Messages for Chancellor Syverud

Chancellor Syverud, both you and Dr. Chen are in my thoughts and prayers every day. May God continue to bless and watch over each of you.

My prayers are with you, Dr. Chen, your boys and beautiful grandchildren, and your healthcare team. Wishing you courage and hope.

Chancellor Syverud,

We never know when the news that changes everything is coming. That doesn't make it easier when it arrives. I am praying for you and your family, for strength, comfort, resolve, and the peace of the Lord as you take on this next chapter.

I am four organizational layers removed from your office, and we have only crossed paths a handful of times. I don't have much to offer you except my prayers, gratitude, and commitment to keep giving my best to our students as you turn your full attention to the fight ahead.

Thank you for leading us through what many of us will remember as the most challenging days of our lives. During COVID, the lockdowns, safety protocols, and sudden pivot to remote learning, you led with compassion, you respected our health and wellness, and you somehow kept the University financially viable and balanced. You didn't just help us survive that time. You positioned us to come through it something like thriving.

Thank you for leading us through the headwinds that continue to face higher education and, honestly, the global community. Our political, economic, and social structures feel upside down and inside out. It is imperative that our institution continues to send responsible young adults with generous and empathetic spirits out into a world that desperately needs them. Many institutions are being forced to close. While I know Syracuse is not unscathed, we are positioned to continue our mission through these trials because of you, and because of the remarkable team you assembled and led since your arrival.

Thank you for your leadership and support of the veterans community, for recognizing that preparing service members for their post-military walk was a critical gap in our nation, and for elevating that work to a strategic pillar of this institution. As a veteran myself, the good that has been accomplished under your leadership in this space cannot be overstated.

Thank you for leaning-in to the importance of IT and AI in our changing world. You saw the shifting paradigms when others did not, and our institution will be better positioned to navigate, and hopefully thrive in, the ongoing global evolution because of it.

I will close with the image of you that I carry. I remember attending your inauguration when you first arrived, and the fun run around campus. You were a force of nature, and I knew you were going to lead. But my one truly personal interaction with you came sometime around 2015, during a snowstorm. I was wearing a tie and sport coat, moving quickly across campus near Crouse College, and we crossed paths on the sidewalk going in opposite directions. I said, "Good afternoon, Chancellor," and you laughed good-naturedly and said, "Where is your coat, young man?!?" We didn't stop walking. But that is the residual image I carry of you: the caring leader, playfully chastising me for not dressing for the weather. I didn't get caught in the snow under-dressed again.

Respectfully,

Dan Cohen, ITS

Helen and I are thinking about you and wish you a speedy recovery.

Dear Chancellor Syverud,

I was very sorry to hear about your recent diagnosis. Please know that the entire Syracuse community is standing behind you during this time.

We are wishing you strength, a steady recovery, and the very best of care. My thoughts are with you and your family.

Warm regards,

Beth Cofsky

Dear Chancellor Syverud,

I joined Syracuse University in August 2024, and within my first few weeks it was clear there was something special here. Whenever I asked colleagues what made this place feel the way it does, the answer was always the same: the Orange culture and the people leading it.

As time went on, I began to understand what they meant. I had the privilege of hearing you speak at last year’s Veterans Day ceremony. The way you described Arlington Cemetery, the precision, the reverence, the standard of excellence those soldiers devoted to caring for that place every single day, and how that same level of dedication should be something we aspire to as a university, that stayed with me. It said everything about who you are as a leader and what you believe this place can (and will) be.

As you and your family navigate this season, I have no doubt you will carry that same strength, grace, and resolve. Syracuse is better because of your leadership, and I am grateful to be a small part of the community you helped shape. My family and I have you in our prayers.

With sincere gratitude,

Kyle Mitchell

As a campus catering supervisor, I’ve worked countless events attended by the Chancellor and Dr. Chen. But one experience stands out above all the rest.

I had the privilege of catering a private dinner at the Chancellor’s residence for a newly arrived faculty member in creative writing, who had just come to the United States from the Gaza Strip with his family. It was an intimate gathering of seven guests.

