Solving Grand Challenges through Liberal Arts Excellence
The College of Arts and Sciences Fund
Faculty and students in the College of Arts and Sciences (A&S) are researchers, scholars and innovators who bring their work to life in finding solutions to the world’s most urgent challenges. Under the leadership of Dean Behzad Mortazavi, A&S has developed an ambitious strategic plan centered on solving those grand challenges through the interdisciplinary collaboration inherent in the liberal arts and sciences.
A Vision for Impact
Each year, hundreds of alumni, families and friends support the College of Arts and Sciences Fund, formerly known as the Arts and Sciences Dean’s Fund, providing immediate resources that transform student experiences and faculty research. Their collective generosity enables us to respond quickly to emerging opportunities and support initiatives that make a real difference in our world.
Our new strategic plan positions A&S as the premier source of expertise in four critical areas: climate change and the environment; health and well-being; culture, community and change; and innovative technologies.
Gifts in support of the Fund will help us carry out the crucial work outlined in our new strategic plan.
The plan’s interdisciplinary approach puts the humanities at the heart of solutions, fostering critical thinking and ensuring that students understand historical and cultural forces, becoming ethical leaders facilitating positive change.
Dean Behzad Mortazavi
“The College of Arts & Sciences Fund provides me and my team the flexibility we need to seize opportunities—and address student or faculty needs—as they arise. Please help us expand what is possible.”
Create Transformative Opportunities
When you support the College of Arts & Sciences Fund, you’re investing in a comprehensive model that combines academic excellence with real-world problem-solving. With your support, we can:
Attract and Retain the Strongest Faculty
The Fund provides start-up funds that enable faculty to focus on research and collaborative learning, ensuring we can compete for the best minds in their fields.
Attract and Retain the Best and Brightest Students
Your gift makes it possible to expand access to an A&S education through enhanced financial aid support for exceptional students.
Expand Undergraduate Research and Experiential Learning
Your support allows us to prepare students for post-graduate success by establishing more endowed research funds and providing more resources for study abroad, immersion trips and internships.
Ronald Chin '97
Member, Dean's Advisory Board
Member, Dean's Advisory Board
“The liberal arts foundation I received from the College of Arts and Sciences was essential to my career. I contribute to the Fund because it provides the flexible support necessary for the College to continue delivering this transformative education to future generations of students.”
Kyle Henry '26
art history
art history
“If I could thank a donor, I’d say thank you for the experiences—and thank you for building this community.”
How You Can Support the College of Arts and Sciences Fund
- Through a leadership gift at the Hill Society level with an annual gift of $2,500 or more - The Hill Society is a network of leadership annual donors who share a common goal of supporting Syracuse University’s highest priorities. As a Hill Society member, you will receive invitations to special regional and on-campus events, with the opportunity to connect with other members and campus leadership.
- Any gift - Every contribution matters and helps ensure the University has resources to adapt quickly and support our campus community.
To learn more, call 315.443.2464 or email asgiving@syr.edu.