Members of the College of Arts and Sciences’ Dean's Advisory Board (DAB) reviewed and discussed the strategic vision for the College of Arts and Sciences during the board’s fall meeting in late October. Members, who attended both in person and virtually, had the opportunity to learn about and weigh in on the College's priorities and future direction.

The centerpiece of the gathering was a fireside chat between Dean Behzad Mortazavi and board member Debra Adams Simmons '86, offering an intimate look at how the dean plans to shape A&S in the years ahead.

Board Chair Lisa Courtice '84 opened the meeting by welcoming Chancellor Kent Syverud and Tracy Barlok, senior vice president and chief advancement officer, who provided University-wide perspectives on Syracuse University’s momentum and priorities.

The board reviewed the College’s new Academic Strategic Plan in a session led by Brice Nordquist, associate professor of writing and rhetoric and A&S Dean's Professor of Community Engagement, allowing board members to engage directly with the roadmap that will guide the college in the years ahead.

Assistant Dean of Student Success Steven Schaffling and Director of Employer-Alumni Engagement Matt Wheeler facilitated discussions between students and board members, providing direct insight into the student experience beyond the classroom.

The afternoon featured a panel session entitled "The Human Algorithm: AI in Science and Society," moderated by Associate Dean for Academic Initiatives and Curriculum Laura Machia. The discussion brought together Associate Professor of Writing and Rhetoric Collie Fulford, Associate Professor of Biology Heather Coleman and Humanities Librarian Patrick Williams, exploring how artificial intelligence is reshaping both scientific research and societal structures.

The formal meeting concluded with time for board members to enjoy campus, with many attending the Syracuse-North Carolina football game at the JMA Dome that evening.

The group also celebrated the retirement of two longtime board members, Laura Feldman '81 and Connie Matteo L'91 P'24, whose years of leadership, mentorship and philanthropic guidance have left an indelible mark on the College.