When I arrived, Dr. Chen shared something special with me—she showed me a book written by the guest of honor, along with three children’s books she had carefully chosen to gift to his young children who would be attending that evening. She mentioned, with a smile, that he hadn’t gotten his driver’s license yet, so Kenny would be picking up the family and bringing them to the dinner. Hearing her casually call him “Kenny” offered a glimpse into a more personal, warm side of their relationship.

But what truly stayed with me happened after the guests arrived. I saw the Chancellor sitting on the third step in the foyer, playing with the children—completely present, relaxed, and joyful. It was such a genuine and heartwarming moment.

That evening wasn’t just another event for me. It was an eye-opening experience that gave me a deeper appreciation for two people I already respected, allowing me to see a more human and compassionate side of them. It’s a memory that still makes me smile.

Well wishes from a grateful mother of 3 incredible young women that are a SU graduate, soon to be graduate and present student. You have made such an impact on our lives that can never be repaid. We all are in corner cheering you on during this challenging time!

Dear Chancellor Syverud and Dr. Chen,

I am deeply grateful for my time studying and living at Syracuse University. I truly appreciate seeing you and Dr. Chen's presence at so many important occasions—thank you for your care, dedication, and support for the students.

I have photos of myself with the Chancellor on my phone, and they are something I truly cherish.

You carry the love and support of so many people, and I sincerely wish you peace, safety, and happiness. We are behind you.

Chancellor and Dr. Chen,

My husband Steve and I are missing you two so much! We were so sad to hear Chancellor's health condition, but we believe Chancellor is fighter. He will win this battle. Dr. Chen, please take care of yourself as well. You are such a dedicated person for everything. While you are taking care of Chancellor, please get lots of rest, too. We are thinking about you and your family. We pray all is well.

Love,

Steve and Ling LeBeau

Dear Chancellor Syverud.

I was a Student-Veteran, working with Jennifer Pluta and the OVMA staff as a work study when I first met you. It was during the Student Veteran dinner hosted by you and Dr. Chen at your residence. Your kindness, warmth and grace left a lasting impression on me. Afterwards, I made the firm decision I wanted to become an employee of the University and finish my career proudly and boldly with our amazing Orange family. After earning my MS in Applied Data Science, I was hired by the ITS department and then the iSchool also hired me as a part time instructor! So my goal was achieved and now I get to wear a few Orange hats. Our chance encounter left a lasting impression on me and is one of the most cherished experiences since I joined the Orange family. The world needs more people like you. I will pray for your speedy recovery and truly hope I get to shake your hand again one day. Forever Orange, Dave

Dear Chancellor Syverud,

You have my deepest respect and prayers for the best medical outcome. I know your emotional journey will be complex, filled with equal parts hope and fear.

But your spiritual journey will be as vibrant as the man I’ve come to know.

You will be sorely missed here at Syracuse. I with both you and Dr. Chen the very best.

Warmly,

Donna Marsh

Dear Chancellor Kent and Dear Roth,

We were deeply saddened to hear of your diagnosis, and our hearts go out to you both. You are strong, and love will carry you through this journey. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers every day, and we are always here for you.

Wishing you courage, comfort, and healing with each passing day.

With love and support,

Beverly & Jensen

Chancellor Syverud,

When I walked on campus as a freshman in 2019 for the new students welcome, I can’t express how excited I was to officially be a Syracuse student and carry on the torch that my grandmother lit when she began her time as a student in the class of 1947! From my time throughout Syracuse, there were many changes - a new dome, a new Schine Student Center, the opening of the improved Barnes Center at the Arch, the first snow day in decades, and, of course, COVID.

Throughout all of that change, there was one constant - you. You have provided exceptional leadership, availability, and friendship to all of the students fortunate enough to attend Syracuse University with you as Chancellor.

From the 19 year old freshman who was slightly embarrassed because his father flagged you down so his son could take a picture with the Chancellor to the near-MBA graduate who was able to take part in your Negotiations residency, thank you for all that you have done for me, my family, and for Syracuse University.

I wish you nothing but blessings and love. You will be in my prayers and, as always, I will be rooting for you!

All the very best,

Luke Eckel (‘23 and ‘26MBA)

Chancellor,

Good morning. I'm an adjunct at Whitman, part-time in title, but full-time in commitment.

