The College of Arts & Sciences (A&S) kicked off a new tradition for recognizing A&S faculty excellence and achievements from over the past year with its inaugural Scholarship and Research Gala.

The May 1 event was held in the Schine Student Center’s Goldstein Auditorium.

University and College leadership, including Interim Vice Chancellor, Provost and Chief Academic Officer Lois Agnew, Vice President for Research Duncan Brown, Executive Director of Foundation Relations Gary Girzadas, A&S Dean Behzad Mortazavi and Associate Dean for Creativity, Scholarship and Research Jenny Ross, celebrated the impressive breadth and impact of research at Syracuse University's oldest and largest college, highlighting A&S researchers' commitment to advancing knowledge across disciplines.

The celebration, which included a reception and dinner, underscored impressive scholarly achievements across the College:

• More than 30 faculty members have published books in the past two years
• Dozens of professors received prestigious awards, honors and fellowships
• A&S researchers secured $19 million in awarded federal research funding in fiscal year 2024 alone

Associate Dean Ross noted that the event was designed to foster cross-disciplinary connections, with seating arrangements that encouraged faculty from different departments to learn from one another. Colleagues from across the College discussed their diverse research interests, discovering shared triumphs and challenges despite differences in topics and methodologies.

“Each person is passionate about their work and sharing it with their students, and there is a diversity of disciplines, approaches and timescales for the work,” Ross said. “Our wonderful team collaborated to bring this vision to life. Directors of research development for the College of Arts and Sciences, Melissa Whipps and Sarah Workman, developed the interdisciplinary aspects, while assistant director of events Jessica Allman and operations assistant Hailee Bosco transformed the concept into a seamless event through their logistical expertise."

“The range of topics and the profound impact of these studies demonstrate the commitment of our researchers to pushing the boundaries of knowledge and understanding,” said Dean Mortazavi. “Without the pioneering efforts and relentless pursuit of excellence by our researchers in the College of Arts and Sciences, we would not be able to teach, inspire and innovate in the ways that we do. Their contributions not only enhance our academic environment but also shape the future of their respective fields.”

The gala also acknowledged the crucial support provided by staff members from the Office of Research, academic departments, Dean’s office, operations, budget office, office of communications and the Humanities Center, whose contributions are essential to the College's research enterprise.

Attendees departed with a renewed appreciation for the College's supportive and accomplished academic community. Several commented that the night ended too early. Perhaps there will be dancing next year?