an Alumni Scholar at Commencement, where she also served as Student Speaker.

Affordability was a consideration, but again, UC came through. "I received a scholarship from Eta Pi Upsilon, and recognition by Alpha Sigma Lambda (the honorary society for part-time students). The staff at UC has been so kind and generous to me," she reflected.

James D. Barrett
B.S. Finance '78 
Medical Practice Administrator,
Orthopaedic Associates, Syracuse
Fellow in the American College of Medical Practice

"Earning my SU degree gave me the confidence to explore new opportunities."

Jim Barrett was a newlywed with an associate degree from OCC when he arrived at University College in 1974. Nancy Gelling was his advisor at University College. In addition to advising him on what classes to take, she found a tutor to help him conquer calculus and encouraged him through statistics. He took two courses each semester—including summers— while working full time at Smith Corona in order to graduate in four years.

"Attending SU part time allowed me to continue working and to meet colleagues who shared the same vision, earning my degree and becoming more valuable to my employer. Saying that I earned my degree at SU gave me the confidence to explore new opportunities. I was better able to adapt to change and use my degree to become more marketable," he says.

After graduation, Jim went to work as credit manager for GTE. His cousin, Dr. John Michaels, encouraged him to think about a career in medical office management. As a result, he became the administrator for Orthopaedic Associates of Central New York in 1997.This new career prompted him to earn an online master's degree in health care administration from RIT in 2001. His thesis was a study of patient satisfaction. That was also the topic of a required paper that, with a rigorous exam, qualified him as a Fellow in the American College of Medical Practice Executives (ACMPE), one of just 400 of the ACMPE's 3000 members to hold this designation.

He is also president-elect of the New York chapter of the Medical Group Managers Association (MGMA).

John Dau
Enrolled in Public Affairs undergraduate program
SU's Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs

"I am completely changed by what I have learned here."

John Dau fled his native Sudan amid death threats as a twelve-year-old, wandering from one refugee camp to another for years before being brought to the U.S. in 2001 by a humanitarian organization. As one of the "Lost Boys" who survived the years-long, harrowing desert journey, Dau recently gained a measure of celebrity as the subject of a documentary film. God Grew Tired of Us received two major awards at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival. National Geographic bought the film and is distributing it. Dau also wrote a book about his experiences, also titled God Grew Tired of Us. National Geographic magazine promoted the book with a photo feature in its January, 2007 issue. In the meantime, Dau travels to different locations to speak to audiences that are inspired and touched by his experiences.

Dau is now living in Syracuse, where he works as a security guard at St. Joseph's Hospital and pursues an SU degree in public affairs through University College. "Coming to this school has become a tool to fixing things in Africa," Dau said. "I am completely changed by what I have learned here." He is combining his African experiences with his classroom knowledge to undertake a significant project—the creation of a health clinic in his native Duk County village. Dau raised the money to build his first clinic, and has plans to build five more. It's a bittersweet task for the lost boy who found a new life in Syracuse, through the kindness of strangers. "I want to work with people at the community level to help others the way I was helped," he said.

"My SU degree prepared me to meet every challenge."

What makes someone a successful leader? Just ask Robin Toia, the Vice President for Community Relations for M&T Bank. "It's not just a degree, or even an attitude," she asserts. "It's the whole experience of learning from the best, with the best, in an environment that shapes and nurtures leaders."

Robin found that a Syracuse University degree encompasses that whole experience. She earned her degree part-time, through University College.  Now she organizes events like the M&T Jazz Festival, the Symphony Pops program, and the American Heart Walk. Robin also oversees neighborhood initiatives like the construction of a huge playground at Southwest Community Center. It came together with money donated by M&T and labor donated by Syracuse University students. "My job is to bring M&T into the community in ways that make a positive difference. It's always interesting and incredibly rewarding," Robin says.   

"My SU degree prepared me to meet every challenge," Robin notes. "My job is multifaceted and people-driven, just like I am. Every day brings a new challenge, because I'm interacting with individuals, groups, businesses, and programs that are essential to the vitality of the community we all value."