I was happy for your move to Michigan, and what that represented for you.

I enjoyed your servant and transformational leadership at SU. Your actions left an impression on me, particularly the way you handled the Barnes Center sit-in a few years back. That kind of compassion isn't something I’ll forget. It's something that demonstrated your values.

This news is hard. I just wanted you to know that you and your family are in my thoughts.

Sincerely,

Tammy

I was deeply sorry to hear this news. Chancellor Syverud and Dr. Chen have shown so much kindness, support, and care to me and my family, including my wife and son, since I joined SU, and we are truly grateful. As a fellow University of Michigan alumnus, I have also always felt a special connection. Chancellor Syverud’s courage, optimism, and dedication continue to inspire our community. My family and I are keeping Chancellor Syverud and Dr. Chen in our thoughts and wishing them strength, comfort, and the very best in the days ahead.

As a proud alumna of the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University, as well as the Jandoli School at St. Bonaventure University I often reflect on the Franciscan values that shaped me during difficult times like these, and simply wanted to say that I’m holding you in thought as you navigate this chapter. Your leadership has meant a great deal to so many across the University community, and I hope you feel the strength of that collective support around you now. Wishing you continued courage, peace, and moments of real rest in the days ahead.

Pax et bonum—may you be surrounded by peace and all good things.

(Julie Kalata Sheedy, MS 2008)

I was a student when your tenure started and now, have the privilege to be back at the University working as a staff member for the past two and a half years. I've seen what you've done for the University from multiple perspectives and believe we are so much better positioned as a private university because if it. You gave us a fighting chance during many crises in ways I don't think the average person realizes. Thank you for your unwavering dedication and commitment to Syracuse. My family, my church community and I are praying for your healing, recovery, strength, courage, and peace during this time. Forever Orange.

Dear Chancellor Syverud, Dr. Chen, and your entire family,

Our family has been holding you close in our thoughts and prayers since learning of your news. You are surrounded by so much love and good energy from the many lives you have impacted.

Chancellor Syverud, the strength you carry, not just as a leader, but as a human being, is truly remarkable. It is not something you perform or put on for others. It is simply who you are, and those of us fortunate enough to witness it are inspired by it. That same strength will carry you through this.

Our family believes deeply in the power of good energy, and there is no shortage of it heading your way. We, along with the Syracuse community, are behind you, every step of the way. Being forever orange is not just a tagline it is who we are.

Sending strength, thoughts, and prayers.

The Euto Family (Jeremy, Linda, Sarah, and Benjamin)

Sending you and Dr. Chen strength and love from the Spector/Kalmans family in Houston at this difficult time. We are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.

Dearest Kent,

You are and have been, for the last twelve years, my guiding light and mentor extraordinaire. They are only three other people in my life that I have trusted and loved completely and you have closed the circle. Your extraordinary intelligence, your humility, your sheer goodness, your ability to commit to and love all forms of life, even blackbirds, has made a very deep impact on the last decade of my life . Your ability to not only see the best in people and to acknowledge their skills but to pave the way for them to reach greater heights as human beings is the most valuable gift I have ever been given. You have seen me, you have not erased me, you have welcomed experiencing me and led the way for me to do and be my best in every possible way.

Whew!

The gift from you is holy.

I am sending you, under separate cover, Bob's scouting knife. It is the only way I can say thank you. It is truly my most valuable object and both you and Bob share the love of scouting and you have shared it was instrumental in your formative days. I offer it to you because I know you will be the finest scout and its lessons will carry you thru these difficult times. It will also remind you of the success one receives when staying close to the principles you love.

The only other thing that is sent with all my heartfelt love is a “stickum” with the word SMILE.

We both know that says it all.

To growing stronger, to hope and peace and my forever love,

Judy Seinfeld

Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Dear Chancellor Syverud,

Chancellor Haynie's message this week reminded me of something I already knew to be true: that this community is at its best when it is called to show up for one another. I felt compelled to write and let you know how much your leadership has meant to my family and myself.

Although we do not have a close personal relationship, I have always felt your presence and care in my work. During my time at the IVMF, it was clear that your investment in the university's mission extended to every corner of campus. I was especially proud the day you came to speak to our team and personally handed me my ten-year service certificate. It was a small gesture that carried real weight, and it spoke to exactly the kind of leader you have always been. You showed up, and you meant it.

There is a thread in my own family's story that runs directly through your tenure. In 2015, you signed my Syracuse University master's degree, an accomplishment I had long dreamed of and worked toward while building my career here. Ten years later, you signed my son's bachelor's degree, the product of four hard-fought years. In both moments, your signature on those documents meant more than a formality. It was a reminder that this university cares for its students, traditional and nontraditional alike, and that care has been the defining quality of your leadership. Those degrees set us both on a path of future success and service to the community.

You have made Syracuse more successful, more sound, and more itself. What has always struck me is the breadth of your attention, from the grounds to the students, from the budget to faculty. No detail was beneath your notice, and no decision was made without care. That is no small thing, and it does not go unnoticed. My continued service to this university is, in no small part, a reflection of the culture of excellence and commitment you built. That is your legacy, and it lives on in the people you inspired.

I have had the privilege of seeing you and Dr. Chen together at campus events over the years. What always struck me was how genuinely engaged you both were, ready to meet anyone, learn their story, and make them feel seen. The strength behind a great leader is often found in the person beside them, and Dr. Chen's warmth and presence have been a gift to this community as well.

My family holds you and Dr. Chen in our prayers and wishes you strength, courage, and the clearest possible path through this time. We are cheering for a full recovery.

With gratitude and warm regards,

Tina

Tina Kapral G’15, P’24

Executive Director, Corporate Philanthropy

Advancement and External Affairs

Dear Chancellor Syverud and Dr. Chen,

I know this is an incredibly difficult time, and I want you both to know that you are in my thoughts. Since 2021, it has been my genuine pleasure to work on the teams that directly support you, and I have truly enjoyed the time we have spent together over these years. Your leadership, warmth, and dedication to Syracuse University have left a lasting impression on me personally and professionally. Chancellor, your optimism and determination come as no surprise to those of us who have seen your commitment to this university up close. Please know the entire Syracuse University family is behind you both.

With heartfelt support,

Peter Pflanz

Associate IT Director, Syracuse University

Dear Chancellor Syverud,

I’m so sad to hear this news, but glad you are getting excellent care and in good spirits. My best wishes for a smooth and complete recovery. Sincerely,

Can

I am so sorry to hear this and will be thinking of you and praying for you and your family .

Hope you get well soon !!!

Kent, I was so sorry to hear about your diagnosis. I hope you feel, and continue to feel, the well wishes and support that surrounds you near and far. You are in my prayers and I'm sending you strength and positivity for the fight ahead.

Thank you for your leadership and friendship to me and the entire Orange community. I am keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. Stay strong.

Dear Chancellor,

I wanted to take a moment to extend my heartfelt well wishes to you. As both a full-time staff member and a temporary employee at the Dome, I’ve had the opportunity to experience your leadership from different perspectives. In every encounter, you have consistently shown nothing less than respect.

In my full-time role, I’ve always felt your kindness and professionalism, and in my temporary position, I’ve truly appreciated not only your kindness but also your genuine gratitude for the efforts of those working across campus in all capacities. It means a great deal to be seen and recognized.

Please know that my thoughts are with you, Dr. Chen and your family during this time. You will remain in my thoughts and prayers.

With sincere respect and well wishes,

JoAnn L Rhoades

Dear Chancellor Syverud and Dr. Chen,

My thoughts are with you both during this challenging time. Thank you for all you have done for Syracuse University and our community.

With Orange pride,

Lisa L. Ladew G'15

Chancellor Syverud,

I know you only from afar, as my husband has worked at Syracuse for the past 10 years and our son now attends. I have worked at another institution for the past 20 years, so I know higher ed well. The leadership and compassion you've consistently shown in times of crisis and uncertainty rivals the response I've seen from my own institution in those same times. I have often found more comfort in your words than those I would read from my own leaders. You wear your heart on your sleeve and I think your students grasp onto that vulnerablility as something that is so rarely shown in society today. Thank you for being the type of leader my son can look up to (he thinks he wants to go into higher ed too!) - holding you close in our prayers and thoughts during your treatment and recovery. Wishing you all the best.